West Hartford, CT April 2026

April - Investment

Investment. By definition, it’s the act of dedicating time, energy, or resources toward something with the hope of a worthwhile return.  Whether it’s our community, relationships, finances, or personal growth, the things we invest in shape our futures.

In this month's issue we spoke with several local financial experts, including  Brendan Wood, Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor at Wood Wealth Management, an LPL Financial practice. Brendan helps clients connect their long-term investment decisions with a clear goal and purpose and shows them how smart planning can lead to excellent financial opportunities.

In our Money Matters feature we talked to Financial Advisor James Beyer, of Integrity Wealth Management. An independent fiduciary advisor, James' area of experts is helping investors navigate the final three to five years just before retirement.

Most of us have many physical investments — our homes, cars, boats — that need to be protected. Coe Bancroft, a local agent with State Farm Insurance, talked to us about why choosing a local insurance agent is important and how they can help uncover insurance coverage needs people often don't consider, such as jewelry, RVs and even pets.

In this month's Experts Espresso Corner column we hear from the law firm Cummings & Lockwood LLC about the special estate planning needs for executives and Justin Wolf of E.A. Quinn Landscaping discusses how restoring old walkways can bring your landscape back to life.

If you own a small business you are probably well aware of the demands of payroll processing and how time consuming it can be. Katie Weber, a Connecticut agent for Lumina Payments, helps small businesses streamline their payrolls so they can focus on what's important: their businesses.

And who could forget that April is when federal and state taxes are due? Jaye  Subramanian, of Consult Vera, talked to us about some of the new tax laws that are in effect this year.

Finally, we have stories about how NFL player Tim Tebow is redefining his life as an MVP and how you can plant a kitchen garden this spring.

Every investment we make is an act of hope and commitment. As you read this issue, we hope you’ll feel inspired to invest in the people, places, and dreams that matter most to you!

(SRI)

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Srivathsa (Sri) Ramachandran srivathsa.ramachandran@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Jayashree (Jaye) Subramanian jayashree.subramanian@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Dave Claro | dave.claro@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Boyer, Justin Wolf, Jaye Subramanian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Helmke, Kaitlyn Casso, EB Taylor Photography

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

Proverbs 3:5-6

Your Move. Your Moment.

A home holds more than walls and windows—it holds memories, milestones, and the life you’ve built. When it’s time to sell, that story deserves thoughtful care and expert guidance. Paula Fahy Ostop brings a measured, strategic approach to selling homes—rooted in local knowledge, honest counsel, and elevated presentation.

MarshallOstopRealEstate.com 860.748.1845 / @paulaostoprealtor

At Cummings & Lockwood, you receive sophisticated and carefully curated legal advice based on decades of experience and tailored to your specific goals, together with the personalized attention and elevated client experience you should expect from your professional advisors.

n Private Clients | Trusts and Estates

n Fiduciary and Probate Litigation

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n

n

and Finance

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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN BUILD

Restoration Services

Landscapes naturally change over time, often leading to organic buildup, sunken pavers, uncontrollable weeds, and faded hardscapes. Our restoration services address these issues to renew function and appearance, restoring balance and extending the life of your landscape while preserving its established character.

Design & Installation

Known for creative design and quality installation, E.A. Quinn brings a fresh vision to outdoor spaces ready for change. From new layouts to planting and hardscape enhancements, we design and build landscapes that are beautiful, functional, and built to last.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Watkinson Releases White Paper on School Culture

Watkinson School has issued a white paper on how school culture helps students thrive. "When it comes to education — the process by which developing humans strive to become their best selves and in so doing shape a better world — we often need something more robust than simple rules. We need intelligent, empathetic, principled complexity. Watkinson has structures designed to help us practice the skills of thinking, asking, and discerning." Visit watkinson.org.

