West Hartford Magazine/Sept. 2018

WEDDINGS•GARDEN•FOOD•FINANCE

While We Snooze

Nocturnal neighbors among us!

Portugal

Travel to this wonderful country.

Shoes

Fashion with Sole, by BK&Co.

Retirement Has Changed. And So Have We.

Make the most of your retirement with The McAuley’s new Lifestyle Evolution. Beautifully-renovated common areas, enhanced wellness amenities, and tasteful apartments are just the beginning. With great neighbors, local cultural events, and access to all West Hartford has to offer, The McAuley supports your vibrant lifestyle — without the hassles of homeownership. Choose The McAuley and celebrate your success in style.

Publisher Thomas P. Hickey, II tomh@westhartfordmagazine.com

Creative Services

Joy B. Taylor joyt@westhartfordmagazine.com

Contributing Writers & Columnists

Karla A. Dalley, Jewish Ledger, Barbara Karsky, Karen Herbert, Robert Laraia,Ronni Newton, Lisa Martin

Photography Director

Todd Fairchild/Shutterbug CT

Contributing Photographers Ronni Newton, Mick Melvin

Videography

David Chmielewski/DirectLine Media

Interns

Dylan Carneiro, Maddie Geerlof, Blake Greenslade, Hunter Marotto, Ryley McGinnis

Proofreader Tim Knecht

Publishing Advisor Jonathan Moffly

Website: We-Ha.com Mike Roy/Roy Web Design

Principals

Thomas P. Hickey, II, Joy B. Taylor, James H. Gould, III

Follow us on Social Media: Facebook:  West Hartford Magazine We-Ha.com

Twitter: @westhartfordmag @wehartford

Instagram: @westhartfordite #bestofweha. #westhartford. #weha

CORRECTION: Vol.8/No.3 - Did you find the wrong “their” that we missed? Sorry if we touched a nerve, and apologies to Lisa Martin, travel advisor.

HAPPY FALL!

Okay, I’m going to come right out and say it, the 2-page coverage of the wedding for my son Garrett and his wife Heather (page 12), is not exactly P.C. Giving them both wedding pages is probably a little over the top. But, I did it anyway. Truly I consider it my gift to them. Garrett and Heather will be mad and Shevon will be embarrassed, but I’m too proud to care, quite honestly. Ever since their engagement, Shevon has been saying she got the daughter she always wanted and family, friends, and even strangers have been saying how beautiful Heather is. To that, my standard response is, “yes she is, both inside and out!” Our family was blessed this summer with the addition of Heather, her sister Michele (and Bryce) and parents Joe and Lori Modenese. It feels like we have known all of them our entire lives. We all have a lot more living to do and look forward to the years ahead. My wish (and thanks for indulging me) to all our readers is that you too are lucky enough to be a part of such a special merger of families!

As you know Joy Taylor, creative director (and my business partner) has been working diligently to feature local beautiful art on every cover. Of course we are so proud to be the only magazine in every room at Delamar that we welcome our exclusive artsy look … worthy of a corner on every coffee table. Please share with us if you know of a piece of art that should grace the cover of West Hartford Magazine.

Director of Photography, Todd Fairchild has really out done himself in this issue. Enjoy the “Fashion with Sole” pages as we feature the newest lines of shoes available at BK&Co. Joy and Todd had a unique vision and I think it made the boutique owners Barbara Karsky and Karen Herbert a little nervous but with the help of the West Hartford Art League studios it all came together. You can buy shoes in The Center.

Now let me make this perfectly clear, the “While We Snooze” photo feature was also Todd’s idea. He’s been talking about it for a while. So Todd set out on the streets of West Hartford to capture the goings on, illustrating that we have “nocturnal” neighbors among us. It’s amazing how much is happening in WeHa, 24/7/365!

Since our interns are back at school let’s give them one more shout out wishing them the best always. (Names listed on page 6).

Let’s all join Karla Dalley and try “forest bathing” this fall (page 44); Lisa Martin travels to Porto (page 38); Robert “Bob” Laraia touches on the data breach epidemic (page 34) and Food is by Ronni Newton this time - thank you to We-Ha.com (page 40).

We are in full swing of our #wehaevents and we are so excited to bring them to you with our sponsors and partners. The 4th Annual Best of West Hartford voting process is active through October 8th (page 10). So make sure you cast your vote for your favorite people, places, events and businesses in West Hartford. Follow us on Facebook to be certain you are up to date at #wehaevents. Awards night takes place at Flemings on Monday, November 5.

We hope to see you at an upcoming WeHaHA! Comedy Night, on the last Tuesday of every month at World of Beer. None of this would have possible with out the continued support of Blue Back Square (thanks Robyn Rifkin and Amy Cholawa) and our host sponsor Dr. Steven Fischman and Comedian Paul Gregory who brings in new acts each month (page 45).

Our limited-hours-only WeHa Pop Up spot is located in Bishops Corner (eden’s plaza across the street from Staples) so like us on Facebook and follow when we will be open again.

Remember the only way to guarantee delivery to your home or office so you don’t miss a single issue is to SUBSCRIBE. You also get We-Ha.com as well. GREAT GIFT idea for only $35 annually … the gift that lasts all year!

