West Hartford, CT February 2026

February — Local 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.

“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 Maggie Drag, a local woman who, inspired by her love of aging family members and her care of them, started her own home care business, Euro-American Home Care.

We also spoke with Jeffrey Goodsell, MD, a family medicine physician in Glastonbury. Dr. Goodsell recently opened Fireside Primary Care, a local medical practice affiliated with MDVIP that will give him more time to focus on patients and personalized care.

In our Experts Espresso Corner feature we have columns from Dr. Jennifer Raska of Central Eye Care, and Chris Conway, West Hartford Chamber of Commerce.

Looking for a great date night or gathering spot to meet up with cherished friends this Valentine's Day? The Social Lounge in Glastonbury 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!

Finally, we have a story this month how to create the perfect date night at home this Valentine's Day and a recipe for a Valentine's raspberry cheesecake.

Here’s to a February filled with love—both local and beyond!

SRIVATHSA (SRI) RAMACHANDRAN, PUBLISHER

@WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

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

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

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

Dave Claro | dave.claro@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Boyer, Dr. Jennifer Raska, Chris Conway, Claudia Dawley

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Steven Laschvere, Michele Tereso, Kaitlyn Casso, Iris Photography, Paloma Galdino, Lynn Damon

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

city scene

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 Trusts and Estates

n Fiduciary and Probate Litigation

n Corporate and Finance

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business monthly

Coracora Opens in Blue Back Square

The award-winning Peruvian restaurant Coracora has opened a new location in Blue Back Square.  The restaurant, which has another location at 152 Shield St., in the Elmwood section of town, offers patrons authentic, homemade Peruvian cuisine and has been named one of the top restaurants in the country. Coracora offers dine-in service as well as meals to go. Visit Coracoraeats.com.

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.

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.

A National Leader in Local 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

THE STAMPED Passport

WHY THE BEST SUMMER TRIPS IN 2026 WILL LOOK A LITTLE DIFFERENT

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.

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. www.thestampedpassporttravel.com Instagram: @thestampedpassporttravelco

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LOCAL HOT SPOT

Social Lounge & Bar Is a Popular Gathering Place

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.

“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.

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.

The Heart Behind the Care

Euro-American Home Care Tailor Services to Each Client's Needs

Homecare’s true purpose is revealed at life’s most vulnerable moments. Maggie Drag understood this early.

Raised in Poland by a single mother on a small family farm, Maggie grew up witnessing a quiet, unwavering form of compassion. Despite having very little, her mother spent ten years caring for an elderly neighbor and his disabled daughter—not as work, but as a way of life. When she baked bread or made homemade jelly, she brought some next door. When she cooked for her family, she prepared extra portions for their table. It wasn’t charity. It was tradition. It was dignity. It was love.

That legacy shaped Maggie’s life.

After immigrating here, Maggie saw other Eastern European immigrants struggling to find work, housing, and stability. She helped many of them find work and housing—not for profit, but because helping is who she is. That experience grew into something far greater. In 1989, Euro-American Homecare was born.

Over the years, she learned that many clients come to homecare during one of life’s hardest chapters: losing a spouse, outliving close friends, or when adult children are stretched thin. Without daily connection or purpose, joy slowly fades. She made it her mission to change that.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELE TERESO

While caregivers complete rigorous training and background checks, the heart of Euro-American Homecare goes far beyond credentials. Caregivers receive personalized training tailored to each client, and every month clients and caregivers participate in a “Purpose, Meaning, and Joy” contest—designed to reconnect people with what makes life feel full.

When families call Euro-American Homecare, the conversation doesn’t begin with paperwork. It begins with the person. Who are they? What did they love? What has slipped away?

Sometimes, the answers are simple and powerful.

For one client, it was baking. She hadn’t made cookies in years, partly due to safety concerns and partly because it didn’t feel meaningful doing it alone. Paired with the right caregiver, the kitchen came back to life. Measuring ingredients, sharing stories, waiting by the oven—small moments that rebuilt confidence, independence, and joy.

“After immigrating to the United States, Maggie saw other Eastern European immigrants struggling to find work, housing, and stability. She helped many of them find work and housing… because helping is who she is.”

Other times, those answers lead to remarkable matches.

Recently, the team welcomed a client needing hourly care who was considered a fall risk. They learned he loved Italian cooking, woodworking, and music. He was paired with a caregiver who shared those passions.

Today, you’ll find them laughing in the living room—one at the piano, one with a guitar—singing an Italian song together. For some, it might seem small. For someone who had begun to lose meaning in daily life, it was everything.