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Anna Landi Hosts Pasta Event at Wadsworth

Anna Landi of MORE Italian Pasta Lab, was a special guest at the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford for a recent First Thursday program. She led a sold-out pasta-making class for museum visitors in a program that blended the art of pasta making while learning how to make painting supplies. Owned by Anna Landi and Davide Di Pietro, MORE Pasta Lab, 54 Lasalle Road, features fresh house-made pastas and sauces. Visit Morepastalab.com.

Live Nation Announces Upcoming Shows

Live Nation announces new shows at The Meadows Music Theatre in Hartford, including Kid Cudi on June 3, MGK June 6, and Dave Matthews Band July 25. Experience concerts like a true VIP with Live Nation’s Premium Seat Program, which includes VIP parking, a private entrance, exclusive VIP Club access, in-seat service, and a dedicated personal concierge to handle every detail. Perfect for entertaining clients, rewarding employees, or creating unforgettable nights out. Visit livenation.com.

Local Students Win Connecticut Scholastic Art Awards

Three West Hartford students at Watkinson School have won 2026 Connecticut Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Liam McWhite, won the Silver Key for photography; the Silver Key for portfolio and the Hartford Art School scholarship. Liam Walsh won the Silver Key for photography and Sam Lyons, won the Silver Key for photography. The Art & Writing Awards is a juried event recognizing the best student artwork. In total, seven Watkinson students won awards. Visit Watkinson.org.

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Stepping Stone Named to Forbes' Best in State List

Stepping Stone Wealth, a private advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial in West Hartford, was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors and their teams who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business. Stepping Stone  was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in their practice and approach to working with clients. Visit Ameripriseadvisors.com.

Renbrook School Featured on All Access TV with Andy Garcia

Renbrook School was recently featured in a segment of the Public Television series All Access with Andy Garcia . The program selected Renbrook as an example of a private school that offers a thoughtful, student-centered educational experience. Filmed on Renbrook’s West Hartford campus, the segment introduces viewers to how learning, environment, and community come together to support children’s growth. Visit renbrook.org for more information.

Protecting What Matters Most

on the Value of Thoughtful Insurance Planning

Homes, cars, jewelry, health, even the ability to earn a living—modern life is filled with things worth protecting. Yet deciding what coverage is truly necessary can feel overwhelming. Coe Bancroft of State Farm Insurance in Glastonbury says the starting point is simpler than many people think: focus on the assets and income you couldn’t afford to lose.

“When it comes to personal insurance, you want to make sure you’re insuring your major assets first,” Coe explains. Auto and homeowners or condo policies form the foundation, but he urges clients to look beyond the basics. Personal liability protection, such as an umbrella policy, can provide an extra layer of coverage above standard home and auto limits, shielding savings and future earnings if someone makes a claim for negligence.

Local agents, he says, often uncover needs people haven’t considered. Jewelry, pets, and renters coverage are frequently overlooked, as are recreational items like motorcycles, RVs, golf carts, ATVs, and trailers. “Anything that would be a financial hardship to replace without insurance should be part of the conversation,” Coe says.

The protection people most often neglect, however, is life insurance. Many assume benefits through an employer are enough. Coe disagrees. “We don’t own our employer’s benefits—they can change at any time,” he notes. Individually owned life

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA

insurance provides financial security to a family if a wage earner dies, replacing lost income and providing the money to cover debts and everyday expenses.

There are also lesser-known uses. For retired couples, Social Security or pension income may drop sharply after one spouse passes away. “That gap can be filled with life insurance,” Coe says. “It’s not just about paying for a funeral. It can protect a surviving spouse’s quality of life.” He emphasizes that policies exist at many price points and can be tailored to what a household can comfortably afford.

Coe believes the guidance of a local agent is more important than ever. The insurance industry is facing rising costs tied to increasing injury claims, used cars, rental vehicles, advanced sensors, building materials, and labor. As premiums climb, consumers need help comparing options and avoiding coverage that doesn’t fit their risks.

Personal circumstances matter as well. A homeowner with a pool or a young driver faces different exposures than someone without. Understanding those details ensures that coverage will respond properly if a claim occurs.

