A Chartered Financial Consultant, ChFC is a financial expert who has completed 2 years of advanced coursework, takes additional training each year, meets ethical standards and always puts your interests first. Roger Cowen uses the knowledge learned in his ChFC training to assist people with Retirement Planning, Investment Management and Tax Planning. He will help you identify areas which need improvement and offer practical solutions.
with Dr. Wu, PH.D
May 17-18, 2025
10am - 6pm
Wu Healing Center:
45 S. Main St. Suite 100 West Hartford
Support for a healthy life.
Learn how to:
• Use 9 easy acupressure lines to treat any condition.
• Use the 1,730 year old “Instant Pain Elimination Technique” to instantly eliminate aches, pains, and other conditions.
• Use 10 simple points to find instant relief from 10 every-day problems (knee pain, shoulder pain, headaches, hip pain, low back pain, etc.)
• Easily find Qi blockages along the 9 acupressure lines and restore Qi flow.
April is our Investment Issue, in part because it's tax season and we think a lot about money and our investments this time of year. But investing can take a lot of different forms, it doesn't always mean financial investments. That's why we take a look in this issue about the different ways in which we invest in our lives, our homes, and even our communities.
In terms of finances and how we approach them, we spoke with Nia Srodoski, founder of NCS Law, about her down-to-earth approach toward estate planning and why it's important to work one-on-one with an expert on how to protect your financial wealth legacy for yourself and your family.
Speaking of planning for your's or a loved-one's future, we have a story about a new home care service, It's My Home Care LLC. The firm was founded by Jurgita Eisenmann, whose business model is built on empathy, quality and trust and who puts quality of care over profits with her clients.
Jaye Subramanian, who runs the local accounting firm Consult Vera, explains for us the importance of not fearing annual tax reporting obligations and that tackling them head-on can actually help you expand your business or portfolio.
If you're looking to make a marketing investment in your company you'll want to read our article about CHH Engraving, a company that produces high-quality and well-thought-out engraved products that businesses use to market their brands.
And getting back to that idea of investing in your community, we have a profile this month about the Rotary Club of West Hartford and how the civic group has spent nearly a half a century finding ways to give back to the town, either by directly volunteering at local events or raising funds to help local nonprofits.
Lastly, we have a recipe for an "Income Tax Cocktail" that harkens back to the days of Prohibition.
We hope you enjoy this month's issue of West Hartford Lifestyle Magazine and that you have an enjoyable Easter and Passover!
GARY PERRELLI, PUBLISHER @WESTHARTFORD_LIFESTYLE
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
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brian Boyer, Lucinda Jamison, Jaye Subramanian
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kaitlyn Casso, Vincent Wrenn, John Helmke, Jöel Cintron, Amy Archambault, Seshu Badrinath, Marissa Rioux, John Helmke
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
Michael J. Grille, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Grille has established himself as one of the top Interventional Pain Management Specialists in the Northeast. With Fellowship training at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, he brings a wealth of clinical expertise in order to develop the best and most comprehensive pain management plan to address any chronic pain condition.
Michael J. Robbins, DO
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Michael Robbins was recognized as one of the “Best Pain Management Physicians in New Haven”, and he has brought his clinical excellence and experience to the local community. Dr. Robbins is a board-certified anesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist. He has extensive knowledge in spinal mechanics, and he provides treatment for a wide range of pain issues.
Bright J. Selvaraj, MD
Pain Management Anesthesiologist
Dr. Bright Jebaraj Selvaraj brings national pain management experience to the forefront of the IAA Pain Center. Having completed his Residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital and his Pain Management Fellowship with Oregon Health, Dr. Selvaraj has been a welcome addition to our growing Pain Management Team.
• Neck , mid-back and low back pain
• Joint pain and pain after joint replacement
• Chronic post-surgical pain
• Headache, head, and facial pain
• Cervical dystonia
• Sciatica and nerve pain
• Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain
• Cancer-related pain
• Chest wall pain and thoracic outlet syndrome
• Complex regional pain syndrome
• and more!
