West Hartford, CT July 2025

Explore!

THE WEST HARTFORD REGION HAS MANY EXCELLENT PLACES FOR HIKING

A Chartered Financial Consultant, ChFC is a financial expert who has completed 2 years of advanced coursework, takes additional training each year, meets ethical standards and always puts your interests first. Roger Cowen uses the knowledge learned in his ChFC training to assist people with Retirement Planning, Investment Management and Tax Planning. He will help you identify areas which need improvement and offer practical solutions.

July: Explore!

I’m writing to share some personal news—after five wonderful years, I’ve decided to retire from Glastonbury and West Hartford Lifestyle. While I’ll miss the magazine business and all of the friends I’ve made along the way, I’m really looking forward to traveling with my wife, spending more time with my children and grandchildren and playing more golf. As you can imagine, this was a difficult decision with many mixed emotions. It’s been an absolute pleasure publishing this magazine for the community. I’m deeply grateful for your trust over the years.

I’m also excited to introduce you to the new Publisher,  Sri Ramachandran. Sri and his wife, Jaye Subramanian, have called Connecticut home for the last 15 years. They are raising their twin 6-year-old daughters here, Taara and Vedha, and love being part of this vibrant area. He's excited to embark on this new endeavor and I'm thrilled that our magazines are in such good hands.

July is our Explore Issue and we have several stories this month that explore that theme!

We spoke with the folks at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford because the company, which makes aircraft engines, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year. Pratt & Whitney's engines revolutionized air travel and helped millions of people over the decades explore the globe!

Summer is the season to get outside and explore the natural world so we have an article this month about the best hiking areas in our town and across the state, including the West Hartford Reservoir, which has about 30 miles of hiking trails, and the family-friendly trails in Elizabeth Park.

We also have a story from Anissa Teich, owner of The Small Business Collective, West Hartford CoWorking, and Windsor Worx CoWorking, about the resurgence of New Park Avenue as a bustling business district worthy of exploring right in our own backyard.

Lastly, we have several summer drink recipes you can mix up for your next summer get-together, using organic ingredients from your very own garden.

We hope you enjoy this month's issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you get out and explore all that our region and town has to offer!

SRI RAMACHANDRAN, PUBLISHER AND JAYE SUBRAMANIAN, PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

@WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE

July 2025

PUBLISHER

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

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Jayashree (Jaye) Subramanian

jayashree.subramanian@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Annisa Teich

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Meredith Longo, Michelle Chou

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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Proverbs 3:5-6

Meet Our Pain Management Specialists

Michael J. Grille, MD

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

Dr. Michael Grille has established himself as one of the top Interventional Pain Management Specialists in the Northeast. With Fellowship training at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise in order to develop the best and most comprehensive pain management plan to address any chronic pain condition.

Michael J. Robbins, DO

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

Dr. Michael Robbins was recognized as one of the “Best Pain Management Physicians in New Haven”, and he has brought his clinical excellence and experience to the local community. Dr. Robbins is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist. He has extensive knowledge in spinal mechanics, and he provides treatment for a wide range of pain issues.

Bright J. Selvaraj, MD

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

Dr. Bright Jebaraj Selvaraj brings national pain management experience to the forefront of the IAA Pain Center. Having completed his Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital and his Pain Management Fellowship with Oregon Health, Dr. Selvaraj has been a welcome addition to our growing Pain Management Team.

Pain Conditions We Treat

• Neck , mid-back and low back pain

• Joint pain and pain after joint replacement

• Chronic post-surgical pain

• Headache, head, and facial pain

• Cervical dystonia

• Sciatica and nerve pain

• Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain

• Cancer-related pain

• Chest wall pain and thoracic outlet syndrome

• Complex regional pain syndrome

• and more!