“A local agent is accountable to help customers find the balance between price and protection, so they don’t overpay,” he says.

“A local agent can shop multiple carriers and place the right client with the right company so they don’t overpay,” he says. Personal circumstances matter as well. A homeowner with a pool or a young driver faces different exposures than someone without. Understanding those details ensures that coverage will respond properly if a claim occurs.

Coe’s commitment is personal. A fourth-generation insurance professional, he lives and works in Glastonbury and views his role as part educator, part advocate.

Insurance, he reminds clients, isn’t just another bill—it’s a plan to protect the life they’ve worked hard to build. With thoughtful advice and the right coverage, families can face the future with greater confidence.

“I care deeply about doing what is right for the people who entrust me with their insurance needs. My job is to help customers recognize potential risks and improve their lives with appropriate, affordable options.”

Coe

Bancroft CPCU

– State Farm Insurance Agent 103 New London Turnpike Suite A, Glastonbury, CT 860-633-3736 • coe@coebancroft.com

Powering Small Business with Transparency

KATIE WEBER IS REWRITING THE RULES OF PAYROLL IN CONNECTICUT

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN HELMKE

When Katie Weber, Connecticut Agent for Lumina Payments, talks about merchant services, she doesn’t start with rates or terminals. She starts with relationships.

“Small business owners don’t need another vendor. They need a partner who will pick up the phone when they need help .”

As the local Connecticut representative for Lumina Payments, a fast-growing payments company focused on transparency, fixed rates and no long-term contracts, Katie has built her reputation on being exactly that kind of partner.  Lumina challenges the traditional merchant services model, which is often criticized for hidden fees, confusing contracts and impersonal service.

“Lumina was built to be clear and straightforward. Transparent pricing. No long-term contracts. What you see is what you get.”

A Michigan native who relocated to Connecticut with her family, she understands what it means to start fresh and build a network from the ground up. Today, she and her husband are raising their family in Connecticut, navigating the same milestones as many of her clients.

“We’re right in the thick of the college decision process. It definitely makes you think about long-term financial planning, not just for families, but for business owners too.”

After years as a stay-at-home mom, she transitioned into merchant services with a focus on credit card and ACH processing, point-of-sale systems and software integrations. But unlike many in the industry who operate at scale through call centers and automated systems, Katie built her business the old-fashioned way: one conversation at a time.

“I go door to door. I sit down face-to-face. Business owners get a hundred emails a week. They don’t need another one. They need someone who will look at their statement and actually explain what’s going on.”

That deep-dive analysis is one of her core differentiators. Weber reviews merchant statements line

by line, identifying unnecessary fees, incorrect classifications and inefficiencies that quietly erode profit margins.

Her focus spans multiple business genres, but regardless of industry, her goal remains fixed: optimize payment processing so owners can focus on their business.

Her accessibility sets her apart. Katie makes herself available to clients around the clock, something she sees as non-negotiable.

“It doesn’t happen often, but if a terminal goes down on a Saturday night, I’m answering the call.”

Her business model is rooted in honesty, transparency and integrity—values she believes are non-negotiable in an industry often viewed with skepticism.

“I’m looking for a long-term relationship. If I can save you money and simplify your systems, you’re going to stay. That’s how I grow.”

Her growth strategy reflects that philosophy. She’s active in networking organizations such as local chambers of commerce and BNI, where she builds connections rather than transactional leads.

“People can tell if you’re just there to sell. I want to know their business. I want to know their family. That’s how trust happens.”

As Lumina Payments continues expanding its agentdriven model Weber sees enormous opportunity in Connecticut’s small business ecosystem.

“There are so many hardworking entrepreneurs here. They deserve fair pricing and clear answers.”

She combines the backing of a national payments platform with the accountability of a local advocate.

“At the end of the day, my name is attached to every account. That matters to me.”