1-7: The RiverLane boutique hosted a Galentine’s Day event in February. Guests were treated to an afternoon of pampering, treats, and sparkling beverages with their favorite ladies. Photography by Marissa Rioux
Arden Courts’ home-like, secure residential setting fosters the individuality of those living with memory impairments. You can trust us as an extension of your family as we welcome your loved one into ours, providing you the peace-ofmind you desire.
To learn more about our services or to arrange for a tour, please contact us today.
Scott Sergiano, Area Manager for Caffe Nero and Ben Wenograd, Deputy Mayor of West Hartford, recently celebrated the Grand Opening of the new Caffe Nero Coffee House on South Main Street. Caffe Nero is a family owned and operated business with more than 1,000 coffee houses across the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. For more information visit Caffenero.com.
The Seniors Job Bank recently hosted its 50th Anniversary Open House, a landmark event celebrating SJB’s long-term service to Connecticut’s senior community. The event recognized Board Member Jim Doran for his years of dedicated service and commitment to the organization. Visit Seniorsjobbankct.org.
The HR firm Insperity is bringing its game-changing HR solutions to West Hartford. The company recently opened a new office at 29 South Main St., and is offering services to help businesses optimize their workforce, boost productivity, and fuel long-term growth. Visit Insperity.com for more information.
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Sally’s Apizza, a popular New Haven-based pizzeria, has opened a new location at the Westfarms Mall, on the ground floor inside of Jordan’s Furniture. It features an extended menu of appetizers, salads, entrees and, of course, it's famous pizza. The restaurant also has locations in South Windsor, Wethersfield, and Newington. For information visit Sallysapizza.com.
Forbes magazine has named Camille Gagliardi, a Certified Private Wealth Advisor with Stepping Stone Wealth in West Hartford, to their 2025 Best-inState Women Wealth Advisors list. Forbes also named Stepping Stone Wealth as one of their 2025 Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams. "We're so proud to work on a team where everyone is devoted to looking out for our clients, their families and all they’ve worked to achieve," Stepping Stone said in a statement. Visit Ameripriseadvisors.com.
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The Junior League of Hartford announces their 16th Designer Show House, presented by Connecticut Cottages & Gardens. Designers will transform a 1902 Tudor estate at 820 Prospect Ave., Hartford. The Show House opens May 2-23. Tickets are $35 pre-sale and $50 beginning May 3 All proceeds go to the League’s mission and charitable projects. For tickets and information, visit hartford.jl.org/ShowHouse.
IS BENEFICIAL
At Consult Vera, we’re different. Yes, we’re the numbers people, but we make it fun for you and show you how to think about what lies behind all those numbers.
As experienced CPAs, we educate clients on their rights, but also the responsibilities of understanding their finances and tax liability. Paying taxes isn’t as bad when it’s done wisely.
Our array of services ranges from bookkeeping, accounting, analysis and explanations of financial statements, tax preparation, planning and audit assistance. We partner with you to help you pay fewer taxes, and make the right decisions.
I opened my accounting firm not only so that I could focus on my family, but to address the two most challenging questions businesses face today – sustainability and marketability.
Business owners go on their own so their services are well rewarded and can have flexibility. Getting their books done or their taxes prepared on time should be the least of their worry. Our goal is not only to complete those tasks swiftly but also to ensure they understand paying taxes may open more doors in their favor.
A business can be seen as something that sustains us, but it can also be viewed as an asset if strategized correctly. Every business owner yearns to show as many deductions as humanly possible, so they pay the least amount of taxes. But that also means the business shows far lower income.
What’s the advantage of showing more income? Here’s an example: Scott owns a small manufacturing company. His tax return always showed less in net income and lower taxes. But those returns limited his business goals: to
buy a commercial building - because his returns showed lower revenue. We analyzed his expenses and moved some tools and equipment to inventory and fixed assets, where they rightly belonged, thereby increasing income. He paid more in taxes, but showing a two years of improved revenue allowed him to qualify for a loan.
