WestHartfordMag/Palette2014

Terrific Teens in our Community

FALL FASHION 2014

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Fall Fashion 2014 brought to you in part by: When it comes to FALL FASHION, we need a whole month, not just a week to spotlight the variety of fashions in The Center! As always, visit our websites and social media pages for up-to-date event information (listed above). Please visit your favorite retailers and check out the list below of our “guide” participants. Come SHOP, DINE and STROLL! See you soon!

Watch your mail for The Center Fall Fashion 2014 guide with a season-full of ideas from:

� Bella Bridesmaids

� BK&Co.

� Bob DeGemmis Dressed to the Nines

� First Church (Taizé and Celtic gatherings)

� Hart Real Estate

� Lux Bond & Green

� McNally’s Modern Maintenance, llc.

� Moms & More of WH Halloween Stroll (10/25)

...and Sliders Grill & Bar AND Frank Pepe’s Pizza of West Hartford make a special appearance in the guide...check them out! �

� Philip David Jewelers

� Silkworm Boutique

� Silver Dahlia

� Suzanne Walsh-William Raveis

� Ten Thousand Villages

� The New Children’s Museum

� Top Level Salon

� We-Ha.com

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TERRIFIC TEENS by Lisa

Lelas

Meet our 2014 ‘Terrific Teens’… noteworthy graduates making a difference in our Community and beyond.

51 ART MEETS THERAPY by

Christine M. Looby

The ‘Secret Garden’ project transforms white cement to a springtime garden to help Alzheimer’s patients. A CELEBRATION OF MILESTONES by Guest Style Editors Barbara Karsky and Karen Herbert Chic fashions ‘through the ages’!

ON THE COVER 11 recent West Hartford high school graduates become our ‘Terrific Teens’ to watch this year! photography by TODD FAIRCHILD shutterbugct.com

west hartford center 982 farmington ave. 860.216.0124 www.silkwormonline.com

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

Creative Director & COO

Joy Brigham Taylor joyt@westhartfordmagazine.com

Managing Editor

Lisa Lelas editor@westhartfordmagazine.com

Publication Designer

Jennifer Inocencio graphics@westhartfordmagazine.com

Marketing Consultants

Michael Conway Taylor Tavarozzi

Guest Style Editors

Karen Hebert

Barbara Karsky

Publishing Advisor

Jonathan Moffly

Contributing Writers & Columnists

Lydia Brown, Karla A. Dalley,Christine Looby, Paul Stancs.

Contributing Photographers

Cheyney Barrieau Photography, The Defining Photo, Rosie DeRobertis, Jeffrey Dyer/Photoexpressions.com, Todd Fairchild/shutterbugCT.com, Whitney Fox & Denise Farwell/ emilieinc.com, C.Griffin - the Playhouse Theatre Group. Lindsey Light Photography/Lindsaylightphoto.com, Amy B. Melvin, Lanny Nagler, Ira Nozik Photographers, Saint Francis Hospital, Mike Shauck/IRIS Photography, Taylor Tavarozzi.

Print Advisor

Bob Carr

Website

Mike Roy/Roy Web Design

Bookkeeper

Debbie Roberts bookkeeping@westhartfordmagazine.com

Proofreader

Barbara Gordon

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EDITORIAL & LETTERS: editor@westhartfordmagazine.com – please include full name, town and phone number (for verification only, not for publication). ADVERTISING: 860-508-4032. ©2014 WHMedia, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. West Hartford Magazine is a registered trademark owned by WHMedia, Inc. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by West Hartford Magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine. P.O. Box 271835, West Hartford, CT 06127 westhartfordmagazine.com office 860-508-4032 West Har tford Magazine is published six times a year by WH Media Inc

Principals

Thomas P. Hickey, II

Joy B. Taylor

James H. Gould, III

WHMedia, Inc.

Publishers of West Hartford Magazine, Dazzle and Palette. Custom publications include: CCAOH “Help & Hope Magazine; Monarch Jewelers; Stanger & Arnold “Times Have Changed.”

We-Ha.com

We Have It all in West Hartford … 24/7/365 … Introducing WE-HA.COM!

Team up the former Editor and Sales Manager from Patch, Ronni Newton and Kaushik Makati with the publishers of West Hartford Magazine and “we have it all in West Hartford!” With the publication of this issue we announce the official launch of WE-HA.COM and in the spirit of continually supporting local non-profits via our products and events, our Fashion Week Event benefited the Food Bank in West Hartford.

If you missed the September FASHION EVENT then you must subscribe to the WE-HA.COM newsletter so you can stay up to date! You’ll find the subscription button on the website and Ronni will keep you informed of our most important happenings in town, on a daily basis.

Remember the only way to guarantee delivery of every issue of West Hartford Magazine (to your home or office) is to subscribe … we’ll make each issue worthy of a corner on your coffee table. As always our Subscription Club Members (see Page 20) are acknowledged and thanked in each issue. Worth noting that if you JOIN the CLUB you get lots of perks like FREE tickets to events.

Your next issue of West Hartford Magazine will be in your home and on-line just as we begin the Holiday Season!

Regards,

Thomas P. Hickey II Publisher tomh@westhartfordmagazine.

Visit WE-HA.com

for complete stories and photo albums from the following events...and MORE!

TEEING OFF for Catholic School Education

Coach Kevin Ollie and Sofia Turek enjoy this year’s Fore FACS Golf Classic at Shelter Harbor Golf Club in Charlestown,Rhode Island.

The event was emcee’d by WFSB-TV sports Director, Joe Zone, and sponsored by Saint Francis Care as a Players Champion Sponsor. The Knights of Columbus was the President’s Cup Sponsor and WH Media, Inc./West Hartford Magazine was the media sponsor... See more on We-Ha.com

The Lobster Gal

Rates best lobster rolls in New England!

Melissa Lambright (Owner of Sight), Marina Luri Clark (Owner of Marina Luri Events) and Stacy Silk Rome (Owner of Brand New, LLC) celebrated the new book “Lobster Rolls of New England.” Sally Lerman, better known as ‘the Lobster Gal’ writes the northeast’s first lobster-roll review book including beautiful mouthwatering photos by West Hartford’s Jane Shauck. To launch the book, Sally and her husband Ken hosted a celebratory signing party at their home, complete with a lobster roll truck serving up warm butter lobster rolls... See more on We-Ha.com. photography by Mike Shauck, Iris Photography

now is your time... to be fabulous!

Ferrari Event

For one day only, on Sunday, June 29th, West Hartford Center was transformed into a virtual car gallery with an impressive display of vintage, exotic and modern Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maseratis and Alfa Romeos. Approximately 130 Italian cars gathered on LaSalle Road for the 14th Annual “Concorso Ferrari & Friends,” with these common goals: to raise funds and generate smiles on the faces of the patients at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC). See more on We-Ha.com. . photography by Taylor Tavarozzi.

Annual Mayor’s Charity Ball

Mayor Scott Slifka, Chuck Coursey, and town council member Burke Doar at the 15th Annual Mayors Charity Ball whichsuccessfully raised both funds and awareness for Playhouse on Park and HopeWorks, Inc. West Hartford’s signature event welcomed a record number of attendees and culled over $53,000 for the two worthy non-profit organizations. The Grand Tent, courtesy of Taylor Rental Party Plus, looked beautiful on the lawn of Town Hall. Guests enjoyed a gourmet meal by Max’s Catering and danced the night away to the swing band, ‘Eight to the Bar’. See more on We-Ha.com photography by C.Griffin - the Playhouse Theatre Group

Comprehensive Women’s Health Center

Barbara Gordon and her favorite St. Francis Hospital doctor, Dr. Allan Mayer, Gynecologic Oncologist, at her Mardi Gras Celebration and annual fundraiser for the newly opened Comprehensive Women’s Health Center at Saint Francis – an amazing facility offering mammograms, massages, gynecology and cardiology services for women. This is the 7th year Barbara and her daughter Tracy Fox have hosted the celebration as a "thank you" to the team that helped her. Guest list included Governor Malloy and State Senator Beth Bye. See more on We-Ha.com. photography courtesy of St. Francis Hospital.

Congratulations Bridget Carr

John

“JR” Richard

photography by LINDSEY LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Lindseylightphotocom

College sweethearts, Bridget and JR became inseparable ever since they started dating their senior year at Assumption College. Two years ago, JR told Bridget they were meeting friends in Portsmouth, NH, one of Bridget’s favorite places to visit. He took her to a park, where she realized it was just the two of them…and he proposed. A true romantic, JR had a dress packed for her, a dinner reservation made and a weekend planned in Portsmouth to celebrate!

The bride is the daughter of Ed and Kathy Carr, of West Hartford. Bridget was an English/Mass Communications major at Assumption College. She is currently employed as the Graduate Medical Education Coordinator at Tufts Medical Center.

