West Hartford Magazine Holiday 2015

WEDDINGS • FOOD • DAZZLE • GARDEN • FINANCE

Holiday Gift Guide

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Staff

15 Comfortable, cozy, classic or cool gift ideas.

BOWH WINNERS

Photos by Ira Nozik and Mick Melvin

All winners in the “Best of West Hartford” are listed. Event photos too!

DAZZLE

A “shop local” annual gift guide (because you can’t have too many good ideas).

16

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Happy Anniversary!

SUBSCRIPTION INFO.

PEOPLE

Conard vs. Hall Football

marks 59 years

WEDDINGS

Leone & Parillo

DeFilippo & Tarabishy

GARDEN

Living Gifts

FOOD

Twin Tasters visit Vinted

FITNESS

It’s a journey...try it!

FINANCE

Charitable Giving

25

Publisher

Thomas P. Hickey, II

tomh@westhartfordmagazine.com

Creative Services

Joy B. Taylor

joyt@westhartfordmagazine.com

Sales & Marketing

Taylor Bain, taylorbain.wehamagazine@gmail.com

Mishaal Tanveer.

Bookkeeper

Debbie Roberts

Proofreader

Barbara Gordon

Publishing Advisor

Jonathan Moffly

Contributing Writers & Columnists

Karla A. Dalley

Douglas M. Gordon

Tom Hickey

Ted Newton Twin Tasters.

Contributing Photographers

Alison Lassiter and Julie Morawski

Ira Nozik Photographers

Rebecca Arthurs Photography

Ronni Newton

Mick Melvin Twin Tasters

Print Advisor

Bob Carr

Website: We-Ha.com

Mike Roy/Roy Web Design

Principals

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

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#bestofweha #westhartford #weha

Ronni Newton (we-ha.com managing editor), Mayor Scott Slifka, Barbara Lerner (WH Chamber of Commerce Executive Director), and Tom Hickey (WH Magazine publisher), at the inaugural Best of West Hartford (BOWH) Awards Show. Please see page 28 for complete list of winners, including second and third place, and visit We-Ha.com and search “Images” for a gallery of images from the event.

Photo by IRA NOZIK PHOTOGRAPHERS

Happy 5th Anniversary West Hartford Magazine

Dear Readers,

As I mentioned in our Terrific Teen Issue, for 2016 in order to guarantee delivery of West Hartford Magazine to your home or office you will need to subscribe. For $35 you will receive every issue and $10 will be donated to West Hartford Community TV and your choice of a local business/neighborhood association.

In addition, in recognition of We-Ha.com’s first anniversary, be sure to provide us with your email address and you will also be signed up for Ronni Newton’s We-Ha newsletter (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Keep in mind, if you are already receiving it consider adding your spouse or friend so they too can enjoy our hyperlocal site!

As we proudly boast … We Have It All in West Hartford!

See our ad on page 10, or click on SUBSCRIBE on We-Ha.com and watch for your postcard inviting you to subscribe in the mail this December. Actually, please consider giving a gift subscription too!

Speaking of GIFT IDEAS … this holiday season our editorial board decided to create our very own local “15 for 2015 Holiday Gift Guide” for Comfortable, Cozy, Classic or Cool gift ideas. ALL of these gifts can be found in West Hartford.

Please enjoy our annual DAZZLE guide too, because you can never have too many ideas! Shop local this holiday season (and always).

Happy Holidays and looking forward to 2016!

Regards,

Thank you,

Thomas P. Hickey II Publisher tomh@westhartfordmagazine.com

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS

for complete stories and photos from hyper-local events.

Conard Beats Hall to Win Mayor’s Cup in 59th Annual Crosstown Game

By Ted Newton

The Conard vs. Hall football rivalry spans 59 years, and yet none of the 58 previous meetings between the crosstown rivals could match the offensive play that both teams put on display Saturday (Nov. 21) at Conard’s McKee stadium on a beautiful late fall day.

When the clock expired, with the scoreboard showing 113 points and the two teams accounting for 16 touchdowns, Conard celebrated a 66-47 win for its first victory over Hall since 2010.

“It’s like a basketball game, with two hoops on either end and three-point shots being made,” Conard head coach Matt Cersosimo said of the 113 point total. “It was unbelievable. There was craziness. It was like, what else can happen in this game?”

Conard senior running back Nate Richam ran for close to 500 yards and five touchdowns to lead the Chieftans to victory. His 468 yards (unofficial at press time) shattered the Conard school record of 381 yards established by Ken Phelan in 1997, and was the fifth-highest single game total ever in Connecticut.

Richam was one of 31 Conard seniors who, along with 12 Hall seniors, were honored at a ceremony prior to the game. For these players especially, there was a lot on the line: for Conard, a win would likely put them into the state playoffs for the first time in 5 years; for Hall, it was an opportunity to play “spoiler” and knock their rival out of playoff contention. For all players, most of who have played with and against each other for years, there’s a lot of pride at stake when Conard and Hall meet. (see complete story and more photos on we-ha.com)

Jessica Leone & Michael Parillo

Jessica Leone and Michael Parillo first met at a Dave Matthews concert in 2007, but they didn’t start dating until their paths crossed again in West Hartford Center three years later.