Thomas P. Hickey II, Publisher tomh@westhartfordmagazine.com

Facebook: West Hartford Magazine

Twitter: @westhartfordmag

Instagram: @westhartfordite

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Guarantee delivery to your home or office for:

•A pulse on the developments in town with Business Buzz every Monday on we-ha.com

•Breaking News, school news, town news that is all about West Hartford

•Features, people, real estate, arts, fashions, gardening, health, shopping and finance.

•Annual spotlight on interesting teens, plus events, sports, happenings and more!

CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE OUT TO: WHMedia

West Hartford Magazine is published 6 times per year. We-Ha.com E-news is sent on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Email address will not be shared or sold.

Heather Modenese & Garrett Hickey

photos by TODD FAIRCHILD www.shutterbugct.com

Heather and Garrett met on the Connecticut shoreline where their families have summered for over 50 years. Their first date was at Bill’s Seafood in Westbrook. Garrett proposed to Heather at his favorite place, the pier at Black Point Beach. The event was captured by a secret drone recording and quickly went viral with nearly 4,000 views.

Heather’s parents are Joseph and Lori Modenese of Waterbury and Westbrook Beach, Westbrook, CT. Joseph is employed by Sikorsky Aircraft and Lori by Prospect Public Schools.

Garrett’s parents are Thomas and Shevon Hickey of West Hartford and Black Point Beach, Niantic, CT. Thomas is employed by WHMedia (parent company of this magazine) and Shevon by CREC, Hartford.

Garrett’s grandparent’s are the late John and Joan Hickey and the late Joseph Sweeney. His grandmother Norma Sweeney attended the festivities and Garrett is wearing his Grandfather Sweeney’s wedding ring.

Heather graduated from Sacred Heart High School, Waterbury and Central Connecticut State University, with a Bachelors of Science.

Garrett graduated from Northwest Catholic High School, West Hartford, Assumption College, Worcester, MA, with a Bachelors of Science and a Masters in Education from Sacred Heart University, Bridgeport, CT.

The Mass was held in between Waterbury and West Hartford in Litchfield County at St. Thomas Church, Thomaston, CT. Father Joseph P. Crowley, Celebrant of Mass, was Garrett’s Pastor at Northwest Catholic High School and Pastor while his mother Shevon was Principal of a school in West Hartford.

Heather’s Grandfather, Norman Bouffard and his wife, Delores are parishioners of St. Thomas Church. Mass and Liturgy preparation was by Dr. Elaine Blondin Mello, assisted on the wedding day by Val Parafioriti.

During the Mass, the moms each poured sand from Westbrook Beach and Black Point Beach into one vase combining where Heather and Garrett first met. Each cufflink that Garrett wore was filled with sand, one from each Beach.

Greeters at the Church were Griffin Bruce and Erin Dowd, Readings were by Daniel Lynch and Sharon Bruce. The Prayers of the Faithful were written by Heather and Garrett and read by Margaret Stewart. Offertory Gifts were

Ryan

Maid of Honor, Michelle Modenese (Heather’s Sister).

Bridesmaids: Stephany Kearney, Caitlin Kearns, Rebecca Larkin, Marissa Paniccia, Hayley Smith, and Christine Stewart.

brought to the altar by Liam, Fintan and Griffin Bruce.

The Chalice in the Mass was first used thirty-one years ago at Garrett’s parents wedding liturgy as well as every special family occasion since.

And the Waterford vases in the Sanctuary were signed for Garrett by the art ist in Ireland during a family trip.

The reception was held at The Lyceum, Terryville, CT. Along with eight hours of dancing, Garrett sang his signature song in karaoke style to Heather and the guests. (Bon Jovi Living On A Prayer ).

The couple left for a very private and much needed rest in St. George’s, Grenada, a Sandals Resort in the southeastern Caribbean just north of Venezuela.

Heather is a 7/8th Grade Math Teacher at High Horizons School in Bridgeport, CT. Garrett is a 7/8th Grade Social Studies Teacher at Black Rock School in Bridgeport, CT and Men’s Basketball Coach (Junior Varsity) and Men’s Assistant Basketball Coach (Varsity) for Fairfield Prepatory School, Fairfield, CT. Heather and Garrett reside in The Village of Black Rock (Bridgeport), CT. n

Visit we-ha.com for more photos and other WEDDINGS.

The couple used so many of their favorite people to make their day special, including:

•Bagpiper Patrick Whelan, West Hartford, who was a surprise to all guests at Mass. •Cantor/Soloist, Beth Malvezzi, and •Music Director/Organist, Douglas Duca at St. Thomas. •Todd Fairchild (ShutterbugCT) Photography, West Hartford captured every event for Garrett and Heather over the course of one year including the Engagement Party, Bridal Shower, Stag, Rehearsal Mass and Dinner and Receptions. •House of Flora, Hartford prepared the amazing floral arrangements including hydrangeas for the Mass and Reception. •Taylor Rental Party Plus, Manchester and West Hartford transformed The Lyceum. • Ice Matters, Cheshire built the Ice Sculpture for the foyer.

•Classic Cakes, West Hartford baked the special funfetti cake filling the couple wanted for themselves and you’ll read more about that in a future issue of West Hartford Magazine. •T&T DJ, Lighting and Sound, Hartford enhanced the atmosphere and set the tone for the party. •Two Pour Guys Bartending provided the top shelf full bar open all day long to the pleasure of all guests.