Another client, Emily, is an amazing baker, but her location wasn’t attracting as much business as it should have. We educated her on revising her accounting to recategorize some of her expenses and the next thing you know she qualified for a line of credit that allowed her to move to a better location and even hire an assistant.
How many business owners close after operating successfully for decades? They could have passed it on to the next generation or sold their business. Knowing the potential for marketability has become more imperative now than ever with businesses not preparing adequately for retirement.
We have historically helped clients learn the strategy of showing their financial flair to ensure buyers and lenders see their potential.
In today’s world, merely preparing taxes isn’t enough. Evolving with changes while staying humble and encouraging clients to ask questions while willingly sharing knowledge not only stands out, but should become the new normal. As lifelong learners we find the custom solution while fostering differentiation and revealing new opportunities.
revealing new opportunities.
One of our strong suits is ensuring our business owners are ready for that. We have clients whose business is inventory-based, client-based, or the owner themselves are the assets. All businesses have the potential to be sold. If Ford could succeed after the demise of its creator, so can yours, and build generational wealth.
We are all about doing the right thing for you and your business. We are committed to principled actions and fair practices. We own up, be accountable for the quality of work, supervise, and follow through on commitments.
Our care for our clients and quality is reflected in the quality of the service. Our dedication to the clients is exemplary. From forecasting to identifying issues to mitigate, we possess the ability to make you understand your business at a new level.
Jaye Subramanian, Consult Vera 703 Hebron Ave., Suite 2A, Glastonbury
Phone: 860-994-2791
Email: Office@consultvera.com
Online: Consultvera.com
2025 Junior League of Hartford
Presented by CTC&G (Connecticut Cottages & Gardens)
820 Prospect Avenue
HARTFORD MAY 2 - 23
Featuring Honorary Design Chair Matthew Patrick Smyth
For tickets and information, go to hartford.jl.org/ShowHouse or scan below
For over 100 years, Cummings & Lockwood has been building meaningful and lasting relationships with our private clients, their family offices, businesses and charitable entities. We serve as trusted advisors for multiple generations and provide sophisticated legal counsel at every important stage of life.
Paul L. Bourdeau
Principal, Private Clients Group
860.313.4930 pbourdeau@cl-law.com
Caroline Demirs Calio
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4936 ccalio@cl-law.com
Robert B. Fawber
Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4931 rfawber@cl-law.com
Marc T. Finer
Principal, Private Clients Group
860.313.4946 mfiner@cl-law.com
Brianna L. Marquis Principal, Private Clients Group 860.313.4923 bmarquis@cl-law.com
Kelley Galica Peck Principal-in-Charge, West Hartford Office 860.313.4919 kpeck@cl-law.com
Heather J. Rhoades
Chairman, Private Clients Group 860.313.4933 hrhoades@cl-law.com
For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys.
Blue Back Square
75 Isham Road, Suite 400 West Hartford, CT 06107
Phone: 860.313.4900
Fax: 860.313.4993
Our core services include:
■ Estate planning and administration
■ Estate, income and gift tax planning
■ Wealth preservation planning
■ Trust formation and management
■ Philanthropic giving
■ Generational wealth transfer
■ International estate and tax planning
■ Probate and estate settlement
■ Executor and trustee services
■ Business succession planning
■ Fiduciary, probate and tax litigation
■ Residential and commercial real estate services
■ Corporate and finance services
■ Business litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution
www.cl-law.com
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLYN CASSO
NIA SRODOSKI’S JOURNEY TO BUILDING NCS LAW
When Nia Srodoski founded NCS Law in 2021, she wasn’t just starting a law firm—she realized a vision that blended her deep legal expertise with a desire to make legal services
“I wanted to find a better way to balance family and career,” Srodoski explains. “With the support of friends and colleagues who told me to go for it, I took the leap. I’m so happy I did.”
approachable and meaningful for families. After years in diverse legal fields, including healthcare litigation, intellectual property and trust and estates, Nia discovered that estate planning and real estate law were where her heart truly belonged.
