Glastonbury, CT February 2025 by City Lifestyle

EXTRAORDINARY HOMES

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

COMMERCIAL DESIGN

INTERIOR DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

MANAGEMENT

February: Love Local

'Tis the season of love and this month in our Love Local Issue we're showing Glastonbury some love by looking at some of the groups and businesses here that contribute to our thriving community.

We have a story this month about several local businesses that provide a unique take on self care and wellness. The article was written by Annisa Teich, founder and CEO of The Small Business Collective and managing director of West Hartford Coworking and Windsor Worx.

We also spoke with Karen Gillis of The Pampered Tourist, a concierge luxury travel advisor in Glastonbury whose love of globe-trotting led her to start her own agency to help people have the best experience possible when they travel near or far.

In addition, we take a look this month at an iconic small business, Emmy Lou’s LTD, a much-loved gift boutiqe with deep roots in this community and whose owner, Emmy Lou DeBari, has a deep affection for its people.

Lastly, in a nod to Valentine’s Day, we have recipes for “love potion” drinks and a story on how to make your own Valentine’s stationary.

We hope you love this month's issue of Glastonbury Lifestyle Magazine and that you have a Happy Valentine's Day!

February 2025

PUBLISHER

Gary Perrelli | gary.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Eileen McNamara | eileen.mcnamara@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jill Barry | jill.barry@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Ivy Perrelli | ivy.perrelli@citylifestyle.com

INTERN

Samira Chambers | samira.chambers@cityifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Annisa Teich, Brian Boyer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Ambrose, Carrie Draghi, Lynn Damon, Jenni French, Glastonbury Sports Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Meet Our Pain Management Specialists

Michael J. Grille, MD

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

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

Michael J. Robbins, DO

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

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

Bright J. Selvaraj, MD

Pain Management Anesthesiologist

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

Pain Conditions We Treat

• Neck , mid-back and low back pain

• Joint pain and pain after joint replacement

• Chronic post-surgical pain

• Headache, head, and facial pain

• Cervical dystonia

• Sciatica and nerve pain

• Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain

• Cancer-related pain

• Chest wall pain and thoracic outlet syndrome

• Complex regional pain syndrome

• and more!

Photography by Brian Ambrose

1-7: Glastonbury's 2024 Santa Run sponsored by the town's Parks and Recreation Department.

1-7: Scenes from a variety of sporting events and athletic teams in Glastonbury during 2024.

Photography by Glastonbury Sports Photography

business monthly

Glastonbury Lifestyle and Parisian Salon Announce “Spirit of Giving” Winner

Sebastian Airo and Patricia Barbaro from Parisian Salon & Day Spa and Gary Perrelli from West Hartford and Glastonbury Lifestyle congratulate Kelly, Sellew & Scott on winning our “Spirit of Giving” contest. They won a $100 gift card to Parisian Salon & Day Spa and a $100 donation was made to their favorite charity: The Junior League of Hartford. Follow Glastonbury Lifestyle and West Hartford Lifestyle on social media for more fun @glastonburylifestyle and @westhartford_lifestyle.

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Glastonbury Arts Announces Completion of Renovation Phase One

Glastonbury Arts recently completed the first phase of renovations to its Art Center at 1396 Hebron Ave. Visitors to the center will immediately notice the bright, open feel provided by the updated layout, bright white walls, and new windows, doors, and lighting. New entryways provide easy access to all areas. With these facility improvements, Glastonbury Arts looks forward to hosting classes, art exhibits and programs that will benefit the entire community. Visit glastonburyarts.org

The Pampered Tourist Celebrates First Anniversary

The Pampered Tourist is a boutique luxury travel agency owned and operated by Karen Gillis, of Glastonbury. Karen took her lifelong travel adventures and turned them into her dream job, creating personalized vacations for her lucky clients. After retiring from her biotech executive role, she became a Certified Travel Professional and launched The Pampered Tourist in December 2024. Visit ThePamperedTourist.com to set up your free consultation.