Katie Weber | Business Advocate luminapayments.com

Phone: 586-612-7144

Email: katie@luminapayments.com

“I’m looking for a long-term relationship. If I can save you money and simplify your systems, you’re going to stay. That’s how I grow.”

Experts Espresso Corner

Cummings & Lockwood: Estate Planning for Executives, Justin Wolf, Update Your Landscape By Restoring Walkways and Patios

ARTICLE BY JUSTIN WOLF, CUMMINGS & LOCKWOOD

EA. Quinn Landscaping

Cummings & Lockwood’s private clients attorneys understand that corporate executives have complex estate planning needs which change and evolve over the course of their careers and into retirement, requiring in-depth review and analysis and sophisticated solutions.

Corporate executives often structure their financial planning for the maximum lifetime use of their assets, while developing an estate plan that maximizes and protects the value and distribution of assets to spouses, children and beneficiaries.

Executives often encounter unique challenges because their assets are more likely to be concentrated in stock, stock options and restricted stock. This can cause special estate planning and estate administration issues.

Other issues can include substantial interests in qualified retirement plans, corporate life insurance plans, and split-dollar arrangements.

Whether working with a corporate executive at the beginning, midpoint or pinnacle of his or her career, Cummings & Lockwood’s trusts and estates attorneys have the knowledge and experience to help design an appropriate estate plan.

cl-law.com | 860-313-4900.

Your walkways and patios are meant to be enjoyed—not stressed over. But over time, even the best outdoor surfaces can start to show wear. Weeds creeping up between the joints, mold or moss spreading across the surface, and uneven pavers creating tripping hazards are all common pain points for homeowners.

Maintenance and restoration can bring your outdoor space back to life. One of the most important first steps is having the area professionally powerwashed. It’s imperative for removing built-up grime and all the old joint material that no longer holds properly.

Once cleared, pavers can be lifted where needed, the base touched up to eliminate unevenness, and materials can be relaid for a smooth, secure finish. Installing fresh joint material locks everything in place. With the right restoration, your patio or walkway can look beautiful, clean, and welcoming again.

Justin@eaquinn.com | 860-633-0115

For 2026 THE FEDERAL TAX LANDSCAPE

Tax Expert Jaye Subramanian of Consult Vera: The Top Marginal Rate Remains At 37 Percent

This year the major federal tax rules in effect reflect extensions and modifications of policies originally enacted under President Trump, along with legislation passed afterward to prevent many provisions from expiring at the end of 2025.

For individuals, lower income tax brackets that were scheduled to sunset remain. The top marginal rate is 37 percent, rather than increasing to 39.6 percent. The  compressed bracket structure continues. The nearly doubled standard deduction applies, while personal exemptions continue to be eliminated. The Child Tax Credit remains higher than its pre-2018 level and is indexed for inflation, keeping the per-child benefit above $2,000. The cap on state and local tax (SALT) deduction increases to $40,000 for several years before a scheduled reversion later in the decade. The lifetime estate and gift tax exemption is increased to roughly $15 million per individual (about $30 million for married couples), indexed for inflation. In addition, temporary deductions allow eligible workers to deduct up to $25,000 in tip income and up to $12,500 in overtime pay and taxpayers may deduct up to $10,000 per year in interest on loans for certain new U.S.-assembled vehicles.

For businesses, the 21 percent corporate income tax rate remains permanent. Owners of pass-through entities—such as S corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships—continue to benefit from a 20 percent Qualified Business Income deduction, which was also preserved beyond its original expiration date. Businesses are again permitted to claim 100 percent bonus depreciation on qualified property placed in service after 2025, allowing immediate expensing rather than multi-year depreciation. Section 179 expensing limits remain elevated, enabling small and mid-sized businesses to deduct substantial equipment and property purchases upfront. At the same time, tighter limits apply to the deductibility of certain executive compensation at large public companies.

Overall, the 2026 tax landscape maintains lower individual and business tax rates, higher estate exemptions, and accelerated writeoffs for investment, with several targeted deductions scheduled to phase out later in the decade.