“I was drawn to estate planning when I worked for a smaller firm that had an estate planning group,” Srodoski recalls. “Helping families prepare for their future and making legal processes less intimidating for them—it felt like my soul’s work.”
Her legal journey started at a trial law firm in Minneapolis, where she thrived as a litigator fresh out of law school. After getting married and having a son, Nia and her family moved to Connecticut. “We were looking for a town to call home, and we fell in love with Glastonbury. It was the best decision I could have made,” she says.
Starting NCS Law during the pandemic was both bold and strategic.
What sets Srodoski apart is her down-to-earth approach. “I don’t have the standard lawyer vibe,” she laughs. “Clients appreciate that I communicate without legal jargon and make things clear and approachable. I want people to understand their options and feel empowered.”
The landscape of estate planning is evolving, with online services and AI-driven tools on the rise. Srodoski acknowledges the convenience of these platforms but warns against relying solely on them.
“People need to understand that a computer isn’t equivalent to someone with a beating heart,” she says. “Legal documents need to be executed correctly and thoughtfully within the law. A one-size-fits-all approach often overlooks crucial details that a skilled attorney would catch.”
Currently, Nia is preparing clients for the changes in federal tax exemption laws set to sunset in 2025.
“People will need guidance to review and update their estate plans, and I want to be there to help them navigate that.”
Establishing a law practice in a new state without a robust network presented its challenges, but Nia’s approach to relationship-building paid off. “
Word of mouth was key. One person told another about me, and I built connections with financial advisors, real estate agents and even parents from my son’s daycare. Those relationships didn’t happen overnight, but they’ve been invaluable.”
Her community involvement is a natural extension of her practice. She supports local events, sponsors Little League and nonprofit galas, and participates in the local chamber of commerce. She is focused on growth and deeper community engagement.
“Last year was about regrouping, and now I’m back and ready to expand. I want to be more involved in the community and continue fostering relationships that benefit my clients and the local area.”
At the heart of her journey is a commitment to family, clients and a meaningful practice. “This work is deeply personal to me. Starting this firm was the best decision I could have made, and I’m excited for what comes next.”
NCS Law
Glastonbury: 219 Addison Rd., Suite 401 Hartford: 100 Pearl St., 14th Floor Phone: 860-966-9968
Online: Ncslawllc.com
Email: nia@ncslawllc.com
Caring Beyond Limits: Jurgita Eisenmann’s Journey to Redefine Home Care
ARTICLE BY BRIAN BOYER
Jurgita Eisenmann, founder of It’s My Home Care LLC, never imagined that her journey from working in a bridal salon to becoming a leading figure in the home care industry would inspire so many.
“When they realize they can stay home with assistance, their gratitude is immeasurable.”
“Around 20 years ago, I was working in a bridal salon, taking college classes and working two caregiving jobs,” Eisenmann recalls. “The salon was being sold, and the caregiving agency needed office help. I started as a scheduler, coordinating about 80 or 90 clients with that many caregivers.”
Her dedication saw her promoted to office manager, overseeing 500 clients and 350 caregivers. But the demanding schedule left her exhausted.
Her husband encouraged her to strike out on her own.
“One day, I looked around, took a deep breath, and walked out to my freedom. Now we celebrate every August 27 as my Independence Day and the birthday of It’s My Home Care.”
Eisenmann’s business model is built on empathy, quality and trust.
“The business of caregiving requires a lot of flexibility. Clients often face losing their
independence, and the thought of leaving their beloved home is terrifying. When they realize they can stay home with assistance, their gratitude is immeasurable.”
Unlike many caregiving agencies that prioritize growth and profits, Eisenmann focuses on quality.
“My rates are a little higher because I pay my caregivers well, thoroughly screen them, and carefully match them with clients.” This commitment ensures clients receive exceptional care and caregivers feel valued.