Jessica grew up in town, and her parents Susan and James Leone still live in town. She graduated from Conard and Michael is from Saratoga Springs, NY. They both attended UConn, and have friends in common.

In April of 2014, two major events happened: 1)they became engaged and, 2) Jessica and Michael purchased their first home together in West Hartford - all in the same week!

The couple planned their ceremony to include readings by friends and relatives, at the West Hartford Universalist Church .

The Pond House Café was the one and only reception hall they considered. It was a perfect match for the 98-member guest list

“It was a laid back, but intimate, beautiful wedding. The food was phenomenal ,” according to the bride.

Aruba was the perfect destination for a relaxing honeymoon. The newleyweds spent a week unwinding by the beach and eating at the island’s amazing restaurants. ■

Christina DeFilippo & Raja Tarabishy

photos by Rebecca Arthurs Photography, rebecca-arthurs.com

Christina DeFilippo and Raja Tarabishy had an “in-statedesination” wedding that epitomized their sense of style and elegance, with a vintage vibe. The Lord Thompson Manor, inThompson, CT gave them the perfect setting for the summer wedding they dreamed of, and they loved the perfect “weekend getaway” feeling the venue provided.

Christina and Raja met as two of the founding members of Pi Sigma Epsilon, a professional sales and marketing fraternity at UConn, and they started dating at the end of Raja’s senior year. The couple moved to West Hartford Center in early 2009 (centrally located between Christina’s Fairfield County family, and Raja’s family in the Northeast corner). West Hartford’s parks and shopping centers are often the backdrops for Christina’s style blog, Oh So Glam.

Even after being together for 7 ½ years, Raja managed to surprise Christina during what started out to be a blog photo shoot at the West Hartford Reservoir on a mild day in December 2014. Raja put his camera down just long enough to get down on one knee. You can see photos and read all about the proposal at www.ohsoglam.com, search “perfect day.”

Visit we-ha.com for more photos of this wedding, and other WEDDINGS.

■ WEDDINGS

Living Gifts For Gardeners and Holiday Hosts

by Karla A. Dalley

This time of year almost every place we turn we are bombarded by “holiday house plants.” And indeed, plants make great gifts. Of course I give them myself, but I choose carefully and I try to think about to whom I am giving the plant. With my guidelines, you too can give great plants as gifts.

Almost everyone will grab a poinsettia for a house plant gift if they are going to a home that celebrates Christmas. I usually do not do that for two reasons. First, I am almost always running other errands, and a poinsettia cannot stay in the car while I do that. It must go straight from the store or garden center to a warm home. This is probably the number one reason why folks fail with poinsettias –the plants take a chill and then “mysteriously” die a few days later.

I also don't always know about my host's growing conditions and home temperatures. Since poinsettias like it warm, (they are native to Mexico), and like to be evenly moist, I don't want to impose that burden on anyone during the busy holidays. So I chose something simpler. If, however, you do want to give, or decorate with poinsettias, the trick to succeeding with them is to make sure that they stay warm (again, remember Mexico!) and evenly moist and away from drafts. They do not like bright sunlight, (indirect light is fine). And while most people toss them once the holidays are over, of course they are shrubs in Mexico so they can be saved and “rebloomed” for next season and it’s not

difficult. Cut off the red bracts as soon as you are tired of looking at them. In the summer you can gently transition the plant outside, but make sure to bring it indoors by Labor Day. Put it in an un-used room where you do not turn the light on at night. By next December, you will see those red bracts (the colorful leaves) returning again!

centers. Both the kits and the potted varieties of amaryllis will come with “after care” instructions which can be kept from year to year. Paper whites should be discarded after blooming.

I love to choose zygo cactus (what we often call “Christmas Cactus” although the genus schlumbergera is neither a cactus nor does it naturally bloom at Christmas. It is a succulent, which means it needs a little more water than a cactus.) I bought another one for myself again this year. They are very easy to care for, needing little water and little light, (again, unlike a “real” cactus!) In succeeding years, they will set their buds in relation to day length and temperature so again, a darker, cooler window is better if you want them to bloom earlier, or a brighter, (but not sunny) warmer one is better if you want them to bloom later.