•Michaels Catering “did it all” from the cocktail hour, dinner and late evening sandwiches. By the way Michael’s Catering did Garrett’s parents wedding reception 31 years prior. •The cocktail hour guests enjoyed guitarist John Torres, Black Rock, CT and Snap Seat Photo booth. •Tuxedos by Oscars, West Hartford. •Transportation by Premier Limousine.

Keep the image, not the tux.

Unique, useful (and even entertaining!)

‘Gotta

Haves’ for today’s seniors

REMEMBER WHEN?

(Or maybe you don’t?) You’re not alone!

1,000 Unforgettable Senior Moments: Of Which We Could Remember Only 246 is a hilarious compilation of “senior moments” — like Jimmy Carter inadvertently leaving the nuclear launch codes in a suit pocket. $8

EASY DOES IT!

If arthritis or other issues are

TELL ME ABOUT IT!

“Grandparent Talk” is a creative, interactive, award-winning game that sparks discussions and encourages conversations that the whole family will remember for years to come. $8

HIDE & SEEK!

Esky Wireless RF Item Locator saves time hunting for misplaced items — like car keys, remote controls,

The ECOVACS DEEBOT N79

Robotic Vacuum Cleaner does the hard work so you don’t have to.

LARGER THAN LIFE!

The Graham PORT Magnifying Glass Mini with LED Light is a portable pocket tool that comes in handy when you need to read small print or gain visibility. $11

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT!

For those who wake up groggy in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, the RainBowl Motion Sensor Toilet Night Light makes the task easier and safer. $15

NORTH COAST MEDICAL CAR CADDIE ADJUSTABLE STRAP

Having difficulty getting out of you car?

North Coast Medical Car Caddie Adjustable Strap provides an ergonomic handle to make transitioning in and out of a vehicle easier. $13

This do-it-yourself autobiography kit guides you in creating your autobiography. A great gift for future generations. $11.99

WALKING TALL

The Simpli Tech Elastic

No Tie Shoelaces are great for older adults with back and joint issues that make bending down painful. $7

ROFLACGU!

The Senior Texting Code Coffee Mug opens up a world of texting with the grandkids. $14

ATTENTION SHOPAHOLICS!

The SmartShopper Grocery List Organizer embedded thermal printer allows you to simply add items by voice and then print it when ready to head to the store. $140

CUDDLE UP!

The Sunbeam Microplush

Throw Camelot Cuddler Electric Heated Warming Blanket is made from ultra-luxurious microplush that will keep you warm and cozy on cold winter nights. $50

OH, THE PLACES YOU WENT!

Who says Dr. Seuss is just for kids? In typical Dr. Seuss fashion, this book is a hilarious look at the perils of growing older. $16

While We Snooze W

hile most of us are sleeping, the crickets, raccoons and the foxes aren’t the only nocturnal beings getting things done in West Hartford! l Humans are normally diurnal creatures, that is to say they are active in the daytime1, but certain jobs or tendencies can keep some people up way past a “traditional” bedtime. As with most other diurnal animals, human activity-rest patterns are endogenously controlled by biological clocks with a circadian (~24-hour) period.1 l You’ll hear the terms night owl, and early bird, while researchers traditionally use the terms morningness and eveningness for the two chronotypes or diurnality and nocturnality in animal behavior.1 l Photography Director Todd Fairchild shows his night owl and his early bird sides, depending on the project. He found some busy workers in town during a few late-night/early morning outings. l Our “While We Snooze” feature is completed with some moon portraits by the moon-obsessed Mick Melvin. You don’t need to consult your moon calendar to track the cycles, just follow Mick on Facebook and you’ll likely see his captures in real time!

1 Wikipedia entries about nocturnal, night owl.

TWO OF WEST HARTFORD’S FINEST are on the beat in West Hartford Center during the wee hours.* The West Hartford Police Department is one of the largest municipal police departments in the State of Connecticut, with 131 sworn employees.

* The definition of wee hours are the hours very late at night or very early in the morning. An example of wee hours are the hours between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m.

JONATHAN WINALSKI is baking up goodies at Elmwood Pastry Shop. A family-owned business located in West Hartford since 1948, Elmwood Pastry Shop starts baking at around 3 a.m. every day to provide baked goods, sandwiches, coffee and more. Jonathan is the third generation of Winalskis to bake in Elmwood. Richard S. Winalski Sr. opened the bake shop seventy years ago, and Richard Jr. (Jonathan’s father), took over the business from in 1980.

As seen on /butterflychineserestaurant.com:

DO YOU SING WITH YOUR FRIENDS BY THE PALE MOONLIGHT? These three night owls were on a break from singing Karaoke at The Butterfly at 831 Farmington Ave. Maybe voices sound better after 9:30 p.m.? While many of us are getting into our jammies, these singers are just getting started! Karaoke nights are Fridays and Saturdays starting from 9:30 p.m. each night.

“Karaoke in the lounge last Saturday night was the most fun I’ve had in a while!... the fun atmosphere and solid martini list lent to an incredibly entertaining evening. I came around 10:30 and by 11:30, the place was PACKED with people dancing and ordering drinks as they took turns on the mic.” - Emily C.