Eisenmann likens her approach to choosing quality over cost. “Some people prioritize saving money, while others invest in quality. We provide unparalleled service, and our caregivers are the best in the industry.”
Home care is a challenging field due to high client turnover from changing health needs. “These challenges require dedicated management and a
constant desire to provide the best care. I built my agency on over 20 years of experience.”
It’s My Home Care offers a range of services from part-time assistance to full-time live-in care. They also participate in the Adult Family Living program, enabling families to care for elderly loved ones at home with financial support from Medicaid.
Eisenmann emphasizes that each client is unique. “Every client has different needs—some may need help with groceries or showering, while others need full-time care. We conduct in-home meetings to assess needs and match clients with caregivers who suit their personalities.”
Her philosophy is rooted in respect and understanding. “If you have to twist someone’s arm to accept care, it’s not the right time. I let families come to me when they’re ready and adjust our services accordingly.”
With a focus on individualized care, Eisenmann ensures that every client feels respected, safe, and well-cared for. It’s My Home Care continues to set the standard in home care services, proving that quality care is not just a service but a commitment.
It’s My Home Care LLC
39 New London Turnpike, Suite 210-B, Glastonbury
Phone: 860-805-4764
Email: itsmyhomecare@gmail.com
Online: Itsmyhomecare.com
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Fifteen years of sales experience in a small business taught John Barber valuable lessons about operations and opportunities. When the chance came up to purchase a business from an engraver ready to retire, he seized it, transforming his vision and new business into a cornerstone of the local community and a beacon for local, made-to-order craftsmanship in the promotional products industry.
John views promotional marketing as an enduring strategy, contrasting sharply with the fleeting nature of traditional advertising: “TV ads flash by in minutes.”
CHH Engraving adopts a philosophy of lasting impact, offering products like the innovative Refresh Glass, which repurposes wine bottles into elegant glassware. These items are not just products but part of a narrative clients can use for years, enhancing their branding sustainability efforts.
Under John’s leadership, CHH Engraving has seen substantial growth.
“We’ve broadened our client base from local businesses to international clients,” he says.
His approach has always been hands-on, ensuring that each piece produced exceeds customer expectations.
“It’s not just about engraving a piece; it’s about embedding a part of the customer’s story into it.”
At CHH Engraving, the focus is squarely on the client’s needs.
“We are consultative,” he says, emphasizing the importance of listening and adapting to clients’ diverse requirements. Whether it’s a nonprofit organizing a fundraising event or a college aiming to boost its visibility, CHH Engraving tailors its services to fit each unique scenario. He proudly recounts the success of a customized wall calendar for a credit union,
“IF PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS ARE FUNCTIONAL, THEY CONTRIBUTE TO SUSTAINABILITY.”
featuring photos taken by its members showcasing local scenes. This project resonated with the community and highlighted CHH Engraving’s commitment to product innovation.
Addressing the environmental impact of promotional products, John is keen to emphasize the sustainability of the products CHH sells.
“If promotional products are functional, they contribute to sustainability,” he says. CHH Engraving is at the forefront of using sustainable materials, ranging from recycled metals to innovative fabrics, ensuring their products provide value beyond mere novelty.
The promotional products industry has seen significant changes, particularly in decoration processes. John illustrates this evolution with examples like fully customizable towels, which now serve as vibrant canvases for photographic images. This capability reflects broader industry trends toward more sustainable practices and social responsibility, including efforts to clean oceans and recycle materials creatively.
When asked about his favorite products, Barber doesn’t hesitate: “Refresh Glass,” he asserts, citing its alignment with
sustainability, functionality, and recognition—key aspects of CHH Engraving’s philosophy. Looking ahead, Barber is optimistic about the future of promotional marketing and his business. “The potential for personalized products is immense. With advancements in technology, we can offer more to our clients than ever before,” he concludes.
John emphasizes the importance of community engagement.