Tender flowering bulb kits such as Amaryllis, or Paper Whites make great gifts as well. Here, you have to know your host or gift recipient. “Paper whites” is a shorthand term for paper white narcissus, a member if the daffodil family. They have a strong fragrance. Some people like the fragrance and others find it detestable. If you are unsure, stick with an amaryllis. These large flowering bulbs come in lots of colors including red, pink, white and variations on that theme. You can often find them started and in deco-

For something that looks more exotic but is still quite easy to maintain, I love to give a phalaenopsis orchid. These orchids are quite easy to care for. Everyone has probably seen the Just Add Ice Orchids™ in stores. While I don’t water my own orchids this way or suggest that ice method, for some folks I am sure the "ice" method is a time saver. (I prefer gently lifting the orchids from their decorative pots and letting water run over the bark until it runs out the bottom, letting it drain all the way and then returning the orchid to the pot.) And the orchids bloom for months on end and provide a cheery “decoration” all winter. Some other lovely gift plants available this time of year are stephanotis, often sold as Madagascar Jasmine; red-leafed Aglaonema, a house plant that is very easy to care for and that I have seen marketed as “the anti-poinsettia,” and true Jasmine (jasmine officinalis). In the case of either of the jasmines, they are fragrant, but again, not everyone loves fragrance so take that into consideration.

Plants can be welcome additions to the home and can make great gifts at the holidays. Just try to anticipate your host’s lifestyle and growing conditions and your gift will thrive for years to come. ■

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

by Jeff Hodges

2015

West Hartford Holiday Gift Guide

15 Comfortable, cozy, classic or cool gift ideas

Sometimes, as the song goes, “ We need a little Christmas (or Holiday Spirit; Love; Peace; insert noun here), right this very minute,” and now that the “holiday season” is upon us, and we reflect on our blessings and challenges, those words couldn’t be more true!

We are thankful for all of the great gift ideas that came to us from loyal friends, readers, advertisers and non-advertisers in the area. Our goal was to find some unique items, available in the West Hartford area, to share with our readers. As we reviewed the submissions, and did some of our own hunting, a “Comfortable, Cozy, Classic and Cool” theme emerged. Please enjoy this year’s Holiday Gift Guide of 15 items for 2015, compiled by our staff, in random order:

Assortment

31 Crossroads Plaza Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association 860-236-9956

LUX BOND & GREEN

Twig Collection in 14K gold with diamonds. You can’t get much more “classic” than gold for the holidays. Earrings $445, Necklace $415, Ring $ 315.

46 LaSalle Road West Hartford Center 860-521-3015 www.lbgreen.com

CRATE & BARREL

We decided that this item falls into the comfort food category, even though you can’t eat it. It is pretty cool to look at too. Footed Cake Stand with Dome, $59.95. (just add cake!)

48 South Main Street Blue Back Square

860-236-8900 www.crateandbarrel.com

Gift Cards? Y or N?

Many of us resort to buying gift cards –especially when we are “stuck” with a “Secret Santa” family member with whom we are out of touch, due to distance or age, or when we are fresh out of creative ideas. While West Hartford Magazine, and our “hyper-local” sister website (we-ha.com) are all about “shop local,” we do understand that gift cards are often the best idea. Of course gift cards can be local –think massage, local coffee shop, or even cupcakes and auto shop for something unique.

More thoughts on the topic at: www.cashmoneylife.com/ pros-cons-giving-gift-cards/

TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES

Wrap your hands in woolly warmth with these gloves from Nepal. Each pair featuring a traditional tribal pattern, these gloves are knitted by the women of the Sana Hastakala artisan group. Suggested retail price, $24.

967 Farmington Avenue

860-233-5470

BK&CO

This cape is on trend and stunning, in crimson red polar fleece, one-button with cheetah faux fur at the neckline and cuffs. Cozy and versatile in 100% polyester. Machine washable. Designed and made in Canada. One size. Dosmona Cape , $120.

As a “cozy” compliment to the cape, pick up this fun, furry, steering wheel cover by Parkhurst Cozy Paws. Made in Canada with fine faux furs. $48.

64 LaSalle Road

West Hartford Center

860-232-6225 www.bkcostyle.com

West Hartford Center

www.tenthousandvillages.com

WEST ELM

Last minute addition... added another “c” word: CUTE! West Elm ASPCA ornaments (for every ornament sold they will donate $1 to the ASPCA).

91 Memorial Road

Blue Back Square

860-231-7781 www.westelm.com

MAX’S OYSTER BAR

MAX BURGER

The gift of food. For some people on your list, “comfort food” will be lobster, while others are all about burgers and fries. Buy your friends or loved ones a Max Gift Card and treat them to a fabulous meal at West Hartford’s Max’s Oyster Bar and Max Burger.

Oyster Bar: 964 Farmington Avenue West Hartford Center 860-236-6299

Burger: 124 LaSalle Road West Hartford Center 860-232-3300

www.maxrestaurantgroup.com

EFFIE’S PLACE RESTAURANT

The chocolate cream pie at Effie’s Place has been our publisher’s favorite “comfort food” for more years than he can count. He was happy to hear that Effie’s has new gift cards this year (hint, hint). Effie’s is also the home of the “Best of West Hartford” breakfast.