Jaye Subramanian, Consult Vera

703 Hebron Ave., Suite 2A

Phone: 860-994-2791

Email: Office@consultvera.com Online: Consultvera.com

With Intention INVESTING

Brendan Wood Helps Clients Turn Uncertainty Into Opportunity

Brendan Wood

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLYN CASSO

Money has always been emotional. It represents confidence, freedom and the future we imagine for ourselves and our families. Yet in today’s economy—marked by volatility, rising costs and nonstop financial headlines—many people feel overwhelmed instead of empowered. The question isn’t just how to invest anymore. It’s why, for what and with whom.

That’s where intentional financial planning comes in.

“Most people don’t fail financially because they make one bad decision,” says Brendan Wood, Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor at Wood Wealth Management, an LPL Financial practice. “They struggle because they never connect their money to a clear purpose. Investing without a plan is like driving without a destination.”

A Palo Alto native, Brendan began his career teaching in independent schools in Santa Barbara before transitioning to Merrill Lynch in 2007. In 2023, he moved his practice to LPL Financial, embracing independence to better serve clients. The former Princeton University offensive tackle— who jokes that he once played the role of “bodyguard/food taster,” a nod to Tina Fey’s famous 30 Rock oxymoron—still approaches his work with the discipline and protection mindset he learned on the field.

Now based in Durham, Brendan and his wife, Jennifer, are raising five teenagers—along with two dogs and two cats, as he laughingly describes it, “a household built for self-flagellation.” It’s a full life that reinforces his belief that financial planning is deeply personal and rooted in family priorities.

FROM MARKET NOISE TO MEANINGFUL DIRECTION

It’s easy to get distracted by daily market swings and headlines about inflation, interest rates and geopolitical risk. But Brendan says financially independent investors learn to tune out the noise.

“Short-term volatility is part of the journey. What matters is whether your investments are aligned with your goals—retirement, education, lifestyle, legacy. If your plan is built correctly, the market becomes something you navigate, not something you panic over.”

That mindset shift—from reaction to intention—is often the turning point. Instead of asking, Is now a good time to invest? clients begin asking, Am I investing in a way that supports the life I want?

PLANNING IS ABOUT PEOPLE, NOT PRODUCTS

One of the biggest misconceptions about financial planning is that it’s about picking the right stocks or funds. In reality, Brendan says, it starts with understanding the person.

“We talk about values before we talk about numbers. What do you want your life to look like in five years? In twenty? What keeps you up at night? That’s how you build a strategy that actually sticks.”

That human-first approach builds transparency, and transparency builds consistency. Consistency, he notes, is what turns modest decisions into powerful long-term outcomes.

DISCIPLINE BEATS TIMING

One of the most common traps investors fall into is trying to “time” the market—jumping in and out based on fear or excitement. Brendanis clear about this: “Time in the market beats timing the market,” Wood says. “The people who are financially independent are the ones who stay disciplined, stay invested and stay focused on the long term.”

That philosophy reflects his personal interests as well. A practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and an avid reader of history and classic value investors such as Ben Graham and Warren Buffett, Brendan believes patience and principle consistently outperform impulse.

“When your strategy matches your life stage and your goals, risk becomes something you control instead of something that controls you.”

WEALTH AS A TOOL, NOT A SCORECARD

In a culture obsessed with numbers, Brendan reframes wealth as a tool rather than a trophy.

“Money is meant to support your life—not define it. If your finances aren’t helping you sleep better, live better and plan better, then something’s missing.”

He also volunteers with The Association of Financial Educators, reinforcing his belief that financial literacy is foundational to opportunity.

The real measure of financial independence, he says, isn’t just portfolio growth. It’s confidence. It’s clarity. It’s knowing that your financial decisions are working for you, not against you.

THE BOTTOM LINE

In a world of financial uncertainty, the most powerful investment isn’t a hot stock or trending asset—it’s a thoughtful, personalized plan.