“We participate in local events, we sponsor school programs, and we offer apprenticeships to young people interested in the craft,” he says. This deep connection to the community has helped build a loyal customer base and fostered a positive local business environment.
His narrative is about maintaining a family legacy and evolving a craft to meet modern demands. His dedication to quality, community, and sustainability makes CHH Engraving a model of business excellence.
Businesses that use CHH’s engraving services understand the importance of sending a message to their clients and prospective clients and the importance of his company’s proven track record of promotional marketing.
That message, he says, is “We are here, we are your neighbor, your Chamber member, your supporter.”
CHH Engraving Inc.
430 Main St., Agawam, Mass.
Phone: 413-789-2041
Email: Sales@chhengraving.com
Online: CHHengraving.com
Business
Business savvy real estate agents representing buyers and sellers. With the highest client retention rate in Hartford County, we serve our clients with grace, compassion, facts, and data.
Athletes’ Foot + Fungal Toenails · Hammertoe · Warts · Gout Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery · Foot + Ankle Fractures Ulcerations + Wounds · Ingrown Toenails · Heel Pain
ARTICLE BY EILEEN M. MCNAMARA
We can’t do the good work we do without the support of our friends.
The Rotary Club of West Hartford stands as a beacon of community service and philanthropy, embodying the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self.” Through a myriad of initiatives, the Rotary has made significant strides in addressing local needs, fostering education, and promoting global goodwill.
Established with the mission to serve both local and international communities, the West Hartford Rotary Club has consistently prioritized community giving. Their efforts are evident in various programs designed to uplift and support residents of West Hartford and beyond.
One of the club’s hallmark initiatives is the annual “Food Caravan.” In May 2024, members orchestrated a substantial donation, delivering $10,000 worth of non-perishable food items for the Town That Cares (West Hartford’s food pantry). This contribution was meticulously planned, with funds allocated to essential staples such as beans, cereals, canned proteins, and sauces.
The selection aimed to provide balanced nutrition and long shelf life, ensuring sustained support for those facing food insecurity. The West Hartford Social Services staff estimated that this donation would supply the Food Pantry for approximately two months during the spring season. The food drive not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also exemplifies the club’s commitment to proactive community support.
“It’s the clubs favorite project to come together to be able to give back to our own West Hartford community and provide food to those that are less fortunate than us,” said Kyle Egress, the Rotary Club’s past president.
Recognizing the transformative power of education, the Rotary Club has been a staunch advocate for literacy. In December, club members celebrated the 11th anniversary of their annual book drive, introducing the “Bowling for Books” event. This innovative fundraiser combined community engagement with philanthropy, inviting residents to participate in a bowling event at Lessard Lanes in Plainville.
The drive successfully collected physical books and monetary donations, benefiting disadvantaged students in the Greater Hartford area. Over the years, this initiative has resulted in the donation of over 10,000 books and raised more than $20,000, underscoring the club’s dedication to fostering a love for reading and learning among youth.
The club’s benevolence extends beyond local borders. In recent years, they have sponsored international projects, including the renovation and re-equipment of a dental clinic in Nkozi, Uganda. This endeavor aimed to enhance dental care services in the region, reflecting the Rotary’s global commitment to improving health outcomes. Such projects highlight the club’s understanding of global interconnectedness and their role in promoting health and well-being worldwide.
The Rotary actively participates in local events to raise awareness and foster community spirit. They are regular exhibitors at “Celebrate! West Hartford,” an annual festival that attracts tens of
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thousands of attendees. This event provides a platform for the club to showcase their initiatives, recruit new members, and engage with residents on pressing community issues. Their presence at such events reinforces their commitment to being an integral part of the community fabric.The club’s largest fundraiser is the Vines of March Wine Tasting and Auctuon. The 13th annual event was held in March.
“It is our goal to raise $50,000.00 this year. All of the proceeds will go back to our local community,” Kyle said. “We can’t do the good work we do without the support of our friends, neighbors and family purchasing tickets.”