91 Park Road Park Road Neighborhood Association 860-233-9653 www.effiesplace.net

TOY DOG ACCESSORIES AT THE BEADOIR

Textiles and ceramic artwork by Emma Woods of Sweet William Designs, U.K. Felted dog ornaments from Dingle, Ireland and Manchester, U.K. Toy Dog Accessories is currently the sole stockist in the U.S. for Sweet William Designs. Pricing ranges from $30 for mugs to $50 for large bowl. Handcrafted dog ornaments are $16.95 - $29.95.

968Rear Farmington Avenue

West Hartford Center/The Courtyard Shops

860-231-8755 www.toydogaccessories.net

THE GREEN TEAHOUSE

These are tea travelers for tea lovers to stay warm and cozy with fresh loose-leaf tea on-the-go. BPA-Free containers make re-filling and re-steeping tea during the day a breeze. Prices range from $25-28.99.

40 Isham Road

West Hartford Center

860-232-6666 www.thegreenteahouse.com

MACY’S WESTFARMS

Winter is coming and we found the perfect gift for that special little girl. The North Face, Baby Girls’ ThermoBall Bunting, available in sizes 3 months to 24 months, $120. Westfarms 860-561-3030 www.shopwestfarms.com

BRISTLE & BLADE

Bristle & Blade’s barbers are passionate about their craft and someone on your gift list is certainly due for some true old-fashioned pampering. Gift cards in any denomination. Shave, haircut or both.

1158 New Britain Avenue Elmwood Center 860-573-9660 www.bristleandblade.com

LORD & TAYLOR

This cool watch is powered by solar energy. It’s called the Seiko Cotura Perpetual Solar. $495

FLEET FEET SPORTS WEST HARTFORD

Saucony's new Triumph shoe featuring an Everun topsole is perfect for working out or running errands. Considered a women’s neutral shoe. $150.

1003 Farmington Avenue West Hartford Center

860-233-8077 www.fleetfeethartford.com

Westfarms

860-521-8411 www.shopwestfarms.com

arrangements and dipped fruit boxes.

282 Park Rd, West Hartford 860-233-7848

304 West Main St, Avon 860-522-2866

290 Broad St, Manchester 860-646-4352

1095 Kennedy Rd, Windsor 860-219-1943

Kosher certified under the supervision of the Hartford Kashrut Commission

*Offer expires 01/09/16. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions may apply. See store for details. Edible®, Edible Arrangements®, the Fruit Basket Logo, and other marks mentioned herein are registered trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. © 2015 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved

Restaurant:

VINTED, A Wine Bar & Kitchen by The Federal Blue Back Square

63 Memorial Road West Hartford

860-206-4648

federalrestaurants.com/Vinted Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner

Small Plates, BIG Flavor at Vinted in Blue Back Square

by The Twin Tasters

With exquisite attention to detail and presentation, impeccable service, and flavorful offerings, we were warmly welcomed to Vinted in Blue Back Square for a special double date night. Vinted offers a comfortable, contemporary, low-key atmosphere with sophisticated food for lunch, happy hour and dinner.

To kick off the holiday season with our husbands, Vinted General Manager Gary Evangelista opened a bottle of Italian Valdo Prosecco for us to start the meal.

68 of the 74 wine-list-offerings are available in 1 oz. tastings, 3 oz. (or 1/2 glass servings), and of course everything comes by the full 6 oz. glass or by the bottle.

The fun in a multi-course tasting is that you really start to see and appreciate the signature style of the chef, and in this case, Executive Chef Michael Presnal isn’t afraid to take risks with herbs and flavorings. We loved the Fennel

Pollen in the pan seared scallop, and his mouthwatering lemon aioli sauce, tender and pretty red-leaf watercress, toasted almonds and fried sage all placed just right for the perfect flavor combinations. Another bonus to tapas-style and sharing is having room for dessert, and it is not to be passed up here.

Rich food in small portions that are large enough to share, or keep to yourself, with flavors that dance together and made us say “yum” all night long. Next time we’ll take advantage of wine tastings; this visit was more about the food! ■

It is a journey try it for yourself!

by Tom Hickey

Ilike to refer to this fitness routine as “a journey” because I feel strongly that if I don’t treat it that way and commit to it then I won’t like the results. Like so many of us I have had so many reasons over the past few months as to why I should not continue or why I should cancel a training session, but I will not break my stride.

Even with health-related excuses or concerns, I remained committed to my journey with my trainer D’Mario. The key is to communicate with your trainer so they know what it happening medically with you and plans can be adjusted.

In previous columns, I’ve mentioned that at my initial assessment I shared detailed medication information with D’Mario and that I had a goal to reduce my medication dosages or maybe even eliminate medication all together.

Full disclosure, ever since I turned 30, I have been taking a baby aspirin daily due to my family history of heart issues. By age 40 my doctor added a small dose of high blood pressure medicine and the dosage was increased when I turned 50.