The groom is the son of John and Janice Richard, of Billerica, MA. JR was a Business major at Assumption College and received his MBA from Bentley College. He is currently employed as Senior Project Manager at National Grid.

Their June wedding took place at Saint Thomas the Apostle Church in West Hartford on a picture perfect summer day, with a beautiful vintage romantic themed reception at the Farmington Club.

The happy couple honeymooned at the Sugar Beach Resort in St. Lucia and now reside in Medford, MA. n

Visit We-Ha.com for more WEDDINGS.

Bella Bridesmaid blo

994 Farmington ave #1 • West HartFord, Ct

73 MEMORIAL ROAD • WEST HARTFORD, CT 860.308.2498

Congratulations Pamela Smith & Charles Jay Hilborn

photography by JEFFREY DYER JR photoexpressions.com

Life has been a wonderful whirl of planning for the future since Pamela and Charles got engaged last summer at Lobster Cove on Monhegan Island in Maine. And, with their busy work schedules, it wasn’t always easy…but the couple’s happily ever after officially began at their May 30th wedding!

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Timothy Smith, of Tolland. Pamela is employed as a gerontologist with The Orchards at Southington, Senior Living Community.

The groom is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jay Earl Hilborn, of West Hartford. Charles is the owner of the Sheehan, Hilborn Breen Funeral Home in West Hartford.

The double ring ceremony took place at St. John Catholic Church, Old Saybrook, with a Nuptial High Mass. Reception followed at the Saybrook Point Inn, nestled alongside a marina on the Connecticut River. After cocktails on the patio, dinner was served French style in the beautifully decorated grand ballroom. Music and entertainment was provided by the orchestra, The Cartels.

The couple spent several days at the Saybrook Point Inn and will honeymoon this fall in Petit St. Vincent. The Hilborns reside in West Hartford and Clinton. n

Visit We-Ha.com for more WEDDINGS.

“Family and friends joining together”

GLASS TODAY: 21ST-CENTURY INNOVATIONS

June

Lino Tagliapietra, Fenice, detail, 2011, Blown glass, 14¾ x 43¾ x 5¼ in., Courtesy of Schantz Galleries, Stockbridge, MA. Photo: Russell Johnson Photography. Special funding has been provided by the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass, the Bailey Family Fund for

cial Exhibitions, and the Kathryn Cox Endowment Fund for Special Exhibitions.

You are invited to the Annual Pumpkin Carnival (9:30 a.m.) and Halloween Stroll (10:30 a.m.) on Saturday October 25, 2014. Meet at the Town Hall lawn (50 South Main Street) for live music and games, fantastic give-a-ways, meet the mascots, and more! Then stroll through The Center and Blue Back Square for TRICK-OR-TREATING at participating merchants, climb a fire truck, visit the Farmer’s Market, have lunch in one of We-ha’s fabulous restaurants! www.momsandmoreclub.com

Congratulations Kate Kickery & Roger Haas

photography by WHITNEY FOX & DENISE FARWELL emilieinc.com

For Kate, there has always been something magical about the shoreline. Growing up in the Hartford area, she had a soft spot for her family’s summer home on the coast of Maine. When she started dating Roger, it was no wonder that he surprised her with a trip to Nantucket on their first ‘anniversary’. He arranged a sunset sailboat ride and as they walked on the docks, that magnificent evening, he proposed.

The bride is the daughter of Kevin and Susan Kickery, of East Hartford. Her dad is the VP and small business lender for Farmington Bank in West Hartford Center and is an active board member of the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce and the West Hartford Business Association. Kate graduated from Marist College with a degree in Fashion Design.

The groom is the son of Roger and Jeanne Haas of Skillman, NJ. Roger graduated from Grove City College with a BA in Economics. He is currently completing his last year of his MBA at Cornell University. He is employed at Bloomberg LP in their Enterprise Products division.

The happy couple wed on May 23 at the Samoset Resort in Maine, officiated by Roger’s friend, Michael Sullivan in an outdoor ceremony overlooking the ocean. The reception was sprinkled with nautical theme touches mixed with stripes, sequins, sailboats and lots of peonies. After honeymooning in Hawaii, the newlyweds currently reside on the Upper West Side in New York City. n

Visit We-Ha.com for more WEDDINGS.

Stock Market OUTLOOK

An

Executive Summary from the Experts.

by Paul Stancs

Global stocks gained steadily in Q2, bolstered by economic data affirming the economic expansion remains on track despite Q1 weather-related weakness.

The MSCI World Index rose 4.9% during the quarter and is up 6.2% for the year’s first half, already exceeding many too-cautious forecasters’ full-year expectations. Each new market high is met with disbelief and fears of heights, in our view, a sign investors have yet to embrace optimism, leaving plenty of room for sentiment improvement ahead. Improving sentiment against a better economic and political backdrop than most appreciate should continue pushing stocks higher in the second half, resulting in a back-end-loaded, up-a-lot year.

2014 is a U.S. midterm election year, which historically sees the strongest push in the back of the year. Midterm elections usually result in gridlock. Since 1932, only twice—in FDR’s and George W. Bush’s first terms—has the President’s party gained seats in both houses during a midterm contest. All other times, the President has lost relative power, reducing the risk of sweep-

ing legislation interfering with property rights or distribution of wealth and income. Less political risk is a big positive for markets. However, investors are slow to realize this. Most folks get caught up in the campaign’s rhetoric and polarization, increasing fears that loud campaign pledges might actually come to fruition. After the election, however, the noise dies down, Congress continues doing next to nothing, and investors eventually realize most promises can’t pass. This is a powerful force for markets in midterm years’ second halves, particularly fourth quarters, which have been positive 86.4% of the time since 1925—significantly higher than stocks’ historical 68% frequency of positive quarterly returns. This effect extends over the following quarters—the first and second quarters of post-midterm years are also positive 86.4% of the time (a bizarre coincidence).

As folks look out over the next year, few fathom how strong it can be. Many investors remain wary of this bull market, continually checking for signs of a top.

While there is always a chance some unseen risk could materialize and knock the bull off course, we don’t see anything material enough

• 2014 is a U.S. midterm election year, which historically sees the strongest push in the back of the year.

to derail the many positives supporting stocks. Investors’ lingering skepticism combined with the underappreciated midterm effect and positive economic fundamentals tells us this is not the time to brace for a peak or wait for a pullback to put cash to work. Underestimating markets can carry significant opportunity cost.

You won’t see this perspective most anywhere else. As stocks clocked new highs while tensions flared in Iraq, eurozone growth slowed and new data revealed the U.S. economy contracted at a -2.9% seasonally adjusted annual rate in Q1, headlines warned of stocks’ apparent complacency, saying returns were too detached from reality. Yet stocks have a long, long history of shrugging off regional conflicts and

bumpy economic data. Many claimed stocks’ resiliency this time was a result of Fed policy masking their underlying vulnerability, but this ignores decades of market history. It’s normal for stocks to rise when the world looks weak—geopolitical conflict and patches of sluggish (and occasionally negative) growth are often part of the proverbial wall of worry bull markets love to climb. While there are always risks, the time to worry most, in our view, is when headlines stop highlighting negatives and start ignoring them.

Today, headlines continue ignoring the positive. Even with the U.S.’s GDP contraction, S&P 500 corporate earnings rose 2.1% y/y in Q1—beating expectations for a small decline—and revenues rose 2.7%, illustrating the private sector’s continued strength.

This, not GDP is what you own when you own a stock. Nor was economic weakness universal. The global economy grew 3% y/y in Q1 as Emerging Markets surged and the UK led the developed world. Publicly traded firms appear poised to continue doing well looking forward, with most U.S. indicators showing growth resuming in Q2 as the im-

Finance Tips

• While there is always a chance some unseen risk could materialize and knock the bull off course, we don’t see anything material enough to derail the many positives supporting stocks.

• Risks exist—they always do—but in our view, there is simply too much driving this bull forward for it to melt down—this is the time for a melt up!

• If would like to receive any of our complimentary guides, including: The 15-Minute Retirement Plan, Global Investing Guide, or latest Stock Market Outlook, please contact Regional Vice President Paul Stancs through http://paulstancs.fisherinvestments.com/.

pact of severe winter weather faded and loan growth continued its post-taper rebound. The Conference Board’s Leading Economic Index—one of the most reliable predictors of future economic trends—continued

rising, fueled by the relatively steeper yield curve and credit conditions.

Risks exist—they always do—but there are no indications of sweeping monetary policy errors, a surge in trade protectionism, a deeply negative regulatory change or other similar barriers to more bull market. In our view, there is simply too much driving this bull forward for it to melt down— this is the time for a melt up.