LATE NIGHT FRIENDS marked the 21st birthday of Annie Deleo (center with the birthday tiara) at Barcelona Wine Bar.

BARTENDERS at Barcelona, the Wine Bar, not the city, were willing subjects on a late night visit. Three customers, however, were not feeling photogenic. The bull, on the other hand, didn’t flinch.

THE MUNDANE IS JUST AS IMPORTANT. Hotel and grocery store workers keep our lives “humming” and we can often take for granted that those shelves at Stop & Shop require human power, often at in-human hours, to be stocked. The Delamar West Hartford front desk workers put in long hours to accomodate our out-of-town visitors. Our roads, as the construction season winds down, need to be safe day and night. (The Park Road I-84 exit project does not have a night crew, but the closure will remain in place twenty four hours a day for several weeks and there will be limited access to the I-84 on-ramp. Updates at www.westhartfordct. gov .) And you think you have a hard time exercising at 6 a.m.? Try doing it at midnight or 2 a.m. at Anytime Fitness – accomodating all

ARE YOU A NIGHT OWL? Share your “after hours” photos from around town, and throughout the seasons, with us! As we approach the cooler months, we will once again be thanking the DPW crews who clear our streets and they are certainly night owls! Have fun. Be safe. Email Joy:joyt@westhartfordmagazine.

“I know there are, like, 12 rules for late night: a desk, a band. Will people take me seriously if I don’t wear a tie?” -Jimmy Kimmel

Cottage Chic

Ease into life on the Seabury campus in one of our beautiful one- and two-bedroom cottages. These charming, well-appointed homes feature state‑of‑the‑art finishes and access to all that life at Seabury has to offer. Seabury is a Life Plan community for adults 50 and over. Join us at one of our upcoming informational sessions to learn more and take a tour of your new home.

Our informational sessions are held every 1st Thursday at 1:30pm and every 3rd Wednesday at 10:30am.

or e-mail info@seaburylife.org.

•Bagels

•Bagels

•Rolls

•Rolls

•Muffins

•Muffins

•French Toast

•French Toast

•Omelettes

•Omelettes

16-B Mountain Ave.

16-B Mountain Ave.

860-243-8704

860-243-8704

Open 7 Days

Open 7 Days

6 a.m. - 3 p.m.

6 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Best Coffee!

Fashion Sole

with

BK&Co. dresses us this fall, from the bottom up!

Nothing revs up your wardrobe in a new season like a great new pair of shoes. Or boots. Or shooties. Or booties. Or sneakers. You get the point, there is so much new to choose from. And nothing kills a wow outfit like a bad pair of shoes. So here’s an overview of the trending looks to make sure your fall fashion goes from just fine to absolutely fabulous!

WESTERN BOOTS

This trend goes the full gambit from old-time outlaw to urban cowboy. Hot this fall is the western bootie with distressed leathers, studded styling, whip stitching and patterned applications. Important is the block heel. Pair these with tailored pants or tuck your skinny jeans. Or with fall’s many feminine dresses. Remember only cowgirls without great booties sing the blues!

LUXURY SNEAKERS

These are not the sloppy kicks of your childhood. Sneakers take on multiple personalities this fall from cool leather slip-ons to sneaker-bootie hybrids. Whether they’re laced or buckled, neon or neutral, chunky or sleek, a fun new sneaker is a must. Wear them with everything.

EMBELLISHMENTS

A little embellishment goes a long way. A simple edge of silver studding turns a mousy mule into marvelous. Studs, rhinestones, ribbons, tassels, florettes, pearls, and decorative hardware are gracing all your favorite silhouettes this season. Pair with menswear plaids or tailored pantsuits to soften the look. Great with denim. Or choose a perfect party shoe.

HEELS

This fall there’s a new emphasis on working girl style: the heel. Sling-backs and pumps have made a comeback with rounded toes and new heel variations. Architectural, patterned, pieced, stacked, blocked, and sculpted heels are the current rage. Good news here is the heel height is 3 inches or less!

ANIMAL PRINTS

So popular in ready-to-wear, animal print is a purrfect way to elevate a sophisticated monochromatic look. Subtle animal prints with a metallic finish can be seen in pumps and kitten-heels for the office, or electric finishes can be the ideal LBD accessory for party perfection.

COLOR

Bold, bright, rich, gorgeous, vivid, luscious color. Fall’s obsession is color. Juxtaposed a beautiful berry bootie with the charcoals or taupes of this season’s fashion. Pop a purple shootie (hybrid of shoe and bootie) with a navy wrap dress. Tuck your favorite skinnies into a floral boot in shades of spice and olive. Trade in your boring black for statement-making, eye-popping color.

Fall 2018 fashion footwear promises to be exciting and unexpected. We’ve showcased some of our favorites from L’Artise, OTBT and Nicole right here in West Hartford Art League’s saltbox studio. We think of a perfect shoe, like a perfect frame: always enhancing and never overpowering.

Thank you to our models and friends in order of appearance: Kimberly Mulqueen Jubrey, Cheyney Barrieau, and Beth Stauffer

We invite you to BK&Co on Farmington Avenue in West Hartford Center to shop our palette of colors and styles and find the shoe that fits just right. You might even pick up a fabulous outfit or two! n

Kimberly Mulqueen Jubrey

French inspired, polka-dot print suede tasseled loafer with printed stretch goring for easy fit and non-stop comfort, not to mention endless style!