That is Maggie Drag’s legacy. And that is the heart of Euro-American Homecare: not just caring for people, but restoring purpose, meaning, and joy— one person, one caregiver, one shared moment at a time.

Ready to bring purpose, meaning, and joy back into your loved one’s life?

Euro-American Home Care

Online: homecare4.com

Phone: 860-829-0208

License: HCA.0000218

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL:

“When my father became a fall risk, I turned to Euro-American Homecare after another family member had a great experience. After speaking with a client manager about my dad’s needs and what he once loved, they quickly matched him with a caregiver, Frank. The connection was immediate. Frank is kind, patient, and professional. Within 48 hours, my dad was making safer choices—and smiling again. Now they play music together, my dad on piano and Frank on guitar. Seeing that part of him return brought tears to my eyes. Euro-American Homecare brought my father purpose, meaning, and joy back.”

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

ROMANTIC PICNIC UNDER THE STARS

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries. Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting starts. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

BREAKFAST IN BED

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

PAINT AND CREATE TOGETHER

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative painting - each person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.

Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at paintingit’s all about enjoying the process together.

PERMISSION to be

cheesy

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES

Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake? Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE, YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 pound cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 prepared graham cracker crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.   For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whip cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

FEBRUARY 1ST

Gutenberg! The Musical!

Playhouse on Park, 244 Park Road | 2:00 PM

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

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 2ND

Shakespeare Book Club

West Hartford Public Library, 20 South Main St. | 6:30 PM

West Hartford Public Library and the Capital Classics Theatre Company team up to bring the Shakespeare Book Club. Join Capital Classics Artistic Associate and Professor of Theatre Geoffrey Sheehan in a discussion of Antony & Cleopatra. Optional virtual attendance available. Email bard@westhartfordlibrary.org for more information.

FEBRUARY 3RD

Walk To Wellness

West Farms Mall, 1500 New Britain Ave. | 9:00 AM

This free monthly educational presentation features a different topic led by a subject-matter expert. The expert will give a brief presentation, followed by a live Q&A with the audience. After the session, they’ll also be available for additional conversations. This month's session is Heart Health and the benefits of walking. Visit Hartfordhealthcare.org for information.

FEBRUARY 7TH

40th Annual Connecticut Bridal Expo

Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 10:00 AM

The Connecticut Bridal Expo, the largest bridal show in New England, celebrates its 40th year in Hartford. Meet hundreds of the region's top wedding professionals under one roof, from venue representatives and florists to photographers and dress designers. Tickets are $12 for adults, children under 12 are free. Visit ctconventions.com for information.

FEBRUARY 13TH

AM Connections

Noah Webster Library, 20 South Main St. | 7:30 AM

AM Connections, a networking event for business owners and professionals, returns to the Noah Webster Library as a full in-person program. Network with other business professionals during Open Networking before and after the program. All attendees are invited to share a "30 Second Commercial" presentation. The progra fee is $5. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. Visit WHchamber.com.

FEBRUARY 21ST

Knitting Retreat Day

Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, 303 Tunxis Road | 9:00 AM

The Retreat Center holds its annual Knitting or Crocheting Day. This year they are giving their works to the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain. Pick a pattern of your choice, knit or crochet, and bring at least one Preemie Hat to the retreat. While their, participants will make more hats. Visit holyfamilyretreat.org for more information.

FEBRUARY 2026 Want

Experts Espresso Corner

Dr. Jennifer Raska - Central Eye Care, Chris Conway, West Hartford Chamber of Commerce

JENNIFER RASKA, CHRIS CONWAY

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. 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 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, focus shifts to cataracts, glaucoma, macular changes, while keeping you confident and safe. 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

West Hartford Chamber o

WEST HARTFORD ISN’T JUST A PLACE, IT’S A PULSE.

Our town is a sophisticated, welcoming hub where commerce and community intertwine. Its business landscape blends the appeal of global brands with the authenticity of local entrepreneurship. Anchored by West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square, it attracts visitors from across the state and beyond. Westfarms adds a luxury retail dimension that enhances our economic magnetism. But West Hartford’s true charm lies in its neighborhoods; Elmwood’s cultural richness, Park Road’s eclectic flair, the energetic Home Design District, and the evolving retail heart of Bishops Corner. Each brings its own flavor, collectively creating a town that feels expansive and intimate. At the heart of it is the West Hartford Chamber, representing over 600 businesses and nonprofits, driving growth, fostering collaboration, and championing the town’s entrepreneurial spirit. Supporting local here isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life.

WHchamber.com | 860-521-2300

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