To follow a daily commentary on market and economic events, please visit www. MarketMinder.com. n

Paul Stancs , Regional Vice President 860-866-6740

p.stancs@fi.com

paul-stancs.fisherinvestments.com

Paul began his financial services career in 1997, and has been with Fisher Investments since 2012.

Commentary in this summary constitutes the general views of Fisher Investments and should not be regarded as personal investment advice. No assurances are made we will continue to hold these views, which may change at any time based on new information, analysis or reconsideration. In addition, no assurances are made regarding the accuracy of any forecast made herein. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. A risk of loss is involved with investments in stock markets.

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by Lisa Lelas photography by Todd Fairchild/ShutterbugCT.com

In some cases, you really can judge a book by its cover. Just meet any student from West Hartford and you realize it’s no surprise that our town is consistently ranked at the top for best schools in Connecticut and even in the country!

While the list of bright and competent students from West Hartford seems endless, we have selected a small handful of dedicated young men and women, all recent graduates from each of the five West Hartford High Schools, to represent this year’s ‘terrific teens’ to watch in our community. Not only are they teens with dreams, but they are already acting on them. Each of them has the desire to make a difference. To create a positive change in the world. They are, without a doubt, great role models to represent our community. Congratulations. We look forward to watching you blossom as you now go out into the world to inspire us all.

» Owen Eagan: Class President

Northwest Catholic graduate, Owen Eagan is now living in Washington DC as he attends Georgetown University. Although he has yet to officially declare his major, his emphasis is on history and English.

“I was lucky to have had really great teachers at my high school.” He notes on honing his love of learning. “My dad was an English major and my grandfather loved history. I think that’s where my interest in English and history first developed.”

Owen loves running. He was on varsity track all 4 years at Northwest, and played some lacrosse and football. “I love to keep in shape, working out, lifting weights and spending time with friends and family.” Owen loves to read, as well.

He is also a leader. Owen was class President all 4 years in high school and a frequent contributor to ‘The Writer’, a student creative writing magazine.

Community service is something Owen cherished during his high school years. “My sophomore service project was raising money for ‘Out to Pasture’, a really cool charity for an animal hospice program in Tolland. In my senior year, I got involved in A.C.T.S. (A Chance To Serve), a religious based in-school program with various community outreach service projects. We spent a few nights in a Bloomfield church with an event called ‘The Immersian’, helped various charities, and I helped out at St. Joseph’s Cathedral Food Bank. Volunteering to me was really fun.” He says.

A member of the National Honor Society and AP student, Owen was also selected to attend the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership conference during his sophomore year and Boys State conference from the American Legion during his junior year.

Owen needed to ponder on who his biggest role model is. “I’m lucky. I have a lot of them. My grandfather, my dad, my uncles and cousins. Too many to name all of them. I have had a great life so far. Great people supporting me. My family and friends. Everyone in my life really helped make me, ‘me’!”

Owen’s best hangout place in West Hartford? The Buena Vista golf course. And the things he misses most while living in Washington D.C. are his dog, Sophie (a schnoodle) and his mom’s home cooked meals. “Especially my mom’s chicken divan and her corn chowder!”

“My sophomore service project was raising money for ‘Out to Pasture’, a really cool charity for an animal hospice program in Tolland...”

» Rose O’Brien: Track & Field Enthusiast

A recent graduate of Northwest Catholic High School, Rose O’Brien is now enjoying life as a college freshman at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Her major is Psychology and she is leaning toward the possibility of doing something in forensic psychology. “I love all the TV crime shows. They piqued my interest in forensics.”

But perhaps a degree in psychology will help her in other ways as well. “My mom is a lawyer,” Rose explains, “When we would disagree on something, she always would win the argument! So, with my psychology degree I might now actually have a chance to win!”

Rose was very involved with her high school. She was on the varsity volleyball team and the varsity indoor track team all four years, and played a couple years of lacrosse and outdoor varsity track. Rose is on the indoor and outdoor track and field team at college, too. She was on her high school yearbook committee, the newspaper committee, and played violin for the spring musical productions.

Through her church, Rose volunteered at ‘Catherine’s Place’ a women’s shelter, where she would help make dinners, dine with the residents and talk with them as friends.

Her favorite quote is from Shakespeare. A simple statement she likes to live by: “To thine oneself, be true.”

“Talking to these people at the shelter taught me a lot. Hearing their stories of life challenges and still, for the most part, having positive attitudes gives you incredible life lessons!”

“My role models, without a doubt, are my parents. Being adopted, I know if I stayed where I was born I wouldn’t have had the opportunities given to me. I am very appreciative. I get my drive and my sense of humor from my mom, and my social graces and love of people from my dad.” She says.

Rose loves eating guacamole from Bartaco when she visits home or catching up with friends at Chipotle. She also enjoys going to the movies.

“I love anything that can make me laugh!”

Her favorite quote is from Shakespeare. A simple statement she likes to live by: “To thine oneself, be true.”

“Political science in my senior year was my favorite class,”... “Doc (Dr. Ann Serow) inspired me to include poly-sci in my college majors.

- Katherine

» Sarah Gianni: Newspaper Editor

Now a freshman at Providence College, Sarah Gianni, a graduate of Kingswood Oxford High School, has not yet declared her major but is interested in political science or law school. Leaving her twin sister’s side, she knows it’s now her time to spread her wings and fly.

Sarah was the Vice President of her senior class and the managing editor of Arts and Features for ‘KO News’. She was also an AP student and snagged fourth place in the Speakers Forum Competition at KO.

Aside from working & studying hard as a student, Sarah is quick to point out that she loves playing sports. She played volleyball and squash at school. “Being on sports teams is really fun for me. Being with friends is also important. I love the beach when the weather is nice, and hiking with friends. And of course, laughing as much as possible!”

“My role models are all my grandparents on both sides of the family. They are hard workers, adventurous and always up and ready to do things. Taught me to always try new things.”

On her volunteer work at the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford, Sarah says, “...I

realize I need to be a positive role model for kids who don’t have the support I have. I hoped I was able to shine a positive light on them.”

On her volunteer work at the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford, Sarah says, “It definitely made me reflect on how fortunate I am. I realize I need to be a positive role model for kids who don’t have the support I have. I hoped I was able to shine a positive light on them…to be a burst of happiness in someone else’s day.”

Sarah can write the book on authentic happiness. She says she always wakes up with a smile. I think being a twin makes me who I am. I feel fortunate to have such a strong relationship with my sister. My mission is to show happiness to the rest of the world!”

When back home in West Hartford, Sarah enjoys hanging out on the senior green or on the turf field at Kingswood Oxford. “I also cherish my time, each summer, with my family in Martha’s Vineyard.”

Sarah’s favorite food is Belgium waffles and she loves watching comedies and ‘chick-flicks’.

She stands by her attitude to see life in a positive way, everyday. Her favorite quote: “What was, was. What is, is. And what will be, will be.”

» Katherine Gianni: Yearbook Editor

As an identical twin, Katherine Gianni, a graduate of Kingswood Oxford High School, is now attending a different school from her sister, Sarah, for the first time in her life. Katherine is a political science/ communications major at Boston University.

“My sister and I are very close. Being a twin really has shaped who we are. Now that we are both attending different colleges, it marks the first time we have spent more than 2 days apart from each other in our lives!”

Katherine aspires to do something in journalism. “I managed the school yearbook as editor and worked on the school newspaper at KO. I have lots of great memories from high school.” Interestingly, both of her parents were also graduates of the Kingswood Oxford school. “Political science in my senior year was my favorite class,” she goes on to say, “Doc (Dr. Ann Serow) inspired me to include poly-sci in my college majors. I was never bored in that class as Doc would weave stories into the class lessons. She is an amazing teacher!”

“My sister and I volunteered at the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford. We would chaperone young kids on trips to museums and theme parks and help them with reading, writing and computer skills.” Katherine is grateful for her time as a community volunteer. “When you meet kids with a shaky foundation at a young age it affects your own confidence. It makes you strong and appreciative of your own life and knowing that I was a part of re-shaping how they look at life is what I feel best about!”

Katherine was on the volleyball and squash teams in high school. When she has free time, in town, she loves hanging out with friends at Bar Taco. Her favorite food is raspberries and her favorite possessions are her computer and dog, Karah.

Her biggest role model in her life? “My grandmother, Jean. Her spirit never grows old. She is fun loving and always encouraging. She tells me and my sister to partake, always get involved and make good use of every opportunity to be a positive influence.”

The BU freshman is now enjoying her first year away from home and is grateful for the summers she spends with her family each year on Martha’s Vineyard. I’m always reminded to make good decisions by the last thing my grandfather said to me on his deathbed, “He said, ‘Don’t do anything stupid’. A lasting lesson to me and my cousins!”