Tasseled Black Suede Dot Loafer by L’Artiste $120.

Missoni-inspired Knit Jacket by IC Collection $228.

Glen Plaid Skinny Pant by Tribal $80.

“Nothing revs up your wardrobe in a new season like a great new pair of shoes. Or boots. Or shooties. Or booties. Or sneakers.”

-Barbara Karsky & Karen Herbert, Owners of BK&Co.

Cheyney Barrieau

Statement Accessory! Black and red hand-painted laser-cut leather shootie with decorative hardware. Ornate heel makes this shoe beautiful coming and going .(You can see another photo on page 30). By L’Artiste $120.

Beth Stauffer

Identity Theft Guarding Against

Provided by Robert Laraia, RFC Founding Partner

Northstar Wealth Partners, LLC

America is enduring a data breach epidemic. The latest annual study of the problem from Javelin Strategy & Research, a leading financial analytics research firm, says that 16.7 million people across the nation were impacted by I.D. theft in 2017 – an all-time high.1

The problem is getting worse – much worse. Last year, 30% of U.S. consumers were alerted about data breaches by firms holding their personal information. In 2016, just 12% of consumers were so affected.1

Social Security numbers were compromised in 35% of I.D. crimes last year; credit card numbers, in 30% of breaches. Account takeovers tripled in 2017. About 1 million smartphone and computer users had phony intermediary accounts established for them at Amazon, PayPal, and other commerce websites.1

Tax time is prime time for identity thieves. They would love to get their hands on your 1040 form, and they would also love to claim a phony refund using your personal information. In 2016, the I.R.S. had spotted 1 million bogus returns; in 2017, the number dropped to 900,000. This spring, initial data suggested even fewer cases of fraud would be identified, but the numbers are still too large.2

E-filing of tax returns is smart; just make sure you use a secure Internet connection. When you e-file, you aren’t putting your Social Security number, address, and income information through the mail. You aren’t leaving Form 1040 on your desk at home (or work) while you get up and get some coffee or go out for a walk. If somehow you just can’t bring yourself to e-file, then think

about sending your returns via Certified Mail. Those rough drafts of your returns where you ran the numbers and checked your work? Shred them.

The I.R.S. doesn’t use unsolicited emails to request information from taxpayers. If you get an email claiming to be from the I.R.S. asking for your personal or financial information, report it to your email provider as spam.3

Use secure Wi-Fi. Avoid “coffee housing” your personal information away – never risk disclosing financial information over a public Wi-Fi network. (Broadband is susceptible, too.) It takes little sophistication to do this – just a little freeware.

Sure, a public Wi-Fi network at an airport or coffee house is password-protected – but if the password is posted on a wall or readily disclosed, how protected is it? A favorite hacker trick is to sit idly at a coffee house, library, or airport and set up a Wi-Fi hotspot with a name similar to the legitimate one. Inevitably, people will fall for the ruse, log on, and get hacked.

Look for the “https” & the padlock icon when you visit a website. Not just http, https. When you see that added “s” at the start of the website address, you are looking at a website with active SSL encryption, and you want that. A padlock icon in the address bar confirms an active SSL connection. For really solid security when you browse, you could opt for a VPN (virtual private network) service which encrypts 100% of your browsing traffic.4,5

Check your credit report. Remember, you are entitled to one free credit report per year from each of the big three agencies: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Historically, asking these bureaus to freeze your

credit file in case of suspicious activity has cost a fee. Beginning in fall 2018, you will be able to request a freeze from all three at no charge, thanks to a change in federal law.6

Don’t talk to strangers. Broadly speaking, that is very good advice in this era of identity theft. If you get a call or email from someone you don’t recognize – it could tell you that you’ve won a prize; it could claim to be someone from the county clerk’s office, a pension fund, or a public utility – be skeptical. Financially, you could be doing yourself a great favor. n

Robert Laraia can be reached at www.nstarwp.com or 888-886-7737.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Northstar Wealth Partners, a Registered Investment Advisor and a separate entity from LPL Financial.

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations.

1 - cbsnews.com/news/identity-theft-hits-record-high/ [2/6/18]

2 - nextgov.com/cybersecurity/2018/04/irs-stopping-fewerfraudulent-returns-and-s-good-thing/147305/ [4/9/18]

3 - forbes.com/sites/kellyphillipserb/2018/03/22/irs-warns-ondirty-dozen-tax-scams/ [3/22/18]

4 - nytimes.com/2018/05/04/technology/personaltech/staying-safer-on-public-networks.html [5/4/18]

5 - cntraveler.com/story/how-to-keep-your-data-safe-whiletraveling [6/7/18]

6 - nbcnews.com/business/consumer/credit-freezes-will-soonbe-free-everyone-n883146 [6/14/18]

Spotlight on our Cover Artist: Beth S. Goldberg

Beth S. Goldberg, a native of New York, and West Hartford resident, has won many awards for her art, including Awards of Excellence, the Grumbacher Medallion, and the Julia Cohn Award of Creativity. She is the recipient of the prestigious George M. Estabrook Award from Hofstra University, the “Woman of Distinction in the Arts” award from the Town of Oyster Bay, as well as the “Woman of Distinction in Community and Civic Affairs,” for her outstanding efforts and activities to enrich the cultural life of the community. Goldberg has lectured at universities, given workshops, and consulted as an art therapist for various organizations.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT:

“There is a belief that art can express a basic human truth as well as an insight into one’s inner self. My artwork is inspired by a range of contemporary issues including music, nature, spirituality, world events, and a response to humanity. With war, terrorism, and natural disasters affecting our daily lives, our society needs to rediscover the beauty and renewing quality of the arts. For me, the process of creating unique images is energizing. I hope that in

viewing my work you will experience untapped vitality and renewal.”

