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with Dr. Wu, PH.D
March 1-2, 2025
10am - 6pm
Wu Healing Center:
45 S. Main St. Suite 100 West Hartford

Support for a healthy life.

Learn how to:
• Use 9 easy acupressure lines to treat any condition.
• Use the 1,730 year old “Instant Pain Elimination Technique” to instantly eliminate aches, pains, and other conditions.
• Use 10 simple points to find instant relief from 10 every-day problems (knee pain, shoulder pain, headaches, hip pain, low back pain, etc.)
• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow.
It seems September, with its cooler weather and shorter days, heralds change more than any other month of the year. It's probably because it sometimes ushers in a marked change in the weather and landscapes. That's why September is our Style Issue, where we look at the changing styles on the horizon as the days get cooler.

We decided to do something a bit different this year for our Style Issue. We hosted a daylong fashion photo shoot at Saint Clements Castle & Marina with several amazing boutiques in our region that sell women's, kids and men's clothing. They include Thread by Thread of South Glastonbury; The RiverLane of Essex and Mystic; Lemon Llama, Bodytalk, Diesel & Lulu and Coco Lily, all of Avon; and Daswani Clothiers and Kimberly Boutique, both of West Hartford.
Helping us pull it all together were Tina Kiniry and the team at Tina Kiniry Modeling & Acting Agency of West Hartford and Adaora Cobb of SOW Creative, whose organization lead the creative direction.
September is a time when many people start thinking about updating their homes as well as their wardrobes, so this month we have a feature on an interior design firm, Sharon McCormick Design, a company with more than 20 years' experience and a vast portfolio of design expertise.
Looking to upgrade counters or floors in your home? We spoke with the folks at International Marble and Granite Enterprises, a family-owned company that sells and installs a wide variety of stone and solid surface products.
We also have a feature this month on Oksana Salon here in West Hartford. The hair and beauty salon is owned by Oksana Villeneuve, a Moldovan native who immigrated to the U.S. as a child after the Cold War and pursued her dream of owning a hair styling salon..
Lastly, we spoke with KKC Law, which has deep roots in the region and is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
We hope you have a happy and healthy end of your summer and that you enjoy this month's Style Issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine!
GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Ivy Perrelli | ivy.perrelli@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Alexis Demircan | Alexis.Demircan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lucinda Jamison, Brian Boyer, Alexis Demircan, Allisson Bellucci
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Azur Meles, Peter Mellekas, Tim McCaffrey, Kelly Mays, Allisson Bellucci, Tina Kiniry, Thomas Murphy, Tyler Violissi - Transparency Concepts, Blaine Johnathan Photography, Beall Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee



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.

• 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!






















WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN





















FemCare Medspa, formerly known as Reboot Drip Therapy, has rebranded and now offers an exciting array of women's health services, including medical weight loss, IV hydration, Morpheus 8, and Kybella. Led by Julian Grant, RN, and Tameka Hall Lee, NP, under the supervision of Dr. Ryan Wakin, FemCare Medspa, located at 61 Raymond Road, specializes in non-hormonal, non-surgical treatments using the state-of-the-art InMode Empower RF platform. Visit femcaremedspa.com for information.
Scan to read more
The Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society announces its first series of programs aligned with the America250 initiative. The Original Promise of America features three lectures with West Hartford’s Gene Leach, professor of History & American Studies at Trinity College. The Original Promise of America series will “explore how the Revolutionary generation—Noah Webster’s generation—defined the purposes and prospects of their new nation.” Visit Noahwebsterhouse.org for information.
Cummings & Lockwood’s West Hartford office hosted a Private Clients Seminar and Cocktail Reception for clients and professional advisors at The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford earlier this summer. Some of the topics included estate and gift tax exemptions, what to tell your kids about your family trust, a summary of the Corporate Transparency Act, planning with retirement accounts in a post secure world and an estate settlement checklist. Visit cl-law.com for information.