So YES it would be easy to sit on the couch and give in and blame this dependence on pills on my family history BUT with D’Mario’s help, we are trying to get me off the medicine. Now, after six months of consistent, monitored exercise, I am ready to consult with my doctors to see if I can reduce anything.

Personally I don’t think I will ever get off of the medication 100% (I understand heredity plays a part that I can’t escape), BUT I feel great that I have seen changes unlike any other effort over the years.

Let me remind you, it is a rigorous work out on a regular basis that makes the difference, and everyone is different, so consult your healthcare provider(s). D’Mario can meet you and help you through the “health history” part of the intake process.

I have enhanced my work out sessions by adding classes to my schedule. I started with Spinning and then moved on to a class called Pot Belly.

D’Mario makes me work for my results. I’m feeling and seeing them already. Don’t be shy about starting a program, don’t be nervous about the regimen –everything is custom made just for you, your body and your own individual goals. If you can’t keep up with the class you just take a moment to catch your breath.

By the way, it doesn’t matter if I could keep up all of the time … I still show up and do my best!

D’Mario and I would like to invite ALL our readers to contact Akua Ba Fitness today, mention this column and get two FREE initial consultations. Trust me you’ll be happy you did.

Please be sure to say “hello” when you go! See you at Akua Ba! ■

AKUA BA FITNESS, 860-967-0561. customerservice@akuabafitness.com

Located at 121 Talcott Road in West Hartford, the custom-designed facility has two levels of over 10,000 square feet. State-of-the-art equipment, locker rooms with showers, and our proprietary Area 51 Obstacle Course.

BOWH 2015

Congratulations to all the Winners and Runners-Up of the Inaugural BOWH

by Tom Hickey photos by Ira Nozik and Mick Melvin

So many things were special about the first ever Best of West Hartford Awards Show on September 10, but to me, three things especially stood out: 1) Tom Filomeno guarding the winners in his briefcase until 2) NBC Connecticut’s Brad Drazen and Mayor Scott Slifka relieved the suspense in the room by announcing the top winners by category, and, 3) what fun everyone had eating, mingling and networking. Thank you to all who attended, sponsored and played a part in its success!

Listed are all the “BEST” first place winners in boldface, as well as for the first time in print, the 2nd and 3rd place runners-up. Please visit We-Ha.com and search “images” for more, and stay tuned for news about the 2016 BOWH.

Food Provided by: Vitos by The Water (gave the WH chefs the night “off”) AV/Sound Provided by: Ernesto “Tito” Santiago and his team from T&T DJ and Sound Co.

PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE . . . . . . . . . . . .Lollipop Tree

PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE

PRESCHOOL /DAYCARE

RECREATION

RECREATION

RECREATION

PARK

PARK

PARK

CAMP

CAMP

CAMP

BAKERY

BAKERY

BAKERY

BREAKFAST

BREAKFAST

BREAKFAST

BURGER

BURGER

BURGER

COFFEE/TEA SHOP

COFFEE/TEA SHOP

COFFEE/TEA SHOP

.St. Brigid School

.First Church Nursery School

.West Hartford Reservoir

.WH Leisure Services

.YMCA

.Elizabeth Park

.Fernridge Park

.Westmoor Park

.Renbrook Summer Adventure

.Mandell JCC Camp Shalom

.Westmoor Park

.Hartford Baking Company

.La Petite France

.Elmwood Bakery

.Effie’s Place Restaurant

.Quaker Diner

.Blue Plate Kitchen

.Max Burger

.Plan B

.Five Guys

.Starbucks, WH Center

.J. René Coffee Roasters

.Café Sofia

LEFT: Finalist in the home improvement category is a team from Budget Blinds of West Hartford:

GROCERY STORE . . .

GROCERY STORE

GROCERY STORE

ICE CREAM

ICE CREAM

ICE CREAM

PIZZA

PIZZA

PIZ ZA

WINE SHOP

WINE SHOP

WINE SHOP

FAMILY RESTAURANT

FAMILY RESTAURANT

FAMILY RESTAURANT

FINE DINING

FINE DINING

FINE DINING

EXERCISE/FITNESS

EXERCISE/FITNESS

EXERCISE /FITNESS

SPAS

SPAS

SPAS

SALONS/Personal Appearance

SALONS/Personal Appearance

SALONS/Personal Appearance

HAPPY HOUR

HAPPY HOUR

HAPPY HOUR

ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

TAVERN

TAVERN

TAVERN

.Whole Foods Market WH Center

.Hall’s Market

.Trader Joe's

.A.C. Petersen Farms

.Sweet Frog

.Ben & Jerry’s

.Harry’s Bishop’s Corner

.Luna Pizza

.Frank Pepe’s Pizza

.Maximum Beverage

.West Side Wine and Spirits

.The Wise Old Dog

.A.C. Petersen Farms

.Effie’s Place Restaurant

.Blue Plate Kitchen

.Bricco

.Treva

.Max Oyster Bar

.Fleet Feet Sports

.Work In Progress Fitness (WIP)

.New York Sports Club

.Massage Envy

.Body & Sole

.Per Se Aveda

.Salon Medusa

.Matthew Phillips

.Sugar

.Grants Restaurant

.Treva

.Besito

.Blue Back Square Events

.Playhouse on Park

.Bow Tie Cinema

.Plan B

.Corner Pug

.McLaddens

MEN'S FASHION

MEN'S FASHION

MEN'S FASHION

.Daswani Clothiers

.REI

.Jos A Bank

Stephanie Blozy walks to the stage to receive the “Best Exercise/Fitness” award for her store, Fleet Feet Sports. She invited runners-up, owners of WIP to join her.