» Tucker Charette: Future Business Executive

Now a student at the Caroll School of Management at Boston College, Tucker Charette is a proud graduate of the Kingswood Oxford School.

Tucker was class President, as well as a member of the Shield & Dragon tour guide committee and was head of a freshman advisory group in his senior year, helping freshmen get oriented and build connections during their first year at the high school.

Outside of school, Tucker was involved with the non-profit golf program, “First Tee of Connecticut”, a national organization to help expose kids to the sport of golf who otherwise may not have the means to.

“I like doing volunteer work,” he says. “Making an impact on someone’s life and having fun doing it is priceless.”

Aside from his love of golf, Tucker was also on the varsity baseball team at school, played basketball, and enjoyed skiing with friends on weekends. “My best memory of high school will always be my senior year baseball season. It was a great year!”

“I had lots of favorite subjects in school,” says Tucker, “I’ve always been more of a math and science kind of guy. Economics was probably my favorite. Miss Tracy Deeter, my teacher, was great!”

Tucker not only likes to learn but likes to accomplish goals, as well. “In college, I am feeling out exactly what I want to do in business. My dad is a contractor and I worked on many of his construction sites. I will definitely go into some type of business for myself.”

...he received the Wyper Award for Excellence... the prestigious Dartmouth Book Award for academic leadership qualities, and the Van Horn Scholarship.

“I’ve been lucky to have a lot of good mentors in my life. But my biggest influence has come from my parents. My mom is very organized and taught me how to manage my life. My dad works a lot and with his work ethic taught me about the importance of having a positive attitude.”

And Tucker’s inspirational attitude did not go unnoticed. At Kingswood Oxford, he received the Wyper Award for Excellence in Latin during his Junior year, the prestigious Dartmouth Book Award for academic leadership qualities, and the Van Horn Scholarship given to just one student at each of the local high schools.

When he’s back at home, Tucker enjoys hanging out at Moes or on the basketball court with friends. “I enjoy my home life a little too much,” laughs Tucker, “while I love traveling and doing other things, I most enjoy hanging out with my friends locally.”

True to his appreciation of friendship, Tucker leaves us with his favorite quote: “There are no strangers here…only friends we haven’t yet met.”

» Gabrielle Collins: Classical Ballerina

If anyone is an example of ‘dreams really can come true’ it’s Gabrielle Collins, a graduate of Conard High School. She has been a performer most of her life, a competitive dancer, and is on the verge of living her dream of becoming a professional classical ballerina now that she has joined the Atlanta Ballet Company.

“I was always active,” explains Gabrielle, “I swam, did gymnastics, softball and acting, but when my mom enrolled me in dance at 5 years old it just seemed to come very natural to me!” The young dancer decided by the age of 13 she wanted to be a professional ballerina. She had been performing with the Hartt School before moving to Atlanta.

Now that she is living and dancing in Atlanta, Gabrielle expects to be touring around the states and possibly overseas. Looking ahead into the future, this 18 year old already has her life planned. “I love science. I would like to do physical therapy someday after my dance career ends. I’d like to work with other athletes.”

Gabrielle knows exactly where her ‘can do’ attitude comes from. “My parents are my biggest role models. They were always there to support me. My dad, who’s a well known Division 1 college baseball umpire kept me true to my goals with self confidence. My mom taught me organization and scheduling as my ‘manager’ for all my national and international travels to competitions, shows, and auditions.”

But a busy performance schedule never kept Gabrielle from giving back to the community. She worked at area soup kitchens and volunteered at the Elmwood Community Center. She also did many performances for the Boys & Girls Club of America and many community outreach performances throughout the area.

When she does have time to relax with friends, she says she most enjoys hanging out at Blue Back Square or going to Café Sofia for crepes, although her favorite food is actually frozen yogurt!

Gabrielle is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and received maximum honors all 4 quarters of all 4 years of high school! She even received a Presidential Scholarship to Wake Forrest University but opted for a career in dance, instead.

“Dance has shaped me,” she explains, “It has taught me a lot of discipline and courage and risk taking.”

...is on the verge of living her dream of becoming a professional classical ballerina now that she has joined the Atlanta Ballet Company.

» Elan Ganeles: Ultimate Frisbee Enthusiast

Hard work is something that never scared Elan Ganeles, recent graduate of The Hebrew High School of New England, in fact, he seems to embrace it. Currently on a deferred enrollment plan at the University of Michigan, Elan is off to Israel for a year long spiritual educational program. He plans on doing ROTC for the army throughout his college years and hopes to work as an officer in the military someday.

Elan is a member of the National Honor Society and a National Commended Merit Scholar. What motivates him? History. “I’ve always loved reading about history,” he explains, and even notes that his role models have always been past and present military general whom he has studied. “I’m intrigued by the people who have led our country,” but closer to home he adds, “I have always looked up to my school principal, Rabbi Lowe, as a good role model. He always has very good personal integrity.”

Working as a volunteer at Jewish Family Services and at his synagogue, Elan says it really changed his perspective on life. “You see so many different people. You can’t judge them. Everyone has their own story and you need to be more accepting of all.”

But despite his lofty goals, Elan is still a regular teen at heart. He loves mac and cheese and hanging out with friends at Blue Back Square.

Elan is off to Israel for a year long spiritual educational program.

This 18 year old graduate remembers his high school years with great enthusiasm. “I was on the ultimate Frisbee team all four years, played sax and piano, I was part of the Junior Statesmen of America club, the Israel Advocacy club and outside of school was involved with the civil air patrol Air force auxiliary leadership program.”

His favorite high school memory? “Every year our school has a weekend retreat away,” he reflects, “It’s good bonding. We all get so close. I love the feeling of community!”

» Avigayil

Halpern:

The Inspirational Blogger

A recent graduate of The Hebrew High School of New England, Avigayil Halpern is already making a difference in the world. As an avid writer, Avigayil has been blogging about Judaism and gender issues and how they intersect, raising awareness and perception to all her readers. “It’s really personal to me, very interesting and intellectually compelling,” she says. Her blogs have been published in the Jewish Daily Forward of New York and also in an Israeli newspaper.

As an intern with the CT Jewish Ledger publication, Avigayil got to hone her writing skills even more. She maintains a personal blog at ‘theprocessofthetaking.blogspot.com’.

She plans on attending Yale next year, after she returns from a gap year religious studies program in Israel.

Avigayil admits her high school was very instrumental in shaping who she is today. “I’ve had many teachers who were so inspirational, especially Dr. Judith Rosenbaum, whom I’ve gotten to be really close with.” As part of the Bronfman Youth Fellowship Awards program,

Avigayil had the opportunity to travel to Israel with 26 other students around the country to study philosophy, politics and Jewish community and practice. “It was amazing. I’m still really close with the other kids I met there.”

Aside from being an award recipient for the Bronfman Youth Fellowship, Avigayil is a member of the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance Teen Leadership Committee, a member of the National Honor Society and a National Merit finalist.

Being so goal oriented, Avigayil does like to relax and have fun. “I love pasta and my favorite color is purple. I’m not a big movie-goer but I’m a big fan of the Hunger Games series. I love to hang out at Blue Back and I read a lot.”

Perhaps her favorite reading books sum her up best. “I’ve been a life long Harry Potter fan…but I’m trying to read through all the literary classics right now!”

Avigayil has been blogging about Judiasm and gender issues and how they intersect, raising awareness and perception to all her readers.

» Jacob Binder

“Jake”

Leader for change

Jake Binder is a recent Conard High graduate who is now attending Brown University, majoring in applied psychology and neuro-science, although he admits he may end up leaning toward political science.

“Honestly, right now,” he says, “my goal would be to work in government. Not politics but possibly working with an agency that affects government policy. I really want to make a difference in the world.”

Perhaps a natural born leader, Jake is not sure where his drive to succeed and change the world really comes from. “As a child, I never really ‘needed’ a role model,” he says, “all my family and friends and teachers have been so supportive of me that it’s hard to narrow it down to any one role model.”

Jake is an avid runner. He ran cross country and track in high school. He also loves doing community volunteer work. “I worked at my church all through high school and especially loved mentoring kids. Working with kids always puts a smile on my face. They are the ones who showed me my love of interacting with people.”

At Conard, Jake reflected on doing a mock trial as part of a school club. “That definitely tied in with my political science interest. I really learned how to argue a point!”

my goal would be to work in government... with an agency that affects government policy. I really want to make a difference in the world.

On the artistic side, Jake also sang with the solo ‘elite’ choir of Conard, part of the honors music program, and was the co-leader of the student run acapella group “B-Sharp”.

Whenever he is back in town, Jake says his favorite place is the Reservoir to go for runs or bike rides with friends. His favorite food? Pasta with pesto.

Jake is an AP Scholar with distinction in recognition for many AP classes and a commended Merit scholar. No surprise if his choice of books are any indication. “I prefer reading scholarly books, such as collections of essays by professors. I guess I just love learning!”