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Photography by Lynn Damon

Sharon McCormick Designs Featured in New Book

Sharon McCormick Designs, an award-winning, Glastonbury-based residential interior design firm was recently featured in a new book, "Kitchen Conversations, Sharing Secrets to Kitchen Design Success." The book is a resource for laypeople and professionals. It includes a complete kitchen renovation that Sharon undertook in Farmington, as well as a page of her recommendations on “How to Work with a Contractor." Visit SharonMcCormickdesign.com for more information.

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Local Woman Visits Dominican Republic With Watkinson School Aid Team

Julia Schoenfeld of Glastonbury, a member of Watkinson School's Dominican Republic Service Team, recently traveled with the team on its annual visit to the country for a week of service to Haitian sugarcane cutters and families who live and work in sugarcane work camps. While there, Julia helped run mobile medical clinics, taking blood pressures and helping in the mobile pharmacy, and also helped with construction of hurricane-proof homes. Visit Watkinson.org for more information.

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JWM Architects Hires New Managing Partner

JWM Architects LLC welcomes Richard Morse as new managing partner. With 35 years' experience in residential, commercial, institutional, and retail building design and construction, Richard brings exceptional expertise in sustainable design, innovative use of CAD technology, and project planning. A graduate of Roger Williams University, he has led projects in New England, New York, and New Jersey. Richard’s innovative approach and leadership will be invaluable to JWM’s future growth and success. Visit jwmarchitects.com for information.

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Photography by Jenni French

Glastonbury Holocaust Remembrance Evening

The Glastonbury Holocaust Remembrance Project, which formed last year, is planning a second annual Remembrance Evening for April 30 "to come together as a community to commemorate the Holocaust and build awareness about how hate continues to lead to discrimination, violence, and divisiveness in our modern world." The keynote speaker will be Ruth Weiner, who will share her experience surviving the holocaust and discuss the resilience of children during this time. Visit GHRP.Net for information.

Cowen Tax Advisory Raises $7,600 For Food Bank

Cowen Tax Advisory Group chose Midwest Food Bank in Manchester this year to be their focus charity. Cowen, together with their clients, raised more than $7,600 at their annual holiday party which they donated to the Midwest Food Bank. In addition, The Cowen Team, along with several clients, volunteered to pack food at Midwest that will be distributed to more than 140,000 people across Connecticut who go hungry every month. Visit Cowentaxgroup.com.

Cornerstone Counseling Ribbon Cutting

The Cornerstone Counseling Center of East Hartford recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony marking their membership with the Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce. Cornerstone Counseling was established in August 2017 and has four centers in Connecticut providing services to guiding clients through challenges and helping them reach their full potential. Visit Cornerstonecounselingct.com.

N E W Y E A R N E W F R A M E S

LOVE LOCAL

An Exploration of Local Businesses That Specialize in Self Care

ARTICLE BY ANNISA TEICH

As we lean into this month’s theme of Love Local, I am thrilled to shine a light on the incredible businesses within our community that are dedicated to enhancing our well-being. At The Small Business Collective, we believe that supporting local isn’t just a transaction—it’s an investment in our shared growth and connection. Each of the businesses featured here are serving our region with unique and specialized services that nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits - empowering us to take a beat and take care of ourselves.

HIMALAYAN SALT CAVE AT IGNITE MED SPA & WELLNESS

I’m all about creating a vibe, and there is nothing I’ve experienced that is more immediately and wholly “vibey” than taking a nap in a Himalayan Salt Cave. Truly. Ignite Med Spa & Wellness offers this scientifically supported experience that promotes improved immunity, better sleep, enhanced respiratory health, and mental well-being. While just the other-worldly look, lighting, and feel of the salt on my skin is mood-altering enough - there is also a pulsating Halogenerator dispersing crushed medical-grade Himalayan salt into the air. Whether you opt for a public or private session, the Salt Cave’s calming environment provides an ideal escape for relaxation or even a group wellness retreat. Independent practitioners can also utilize the space for activities like yoga or sound therapy. If I ever go missing - check here first.