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Three West Hartford Women Join Aurora Foundation's Board

Two West Hartford residents have been elected to the Board of the Aurora Women and Girls Foundation, and a third has been named board chair. The new chair is Amy Miller (pictured adjacent), Senior Vice President and Advisor at Wealthspire Advisors, New board members are Samia Ameur, a senior analyst at RTX specializing in international tax compliance, and Trisha Pitter, director of Community Learning and Engagement/Instructional Designer at the UConn Health Disparities Institute. Visit aurorafoundation.org

The Friendly Toast Opens on LaSalle Road

The Friendly Toast, a popular all-day brunch and bar spot, has opened its first Connecticut location at 36 LaSalle Road in West Hartford. With unique brunch options, such as the Friendly Toast Benny, Spicy Salmon Sandy and Gochujang Fried Chicken sandwich, The Friendly Toast’s new location accommodates up to 160 guests, including 12 outdoor seating spaces, and boasts a full bar and eclectic décor featuring nostalgic elements throughout the space. Visit  thefriendlytoast.com for more information.

Local Rotary Donates $10,000 in Goods to Food Pantry

Through its annual Food Caravan fundraiser, the West Hartford Rotary Club was able to donate $10,000 worth of food, purchased at Costco, to The Town That Cares organization, which operates the West Hartford Food Pantry. The Rotary worked with the Conard High School Interact Rotary Club on the initiative. Visit westhartfordrotary.org for more information.

Fyzical Holds Ribbon Cutting

Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers celebrated the recent opening of their new center at 61 South Main St., with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Fyzical physical therapists focus on helping clients achieve their optimal health and wellness with specific program designed uniquely for each client. Visit fyzical.com/west-hartford-ct  for more information.

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Jenny Andre Salon Holds Ribbon Cutting

Jenny Andre Hair & Skin Spa, located at 997 Farmington Ave., recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony with the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. Known for her mastery in color correction and damage repair, Jenny Andre specializes in reviving over-processed hair and restoring shine and strength, earning her the affectionate nickname, “hair doctor.” With locations here and in Manhattan, Jenny conducts in-depth consultations that prioritize hair health. Visit Jennyandresalon.com for more information.

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Local Students Host Hygiene Awareness Event

Two local students, Nathan and Katelyn Huang (pictured adjacent), led a Hygiene Drive at Aiken Elementary and King Philip Middle School which collected over 450 Hygiene Products. Their nonprofit, CareKit Community, addresses hygiene insecurity by distributing kits with essentials like soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Donations from this drive will support schools and organizations in Hartford. On Instagram:@carekitcommunity.

For over 100 years, Cummings & Lockwood has been building meaningful and lasting relationships with our private clients, their family offices, businesses and charitable entities. We serve as trusted advisors for multiple generations and provide sophisticated legal counsel at every important stage of life.

Paul L. Bourdeau

Principal, Private Clients Group

860.313.4930 pbourdeau@cl-law.com

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Robert B. Fawber

Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4931 rfawber@cl-law.com

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Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4946 mfiner@cl-law.com

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Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4923 bmarquis@cl-law.com

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Principal-in-Charge, West Hartford Office 860.313.4919 kpeck@cl-law.com

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For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys.

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Kathryn Hunt Studio Opens Retail Location in West Hartford

The Kathryn Hunt Studio, a full-service interior decoration and design firm, has opened a retail location at 970 Farmington Ave. The new space is a concierge shopping experience for the home, featuring furniture, lighting, and a variety of retail home goods. Clients can also make a showroom appointment with one of our designers to have a more hands on approach to purchasing single or for help through selecting furnishings for an entire space. Visit kathrynhuntstudio.com.

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Central Eye Care Hosts Ribbon Cutting

Central Eye Care LLC recently held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony with owner clinical optometrist Dr. Jennifer Raska, friends, family and community members. Town councilor Tiffany McGinnis officiated on behalf of the town. Central Eye Care, located at 28 North Main St., Suite 102, provides family-focused and full service eye care facility with a focus on proactive eye care. Visit Centraleyecare2020.com.