» Danielle Johnson: The Cheerleader

William H Hall High School recent graduate, Danielle Johnson knows first hand what hard work and practice can accomplish. She is a recipient of the prestigious 3-Sport Athletes Award and Spirit of Hall Award for cheerleading for football, basketball and track & field.

The 18 year old has been a competitive cheerleader all 4 years of high school and was the captain of her varsity cheerleading squad, while competing in track events, as well. Perhaps it’s her seemingly natural focus to succeed that has influenced her decision to go to med school someday and help people as a psychiatrist.

Danielle is now a freshman at Fisk University in Nashville, majoring in chemistry and pre-med. She remembers her years at Hall High with great fondness. She was the president of the Medical Careers Club. “I’ve always been interested in medicine and helping people,” she says, “and last year, I got the chance to travel with the school to China, which was an unforgettable experience.”

She lives by her favorite quote by the late Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

She interned at a local nursing home, walked for breast cancer awareness and through her cheerleading squad, was involved in many community outreach programs

Volunteering has been an important part of Danielle’s high school life. She interned at a local nursing home, walked for breast cancer awareness and through her cheerleading squad, was involved in many community outreach programs for health and nutrition. “Volunteering made me a better person,” she explains, “being able to give back to people is in alignment with what I want to do someday as a psychiatrist.”

This cheerleader with a passion to give back still enjoys simple pleasures with friends and family, “I love hanging out at Blue Back Square when I’m home and traveling with my family.” She loves seafood and pasta and, just like her personality, loves the bright color red.

“And I love mysteries…I’m curious by nature and like to figure things out!”

» Connor Cunningham: Future Pro-Golfer

On a golf scholarship to Sacred Heart University, Connor Cunningham has dreams of being on the Pro-Circuit as a professional golfer but will major in business management to possibly go into business for himself beyond the PGA!

This graduate of Hall High School has always loved sports. Whether playing ball sports, Frisbee, golfing, cliff jumping or even hanging out with friends at the beach, he loves being outdoors. When he’s indoors, however, he loves watching college sports, especially football and basketball. “March madness is the best!” he boasts.

As an honor roll student and competitive athlete, Connor always remembers the famous words of Espy Award winner, Jimmy Valvano, shortly before he passed away: “Don’t give up. Never give up.”

“My dad has always been my biggest role model.” He says, “Growing up we were best friends. I learned so much from him. He’s a great guy. He got me started in golf. I got serious about golfing at Waumpanaug Country club in the fourth grade.”

A special memory he shared with his dad recently was traveling to

He achieved All Conference recognition and came in third at the All State Division 1 tournament.

Wisconsin this summer and playing golf at some of the top golf courses in the country.

High school memories are also abundant for Connor. He fondly reflects on his four years on the golf club. He achieved All Conference recognition and came in third at the All State Division 1 tournament. A trumpet player in the school band, he was also a member of the Hackeysack Club which raised awareness for the Lakota Sioux tribe in North Dakota through event fundraisers. He also enjoyed his role as the leader “chief” of the reservations club, a student run fan section at sporting events.

Connor’s favorite hometown hang-out is Chipotle, and his favorite food: Chipotle buffalo wings.

His favorite classes in high school? Intro to Psychology, AP Psychology and History. One of his favorite books is “The Longest Winter” by Alex Kershaw about World War II. “It captivated my interest. Didn’t want to put that book down! World War II history is something I’ve always been fascinated with.” n

One of a kind, One at a time, Each by hand.

TRUNK SHOW

Saturday, November 15 10:00am-5:00pm

Fashion & Arts issue of West Hartford Magazine ON THE COVER

“Everlasting spring in the secret garden,” a wall mural at Saint Mary's Home by artist, Tao LaBossiere. photography by AMY B. MELVIN A leader committed to

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

Creative Director & COO Joy Brigham Taylor joyt@westhartfordmagazine.com

Managing Editor Lisa Lelas editor@westhartfordmagazine.com

Publication Designer Jennifer Inocencio graphics@westhartfordmagazine.com

Marketing Consultants Michael Conway Taylor Tavarozzi

www.We-Ha.com

PALETTE is published by: WHMedia, Inc., P.O. Box 271835, West Hartford, CT 06127. ©2014 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 WHMedia, Inc. are not necessarily those of the magazine.

Bill has a plan to:

• Bring responsible, common sense leadership to Hartford

• Reduce the tax burden on working families

• Cut wasteful spending and provide balanced, honest budgets

• Provide safe communities and ensure every child has access to a quality education

• Create an environment where private sector businesses can thrive and grow

Museum Preschool Embarking on a new Journey Preschool

imagination. We are born to be creative. This experience and hundreds like it take place daily at The New Children’s Museum Preschool.

Fostering Creativity. . .

The Children’s Museum Preschool has a strong tradition of fostering creativity by giving every child a wide array of rich multi-sensory experiences to experiment and make discoveries. Children explore with magnets, cultivate plants from seeds, observe live animals from the museum, and experience outer space.

High Standards. . .

The high educational standards of The New Children's Museum Preschool will prepare your child for lifelong learning success. Guided by licensed, caring teachers—and with a curriculum backed by Connecticut’s early learning guidelines—children delve into the sciences, literacy, arts and humanities in a classroom setting and by visiting the museum's seven interactive exhibit spaces, wildlife sanctuary, planetarium and Roaring Brook Nature Center.

Space available for the current school year and accepting applications for the 2015-2016 school year. For More Information, contact: Wendy Hartling

Head of Preschool

Immersive Learning Classrooms

Within our large, sunlit preschool classrooms, children explore and discover the wonders and processes of the surrounding world. These bright, colorful spaces provide a familiar and comfortable home environment that is ideally suited to their

The children come to see the entire museum as their classroom. Each exhibit is designed specifically to be a learning device. By being engaged with the museum our preschoolers have the opportunity to learn from and build relationships with our experienced museum staff. Learning is richer and deeper if it’s authentic, resulting in the information retention of our students.

Our Misson

The New Children’s Museum Preschool inspires creativity, promotes self discovery, and nurtures an appreciation for lifelong learning. Our staff is committed to providing the highest quality early learning experience and the development of the individual child in areas of creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, independence, confidence, compassion, and empathy. We honor the child's sense of wonder and natural curiosity by providing hands-on experiences in our museum, classrooms as well as outdoors in the natural world at Roaring Brook Nature Center.

Meet Wendy - Head of Preschool

When she joined us in 2013, Wendy Hartling brought to the Children’s Museum Preschool her love of children and more than 25 years of experience in both teaching and educational administration. She received her B.S. in Elementary (PK – 8) from UConn, Neag School of Education, and is currently pursuing her M.Ed in the field of Instructional Design at Western Governors Univ. She has worked for school systems in Connecticut, as well as in Wisconsin. She has also taught adults, including GED and parenting classes in Hartford.

When the first years of life

are filled with opportunities for creativity, children will develop important foundational skills, expand their problem-solving abilities and spark a passion for knowledge.

As we CELEBRATE 34 YEARS of serving all of your jewelry and gift needs we would like to personally THANK YOU for your loyalty and patronage.

To show our appreciation we invite you to our CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAYS to enjoy deeply discounted prices as part of our inventory reduction sale.

Why an Inventory Reduction Sale?

Because we are proud to announce that effective October 1st we will be preparing our nephew Jesse to take over the reigns! He needs to make room for new inventory! Monarch Jewelers will continue to be here to help your next generation pick out an engagement ring, reset a family heirloom to match their personal style, find that special pre-owned luxury watch, etc. Of course Jesse will have Debbie (Angela’s sister) and Gina (Jesse’s sister) by his side to serve you and we take great comfort in knowing that our legacy will live on in the family business we built.

Jesse has lots of plans so please stop in and we’ll tell you more.

Glamorous camping adventures await!

by Lydia Brown

Recently, a global trend has caught fire, offering outdoor enthusiasts an upgrade on rest and recreation. It’s called “glamping”, a new word for a new kind of travel, defined as glamorous camping. When you’re glamping, there’s no tent to pitch, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build. Whether in a tent, yurt, airstream, hut, villa or treehouse, glamping is a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury. For those of you who have been on safari in Africa and stayed in a tented safari camp you will have somewhat of an idea of what it’s all about.

Glamping is a fusion of glamour and camping and has emerged globally and has come across the Atlantic over the last decade. Both independent properties and global hospitality brands have capitalized on a jettisoning demand for travelers who want to experience the positive aspects of camping without the ‘uncomfortable’ negatives. Glamping pivots on a high level of service that focuses on complete comfort

for guests. The amenities found at glamping destinations far exceed anything that recreational campers experience.