“When you invest with intention, you stop chasing outcomes and start building them.”

That’s where real wealth begins.

Disclaimer: Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Brendan Wood, Wood Wealth Management

Phone:860-840-3895 (Voice Only), 860-986-7215 (Office & Text)

Email: brendan.wood@lplfinancial.com

Online: woodwealth.lpl.com

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RETIREMENT WITHOUT FEAR

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA Independent Fiduciary Advisor James Beyer Helps Investors Plan For Life’s Biggest Financial Transition

For many Americans, the final three to five years before retirement can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff — close enough to see what’s next, but uncertain about the landing.

For Connecticut-based financial planner James T. Beyer, that stretch isn’t a danger zone. It’s a specialty.

“A lot of people have done a good job saving, but saving and distributing are two very different skill sets.”

An independent fiduciary financial advisor with more than 14 years of experience, James is a lifelong Connecticut resident. He lives in Glastonbury with his wife, Michelle, and their dog, Kooba. He also serves as a deacon in his church.

At his offices at 20 Waterside Drive in Farmington, he offers complimentary consultations for individuals mapping out their retirement path.

He built his practice around helping people who plan to retire within the next three to five years. Rather than focusing solely on wealth accumulation, he concentrates on turning decades of savings into sustainable, dependable retirement income.

“Retirement is not just a financial event — it’s a life transition,” James says.  “The biggest shift isn’t always in the numbers. It’s in the mindset. People go from earning a paycheck every two weeks to relying on assets they’ve worked a lifetime to build. That can feel unsettling without a clear plan.”

Many of his clients arrive with similar questions: Do I have enough? How do I replace my paycheck? What happens if the market drops right after I retire? How will I cover healthcare or long-term care costs?

“A lot of people have done a good job saving, but saving and distributing are two very different skill sets. When you’re within five years of retirement, every decision carries more weight.”

A key component of his work is addressing the concerns that intensify as retirement approaches — generating consistent income, optimizing savings for long-term growth and preparing for healthcare expenses. Beyer guides clients through a step-bystep process that evaluates their financial picture, risk tolerance and personal priorities.

“I tell clients, ‘We’re going to stress-test this plan before you live it.’  We look at inflation, unexpected expenses, market volatility — all the things that can derail retirement if you don’t prepare for them.”

In his book, Retire With Confidence, James outlines what he calls the “10 blind spots” that can cause people to work longer than necessary. The book emphasizes building a personalized retirement plan aligned with lifestyle and timeline, creating reliable income streams and protecting against inflation and unforeseen medical costs.

“Too many people assume retirement will just work itself out,” he said. “But small blind spots — like underestimating healthcare costs or not accounting for taxes properly — can have a big impact over 20 or 30 years.”

Healthcare planning is one of his core specialties. James holds the Certified Long Term Care Consultant (CLTC®) and Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®) designations. As a fiduciary, he is obligated to act in his clients’ best interests — a distinction he believes is critical.

“Trust is everything. When someone is about to retire, they’re not just hiring you for investment advice. They’re trusting you with their future lifestyle.”

Beyond income planning, his practice includes comprehensive retirement planning, wealth management, tax-minimization strategies, estate conservation and risk management. He also works with business owners preparing to exit or transition into new professional phases.

He has earned recognition as a nine-time Million Dollar Round Table qualifier, though he emphasizes that accolades are secondary to outcomes.

“At the end of the day, my success is measured by whether my clients feel confident walking away from their careers. If they can retire knowing their income plan is solid and they don’t have to look over their shoulder at every market headline, that’s a win.”

“Retirement should be something you look forward to, not something you fear. With the right preparation, the next three to five years can be the most empowering of your financial life.”

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 203-278-7727 or visit IntegrityWealthRetirement.com.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Integrity Alliance, LLC, member SIPC. Integrity Wealth is a marketing name for Integrity Alliance.