Stepping Stone Financial Wins Recognition

Stepping Stone Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services located at 8 Lowell Road, was recently named to the 2025 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list. "Thank you to our loyal clients for making this recognition possible!" For more information visit ameripriseadvisors.com/team/stepping-stone-wealth.

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A CENTURY OF INNOVATION

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA

PRATT & WHITNEY CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF POWERING PROGRESS

In 1925, Frederick Rentschler, a visionary engineer, set out to change the face of aviation. He founded Pratt & Whitney with a revolutionary goal: to develop a lighter, more reliable, and more powerful aircraft engine than anything that had come before. That first engine, the R-1340 Wasp, didn’t just succeed. It transformed aviation.

Now, in 2025, Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, celebrates 100 years of excellence and global impact. From its humble beginnings to its position today as a global leader in aerospace propulsion, the company’s centennial legacy of safety, innovation, and dependable engines

THE ENGINE THAT STARTED IT ALL

At the heart of Pratt & Whitney’s founding was a radical innovation: the air-cooled radial engine. The R-1340 Wasp was a technical marvel for its time achieving levels of performance and reliability far greater than the water-cooled engines of the time. Its impact was immediate and far-reaching. The U.S. Navy, recognizing its potential, placed an order for 200 engines. Additional orders soon followed, sparking a production surge that led to the company’s move to a larger facility in East Hartford in 1929 — a site that remains its global headquarters today and Pratt & Whitney being one of the largest employers in the region.

Over 35,000 R-1340 Wasp engines were eventually built, powering nearly 100 types of aircraft. In 2016, the Wasp received designation as a Historic Engineering Landmark from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, a testament to its enduring legacy.

POWERING VICTORY IN WORLD WAR II

During World War II, Pratt & Whitney engines became a cornerstone of Allied air power. The R-1830 Twin Wasp, for instance, powered iconic aircraft such as the Douglas C-47, the B-24 Liberator, and the Grumman Wildcat. Production ramped up to unprecedented levels — with hundreds of thousands of engines built not only in Connecticut, but by partner manufacturers across North America.

The impact was staggering: Pratt & Whitney engines supplied over 50 percent of the total aviation horsepower used by Allied forces during the war. These engines helped the Allies win the war in the skies and positioned the company for rapid postwar growth.

JET AGE TRAILBLAZERS

With the dawn of the jet age, Pratt & Whitney remained at the forefront of propulsion technology. The JT3D engine powered the Boeing 707, ushering  commercial air travel into the jet age. Subsequent engines like the JT8D and JT9D powered mass-market airliners such as the Boeing 727 and 747, and Airbus’s early wide-bodies.

From the PW2000 to the PW4000 families, and the V2500 joint venture with International Aero Engines, Pratt & Whitney continued to shape the modern commercial aviation.

DEFINING MILITARY POWER

For the past four decades, Pratt & Whitney has been synonymous with cutting-edge fighter aircraft propulsion. From the F100 engines family on the F-15 and F-16, to the F119 for the F-22, and the F135 engine that powers all variants of the F-35, the business has continuously delivered world-class performance and dependability to the U.S. military and its allies.

The F135 alone surpassed one million flight hours in under two decades and remains the most capable and reliable fighter engine in the world today. With its ongoing Engine Core Upgrade program, Pratt & Whitney is growing the F135’s capability to ensure the F-35 remains well positioned to outpace evolving threats.

INNOVATION FOR THE FUTURE

Pratt & Whitney’s latest commercial powerhouse, the (GTF), represents a change in engine efficiency. With its unique geared architecture, the GTF delivers up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a 75 percent smaller noise footprint for single aisle aircraft such as the A320neo, A220 and the E2.

Already powering over 2,300 aircraft globally, and with more than 11,000 engines on order, the GTF has redefined what’s possible for airlines. The new GTF Advantage, certified by the FAA and set to be delivered later this year, builds on that success with greater thrust, better fuel efficiency, and longer time on wing. Looking ahead, the company is actively investing in hybrid-electric propulsion, alternative fuels like hydrogen, and advanced materials—all part of its commitment to shaping the next 100 years of aviation.