Glamping options run the gamut from tents, to over the water bungalows, to huts, pods, cubes, tree-houses, airstreams, jungle lodges and more. Let me give you a little insight into the accommodations.

Tents: Glamping tents are a far cry from the do-it-yourself tent in a bag. They offer amenities like comfortable beds and in some cases ensuite bathroom facilities. Everything is set up for you. There is no tent to pitch. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the unique experience provided by these luxury tents.

Villas & Huts: Whether you choose overwater glamping huts in the Maldives, a cottage in Indonesia or a beachfront glamping villa in New Zealand or Figi, there is a stellar collection of glamping accommodations. Staying in a glamping hut or villa will provide you with an opportunity to commune with nature while enjoying pure luxury.

Pod & Cubes: Many glamping destina-

tions around the world have come up with unique, yet luxurious eco-friendly pods and cubes to serve as guest accommodations. These glamping pods and cubes give travelers an opportunity to have a singular experience amidst the surrounding nature. From unique eco domes to cubes with an architectural flare, many properties have embraced the glamping concept and created special dwellings unique to their properties.

Yurts & Teepees: Along with luxury tents, yurts have always been amongst the most popular glamping accommodations. Yurts were first used by Central Asian nomads and the design has been resurrected by many properties looking to offer a unique accommodation that doesn’t leave a carbon footprint.

Tree-house & Airstreams: Glamping in tree-houses or airstreams are definitely a one-of-a-kind experience. Imagine a luxurious dwelling perched amongst the timbers of Vermont or Switzerland with amenities only matched by the views. Or, imagine taking up residency in a restored vintage Airstream along the Santa Barbara photography

coast. For your next (or first) glamping trip, consider a tree-house or airstream.

Eco & Safari Lodges: Glamping lodges are the perfect way to experience nature while still having four walls and a ceiling. These unique destinations from Maine to Nepal have carefully constructed the ideal dwellings for their properties, allowing guests to stay in complete luxury while still developing an up-close-and-personal relationship with the surrounding nature.

Cabineering: Cabineering is a new travel trend that is now offered by many luxury properties. These luxury cabins give adventure travelers the comforts of home and the special amenities of a luxury hotel in some of the most remote and breathtaking areas around the globe. It’s a cozy way to have a memorable, experiential vacation.

Glamping has been a burgeoning travel trend in North America for the past eight years with a variety of unique locations and accommodations to choose from. One of my favorites here in the United States is the Resort at Paws Up (http://www.pawsup. com) located in Greenbough, Montana.

This is considered a luxury tent and features five glamping camps that cater to families, couples and groups. Each glamping tent features an en suite bathroom, The Last Best Bed®, chic rustic furnishings, art-adorned walls, electricity, cooling fans, heat and, most importantly, a camping butler! It’s nature served on a silver platter. If you really want to be impressed, take a look at their website although photos can’t

really do it justice. Whether you’re an experienced rider or you’ve never been horseback riding before, you’ll lay eyes on sight after sight of historical and breathtaking visions during your unforgettable Montana horseback riding excursion. Junior wrangler programs for kids, customized lessons, cattle work, and roping are available here at Montana’s largest private equestrian center, The Saddle Club at Paws Up. Or try your hand running and sorting cattle with an authentic cattle drive.

There is a budget for everyone and glamping resorts are located throughout the United States and around the world. For more information on these and other glamping facilities please contact me at Sanditz Travel. Happy Glamping! n Lydia Brown

(860) 523-5224

MISTAKES CAN COST

Meets Therapy Art

Everlasting Spring Blossoms at The Mercy Community

Lisa Ciotto planted a seed that grew into West Hartford’s “Secret Garden.” As a therapist working in Saint Mary Home’s short-term rehabilitation unit, Lisa sent The Mercy Community’s administrators a letter in the spring of 2013, asking that something be done about the courtyard facing the Therapy Gym. She explained that the outdoor space’s nine-foot-high cement retaining wall was problematic for residents with low vision, cataracts or macular degeneration: its glare tended to cause confusion about the weather conditions outside, no matter the season.

“Over the years,” Lisa wrote, “I have often wished I could find someone who would be willing to paint a mural on that wall that gives life, brightness, and something to start a conversation.”

Bill Fiocchetta, president and CEO of The Mercy Community, brought Lisa’s letter to the June 2013 meeting of its Board’s Marketing & Development Committee.

Jill Adams, principal/CEO of Adams & Knight in Avon and chair of the committee, remembers the excitement Lisa’s query generated. “We encouraged Bill’s team to draft a request for proposals and to send it to all of the Connecticut artists and arts organizations they could find. A few months later, when we reviewed Tao LaBossiere’s concept, we felt he truly had a vision for

what this could be. Instead of suggesting a painting for a wall, he was offering to build a retreat for our residents,” Jill said. “It’s the very essence of art meeting therapy.”

Hartford artist Tao LaBossiere’s winning proposal was called “Everlasting Spring in the Secret Garden.” In the style of trompe l’oeil, it transforms white cement into a stunning stonewall, complete with flora and fauna that slowly, surprisingly reveal themselves. “I wanted something that people could come back to again and again,” Tao said, “each time, finding something they didn’t see when they last looked.” From April until August 2014, Tao and a group of eight assistants brought the courtyard to life with ladybugs, hydrangea, a peacock… and even a bronze sculpture inspired by Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel The Secret Garden.

On August 14, The Mercy Community opened its own “Secret Garden” with a reception celebrating Tao LaBossiere’s artistry and the generosity of lead benefactors Barbara O. Hetrick, a resident of The McAuley, and Frances B. Sergi and

Family of West Hartford. In his remarks, Bill Fiocchetta explained the importance of seniors – particularly those experiencing memory disorders – living with art and engaging in art therapy activities.

“Experts in memory care and therapeutic recreation are – with increasing frequency – documenting success stories with the use of art therapy. Activities like painting and listening to music can meet with astonishing results among the population living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. Individuals who may not be responsive to social cues or conversation sometimes have visceral reactions when handed a paintbrush or fitted with an iPod. Doctors tell us that as Alzheimers attacks the brain, it often does so in such a way that it sabotages areas like short-term memory first, but will not affect the creative center until much later,” Bill said. He added: “This project has blended our desire to surround those entrusted to our care with the beauty of nature, the beauty of art, and the beauty of science well applied.” n

Help&Hope Archbishop has

“Catholic

charity” in his heart

Archbishop has “Catholic charity” in his heart

BY KEITH GRIFFIN

Archbishop Leonard Blair’s commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities, both the organization and the practice of Catholic charity, is grounded in his role as head of the Archdiocese of Hartford. He sees his role as a teacher of faith and paramount to the Catholic faith is charitable good works.

We had the pleasure of introducing the Archbishop to our staff and spent a recent morning showing him some of our facilities and programs. We couldn’t tell who had more fun, us, the Archbishop or the children. “Knowing how valuable his time is, we were honored he witnessed, first hand, the beneficiaries of his programs,” said Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Lois Nesci.

Since commencing his role as Archbishop in December, he has spent his time getting to know the charitable outreach of the Archdiocese, funded in great part by the Archbishop’s Annual Appeal.

“I was very impressed with the Hartford Archdiocese,” he said. “The Archbishop’s Annual Appeal, for example, is remarkably generous on the part of Catholic people. That includes a whole array of Catholic Charities outreach services and other charitable activities. Certainly the people today who are practicing their faith and coming to church have never been more generous. Not only with their contributions but also with their time and talent.

“Catholic Charities also relies on grants and other help for its work. Archbishop Mansell was fond of pointing out that after the federal government the Catholic Church is the largest provider of social services in the country,” he added.

Archbishop Blair also considers education an integral part of the Church’s mission, but one that many parents find difficult because of the cost. The Archbishop’s Annual Appeal has a tuition assistance program that helped more than 1700

people last year. There is also Matthew 25, a program of Catholic Charities, that provides aid to Northwest Catholic and East Catholic High School students from individuals or foundations willing to support four years of education. The program identifies gifted students and monitors their progress throughout their high school experience.

Early childhood education starts even before children enter formal schools. The Archbishop recently toured the Southside Family Center in Hartford to see the Jumpstart to Kindergarten program first hand. It is one of ten such centers in the Hartford Archdiocese that offer activities aimed at enhancing literacy to help close the achievement gap by preparing children for success in school. The key element of the programs is the involvement of parents in their children’s education. They also offer a culturally competent and comprehensive approach to the development and enhancement of the family—one that focuses on activities that reinforce parent-child bonding. Children with special needs are also welcome.

“At Catholic Charities,” Archbishop Blair said, “our goal is to promote the highest standards of excellence in early childhood education as well as to strengthen the whole family through additional educational and support services.” Three hundred and fifty children are getting the early childhood education they wouldn’t have received if it were not for Catholic Charities. Parents who once struggled when it came to their children’s development are actively participating in their education, without the worry of having to pay for preschool.