JEWELRY STORE

JEWELRY STORE

JEWELRY STORE

EYE WEAR

EYE WEAR

EYE WEAR

SPECIALTY RETAIL

SPECIALTY RETAIL

SPECIALTY RETAIL

FASHION ACCESSORIES

FASHION ACCESSORIES

FASHION ACCESSORIES

WOMEN'S FASHION

WOMEN'S FASHION

WOMEN'S FASHION

GIFTS

GIFTS

GIFTS

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

LAWN & GARDEN

LAWN & GARDEN

L AWN & GARDEN

WEALTH /FINANCIAL PLAN

WEALTH /FINANCIAL PLAN

WEALTH /FINANCIAL PLAN

PETS

PETS

PETS

GARDEN/FLORIST

GARDEN/FLORIST

GARDEN/FLORIST

.Lux Bond & Green

.Becker’s

.Philip David

.Central Optica

.Harvey and Lewis

.Solinsky Eyecare

.Toy Chest

.Crate & Barrel

.Penzey’s

.Silver Dahlia

.Charming Charlie

& Co

.Nordstrom

& Co

.Kimberly Boutique

.Ten Thousand Villages

.Giftology

.Spin Monograms

.Pfau’s

.Home Depot

.WH Home Design District

.Gledhill Nursery, Inc.

.Petals and Paws

.Butler Equipment

.Fidelity

.Edward Jones

.Northstar Wealth Partners

.Pet Supplies Plus

.Petals and Paws

.Uberdog

.Moscarillo’s Garden

.Lane & Lenge Florists

.Patrissi Nursery LLC

Charitable Giving

Leave a Legacy

courtesy of Douglas M. Gordon

For millions of Americans, “charity begins at home.”

That’s where they’ve decided to make a difference by donating money to local religious, educational, social, or cultural organizations. In addition to the immense satisfaction that comes from giving to others, when done as part of an overall estate plan, charitable giving can provide tax benefits for the donor and his or her estate.

Charitable Gifts of Life Insurance

Gifts of life insurance have some unique advantages:

• Life insurance is a contract and passes outside the will by beneficiary designation, so it generally cannot be contested in probate proceedings.

• Since the payment of a life insurance policy death benefit to a named beneficiary other than decedent’s estate is not part of the probate process, it is private, not a matter of public record like assets passing by will.

• Donor is eligible for an income tax charitable deduction when he/she transfers an existing life insurance policy to charity.

• Ability to leverage a charitable donation through the death benefit.

• There are no probate delays.

• Other assets are kept intact for the donor’s family.

Gifts of life insurance can be made in essentially two ways. Under the first, the insured is the owner of the policy and the charity is the beneficiary. This arrangement is used when an insured/donor desires to retain control over the insurance policy. Under this arrangement, the premiums paid are not eligible for an income tax charitable deduction. Additionally, since the in-

sured owns the policy at death, the death benefit will be includable in his or her gross estate under IRC Section 2042, but it will be 100% deductible from the estate, since it is payable to a charity (IRC Section 2055).

Under the second, the charity is owner and beneficiary. Unlike the situation where the insured retains ownership, the premium may be income tax-deductible within IRS guidelines. State “insurable interest” laws must be checked to determine if a charity can be the initial applicant of life insurance on the life of a donor.

If the donor gives an existing policy to charity, the lesser of the fair market value of the policy or the policyholder’s basis (generally the premiums paid) is eligible for an income tax charitable deduction. (See IRC Section 170(e)(1)(A), Treas. Reg. 25.25126(a) and Tuttle v. U.S., 436 F.2d 69 (2d Cir. 1970). Additionally, future gifts of cash to the charity for premium payment purposes are also eligible for an income tax charitable deduction within IRS guidelines.

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs)

If the prospective charitable donor is looking for a way to generate income, reduce estate and income taxes, defer taxes on gains, and make a significant charitable contribution without reducing his or her family’s inheritance, a charitable remainder trust and a wealth replacement trust may be the right tools. These trusts can allow an individual to make a gift to a charity while retaining an interest in the gifted asset during his or her lifetime.