A CENTURY IN CONNECTICUT

For 100 years, Pratt & Whitney has been a pillar of Connecticut’s economy and innovation landscape. With over $1 billion invested in its local sites over the last decade alone, the business continues to drive growth in East Hartford, Middletown, and beyond. From building a 425,000-square-foot state-of-the-art Engineering & Technology Center in East Hartford, to spending more than $1 billion annually with suppliers throughout in the state, the business remains deeply rooted in the community.

It also fosters the next generation of innovators through partnerships with local colleges and workforce programs. Through initiatives like FIRST Robotics, Invention Convention, and its

long-standing work with organizations like the Connecticut Science Center and Boys & Girls Clubs, Pratt & Whitney continues to inspire and invest in STEM education across the region.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

To mark its centennial, Pratt & Whitney has launched a yearlong celebration including a global exhibit tour and special events for employees and communities. In April, the company hosted a flyover by a WWII-era R4D-6S aircraft—powered by Twin Wasp engines—at its East Hartford and Middletown facilities. In July, the company will host a Founder’s Week to honor and celebrate its heritage with events at its sites in Connecticut and across the globe.

Great Food, Craft Beer, Cocktails & Wine

2025 Summer Season | July 7th-August 1st, 2025 Contact info@benbronzacademy.org

FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS & REVIEW

Classes focus on Reading, Mathematics, Keyboarding, Written Expression, Writing Mechanics, and Study Skills. All students receive a progress report and recommendations for the school year.

STUDY SKILLS

Reading Comprehension practice uses text previewing techniques, outlining, finding main ideas, vocabulary building and note taking.

CONNECTICUT HAS A WEALTH OF EXCELLENT AND HISTORIC HIKING AREAS

Connecticut, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for all skill levels. From serene coastal trails to rugged mountain paths, the state is a haven for nature lovers. Each year the Museum of Connecticut History hosts a series of guided hikes of some of our state’s historic sites. While this year’s hikes have already filled up, you can still explore on your own all of the historic places the museum identifies each year by visiting their website: museumofcthistory.org.

HIKES IN OR NEAR WEST HARTFORD:

1. West Hartford Reservoir

This area boasts nearly 30 miles of trails. The network includes the blueblazed Metacomet Trail, offering hikers scenic views and varied terrain. It’s a favorite among locals for hiking, biking, and trail-running.

2. Trout Brook Trail, West Hartford.

This trail provides a serene environment for walkers and joggers. With its gentle paths and scenic surroundings, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

3. Elizabeth Park Loop

Known for its beautiful gardens, Elizabeth Park, which straddles Hartford and West Hartford,  also offers a 1.86-mile loop trail. It’s an easy walk, perfect for families and those looking to combine floral beauty with exercise.

WANT TO FIND A HIKE FARTHER AFIELD? HERE’S A LIST OF OTHER POPULAR SPOTS FROM AROUND THE STATE.

1. Cotton Hollow Preserve, Glastonbury Cotton Hollow Preserve is one of the

“CONNECTICUT ... OFFERS NUMEROUS HIKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS.”

hikes on this year’s historic hiking tours. The park offers a tranquil escape with lush forests and a meandering brook. The trail includes the remnants of an 18th-century gunpowder mill. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful hike, especially during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.

2. Blackledge Falls, Hebron

This short trail rewards hikers with a picturesque 25-foot waterfall, especially impressive after rainfall. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual hikers looking for a quick nature fix. The Outbound

3. Pachaug State Forest – Voluntown

As Connecticut’s largest state forest, Pachaug spans over 27,000 acres across several towns in the eastern part of the state. It boasts a network of trails, including the 30-mile Pachaug Trail and the 15-mile Nehantic Trail.

4. Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam

Know for the large stone castle that looms over the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The park features over six miles of trails, many following the path of William Gillette’s

former narrow-gauge railroad, complete with stone-arch bridges, trestles, and a 75-foot tunnel. The trails vary in difficulty, accommodating both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.