Archbishop Blair is also committed to assisting recent immigrants resettled in the Archdiocese. “We want to be very attentive to helping them. Since Catholics in the past were all immigrants, the Church was an integral part of their integration and success in society and their contribution to society. Certainly with recent immigrants, we want to be able to do the same,” he said.

The Migration, Refugee and Immigration Services program of Catholic

Charities in the Archdiocese has helped resettle over 6,000 refugees in the Hartford area since its inception in 1975. The program sets an employment rate of 75 percent within the first four months of a refugee’s arrival.

The program offers comprehensive immigration and naturalization support services as well as clinical and case man-

agement services to individuals who have suffered from sexual and/or employment trafficking, both domestically and internationally. �

You can read an extended version of this interview by visiting westhartfordmagazine.com

Community Room Dedicated to Archbishop Emeritus Henry J. Mansell

Archbishop Emeritus Henry J. Mansell has a room named after him at the Institute for the Hispanic Family on Wadsworth Street, Hartford. On a cool day in March, seniors and children from the classrooms gathered for the naming ceremony.

Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Charities Lois Nesci thanked Archbishop Mansell for his support of the Catholic Charities mission and vision during his term as the Archbishop of Hartford. �

�

Please Save the Dates!

Catholic Charities

Archdiocese of Hartford

Vision: Individuals, Families and Communities will become Healthy, Self-Sufficient and Productive – Thriving in a Just and Compassionate Society.

Mission: Motivated by Christ’s Social Teachings and Respect for the Richness of Diversity, Catholic Charities exists to Promote the Dignity, Self-Sufficiency and Human Potential of those in need.

The 22nd Annual Archbishop John F. Whealon Memorial Golf Tournament Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at Wampanoag Country Club in West Hartford, CT.

9th Annual Help & Hope Breakfast Friday, December 12, 2014 at the Marriott Hartford Downtown. Visit our website: www.ccaoh.org

� Jerry Franklin, CEO of Connecticut Public Television, Master of Ceremonies of the 8th Annual Help & Hope Breakfast, Webster Bank Presenting Sponsor, with Kyle Parrish, Fatherhood Program testimonial speaker and his son, Karter, and Lois Nesci, CEO of Catholic Charities

Lois Nesci with Christopher M. Dadlez, President and CEO of Saint Francis Care, Help and Hope Awardee at the Breakfast.

Help&Hope

a Celebration of Milestones.

by Guest Style Editors Barbara Karsky and Karen Herbert photography by Cheyney Barrieau Photography

Time flies when you love what you do; or, when you are dressing fabulous women!

At BK&CO, we get to do both, and this year marks our 20th year in West Hartford Center dressing fabulous women – women who embody confidence, integrity, style and compassion.

It’s a privilege to do business in such a vibrant, colorful town, surrounded by successful, small businesses that operate with the same passion and commitment to service and quality that we have at BK&CO.

Our objective for these September style pages was to share our 20th anniversary celebration in our favorite West Hartford Center spaces, with iconic West Hartford women (and a few men!), and bring you 20 fashion trends for Fall 2014.

Fashion is all about interpretation. This fall take a bold perspective. It’s a season of color and texture and glorious digital prints. Even black and white looks more adventurous!

We know that when a woman looks and feels her best, she is a force – unstoppable, unforgettable, and undeniable. This fall elevate your look to a signature style. Embrace fashion. Be a trendsetter.

Now is your time… to be fabulous!

Fall Fashion Forecast20Must-Have Trends:

1. Black and White: classic, but with a modern twist – think graphic

2. Digital Floral/ Landscape Prints: printed on everything from silk to scuba

3. More Polka Dots: retro dots are literally popping up everywhere

4. Cobalt: bright vivid blue is the hue

5. Faux Leather Trim: the best accent for fall – it’s washable!

6. Statement Jewelry: attention-grabbing bold, colorful, chunky accessories

7. Mixed Patterns and Texture: feisty, fearless, and totally fab…mix it all

8. Cozy, Oversized Sweaters: the bigger the better worn over lean bottoms

9. Color-Block and Stripes: linear and spirited combinations of color

10. Plaid: we are always mad for plaid, but this year we’re insane!

11. Novelty Leggings / Skinny Pants: add lace, pleather, zippers, rivets

12. Vibrant Color: cheeky, brazen, gutsy color – be impactful!

13. Retro Prints: a nod to nostalgia; especially in sophisticated neutrals

14. Geometric Designs: modern geometry 101

15. Neutral Palettes: focus on camels and charcoals

16. Mixed Metal Accessories: takes neutrals from bland to glam!

17. DRESSES! So many choices, too few occasions!

18. L.B.D.’S: this year “B” stands for Blue: Little Blue Dress; preferably midnight blue

19. Sparkle/ Bling: dazzling accents for evening, for everything!

20. Expressive Eyeware: Uber retro or geek chic; it’s your most visible accessory

BK&CO Staff: Margaret Romeo, Deb Bannon, Luanne Gaudet, Barbara Karsky, Karen Herbert, Joan Shapiro, and Ulla Trotter.

All outfits from Joseph Ribkoff Sympli and I.C. Collection, BK&CO.

To West Hartford residents... thank you to all pedestrians and motorists for accomodating us during this photo shoot. We apologize if we inconvenienced you in any way while managing traffic control.

FASHION

Go Bold.

Amy Samaan, Eyeware Stylist, Central Optica, left: Digital landscape printed silk jacket from Citron; black tank and arc skirt from Sympli; Resin necklace from

Angela Caputi, BK&CO. Glasses from , Central Optica

Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School, right: Memory wire collar top in okra and pant in charcoal from Porto; Chunky necklace, Charlotte Meyer Designs, Mix metal belt, Sandy Dufler, BK&CO.

Gems of West Hartford. (Opposite Page)

Pamela Rosin, owner, Philip David Jewelers, left: Satin Dot top and straight pant, Comfy, BK&CO

Rosie DeRobertis, co-owner, DeRobertis Jewelers, center: Sympli Tidal drape tee and drop ankle pant, BK&CO; Nina Nguyen turquoise necklace in sterling and 22K gold, DeRobertis Jewelers. Chair compliments of LCR.

Norma Green, co-owner, Lux Bond, & Green, right: Mixed media faux leather trimmed zip jacket and pencil skirt from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO.

and

and

Autumn Hues.

Amy Samaan, Eyeware Stylist, Central Optica, left: Woven stripe lambswool 2 pocket cardigan from Indigenous, Sympli tank, BK&CO, Glasses, Central Optica.

Rosie DeRobertis, co-owner, DeRobertis Jewelers, center: Asymmetrical boiled wool sweater with pin closure from Beyond Threads, white pima cotton blouse from Eliot Lauren, BK&CO.

Ronit Shoham, Community Volunteer and Fund-Raiser spearheading The Undergrounds, The Miracle League, Jonathan’s Dream and Cut Out Cancer to name a few. Hand-knit color block cardy sweater from Amy Brill, statement necklace from Charlotte Meyer Designs, BK&CO.

Necklace Inset: Multi strand gold-plated tubular and rubber necklace from Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO.

Crazy for Comfort! (opposite page)

Stephanie Blozy, owner, Fleet Feet Sports, left: Artisanal cardigan sweater in jewel tones from IVKO, Liverpool skinny jean, Escape from Paris necklace, BK&CO; hyper pink Nike zoom Pegasus 31 sneakers, Fleet Feet Sports.

MJ Daswani, co-owner, Dasawni Clothiers, center: Vertical textured sweater from Mirto and Heritage dark wash jean, Daswani Clothiers.

Renée McCue, Town of West Hartford Public Relations Specialist, right: Handcrafted sweater jacket in plaid and floral combination from IVKO plum microfiber and faux leather legging from Lysse, BK&CO.

Nostalgic Neutrals. (Opposite page)

from left to right: Shari Cantor, West Hartford Deputy Mayor: Sympli Envy top and Diva legging, BK&CO

Roxanne Stochelek, Director, West Hartford Art League: Retro printed tunic with scarf, best fitting black skinny pant from Lisette, toggle necklace from Escape from Paris, BK&CO.

Alysia Chrosniak, West Hartford Art League: Chevron and stripe cardigan from Beyond Threads, Aztec inspired chunk necklace from Charlotte Meyer Designs, Brown python skinny pant from Elliott Lauren, BK&CO

Ronit Shoham, Community Volunteer and Fund-Raiser spearheading The Undergrounds, The Miracle League, Jonathan’s Dream and Cut Out Cancer: Asymmetrical jacket in pale latte from I.C Collection, dream pant from Sympli, BK&CO

Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School: Geometric tunic in neutrals from I.C. Collection, arc pencil skirt from Sympli, BK&CO.