Ignite Med Spa & Wellness

945 Farmington Ave., Lower Level West Hartford Phone: 860-231-1004

Online: ignite-medspa.com

CLEAN BEAUTY ADVOCACY WITH KELLY TUNSKY

Local entrepreneur and clean beauty advocate Kelly Tunsky is a beacon of inspiration for easy, everyday ways, and little choices you can make to live a healthier life. Through partnerships with brands like Beauty Counter and Crunchi, Kelly educates others on the importance of clean, safe beauty. From uncovering the hidden dangers in popular skincare to empowering others with light-coverage solutions for glowing natural skin, her insights are invaluable and will up-end your current skincare products in the best way. Explore Kelly’s “Safer Swaps” online to begin your journey toward a healthier beauty regimen.

Kelly Tunsky

Online: shopmy.us/kellytunsky

On Social: @shopmy

MILD HYPERBARIC

The Himalayan Salt Cave at Ignite Med Spa & Wellness.

Clean Beauty Advocate Kelly Tunsky.

OXYGEN THERAPY AT RESTORE HYPER WELLNESS

Ok - if you are claustrophobic - sit this one out and head back to the Salt Cave. But, if you’re not and you’re really ready to uplevel your wellness game - Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHbOT) at Restore Hyper Wellness is a must-try. This non-invasive therapy immerses you in a pressurized chamber to breathe 90-95 percent pure oxygen—a stark contrast to the 21 percent oxygen content in regular air. Benefits include optimized sleep, enhanced cognitive clarity, reduced recovery time, and improved immunity. I’m an avid proponent of this therapy from my own experience. It’s provided me relief from joint inflammation and a cognitive boost when I’m feeling a bit “foggy”. Zip into one of these tubes with the help of their expert staff and breathe in the benefits.

Restore Hyper Wellness

345 North Main St., Suite 105, West Hartford Phone: 860-945-4300

Online: restore.com

CHAKRA BALANCING WITH LITTLE BIRD WELLNESS

For those seeking a more spiritual approach to self-care, Little Bird Wellness provides a glimpse into the transformative power of Chakra balancing. With locations in East Granby and Manchester, Shaman Chris offers 30-minute Chakra balancing sessions that work like a chiropractic adjustment for the soul. Using tools like pendulums and rattles, Chris identifies imbalances and restores harmony to your energy centers. It’s a quick yet profound way to recalibrate your spirit and set the stage for deeper wellbeing.

Little Bird Wellness

272 Main Street, Manchester 61 Rainbow Rd, East Granby Phone: 860-452-3506

Online: littlebirdwellnessct.com

Chakra balancing stones.

Hyperbaric oxygen chambers are used therapeutically is some med spas.

PRIVATE OFFICE RETREATS AT WEST HARTFORD COWORKING AND WINDSOR WORX

Indulge me with a little self-promotion here, but for good reason! Self-care isn’t just about wellness modalities and skincare - sometimes it’s about creating a productive and inspiring environment to focus on your passions. At West Hartford Coworking and Windsor Worx, we offer beautifully furnished private offices that provide the perfect sanctuary for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small business owners to dig into some deep work. Whether you’re recording training sessions, hosting client meetings, or tackling a long overdue writing project, these spaces are designed to help you elevate your workday to “boss mode” and give your brain the space and peace it craves in our busy, modern, and often isolating work-from-home lifestyle.

West Hartford Coworking

430 New Park Ave., Suite 102, Hartford Phone: 860-800-9342

Online: westhartfordcoworking.com

Windsorworx

41 Mechanic St., Windsor Phone: 860-780-2457

Online: windsorworx.com

ANNISA TEICH

Annisa Teich is the Founder and CEO of The Small Business Collective and Managing Director of West Hartford Coworking and Windsor Worx.

When we Love Local, we uplift not only our small businesses but also our sense of community and connection. These incredible offerings are just a small glimpse of the passion and expertise our Central CT entrepreneurial ecosystem has to offer. I hope you’ll join me in making more time for self-care this month and soaking in the added benefits of doing so in community. Here’s to loving local and living well!