CRT Mechanics and Tax Aspects

As a general rule, it is best to fund a CRT with an asset that, if sold outside the trust, would produce substantial long-term capi-

tal gains tax. After the trust is executed, the donor transfers this appreciated, low- or non-income producing asset to the CRT. The CRT sells the asset and gives the donor an income stream for life, for a term of years, or for joint lives. At the death of the donor (or the donor’s named non-charitable income beneficiary if other than the donor) the remaining trust assets pass to the charity. Here’s how it works:

• Upon creation of the trust, the donor is eligible for a current income tax deduction based on the present value of the future amount passing to the charity.

• No tax on the gain is paid by the trust when it sells the asset, since the trust is exempt from such tax when it sells the asset.

• The donor receives an income stream and pays income taxes on the income as received.

• At the end of the trust term, the remainder passes to the designated charity and estate taxes may be reduced, since the remainder passing to charity has been removed from the estate.

“Wealth Replacement” Trust

As indicated, the remaining assets in the trust eventually pass to the charity and not to the donor’s heirs. The income tax savings produced by the charitable donation combined with the income generated by the trust can be used to pay premiums on a life insurance policy owned by a properly formed irrevocable life insurance trust sometimes known as a “wealth replacement” trust. The life insurance policy in this trust replaces the value of the assets that pass to the charity in the CRT. Since the life insurance is purchased and owned by the irrevocable trust, the proceeds should be income and estate tax free. The

donor’s family is, therefore, made whole.

For more information on the financial, risk and wealth management strategies that Rep Full Name provides, please contact him/her at insert company-approved phone number, email, website, and/or physical address as desired. ■

Prepared by MetLife. Delivered courtesy of Douglas M. Gordon, Financial Services Representative New England Financial Group, an office of MetLife.About MetLife: MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (“MetLife”), is one of the largest life insurance companies in the world. Founded in 1868, MetLife is a global provider of life insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management. Serving approximately 100 million customers, MetLife has operations in nearly 50 countries and holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

Securities and investment advisory services offered through MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI) (member FINRA/SIPC) and a registered investment adviser, 1095 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036. MLIC and MSI are MetLife companies.

Pursuant to IRS Circular 230, MetLife is providing you with the following notification: The information contained in this document is not intended to (and cannot) be used by anyone to avoid IRS penalties. This document supports the promotion and marketing of insurance products. You should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor.

MetLife, its agents, and representatives may not give legal or tax advice. Any discussion of taxes herein or related to this document is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be complete or cover every situation. Tax law is subject to interpretation and change. Tax results and the appropriateness of any product for any specific taxpayer may vary depending on the facts and circumstances. You should consult with and rely on your own independent legal and tax advisers regarding your particular set of facts and circumstances.

Join the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce!

Membership includes:

Your business listing in our on-line Membership Directory and a new member advertisement in West Hartford Life.

Free event promotions on our Community Calendar (read by approximately 700 people each week) which helps you get to the right people for your business.

Meet West Hartford’s business leaders in a casual setting! Enjoy good food and beverage as you network through the Chamber’s Business After Hours and West Hartford Connections events. Exclusive Chamber Rewards including member-to-member product opportunities, special offers, and innovative and competitively priced benefit solutions with CIT. Taking advantage of just one of these rewards can pay for your membership! For membership information, please contact Barbara or Morgan at (860) 521-2300 or e-mail membership@whchamber.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon! www.whchamber.com

January 23, 2016 6:00 p.m - Midnight

Emcee: Scot Haney, WFSB Channel 3 Hartford Golf Club

Happy Holidays!

To those of you receiving DAZZLE for the first time, and to those of you in Avon and Farmington who receive DAZZLE each holiday season, thank you for welcoming us into your home.

DAZZLE is full of wonderful “wrap-it-and-tie-it-with-a-bow” gift ideas and it also includes a few suggestions for how to give back to the community and/or help those less fortunate this holiday season. Please consider ALL kinds of gift giving this season!

PO Box 271835, West Hartford, CT 06127 www.we-ha.com office 860-508-4032

You’ll notice a “Best of West Hartford” ornament next businesses who made it into the top three in their category in our inaugural readers poll.

Thank you to Blue Back Square, West Hartford Center Business Association, Elmwood Business Association, Park Road Association, Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association and West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. We hope you find time to visit many of our advertisers and featured merchants –and tell them you were DAZZLED!

Please have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday Season! Looking forward to 2016!

Thomas P. Hickey II, Publisher

Dazzle is a West Hartford Magazine/WHMedia custom publication. For more information, check us out on www.westhartfordmagazine.com and we-ha.com. DAZZLE is published by: WHMedia, Inc. | P.O. Box 271835, West Hartford, CT 06127 | office 860-523-1800 ©2015 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by WH Media, Inc. are not necessarily those of the magazine.

ON THE COVER: MACY’S WESTFARMS

Protocol Video Drone, $160 Westfarms 860-561-3030 www.shopwestfarms.com

CRATE & BARREL

Maybe

HARTFORD BAKING CO.