Outdoor dining in West Hartford Center is always in vogue!

Mixed Metal Accessories

Top Inset: Silver and gold plated tubular necklace on leather, Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO.

Center Inset: African jasper wood with white turquoise slices, Charlotte Meyer Designs, BK&CO

Bottom Inset: Belt: Mixed metal stretch belt from Sandy Duffler, BK&CO.

Special thanks to AVERT on LaSalle Road for their venue and hospitality, and to Hugo (the dog) and Mark, (his owner) for their cooperation.

FASHION

Blue is the new Black!

Shevon Hickey, Principal St Brigid’s School: Midnight blue shimmer stretch taffeta off the shoulder dress from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO; Sunglasses, Face a Face - Model: Poppy 1 (Black and Tortoise/ Brown Gradient Lens), Central Optica.

Shawn Fongemie, Executive Director, West Hartford/Tri Town YMCA. Mens Sunglass: Robert Marc - Model: 756-320 (Gunmetal Frame/ Grey Polarized Lens), Central Optica

Shari Cantor, West Hartford Deputy Mayor: Black and white color block dress from Joseph Ribkoff, Mother of pearl shell choker, BK&CO

From left to right: (opposite page)

Judy Casperson, West Hartford Town Councilor and Branch Manager, Webster Bank: Glamour dress in stretch taffeta from Joseph Ribkoff in midnight blue, BK&CO,

Alysia Chrosniak, West Hartford Art League: Paprika sleeveless cocktail dress from Joseph Ribkoff Drama necklace from Zzan Jewelry, BK&CO

Pamela Rosin, owner, Philip David Jewelers: Matte jersey faux wrap dress from Jospeh Ribkoff in sapphire, BK&CO

Renee McCue, Town of West Hartford Public Relations Specialist: Navy blue lace dress from Joseph Ribkoff, BK&CO; Pearl bracelet and necklace, DeRobertis Jewelers

Special thanks to GRANTS for their venue and hospitality.

Stunning Accessories:

Top Inset: Bangle bracelet assortment from ARA Collection and Lika Behar, Turkish designers, in 24K and oxidized sterling, Philip David Jewelers

Second Inset: Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 36 Chronograph Flyback with sapphire crystal, 100 meter, Lux Bond & Green. Mens Sunglass: Robert Marc - Model: 756-320 (Gunmetal Frame/ Grey Polarized Lens).

Third Inset: Beautifully matched oval 36.60ct sapphire and 8.35ct diamond necklace, vs2/G necklace, Lux, Bond & Green

Bottom Inset: David Yurman oval lavender amethyst and hematine ring with diamond bezel, .71 ct set in sterling silver, Lux Bond & Green.

Ornamental

Garden Edibles.

Fruit in the Flower bed? Veggies in the Boxwood? Everyone’s Doing it!

by Karla A. Dalley

Lately, the gardening “buzz” has been all about edible landscaping. And while many of us have been growing edibles for years (my first gardens were vegetable gardens), not everyone wants to dig up a piece of the lawn to have a dedicated spot for vegetables. Luckily that’s no longer necessary or even desirable. For one thing, vegetables grow better when they’re pollinated. So, if you already have a spot where you’re growing flowers, that’s a great place for a few vegetables! The same pollinators that visit your flowers will find the edibles and get to work on those too.

Keep in mind, vegetables and herbs like the same conditions…the sun. That’s one of the reasons you’ll often find front yard vegetable gardens in New England…so many of us garden under trees in the shade that we have no other place to put a few tomato plants (or other veggies) that we want to grow! Most vegetables need at least six hours of sun to grow and produce well, so the flower border (or other sunny spot) is best.

Before you start planting, however, make certain that you treat your flower-beds organically this season. Don’t grow your own veggies and herbs if you’re treating with chemicals and pesticides--or if there will be run-off from your lawn or drift from a nearby spray you apply to a shrub. Many are not safe for edibles. Find a different place, or plant in a container.

Many folks still think of huge gangly tomatoes and large sprawling trellises of peas, beans and other vegetables when they think of growing edibles so the thought of ‘tucking’ anything like that into a tidy ornamental border might just bring nightmares.

Nothing can be further from the truth!

As with many other plants, the breeders have been working on vegetables as well. They have bred them to make them more colorful…not only because this makes them ornamental, but because, in many instances, this makes them more nutritious as well. Peppers come in red, yellow and ‘chocolate’ varieties and the hot varieties have the advantage of sometimes having all three colors on the same plant at the same time. Even tomatoes come in compact packages as anyone who has grown ‘patio’ or container varieties knows. Leaf lettuces make wonderful borders and come in fabulous textures and colors. The leaf colors range from light to very dark green to chartreuse and there are reds, maroons and even speckled varieties. Tuscan Kale, also called ‘Dinosaur Kale’ after the strange appearance it takes on as it is harvested, is a great heirloom vegetable that is also good for you. These can be inter-planted with parsley and other herbs like thyme and oregano, which come in several different leaf colors, as well.

Consider planting a whole container of herbs. It will be one of the most carefree containers you’ll ever plant…no deadheading required, except to keep the herbs from flowering…and any cutting back you do will allow you to throw sprigs on the grill, use in summer salads or in quick summer dishes.

I’m never without several pots of herbs just outside my kitchen door. There’s a pot of fine-leaf basil…easier for cooking than the larger leafed kind and easier to keep in a pot, a pot of chives for chicken salad, a pot

of parsley for salad, and a mixed pot of other herbs--rosemary, thyme, lavender--which usually changes from year to year.

If you prefer to grow something a little different, try some fruit. This year I’m adding blueberry bushes. I’m choosing ‘Tophat’ because it’s supposed to be a self-pollinator, although I’ll add more than one (because I’ll be sharing with the birds). These are dwarf shrubs that should stay about 2’ tall and they have a fabulous red color in the fall--the color is almost as red as burning bush.

I already have alpine strawberry plants in several places. These are tiny strawberries--not even dime sized--but delicious. I highly recommend them.

Even apple trees have come down to size. About ten years ago, breeders came up with something called ‘columnar’ apples. The trees grow straight up and down, in a column. You do need two for cross pollination but each will stay under ten feet tall and five feet wide…quite a difference from the full sized trees that are easily three times that size or more.

Edible plants can add variety, color and delicious choice to your ornamental beds and borders. Don’t be afraid to incorporate some into your gardens this year! Happy gardening! n

635 New Park Commerce Center

The PlayGround. Remember when the world was your playground? The driving theme behind the fitness training at The PlayGround is

Lisa Matias Dance Centre

Lisa Matias Dance Centre

PLAY. The PlayGround offers programs for adults and children. The exercise programs are safe, demanding, bio-mechanically sound, and fun! Opening soon: Adaptive Movement Parkour. Here’s to a lifetime of regular exercise and good health. www.thefitplayground.com 860-236-8800

Lisa Matias Dance Centre has been providing quality dance education in West Hartford for 30 years with a focus on technique, performance, and character development. Students thrive in a supportive, non-competitive and empowering atmosphere. We offer a variety of developmentally appropriate classes encouraging personal growth. Our studio is where all dancers are inspired to meet their full potential in a joyous environment. (New: Zumba & Aerial Yoga.) www.LisaMatiasDanceCentre.com. 860-569-2205

The Karen Elizabeth Salon & Academy is committed to bringing top quality education in the field of cosmetology to students from all walks of life. As a small, hands-on academy the students not only learn the skill needed to be successful hair stylists, but they learn how to make their client’s look and feel beautiful from the inside out. Interested in using our Salon services? Contact us today to schedule your hair appointment with our experience staff or students. www.KarenElizabethSalonandAcademy.com. 860-232-0212

boarding house. Let your dog have it’s day! This is a super-dog playcare that was born out of necessity. Dan, the Founder/Owner of ÜberDog, wanted to make sure all dogs have the ability to be dogs when a day care or extended care is needed. ÜberDog is a safe, clean, friendly environment. The trained employees (called “Wagologists”®)make sure every dog is safe and having the very best time. www.myuberdog.com. 860-236-8237

Visit

Be on the lookout for the 2014 Elmwood Guide! Everything Elmwood all in one convenient place! Participating businesses, so far, include:

•Dr. Rick Liftig, Dentist

•Corner Pug/Tapas

•Sheehan Hilborn Breen

•Sliders Bar & Grill

•Cora Cora

•Mayflower Corner Plaza: Bristle and Blade Barber

Cafe Louise

XES Beauty Lounge

Save the Date:

Second Annual Taste of Elmwood is Thursday February 5th

www.elmwoodct.com

“Everything Elmwood!” is the website of the Elmwood Business Association of West Hartford, Connecticut. For more current news, check out our Facebook page.

The Art of Outdoor Living

by Jeff Hodges