An office inside West Hartford Coworking.

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

Paul L. Bourdeau

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75 Isham Road, Suite 400

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Phone: 860.313.4900

Fax: 860.313.4993

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STAMFORD GREENWICH WEST HARTFORD NAPLES BONITA SPRINGS PALM BEACH GARDENS

ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA

The Iconic Main Street Gift Shop Has Deep Roots Here and Abiding Affection for the Community

A Local Landmark:

Emmy Lou’s LTD

For nearly 40 years Emmy Lou’s LTD has been an iconic local shopping destination, a much loved and cherished destination for unique gifts and home décor since its establishment in May of 1985.

Located on the first floor of the historic Gideon Welles House, Emmy Lou’s popularity stems from its eclectic assortment of items, including home goods, jewelry, clothing, furnishings, and seasonal decorations.

Its owner, Emmy Lou DeBari, is particularly renowned for her custom-designed home décor pieces and floral arrangements, such as seasonal door wreaths, baskets, and garlands. The store’s ever-changing inventory ensures that customers can find gifts for any occasion.

Photo by Carrie Draghi

Loaded with character and charm, Emmy Lou’s is a must-see, immersive shopping experience.

The owner’s dedication to providing an eclectic and affordable selection of merchandise, combined with her commitment to creating a welcoming and seasonally inspired shopping experience, has solidified Emmy Lou’s as a beloved fixture in Glastonbury for nearly forty years.

The affection, Emmy Lou says, is mutual.

“We love this community. Our customers have been so loyal over the years, they’ve become more like family than customers.”

A big part of the shop’s appeal is its inviting atmosphere. The store reflects the spirit of each season, featuring Halloween and pumpkin displays in the fall, vibrant flowers and wreaths in the spring and summer, and festive holiday adornments during Christmas, including a sleigh out front.

The gift shop’s longevity and its special place in the community is largely the result of Emmy Lou herself. Her personality and friendly demeanor imbue the store with a warm and cozy feel. For years Emmy Lou’s cherished Corgi, Ginger Girl, was the shop’s unofficial mascot. Ginger Girl passed away a couple years ago and today Emmy Lou’s new

canine companion, Holly, spends her days inside the store with Emmy Lou.

The store’s nearly four decades of weathering retail changes in town, recessions and even the coronavirus is a testament to Emmy Lou’s deep community connections, personally and professionally.

“We love what we do, we love our customers and we’re not going anywhere!”

Emmy Lou’s 17 Hebron Ave. Phone: 860-633-9565

Email: EmmyLousLtdNews@gmail.com On Social: @emmylousltd

photo credit: Carrie Draghi

THE STORE’S NEARLY FOUR DECADES OF WEATHERING RETAIL CHANGES IN TOWN, RECESSIONS AND EVEN THE CORONAVIRUS IS A TESTAMENT TO EMMY LOU’S DEEP CONNECTIONS HERE. “WE LOVE THIS COMMUNITY. OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE BEEN SO LOYAL OVER THE YEARS, THEY’VE BECOME MORE LIKE FAMILY THAN CUSTOMERS.”

Emmy Lou DeBari and her Corgi, Holly inside Emmy Lou's.

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THE PAMPERED Tourist

Beyond the champagne-soaked beach clubs, the island of Mykonos reveals peaceful surprises.

ELEVATING TRAVEL WITH AN UNMATCHED PERSONAL TOUCH

ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER

When Karen Gillis, founder of The Pampered Tourist, describes travel, it’s not just about planes, hotels, or exotic destinations—it’s about stories, connections and unforgettable experiences. Her journey from curious traveler to sought-after travel advisor is filled with adventure, creativity and a deep passion for helping others see the world in extraordinary ways.

Karen’s love for travel was shaped early in her childhood.

“My father was a global traveler. He arranged private exchanges, hosting children from other families. One summer, he decided I would go to Germany for 10 weeks. I lived with a host family and saw Europe in a way that made me realize there’s a whole other world. It gave me the confidence to explore and a hunger for more.”