It’s difficult to think of fondue without thinking of bread. While most will pick up basic baguettes, why not treat your guests to an artisan bread made from scratch right here? Available at New Park headquarters, and local grocery stores.

625 New Park Avenue

860-570-1579 www.hartfordbaking.com

MACY’S WESTFARMS

For the kid who has everything, Platinum Collections Thunder Tumbler, $30 Westfarms

860-561-3030 www.shopwestfarms.com

LUX BOND & GREEN

Ippolita Rock Candy® cascade earrings in Black Tie $1,495

46 LaSalle Road West Hartford Center 860-521-3015 www.lbgreen.com

LABRAZEL HOME

Frasier Fir by Thymes is undoubtedly the best holiday fragrance and great for gift giving! Assortment of items with prices from $10 - $60.

74 LaSalle Road West Hartford Center 860-232-6300 www.LabrazelHome.com

SPIN MONOGRAMS & GIFTS

Beautiful and cozy! Monogrammed Plaid Blanket Scarf. 22" x 74" $45

55 Isham Road Blue Back Square 860-236-0530 www.spinmonograms.com

JOYLS

Essential oils in a difusser can freshen the air and add to your holiday spirit this season, and all year long! Retail and wholesale pricing.

Farmington 860-841-6631 www.mydoterra.com/joyls

THE BUSHNELL

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is the Tony Award®- winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that will delight audiences this January in Hartford. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Price Range: $25.50-88.50

166 Capitol Ave Hartford www.bushnell.org

Designed by Sharon Gualtieri and Cynthia Houlihan, our bracelets are intended to be stacked, collected and layered. They can be worn alone or mixed with your own jewelry. Each piece is made with semi-precious, czech and metal beads with prices starting at $48. The holiday collection, “one is silver and the other gold” is shown. They can be found at BK&Co. on LaSalle Road, or by contacting the designers.

Facebook: C&S Style candsstyle11@gmail.com

The new BLOOMFIELD CENTER BUSINESS ALLIANCE

BLOOMFIELD this Holiday Season

Carbones Kitchen

Barbara Horner Dental

Isaac’s Bagel

StateFarm Insurance

TCBY

Bloomfield Libraries

Duncaster Hair Tech

Simsbury Bank

Windsor Federal

Loose-leaf tea samplers, tea canisters, tea pots and tea warmers are popular items for holiday gifts. choose a small tea gift loaded with love and care. Prices range from $9.99 to $27.99.

40 Isham Road West Hartford Center 860-232-6666 www.thegreenteahouse.com

TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES

Often used for meditation, the music of a singing bowl is meant to soothe your soul, cleanse your heart and free your mind of worries. Handcrafted in Nepal. Inscribed Singing Bowl, $125.

Breathe deep, sit tall, clear your mind. Handcrafted patchwork pillow is perfect for mindful meditation, or for floor seating with engaging conversation. Handcrafted in Vietnam. Mindful Yoga Pillow, $49.

967 Farmington Avenue West Hartford Center 860-233-5470 www.tenthousandvillages.com

CRATE & BARREL

Casually elegant Twig Accent Table, $299

You must know someone who needs this Noir Bar Cart, $599

48 South Main Street

Blue Back Square

860-236-8900

www.crateandbarrel.com

FAIRLINE PHANTOM 46

Charter this Luxury Cruiser for your own private vacation. This FAIRLINE PHANTOM 46 is docked in Alexander Marina, Grand Miami Beach, Florida. The slip includes access to a private cabana on the Atlantic Ocean with one parking space.

Captain Bill will charter you by day, week or even a sunset dinner cruise for your vacation or business pleasure. The Captain is fully licensed and insured. The Phantom 46 sleeps 6, has 2 heads, full galley, 2 refrigerators, icemaker, 2 stereos and a bridge with a sun deck and mini-kitchen.

The Phantom 46 is owned by a loyal subscriber of West Hartford Magazine and this is a special offer for other readers. Make sure you take photos and tag them @westhartfordite. We'd be happy to post them on We-Ha.com as well. Enjoy!

Check availability and leasing options: call Captain Bill at 561-707-4701

Christmas at First Church includes:

•Worship with us at 10 a.m. on Sundays.

•Christmas Workshop: Sunday, December 13th

•City Singers will perform some traditional carols and folksongs on December 13th and 19th

•Christmas Pageant on December 20th at 4 p.m.

•Christmas Eve Worship at 4 and 9 p.m.

If you are looking for PEACE this season:

•Join a Meditative Yoga class (T, W, Th).

•Drop in on an evening Taizé or Celtic service.

•Our JPW Library has a diverse collection and hosts book groups on Mon. (noon) and Thurs. (5:30 p.m.)

•Come to our Prayer Circle on Thursday mornings.

contact Andrea Thompson, Advancement Director AThompson@saintbrigidschool.org 860-561-2130, ext. 104