5. Ragged Mountain, Southington and Berlin

Part of the Metacomet Ridge, Ragged Mountain rises approximately 761 feet, offering hikers challenging trails with rewarding vistas. The 51-mile Metacomet Trail passes through this area, leading adventurers along steep cliffs and unique geological formations.

6. Sleeping Giant State Park – Hamden

Named for its resemblance to a sleeping giant, this park offers over 30 miles of trails across its rugged terrain. The Tower Trail leads hikers to a stone observation tower, providing panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

7. Penwood State Park, Bloomfield/Simsbury

This park, part of the hiking through history tours offered by the Connecticut Museum of History, offers a fascinating landscape with hidden history, traprock ridges, and spectacular views.

8. Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, Stonington

Open year-round this waterfront nature preserve includes a 5.2-mile loop trail. Generally considered an easy route, it takes nearly two hours to complete is a popular area for birding, hiking, and mountain biking. The trail is open yearround and is beautiful to visit anytime.

Arden Courts Memory Care Community, located on South Rd in Farmington caters to the special needs of individuals with memory loss. Staffed by specially trained caregivers, Arden Courts cares for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Our community features friendly common spaces, an inviting kitchen and family rooms and walking paths within enclosed courtyards, all designed for the safety and comfort of our residents.

ARTICLE BY ANNISA TEICH

REDISCOVERING NEW PARK AVENUE, A NEIGHBORHOOD ON THE RISE

EXPLORE: LOCAL

When most people think of West Hartford, their minds inevitably drift to “The Center”— our town’s most iconic and celebrated hub. With its vibrant dining scene, boutique shop-

declined and larger chains priced small businesses out of The Center, New Park offered an alternative - a blank canvas rich with potential and lower commercial rents.

AS SMALL BUSINESSES...CONTINUED TO MOVE IN, THE NEIGHBORHOOD’S HEARTBEAT GREW LOUDER

ping, and unmistakable charm, The Center is undoubtedly a gem. But what if I told you that some of the most exciting growth, creativity, and small business innovation in West Hartford is happening just a few miles south, along New Park Avenue?

The July issue’s theme for West Hartford Lifestyle - Explore - inspired me to reflect not on distant destinations, but on rediscovery within our own community. Specifically, a neighborhood many overlook: New Park Avenue, nestled in the Elmwood section of West Hartford. This corridor, once heavily industrial and dominated by manufacturing and trade businesses, has been undergoing a quiet renaissance, transforming into a haven for small businesses, makers, foodies, and innovators.

Decades ago, New Park was known for its factories and warehouses, including the still-standing Colt Firearms facility. But as manufacturing

It started slowly, and by necessity. Early pioneers Blaze & Bloom Vintage, Work In Progress Fitness, Hello Dolly Boutique, and A Little Something Bakery - set up shop in an aging industrial building that had been creatively repurposed into what I’d describe as a rough mini mall. These businesses were more than tenants; they took a chance on the only affordable real estate in town - quirks and all - and saw the opportunity to build something meaningful together. With the building at 485 New Park Ave warmed up and primed for more love, New Park Brewing moved in March of 2017, drawing crowds on release day and regional attention to the neighborhood.

All the while GastroPark - in the early stages of its tango with the town - was percolating at the far end of the street. This incredible culinary and community destination turned a former auto body shop into a food fun haven. Founder Tate Norden’s journey to bring

CONTINUED >

GastroPark to life is one of passion, grit, and perseverance - a story that reflects the very ethos of this corridor and its blue-collar roots.

As small businesses, including Junkpot Studio and Warehouse 635, continued to move in - the neighborhood’s heartbeat grew louder. What once felt like the outskirts now feels like the next frontier.

This is also personal for me. In 2019, West Hartford CoWorking relocated from a cramped second-floor office in The Center to a newly renovated space on New Park Avenue. The move not only gave us room to grow, but placed us - quite literally - on the border of Hartford and West Hartford, allowing us to serve as a bridge between two communities.