Goldberg’s work has been exhibited at numerous museums and galleries. Her paintings are included in many prestigious corporate as well as private collections. n

Porto, I will be back

After a magnificent Bordeaux River Cruise, I flew to Portugal. It was so close, how could I not?

Portugal was a wonderful country to visit. I landed in Lisbon and in the evening took the train, which was close by and easy to use, to Porto. Porto was the first full city visit of a 9-day exploration in Portugal. The city is built on a hill and I stayed at a beautiful hotel, NH Collection Porto, near the top of the hill, just a short walk from the top of the Funicular of Guindas, near the Luis I Bridge. The room was front and center, with our small balcony looking out onto Batalha Square. Our maître d’ recommended a few restaurants for dinner and we ate at Traipeche. The atmosphere was soft white with candlelight and the food was especially fresh. The entrada (appetizer) we chose was octopus in green sauce, local cheeses, Algarve carrots, and ham. The main dish of fish and potatoes was simply delicious.

Behind the hotel was a popular street with stores and restaurants. The street was as lively as the hotel was serene. After purchasing a gelato for my walk I saw not just stores and restaurants, but the first of many beautifully tiled buildings and mosaic sidewalks in Portugal. Then back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep to wake up early to see the Douro River and more of the City of Porto.

After visiting a large covered market of fruits, vegetables, fish, and textiles in the morning, I wandered down through the streets, some winding, to the river. Wandering was fun, the weather was cool, many people were outside eating and there were local musicians playing in the street above tiled buildings of varied colors and designs. I noticed that so many people were smiling. With my map in hand I was ready to visit the river’s edge and went into a pharmacy to ask the best route. The pharmacist was friendly and said, “just keep walking so

story and photos by Lisa

Martin

University, and there, a bit further down, was the river.

that you know you are going down on an incline, you will reach the river”. I took his advice offered with a smile and paid more attention to the slant of the street and surroundings than my map. We went past the

The river was busy with people waiting in lines to take a small boat across to the wineries where port wine is made. I found a line that had boats that held about 15 people, looking much like the traditional Rabelo boats that had ferried port wine throughout the region. I got comfortable for the five-minute ride across the river. Once on the other side you have a choice of many wineries to visit. They are rated, and once again our maître d’ had recommended a few. We decided on Calem, and went inside. While waiting for the last tour to begin, we decided to enjoy the full experience, and purchased the wine and chocolate pairings. First, there was a small museum, showing the history of this company, the geography, and the grapes used. Reading it all took about 20 minutes. Then we went for the very short walking tour, with observations within the building, and of the giant casks and types of port wines that are produced. Finally, we were led upstairs to long wooden tables where bottles of wine were waiting for us. When we inquired about there being no cheese or chocolate, we were brought up to a 3rd level, with all brick walls and were seated in a curve of the old building with a small window from which we could see the river. It was an old wooden table for two, set up with three port wines, three cheeses, and two chocolates. What made this experience so special was that we had our own sommelier for just the two of us, who explained each wine, and why it paired so well with the cheese and chocolate. We could ask any questions we wanted. After we ran out of questions, we sat, looked out the window and absorbed the intimacy of the room. We were savoring this exposure to a slice of this culture, and felt it necessary to discuss when we would come back. n

Lisa Martin, Travel Advisor, Luxury Cruise Specialist, ACC for Cruise Planners, (Land and Cruise). 860-929-0708, lisa.martin@cruiseplanners.com www.totaltraveltoday.com

‘Asian-Cajun’ Fare Highlights Menu at Hungry Crab in West Hartford

It’s highly unlikely that you will be either hungry or crabby after dining at The Hungry Crab, which opened in late July on New Britain Avenue in the Elmwood section of West Hartford.

The Seafood Boil is the mainstay of the menu, said Manager Jason Chen, who had previously been managing New Haven’s popular Cajun Boiled Seafood. The Hungry Crab’s owner lives in California where he also has several restaurants, and has fused his own Vietnamese and southern U.S. backgrounds to craft the Asian-Cajun style.

Crawfish, as well as crabs, lobster, and shrimp headline the menu, and are among the choices of main dishes for the customized boiled seafood meal. There’s a choice of sauces, including original Cajun, Old Bay, garlic butter, and lemon pepper, as well as the most popular – a special blend that combines them all. Asian spices are incorporated into most of the sauce blends.

Diners can also choose their desired heat level: mild, spicy, or “fire.”