The RiverLane has opened its second Connecticut location at 16 West Main St., Mystic, near the drawbridge. Since opening in Essex in 2022, RiverLane has established itself as a premier fashion boutique and a destination for women of all ages. The Mystic location will offer the same high-quality, curated, hard-to-find brands and versatile fashion accessories, along with personalized styling, pop up events, and exclusive trunk shows. Visit TheRiverlane.com for information.
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The Board of Trustees for Watkinson School, a co-ed independent day school for grades 6-12/PG, has elected Kathleen Kane-Francalangia of West Hartford as its president. Kathleen was the board's vice president for four years and she succeeds Wendy Avery of West Hartford. The board also has elected Nancy Wheeler, of Northampton, Ma., to succeed Kathleen as vice president. Kathleen has served on the board for 12 years. Visit Watkinson.org for more information.
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This year's annual Park Road Parade, sponsored by the Park Road Association, is scheduled for Oct. 5. Organizers have announced that for next year they will transition the parade into a series of smaller events throughout the year. The change is the result of weather and Covid-related issues that saw the parade cancelled several times in recent years. Visit facebook.com/parkroadct.com for information.








Ashley Rigby, Founder of Goldinage, LLC in West Hartford, has earned the Certified Professional Retirement Coach (CPRC) designation, making her one of only two certified retirement coaches in Connecticut. She is also an Associate Certified Coach (ACC). Goldinage provides coaching for those nearing and in retirement. Visit Goldinage.com for more information.
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WESTHARTFORD






















In 25 years, BTC has produced over one hundred incredible live-action ballets; provided hundreds of jobs to dance, costume, backstage, and lighting professionals; trained thousands of aspiring dancers; and continues to enrich the community through several unique programs, making dance accessible to over 11,500 children in Greater Hartford and beyond.

ARTICLE BY LUCINDA JAMISON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRANSPARENCY CONCEPTS


This year marks a significant milestone for KKC LAW LLP, previously known as Kahan, Kerensky, and Capossela, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary.
Founded in 1964, the firm has grown from its humble beginnings in Vernon into a pillar of the community, providing comprehensive legal services across twelve practice areas. As KKC Law steps into a new chapter, it continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, community involvement, and client-focused service.
KKC Law’s history is a testament to its enduring commitment to the local communities. The firm has maintained its headquarters in Vernon for six decades, founded by Robert Kahan, Sol Kerensky, and Joseph Capossela. Over the years, KKC has expanded its reach and breadth of services while remaining true to its founding values.
“The firm’s management views our legacy as a privilege and a responsibility,” says Managing Partner Michael Kopsick. “It is a privilege that the firm’s partners had a commitment to excellence and real integrity; it is our responsibility to instill those qualities in our current and future staff.”
With twelve distinct practice areas, KKC Law offers a broad spectrum of legal services, ensuring clients receive high-quality support no matter their needs.
“We have a lot of variety in our practices, from real estate closings to estate planning and litigation,” explains Partner Allison Poirier. This diversity makes KKC a full-service firm for many clients who often return for different services and are confident in the consistent level of excellence.
While firmly rooted in Vernon, KKC Law extends its reach to neighboring communities like West Hartford and Glastonbury.
“My family and I have put down roots in West Hartford,” says Partner Chris Bowen. “We own our home and raise
our children here. We spend our free time shopping and dining in West Hartford Center, Elmwood, and along the Park Road corridor. Naturally, this has led some of my West Hartford business friends and neighbors to call on KKC when they need an attorney. In recognition, KKC has recently joined the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce.”
KKC’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. The firm has received numerous accolades, including the Hartford Courant’s Best of Category awards for Best Law Firm overall, Best Family Law, Best Corporate Law, Best Personal Injury Lawyer, and Best Elder Law. These awards, voted by readers, underscore KKC’s client-first approach and high-quality service. Bowen concluded, “KKC offers sophisticated legal services at a fair price, which is attractive to everyone whether you are from Tolland, Manchester, Fairfield County, or West Hartford.”
In conjunction with their 60th anniversary, the firm unveiled a new website and updated logo in September. This rebranding effort also includes a formal name change from “Kahan, Kerensky, and Caposella” to simply “KKC Law.” The refreshed look aligns with modern trends while maintaining the firm’s storied legacy.
As KKC celebrates this significant milestone, it remains committed to its core values of community service and legal excellence. Kopsick reflected, “Given the strength of the firm’s foundation, KKC expects to provide quality legal service to its clients and this community for generations to come.” “We’ve been able to serve the community for 60 years,” Poirier added, “and we hope to continue doing so for the next 60.”
KKC LAW LLP
45 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon Phone: 860.646.1974
Online: Kkc-law.com
“The firm’s management views our legacy as a privilege and a responsibility.”
- Managing Partner Michael Kopsick
“We have a lot of variety in our practices, from real estate closings to estate planning and litigation.” - Partner Allison Poirier




