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Plant You r Kitchen Garden

BACKYARD GARDENS OFFER FRESH VEGGIES AND FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL

A quick guide for simple ideas to start off your backyard kitchen garden. With endless health and medicinal benefits, combined with the beauty and enjoyment to be found, gardening is endlessly rewarding.

GETTING STARTED

• Plant your vegetable options right into your beds with flowers, the pollinators (bees, butterflies and more) are attracted to the beautiful flowers and your veggies will easily and abundantly go-tofruit, living harmoniously in one bed.

• Every garden needs a rain gauge - you’ll be surprised at how fun it is to check. There is nothing like rain water for your garden. (This is optional, but definitely fun).

• Get your family involved. It’s never too late!

• Just go for it, our local climate can be weird and often extreme but don’t let it stop you- the most success and fun I’ve had was just going for it. Experiment and see what you love and what works best for you!

• In most cases, when watering, don’t water the petals and leaves, (especially when they’re in direct sunlight) try to water straight to the soil. All they need is water, nutrients and light to thrive! (and maybe a little love helps too!)

• Don’t forget herbs: Lavender, Mint, Lemon Verbena, Oregano, Basil, Cilantro, Parsley and more. Don’t be afraid to skip the spice rack and grab your seasoning from the garden.

What to Plant

Whether starting from seed or seedlings, you can’t go wrong with these options. Start with foods you know you like to eat.

TOMATOES: They’re delicious, money-saving, good for eating fresh and for preserving. Tomatoes come in endless colors, shapes and sizes. Plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil, ideally in full sun, and ensure they receive consistent moisture, supporting them with cages or stakes as they grow.

OKRA: Okra loves our hot summers and full sun. Don’t wait too long to pick your okra, ideally harvesting them when they are 2 to 4 inches long. Can be eaten raw on a salad or best served deep fried. (The flower that turns into the okra itself is uniquely beautiful as well!)

EGGPLANT: Eggplant is a short season vegetable and a relative of peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco. It thrives in heat and full sun and can be deliciously made into baba ganoush and many other delicious dishes.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SANCHEZQUAN

PEPPERS: Like tomatoes, peppers have many purposes and variations. Plant them in a sunny location with welldrained soil after the last frost, spacing them 18 inches apart, and provide consistent watering while ensuring the soil doesn't become waterlogged.

Flowers Bring Pollinators

Flowers bring joy to all five of our senses, but they also bring pollinators to our garden in order to ensure your backyard kitchen will produce lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Not to mention they also contain health and even medicinal properties.

HIBISCUS:

Make sure your hibiscus plants, whether tropical or hardy, get at least 6 hours of sun per day in order to achieve optimum blooming. Hibiscus flowers can be made into a delicious tea that can be served hot or ice cold (and is a good source of Vitamin C). With over 200 varieties of hibiscus world wide, their blooms only last a day or two! Stunning in all shapes, sizes and colors.

MARIGOLDS:

To the surprise of most people, marigold flowers are edible. Whether used fresh, dried, or infused into various beverages, Marigolds have a multitude of uses in the kitchen. An added benefit of planting these bright and low maintenance flowers next to tomatoes– they help keep pests away from devouring your tomatoes while also encouraging pollinators.

ZINNIAS: PLUMBAGO:

These bright, colorful garden gems have many benefits beyond their beauty and ease of care. Along with attracting pollinators, and being low maintenance they also have medicinal properties. Zinnias have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, they’re rich in antioxidants, and the natural compounds in zinnias can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness.

Plumbago is thought to have many health benefits, such as its anti-ulcer, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties, resulting from its principal chemical components, which are concentrated in the roots, leaves, and stems of plants. This attractive light purple flowering plant thrives in the sun, and has moderate watering needs. Trim and prune to suit your own preferences of growth and it’s a welcome, abundantly beautiful member of any garden.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

APRIL 7TH

Tabletop Game Club

Noah Webster Library, 20 South Main St. | 5:30 PM

The West Hartford Tabletop Game Club is a friendly, inclusive, and accessible tabletop role playing game group for adults of all experience levels. Whether you’ve never played a game or you’re a seasoned gamer, this group is for you. We are open to all players, game systems, and ideas, with a focus on creating a fun, welcoming environment. westhartfordlibrary.org.