That hunger for exploration never left. Travel became a reward for academic achievements, often shared with her parents. Karen thought her path would lead to becoming a trauma surgeon, but her love of business—and the freedom to travel—guided her in another direction. After 29 years in the biotech industry, where she coordinated global projects, her passion for personalized travel planning took root.

“I was fortunate to experience amazing hotels, business-class flights and stunning destinations like Thailand and the Philippines. Even on work trips, I’d plan time to explore and find hidden gems. I loved discovering unique experiences and would plan trips for friends and family. That’s when I realized I had a gift for curating travel.”

In 2023, she turned what was once a hobby into a thriving travel business— The Pampered Tourist, matching clients with custom vacations that elevate their experiences beyond the ordinary.

“Travel is so much more than basic logistics. I don’t just research destinations. I read reviews, find the

Swimming in a Cenote (naturally formed pool) in Mexico

A plunge pool at the St. Regis Kanai in the Riviera Maya Mexico.

perfect cocktail bars or dessert spots, and add those little touches of personality based on my own adventures.”

Her unique approach comes from years of cultivating connections across the globe. “I have friends everywhere—even a Tuk Tuk driver in Cambodia!” These relationships allow her to offer clients perks, upgrades and unforgettable experiences that no search engine can provide. Whether it’s a family milestone trip or a luxury cruise, Karen ensures every detail is seamless, from flights and accommodations to customized itineraries.

One of her most memorable was taking her niece on a college graduation trip to Bali.

“We flew business class using miles, but a volcano erupted, and we had to detour through Singapore. It turned into an unexpected adventure. We ended up in Phuket, Thailand, on a colorful boat ride to the Phi Phi Islands, surrounded by monkeys on cliffs and waves crashing on the shore. Later, we explored Bali’s rice fields in sweltering heat, watching farmers in wide-brimmed hats. It was awe-inspiring—one of those moments you’ll never forget.”

Karen partners with host agencies and luxury vendors, participating in monthly training webinars and “speed-dating” with tourism boards to match clients with the best experiences.

“It’s a new model,” she says. “We’re no longer bound to brick-and-mortar travel agencies. Instead, I focus on creating unique, elevated experiences tailored to each client’s needs.”

Her goal for The Pampered Tourist is simple: to inspire others to travel fearlessly, enjoy the journey and see the world in ways they never imagined.

“Anyone who’s traveled with me calls it the ‘Gillis Coaster,’” she says. “It’s a mix of fun, adventure and feeling completely taken care of. That’s what I want to share with my clients—a trip they’ll remember forever.”

“I focus on creating unique, elevated experiences tailored to each client’s needs.”

She believes working with a travel advisor is like trusting a dentist with your teeth: essential for enhancing value and expertise.

The Pampered Tourist

Phone: 860-968-6040

Whether you’re planning a dream vacation, a luxury cruise, or a milestone celebration, The Pampered Tourist ensures the journey is as exceptional as the destination.

“Travel isn’t just about where you go, Karen says. “It’s about how you experience it.”

Email: kareng@thepamperedtourist.com

Online: ThePamperedTourist.com On Social: @pamperedtourist

Phi Phi Islands, a Thai boatman

Rice fields in Bali in Indonesia

Karen and friends in Egypt

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TO MY

Valentine

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.

What you will need

• Kitchen Knife

• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)

• Romaine lettuce (for rose)

• Acrylic Paint

• Paint Brush

• Blank Envelopes

• Blank Cards

• Heart Template (www.silvertoothhome.com/blog/diy-stationery)

• Hand Lettering Template (www.silvertoothhome.com/blog/diy-stationery)

• Light Box

Instructions for Heart Prints

1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.

2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.

3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.

4. Set aside until completely dry.

Instructions for Rose Prints

1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.

2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.

3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.

4. Set aside until completely dry.

Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/blog/ diy-stationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.

LOVE POTION #9

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ANNA BARNES

A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY

WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?

This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• 1.5 oz rosé

• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice

• 5 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or

• sparkling wine)

THE HOW-TO:

1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.