The concept is “seafood in a bag” – and it’s meant to be eaten with the hands. You’ll be given a bib, rubber gloves, and wipes (just in case). The Hungry Crab is a white tablecloth restaurant – white paper tablecloth, that is. Diners compare technique for getting the most meat out of the crab legs, and each table

is adorned with a plastic-lined bucket for the parts that don’t get eaten.

In addition to the chosen seafood item or items, the bag includes corn on the cob, potatoes, and sausage – all meant to be eaten by hand.

“No forks, no plates, no rules,” said employee Joey Lin.

Grilled seafood is also available, as well as numerous choices of fried seafood baskets that include crabcakes, soft shell crabs, shrimp, oysters, and scallops served with fries.

For those who don’t want seafood, there are also chicken tenders, several varieties of wings, and chicken burger sliders.

Po-boys – crafted from delicately fried crawfish, shrimp, oyster, or chicken – are already a menu staple. All are served with savory Cajun-style potato or sweet potato fries and a choice of clam chowder or gumbo soup.

Entrees start at $8.99 and Po-boys are $11.99-$12.99. Prices for the boiled seafood vary widely, with some items at market price, and there are also an assortment of combo dinners available. Chen estimated that most diners spend from $15-$25 per person, not including alcoholic beverages.

The Hungry Crab is located at 1144 New Britain Ave., West Hartford. For more information, visit the website, follow The Hungry Crab on Facebook, or call 860-937-5738. n

The Power of Nature Healing

by Karla A. Dalley

As an organic gardener, I have always been interested in herbs. I grow them for many reasons: first, they are beautiful, tough plants, workhorses in the garden. Next, in the summer, when I am growing my own vegetables (or buying locally at the farmer’s markets), it’s nice to have fresh herbs to use in salads and with pasta. I even bring pots of herbs into an unheated sunroom to have them for soups and stews all winter.

But even more than that, if I have minor ailments (a cold, or a respiratory complaint—I am not suggesting that you turn to herbs in all cases), I will seek out an herbal remedy before I ever turn to something from a drug store.

Before trying any remedy, remember to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Just because something is “natural” does not mean that it will not interact with your own medications.

To determine whether—and in what amounts—a plant is safe to ingest, I rely on Rodale’s Encyclopedia of Herbs. Yes, it’s a book, not the internet. In doing research for this article, I came across mis-information and just plain wrong information. Make sure you are using a reliable source for information, whatever you choose.

What might you want to try at home as a first step in some healing plants? It’s a good idea to start with something you like. If you already know that you like certain herbs— some of us love sage, for example, and others hate it, start there.

You don’t have to grow your own but if you don’t, make sure that your source is safe for cooking, eating or brewing in tea—whatever you plan to do with it. Don’t presume that every plant that you get at a garden center or box store hasn’t been treated with chemicals. Unless it says “organic,” it isn’t.

A gentle way of easing into using herbs is brewing them into teas or tisanes, as they are often called. Simply take a handful of fresh herbs—lemon balm (melissa offic-

inalis) is a great one because it is a calming herb—and pour some steaming water over it. If you choose, add a sweetener of your choice.

Another way is to wrap some aromatic herbs into a cloth and take it into the bath or shower with you (everyone raves about herbs in the bath but many of us don’t have time for daily baths. This trick can just as easily be used under a shower head). It helps if you have something porous like cheesecloth to wrap the herbs in but if not, don’t go crazy. Anything will do so long as you don’t mind it potentially being stained by some herbs. I have used handkerchiefs with success.

though it is the preferred environment. If, however, your “happy place” is the beach, then go to the beach.

What is required, however, is that you be in a quiet place, away from others, and that you immerse yourself in the setting. Electronics detract so they should be muted or turned completely off.

What might you take into the shower or bath? Once again, this is entirely up to you, but anything that appeals to you—and it might be different things at different times. During stressful times, you might want a handful of lavender to ease your stress and calm you.

During winter, or for seasonal allergies, you might want something to help clear your head. Rosemary and mint together are nice for this, with perhaps a touch of oregano thrown in.

If you are using dried herbs, they are much more potent than fresh so be aware of that—you don’t want to be blasted out of your own bath or shower by the scent! Start with smaller quantities—you can always add more the next time.

Finally, something that started in Japan but has gotten a lot of press here in America is a practice called “forest bathing.” It doesn’t mean showering or bathing in the woods—it means spending time with trees as a mood elevator.

Forest bathing has appeared in a lot of media in 2018. Its documented effects (in Japan, where it has been part of their health program since 1982) include lower blood pressure, lower blood glucose levels and lower levels of stress.

To achieve this magic, you only need to go outdoors—a “forest” isn’t required, al-

Once you have found your quiet place, just “be” present. Observe. Hear the sound of the wind. Watch the clouds. If you are in a forest, hear the wind in the leaves—or not. Notice the different shades of green around you. Feel the coolness of the soil and the warmth of the sun.

That’s all. That’s “forest bathing.” And while I can’t say that I do this exactly, I do practice “garden bathing” every so often. Recently, I sat down and watched the bees. I watched a couple of monarch caterpillars eating my milkweed. I noticed ants “farming” some aphids on that same milkweed. I wondered why the bees were going inside closed hibiscus flowers. I noticed that the grass was getting longer—it was tickling my hands and feet. And I came back inside a much more relaxed person.