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
Caroline Demirs Calio
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4936 ccalio@cl-law.com
Robert B. Fawber
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4931 rfawber@cl-law.com
Marc T. Finer
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4946 mfiner@cl-law.com
Kelley Galica Peck
Principal-in-Charge, West Hartford Office 860.313.4919 kpeck@cl-law.com
Heather J. Rhoades
Chairman, Private Clients Group 860.313.4933 hrhoades@cl-law.com
For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys.
Blue Back Square
75 Isham Road, Suite 400 West Hartford, CT 06107
Phone: 860.313.4900
Fax: 860.313.4993


Savor these special moments in time with the people you love the most
Book your photoshoot
Our core services include:
■ Estate planning
■ Estate, income and gift tax planning
■ Wealth preservation planning
■ Trust formation and management
■ Philanthropic giving
■ Generational wealth transfer
■ International estate and tax planning
■ Probate and estate settlement
■ Executor and trustee services
■ Business succession planning
■ Fiduciary, probate and tax litigation
■ Residential and commercial real estate services
■ Corporate and finance services
■ Business litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution
www.cl-law.com



ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AZUR MELE AND PETER MELLEKAS
Local Retailers Show Off Their Fall Fashions in Our Annual Style Issue

September is our Style Issue here at West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and this year we decided to hold a fashion shoot to show off some of the fall styles offered at some of our amazing boutiques here in the region.
Helping us pull it all together was Tina Kiniry and the team at Tina Kiniry Modeling & Acting Agency of West Hartford, who produced and


coordinated all the models for the daylong production. Adaora Cobb, of SOW Creative, led the creative direction of our exciting and stylish photo shoot.
Hair and makeup services for our models were provided by Parisian Day Spa & Salon in Cromwell, and independent local stylist Bridget Iacobelli. The shoot took place on the picturesque grounds of Saint Clements Castle & Marina in Portland, which overlooks the Connecticut River and is one of the largest and oldest event venues in the region.







The photographers for the photo shoot were Azur Mele and Peter Mellekas.
The stores taking part were Coco Lily, Bodytalk, Lemon Llama, and Diesel & Lulu, all of Avon; Daswani Clothiers and Kimberly Boutique, both of West Hartford; Thread by Thread of South Glastonbury; and The RiverLane of Essex and Mystic.
We hope you enjoy our Style fashion spread as much as we did producing it!























Personalized Touch, Award-Winning Designs


An award-winning residential interior design firm with more than 20 years of excellence and experience, Sharon McCormick Design approaches every new project with a fresh perspective and an eye toward fulfilling the client’s vision. The firm’s expansive portfolio reflects its versatility and personalized design philosophy.
“I don’t believe in imposing a certain style on my clients,” says Sharon. “I approach each project like a blank slate and uncover each client’s own personal style, as well as their functionality needs and daily routines.
Her standardized, highly efficient processes not only provides a logical path forward, but Sharon’s enthusiasm, great communication skills, and quick wit make it a pleasurable and easy process every step of the way.
“I make it comfortable for my clients to tell me anything they want without judgment. What do they love and what do they hate? Are they lefthanded or right-handed? Do they like to luxuriate in the bathtub? It all matters for making their homes work for them.”


Putting clients first and treating their design project as if it were their own is the hallmark of Sharon McCormick Design.
“We believe successful interior design projects start with great communication between a trustworthy designer and a trusting client who values the deeply personal level of service we provide” Sharon says. “By keeping you and your interests at the center of all we do, we ensure that your project experience and the designs we custom-create for your home are everything you are hoping for.”
The projects Sharon and her team design, she adds, are eloquent expressions of each client’s uniqueness.
“We excel in creating beautifully designed, exceptionally functional rooms and outdoor spaces that align perfectly with our clients’ personal tastes, desires, and needs.”
“Sharon has helped us for over a decade in both our homes,” says client Kay Mooney. “She has transformed our rooms into places we love by listening to us and delivering on what we want to achieve. She is a joy to work with and I highly recommend her!”
The firm’s elegant but approachable designs have been featured in numerous publications, such as Connecticut Cottages &