APRIL 8TH

Noah Webster House Hosts U.S. Constitution Talk

Noah Webster House, 227 South Main St. | 6:30 PM

As part of West Hartford's celebration of America's 250th birthday, the Noah Webster House will host a lecture by Matthew Warshauer, a professor of history at Central Connecticut State University,  on "The Constitution and Bill of Rights." Tickets are available at  Noahwebsterhouse.org.

APRIL 10TH

Watkinson Hosts Info Session

Watkinson School, 180 Bloomfield Ave., Hartford | 9:00 AM

Watkinson School, a private coeducation day school for students in grades 6-PG, will host an informational session for prospective parents at its campus. The event will include refreshments and a conversation with Head of School Teri Schrader. To RSVP email kimberly_mcdonald@watkinson.org . Visit watkinson.org for more information.

APRIL 12TH

Daffodil Planting Ceremony

West Hartford Town Hall, 50 South Main St. | 3:00 PM

Voices of Hope, a Holocaust remembrance group, will host a daffodil planting dedication ceremony in memory of children who died during the Holocaust. Organizers will memorialize the planting of 750 daffodil bulbs donated by Voices of Hope near the circular seating area on the front lawn of Town Hall. Visit CTvoicesofhope.org for more information.

APRIL 15TH

The Lifespan of a Fact

Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road | 7:30 PM

Based on a novel, a literary magazine intern is given a career-making assignment: fact- checking a new work by celebrated author John D’Agata, who has just written a groundbreaking magazine essay. But is the story true? When the world’s most neurotically precise fact-checker starts dissecting the author’s work, it begins to fall apart. Visit playhouseonpark.org for tickets and show dates.

APRIL 17TH

Music At The Red Door

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 679 Farmington Ave. | 7:30 PM

Join Music at the Red Door as they present "Echoes from East to West." Montreal-based ensemble C’est Donya invite you on an evocative journey through time and culture, blending Baroque masterpieces with traditional Persian songs.  Music at the Red Door builds bridges between the parish and community, with the name referencing the church's Unique front doors.  Visit reddoormusic.org for information.

APRIL 22ND

Nature's Pharmacy: Remedies Derived From the Natural World

| 11:00 AM

Join the Elizabeth Park Conservancy for a lecture led by Dayne Laskey, and lunch, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Dayne will focus on how modern pharmaceutical medicines owe their existence to the bounty from the natural world and how careful observation, chemistry, and the scientific method transform plants from garden curiosities into reliable medicines. Visit

APRIL 23RD

Holocaust Project Plans Third Remembrance Event

Congregation Kol Haverim 1079 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury | 7:00 PM

The Glastonbury Holocaust Remembrance Project will hold its third annual Holocaust memorial project, which is co-hosted by the First Church of Christ Congregational. This year’s theme is “Righteous Among the Nations,”and commemorates the non-Jews who came to the aid of Jewish people in times of need. Visit ghrp.net for information and to register.

APRIL 23RD

Samba Fest Concert

Blue Back Square | 6:00 PM

Presented by Trinity College's Austin Arts Center The Trinity Samba Fest is a "Sneak Peek" concert of the Austin Center's Annual Samba Fest that is held at the college later in the month. The fest features live Brazilian music and dancing. Visit trincoll.edu for more information.

APRIL 25TH

Festival of Women's Voices

King Philip Middle School, 100 King Philip Drive | 1:30 PM

This multigenerational event by the West Hartford Women's Chorale will feature composer Kate Crellin and choral groups from around the Hartford area. Free will donations accepted at the door to benefit the Women’s Refugee Center of Connecticut. Visit whwchorale.org for information.