2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.

3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.

4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.

5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.

6. Enjoy!

Fall in Love

FEBRUARY 1ST

Low Strung Cellos Benefit Concert

events

First Church of Glastonbury, 2183 Main St. | 7:00 PM

The Yale cello performers known as Low Strung will return to the First Church for a benefit concert to support the local food pantry. Tickets are $30 and $15 for students and seniors plus a donation for the food bank. For questions or more information contact pattisivocole@gmail.com or call 860-633-5057.

FEBRUARY 2ND

Glastonbury Indoor Flying

Glastonbury HIgh School, 330 Hubbard St. | 8:00 AM

The Glastonbury Modelers are a local group of model glider airplane enthusiasts who hold indoor flying events in conjunction with the National Free Flight Society. Visit gliderguider@comcast.net for more information.

FEBRUARY 2ND

Remembering Connecticut's Witch Trials

Connecticut State House, 800 Main St., Hartford | 1:00 PM

Join historians for a two-hour commemorative program exploring Connecticut's witch trials through arts and education. This program recognizes the innocent men and women persecuted for witchcraft in colonial Connecticut and advances the mission to create meaningful history education through partnerships across Connecticut. Visit wp.cga.ct.gov/osh for more information.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Language of Flowers Poetry Workshop

Riverfront Community Center, 300 Welles St. | 2:00 PM

Learn how to craft love poems rich with floral symbolism in this event. No prior poetry experience is required—just bring your creativity and a love of language! Perfect for a heartfelt Valentine’s gift. Call 860-652-7638 to register.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Family Paint Night: Gem Geometric Hearts

The Academy Building, 2143 Main St. | 5:30 PM

This fun-filled paint night is hosted by Music and Arts Instructor Ms. Jacki Sweeney! Paint nights are geared towards elementary school kids in second grade and older. Parents will be required to stay for this series. For more information visit Glastonburyct.myrec.com.

FEBRUARY 8TH

Professional Appraisal Day

Museum on the Green, 1944 Main St. | 10:00 AM

The Historical Society of Glastonbury will host Appraisal Day 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Museum on the Green. The snow date is Sunday, Feb. 9. Have your treasures appraised by experts for $10 per item or $25 for three items. For rugs or books call ahead 860-633-6890 . For larger pieces bring photos. Visit HSGCT.org for information.

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 8TH

39th Annual Connecticut Bridal Expo

Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 11:00 AM

The 39th Annual Connecticut Bridal Expo is the largest wedding and bridal show in the Northeast. Find everything you need for your big day in one place. Tickets are $12 for general admission. The show runs Saturday, Feb. 8 through Sunday, Feb. 9. Visit Ctconventions.com for more information.

FEBRUARY 9TH

King of Pain Road Race

Hopewell School, 1068 Chestnut Hill, South Glastonbury | 9:00 AM

Deemed the toughest road race in the history of Glastonbury the King of Pain is a 10K run over a course that offers breathtaking views of South Glastonbury's orchard scenery, along with hill, after hill, after hill. Visit Glastonburyriverrunners.com for information or to register. The race is strictly limited to 250 runners.

FEBRUARY 12TH

Glastonbury Celebrates Black History Month

Welles-Turner Memorial Library, 2407 Main St. | 1:00 PM

Diane Hoover and Julie Thompson from the Historical Society of Glastonbury will discuss the history of slavery and abolition in Glastonbury from colonial times through the civil war amendments, including both African American and Indigenous slavery. Participants will learn of life in colonial times for freed black people and enslaved people living under Connecticut’s Black Codes. Visit WTMLIB.info for information.

FEBRUARY 22ND AND FEBRUARY 29TH

Gavin James

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church | 7:00 PM

Ready to experience the night of your life? Irish Singer/songrwriter Gavin James is bringing his infectious energy and hit songs like Always, Tired and City Of Stars to St. Luke's Episcopal Church. The popular, award-winning musician has opened for such musical superstars as Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith. Visit Stlukesglastonbury.church for more information.