“I approach each project like a blank slate and uncover each client’s own personal style, as well as their functionality needs and daily routines.”
Gardens, Manhattan magazine, New England Home, Hartford magazine, and Luxury Portfolio International magazine.
Sharon McCormick Design provides services for renovations, new construction, interior decorating, kitchen and bath design and historic home preservation.
“When it comes to your interior design project, there is so much more to our full-service approach than selecting materials and finishes.”
Sharon McCormick Design
Phone: 860-550-3358
Email: Sharon@sharonmccormickdesign.com
Online: Sharonmccormickdesign.com
On Social: @Sharonmccormickdesign


































Oksana Villeneuve’s journey from a child of Moldova to owning her own hair style and beauty salons is a remarkable story of passion, resilience, and seizing opportunities.
The owner of Oksana Salon in West Hartford and Longmeadow, Ma., she arrived in the U.S in 1989 and pursued her childhood passion for hairdressing amidst the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture.
“I always loved hair and wanted to do hair since I was a little child.”
During her childhood in Moldova, a country in Eastern Europe formerly part of the Soviet Union, she styled hair for friends and


neighbors in her city. Her move to this country coincided with the end of the Cold War, a period marked by significant geopolitical shifts that also influenced her journey here.
“We didn’t really know English because the former Soviet Union and America were always in the Cold War. English wasn’t a priority language.”
Despite the challenges, Oksana pursued her dream with determination. After graduating from Springfield Technical Community College in 1990, she honed her skills at a prestigious salon, immersing herself in advanced training with industry leaders like Vidal Sassoon. She became a Certified Goldwell Master Colorist, a highlevel of industry achievement, and won accolades in international competitions.
In 2008, she realized her lifelong dream of opening her own salon, Oksana Salon & Spa in Longmeadow, where she focused not only on delivering exceptional hair services but also on mentoring and educating fellow stylists. Her journey continued with the opening of Oksana Salon in West Hartford Center in May of 2022, a venture she describes as a “God-given opportunity” that she and her husband eagerly embraced.
“At Oksana, we aim to create an environment where clients feel comfortable and valued,” she says. Her salon specializes in creative coloring, cutting, and transformative hair services.
“I love to see transformations. Hair is an investment; it can change how you feel about yourself,” she emphasizes, underlining the salon’s commitment to enhancing clients’ confidence and appearance.
Beyond her passion for hair, Oksana is equally passionate about nurturing talent and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
“I want other people to grow here,” she says. She envisions Oksana Salon as a place where stylists can thrive and develop their skills. Her goal is to build a team of hardworking, dedicated professionals who share her commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on her journey, Oksana acknowledges the role of faith and perseverance in her success.
“It’s all God’s grace for me to come here not knowing English, to open this salon and the one I’ve had for 16 years. It’s a miracle.”
Oksana Salon
7 N. Main St., West Hartford Phone: 860-236-3746
Online: Oksanasalonwesthartford.com
Email: Oksalonspa@gmail.com














The
ARTICLE BY ALEXIS DEMIRCAN
Founded in 2010, International Marble and Granite Enterprises, Inc. (IMAGE) is a family-owned company specializing in the custom fabrication of solid surfaces. IMAGE produces custom countertops and surrounds and is qualified in the flooring industry.
The Hartford-based firm prides itself on the diversity and quality of its products, as well as its attention to detail and cutting-edge fabrication processes that includes a laser-guided measuring system for cutting and installing its products.
Located on Airport Road in Hartford, IMAGE has an “infinite selection” of solid surface products including but not limited to granite, marble, soapstone, limestone, quartz and quartzite.
IMAGE was started by Carlos Costa and in 2015 his son, Adrian Costa, took over operations. Adrian had worked in the family business since the age of 12, honing his knowledge and skills about the industry and how to run a company.
Along the way, he also learned the most important part of the business: How to help people pick the best product for their homes or businesses.
The process of choosing a stone is highly personal, Adrian says, and he works closely with his customers to find style and stone that best suits them.
“As professionals we believe in treating every project as if it was our own.”
He often tells clients that “the stone picks you.” Learning clients’ likes and styles, he says, helps him discern their personality and visions for their project. Sometimes, clients bring in cabinets, tiles, or paint swatches to match with the slabs of stone in the store. Doing so helps them see how the colors fit together and some customers change their minds completely and decide on a different, potentially opposite color scheme, he says.
Some of the most popular solid-surface styles right now, he says, are quartz and quartzite. Quartz has “a marble look within the kitchen” with a “classic European touch to it.” It is not exclusively used for kitchens, and has become “the new go to for bathroom renovations and flooring.”
Quartzites, he adds, “are natural stones that are also very popular and durable for the kitchen…It’s the closest product that’s organic with a marble feature.”
Quartz’s popularity is partly due to being a solid surface that comes in light colors. Unlike some other stones where there would be speckles or marbling, quartz allows customers to achieve a true white. Quartzite is also useful for customers who are looking for light colors, but instead of white it is more of a cream, tan, or green tone. “These colors pair particularly well with light kitchen cabinets.”
Location and layout oftentimes both play roles in style decisions, Adrian adds. For instance, by the coast, people gravitate toward more earthy tones, which have a natural feel. When there is a larger kitchen island, customers tend to look for more loud or dramatic stones that will fill the space with their personal touch.
IMAGE also prides itself on its efficiency when it comes to fabricating and installing its products. Adrian doesn’t use the outdated method of stick templating projects, which involves tracing and cutting poster boards. Instead, he uses a state-of-the-art digital lasering method that scans the space, to ensure every stone fits perfectly.
At IMAGE Stone, the focus is on finding a stone that fits into your space and your personal style, Adrian says.
“I think the difference between me and a lot of other shops is how comfortable I make it for all of my employees. I am very patient, but I am also very clear on my expectations. I believe the environment at work has a reflection on the quality being produced.”
International Marble and Granite Enterprises, Inc. 110 Airport Road, Hartford
Phone: 860-296-0741
Online: Imagestonecenter.com
Email: Sales@imagestonecenter.com