Our location stands both symbolically and geographically as a connector between urban revival and suburban ingenuity. And as more and more new members and guests join us, we love introducing them to our incredible neighbors.

This corridor has evolved into a micro-ecosystem of entrepreneurship, one where you can trace the “root system” of growth from one small business to another. And with each new venture, we see the web of possibility extending further - from New Britain Avenue and down around the corner to the Shield Street section, where you’ll now find the celebrated Cora Cora Peruvian restaurant (a James Beard honoree), WeHa Brewing and Roasting, Cha Papi Tea and Sweets, Jazzercise and other vibrant businesses filling in the dots as buildings change hands and opportunity knocks.

“NEW PARK AVENUE...HAS BEEN UNDERGOING A QUIET RENAISSANCE.”

As West Hartford continues to grow, it’s vital that we support not just the obvious highlights, but the neighborhoods being built from the ground up by small business owners with big dreams. New Park Avenue is a reminder that exploration doesn’t always mean venturing to far off lands - it often means looking again, more closely, at what’s right around us.

So this summer, take a detour. Grab a Dark Side Cold Brew at Perkatory, pamper yourself at Kiss and Makeup’s Spa, or spend the evening under the twinkle lights at GastroPark. You just might discover something you never expected - in your own backyard.

JULY 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 5TH

The West Hartford Farmers Market

Town Hall Parking Lot, 50 South Main St. | 9:00 AM

The "original" West Hartford Farmers Market returns for the season! The market promotes family-owned small businesses, offering quality products and locally produced foods. This is a state of Connecticut Certified Farmers Market and it offers a family and pet friendly atmosphere. The market runs twice a week throughout. For more information visit whfarmersmarket.com.

JULY 9TH

Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival

University of St. Joseph, 1678 Asylum Ave. | 7:30 PM

The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival will run from July 9 to Aug. 3 and will feature two full-length productions of King Lear and Twelfth Night. Capital Classics will stage ten rotating performances of each play, running Wednesday through Sunday evenings for four weeks. General Admission tickets for each show are $25. Visit capitalclassics.org for information or tickets.

JULY 16TH

Singin' in the Rain

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

This re-imagining of the classic musical is set at a screening of the iconic film that goes horribly wrong, until super fans swoop in and save the day! Singin' in the Rain has all the makings of a Tinseltown tabloid headline – the starlet, the leading man and a love affair! Visit Playhouseonpark.org for additional dates and times.

JULY 16TH

Angels Among Us

Cedar Hill Cemetery, 453 Fairfield Ave., Hartford | 10:00 AM

Learn about the angelic figures that grace the landscape of Cedar Hill Cemetery in this informative tour. Connie Robinson will acquaint you with the Angels of Mercy, Life, Peace, and more on this tour of the historic cemetery. Admission is free for Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation members and $10 for nonmembers.. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit cedarhillfoundation.org.

JULY 17TH

Riverfront Food Truck Festival

300 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 11:00 AM

The Riverfront Food Truck Festival is a staple of summertime Hartford fun. Whether you’re craving cupcakes and country music, poutine and pop, or just looking for a lobster roll and lawn games, you’ll find it at the Riverfront Food Truck Festival. The festival runs 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. over several days in July. Visit Hartford.com for more information.

JULY 17TH

ConnectiCon XXII

Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 12:00 PM

The 22nd annual ConnectiCon convention, Connecticut's oldest fan-run convention, will host a diverse selection of Cosplay, Gaming, Celebrity Guests, Panels, Workshops and all things Pop-Culture from Thursday, July 17 through Sunday, July 20. Ticket prices vary. Children 10 and under are free with parent/guardian. Visit connecticon.org for more information and ticket prices.

This magazine exists because Srivathsa said ‘Yes.’

Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.

Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?

West Hartford Lifestyle

Published by Srivathsa Loved by West Hartford