As autumn approaches and we enjoy one of Connecticut’s most beautiful seasons, why not try a little “forest bathing”? Not only will we get outside to enjoy those colorful leaves that everyone comes to our state to enjoy, we will come back inside more relaxed as well. n

Karla Dalley is a garden writer and speaker from West Hartford. kdalley@comcast.net. gardendaze.wordpress.com

Last Tuesday of Every Month, 6:30-8 (Sept. 25, Oct. 30, Nov. 27)

Comedian Paul Gregory lines up 3-5 New Live acts each time! Find tickets on EventBrite!

HOST SPONSOR:

#wehahacomedy

Live Comedy Nights!

$20 donation (plus EventBrite fees) includes featured Appetizer of the month for every table!

Thank you #wehaevents sponsors: Central Connecticut State University, French Cleaners, Jeff Hodges Landscaping, Lux Bond & Green, Marcum (Filomeno), Robin Gebrian William Raveis R.E., Sheehan Hilborn Breen Funeral Home, The McAuley, Valerie E. Thomas & Associates.

Other partners include: Jewish Ledger, Direct Line Media, Eat in CT, FLOW, Merchant Solutions, Roy Web Design, SnapSeat Photo Booths, T&T Sound, Taylor Rental Party Plus, Todd Fairchild/Shutter Bug CT, West Hartford Chamber of Commerce, West Hartford Press, West Hartford LIFE, West Hartford Magazine, West Hartford-Town, Experience We-Ha

Your Light and

• Founded in 1904, Assumption is the fourth-oldest Catholic College in New England.

• 35 majors and 47 minors in the liberal arts, sciences, business and professional studies.

• Named a top regional university by U.S. News & World Report.

• More than 60 student clubs and organizations and 24 top performing NCAA Division II athletic teams.

• Our Rome, Italy, campus is ranked one of the 10 best study abroad programs in America.

• 84 percent of 2017 graduates completed at least one internship or service learning experience.

• 94 percent of 2017 graduates were employed, pursuing additional education, or engaged in community service within six months of graduation.

• Scholarships up to $22,000 annually.

6 Tips for Hosting a Wine- Tasting Party

Hosting a wine-tasting party is an easy and engaging way to experience wine.

CHOOSE A THEME

n Sample wines from one geographic region … or several. For example, compare Pinot Noir from New Zealand’s Central Otago, California’s Russian River Valley, Oregon’s Dundee Hills, or Burgundy’s Côte de Nuits.

n Choose a specific dollar amount. It’s great to find a good wine at a great price point.

n Sample multiple vintages of the same wine. It’s interesting to taste how much age and vintage variation impact a wine’s flavor.

n Pour wines into pitchers, label them by number, or simply wrap the bottles in foil or serve from brown bags, disguising their identity. Blind tasting parties are interactive and lots of fun!

n Give guests a random sampling of different wines by asking them to bring a bottle of their favorite wine for a random sampling theme.

KEEP IT INTIMATE

n Limit the guest count to 10, or fewer. A small, intimate group encourages conversa tion, and it’s easy to pour out single bottles into these portions. More guests may mean you’ll need duplicates of each wine. Start small and pour short tastes for each guest.

SET THE TABLE

n How much wine should there be per person? Guests are likely to want to retaste. A half a bottle per person will make for a light tasting, but one bottle per person is more realistic.

STOCK THE RIGHT SUPPLIES

n In terms of glassware, one per person is fine; but two is better. Guests get a more accurate taste and can compare wines simultaneously.

n Set out water crackers or a simple bread for palate cleansers.

n Provide spit buckets for those who don’t want to get too tipsy.

n Provide pens and paper for taking wine notes or print out a tasting grid.

n Color matters when comparing wines. Avoid tinted glassware, and pro-vide optimal lighting and a white background.

SERVE THE RIGHT FOOD

Do a little research on how the acids, tannins, and sugar in foods interact with wines. Try tasting bitter chocolate, salted nuts, acidic lemon, or creamy cheese alongside the same wine to see how it reacts to various components.

Avoid decorating with scented candles or aromatic flowers — they might compete with the wines’ aromas. And have a few wine books on hand to use as references if any questions come up. Some recommendations: Wine: A Tasting Guide by Marnie Old, The Wine Bible by Karen MacNeil, and The Wine Lover’s Companion by Herbst & Herbst.

SHOWCASE THE WINE

Depending upon the sort of party you’re hosting, the serving order of the wines may not matter, but if you have the opportunity, think about lining up the wines in this order: bubbles, light whites, rich whites, rosés, light reds, bold reds, and then dessert wines. Serve wines at the temperature they show best: bubbles 40-45 degrees, whites 40-50 degrees, and reds 55-65 degrees. As always, please drink responsibly. n

These tips from kitchn at www.thekitchn.com will guarantee a successful sipping soirée.

Join the Experience and GIVE to Buy a “WE CARE Card” for $50, And Save 20% OFF!* from November 1-11

*Promotional offers will vary by store. See businesses for details.

November 1-11, 2018

$25,000 donated to Foodshare in our first two years! (Your $50 card purchase =125 meals!)

Managed by WHMedia in conjunction with West Hartford Center Business Association, and Blue Back Square.

entertainment area w/electricity & wood storage

This can be yours...