Are you ready to say goodbye to back pain and hello to a life without limits? M. Ayodele Buraimoh, MD, a nationally-recognized leader in spine health is opening a private practice to bring you the latest advancements in spinal care. Whether you're sidelined by discomfort or seeking preventive care, it’s time to unlock a future free from pain and rediscover the activities you love most.
Office opening in September. Schedule your consultation today!
The Orthopedic Center of Connecticut 130 Birdseye Road Farmington, CT 06032









This school has made such an impact on our son’s life and we are so grateful for the love and professionalism that exists at Ben Bronz Academy.”
- Haddad family







SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN WEST HARTFORD, CT



SEPTEMBER 5TH
Wine & Roses Fundraiser
Pond House Cafe in Elizabeth Park, 1555 Asylum Ave. | 6:00 PM
The Elizabeth Park Conservancy’s Annual Fundraiser, Wine & Roses, is a great opportunity to support the Elizabeth Park Conservancy. All proceeds from the event, which runs from 6-9 p.m., benefit the gardens in Elizabeth Park. Visit Elizabethparkct.org for information.
SEPTEMBER 12TH
FemCare Medspa Hosts Women's Health Event
FemCare Medspa, 61 Raymond Road | 5:00 PM
Join FemCare Medspa for its launch of the revolutionary EmpowerRF Health device. Discover cutting edge treatments for women’s sexual health during this exclusive event. Enjoy event-only pricing and a chance to win a Morpheus 8 treatment. RSVP at 860-970-4302. Visit FemCareMedspa.com for more information.
SEPTEMBER 15TH
Tina Kiniry Management, 998 Farmington Ave. | 12:00 PM
Tina Kiniry Management will host an Open House Launch Party from noon to 4 p.m. at their offices in West Hartford Center. TKM is a licensed modeling and acting agency with over 40 years experience. Known for discovering many notable supermodels & working actors, TKM has an impressive & diverse roster of local talent. RSVP to Imwithtina@gmail.com.
SEPTEMBER 28TH
Charity Bike Ride
Dudleytown Brewing Co., 1001 Day Hill Road, Windsor | 8:00 AM
Support Info-Go Initiative, which assists people with ongoing medical conditions, is sponsoring a Charity Bike Ride featuring routes from 25-100 miles long. There will also be a 4.5-mile guided handicap route. Registration is $40 with a suggested fundraising goal of $250 per person. Lunch, one free beer and T-shirts included for all participants. Visit Supportinfogoinitiative.org.


We provide comprehensive foot and ankle care, from conservative to surgical management of podiatric conditions.
Common Issues & Procedures
Athletes’ Foot + Fungal Toenails · Hammertoe · Warts · Gout Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery · Foot + Ankle Fractures
Ulcerations + Wounds · Ingrown Toenails · Heel Pain
For more information, visit us online at www.ValePodiatry.com
