The Rotary of West Hartford exemplifies how dedicated individuals can come together to effect meaningful change. Their multifaceted approach to community giving addresses immediate needs while also laying the groundwork for long-term improvements. As they look to the future, the club remains committed to expanding their outreach, fostering partnerships, and continuing their legacy of service.
For those interested in joining or supporting the Rotary Club, more information is available on their website, Westhartfordrotary.org. Engagement opportunities, said Kyle, abound for individuals eager to contribute to a cause that resonates both locally and globally.
“We’re always looking to expand our membership and engagement in the community.”
In 1950, the local district petitioned the Hartford Rotary Club to release the West Hartford territory so a new club could form. At the time West Hartford was one of the nation’s largest communities without its own Rotary Club. While the request wasn’t approved, enthusiasm for a local club lived on. A second request was filed and the Hartford Rotary Board of Directors approved it in 1951. Within a few weeks club organizers lined up 31 prospective members and they traveled to the Rotary International’s Chicago offices to learn the objectives of Rotary International and the process for instituting a new club. The West Hartford club was officially chartered on Jan. 14, 1952.
We're always looking to expand our membership and engagement in the community. “ ”
APRIL 1ST
Trivia Night at New Park Brewing
485 New Park Ave. | 7:00 PM
Test your knowledge of all things trivia and enjoy a cold brew at this weekly event sponsored by New Park Brewing, West Hartford's local brew pub. Trivia Night is held each Tuesday throughout the month. Visit Newparkbrewing.com for information and tickets.
APRIL 5TH
Hartford 21, 221 Trumbull St., Hartford | 9:00 AM
The American Lung Association's Hartford Fight For Air Climb features one of the best set of stairs in the city for a competitive climb! The climb promotes lung wellness and is a day of fun, challenge and camaraderie. Tickets are $35 and funds raised will support those who suffer from lung diseases. For more information visit lung.org. Search Hartford Climb.
APRIL 8TH
Mandell Jewish Cultural Center, 335 Bloomfield Ave. | 6:30 PM
The Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival's final showing this year, The Commandant's Shadow, is a documentary about Rudolph Hoss, commander of Auschwitz, and his home near the concentration camp. The Hoffman film festival focuses on films that showcase the breadth and depth of Jewish cultural, religious, historical, and social conditions. Visit Mandelljcc.org for information.
APRIL 9TH
WeHa Brewing & Roasting Co. 141 Shield St. | 6:30 PM
Learn the art of Bonsai gardening With Bonsai Bar. This beginner workshop is perfect for grabbing your friends and a drink while making tiny trees! We’re bringing the awesome art of bonsai out of the hedged-in gardens and into the streets. Bonsai Bar is a night of fun you don’t want to miss. Email info@bonsaibar.com for more information.
APRIL 10TH
Connecticut Convention Center, 100 Columbus Blvd., Hartford | 10:30 AM
In the Company of Women Luncheon celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. This YWCA event is a signature fundraising gathering. Since 1996, inspirational speakers have shared stories to uplift women, youth and families. The event has grown to become one of the state's largest networking events, bringing together business and community leaders. Visit CTconventions.com for tickets and information.
APRIL 20TH
West Hartford Coworking, 430 New Park Ave., Suite 102, Hartford | 11:00 AM
Sponsored by West Hartford Coworking, Code and Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! Visit Westhartfordcoworking.com for more information.
APRIL 21ST
Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!
Playhouse on Park Theatre, 244 Park Road | 1:00 PM
Featuring an innovative mix of songs and feathers, Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus, The Musical, features a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the New York Times best-selling “Pigeon” picture books, and including music by Deborah Wicks. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for additional dates and times.
APRIL 26TH
60th Annual Pancake Breakfast
Farmington Avenue Baptist Church, 149 Mountain Road | 8:00 AM
Join the Greater Hartford Lions Club for its annual all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, which runs from 8-10 a.m. Visit e-clubhouse.org/sites/ greaterhartford for information and tickets.
APRIL 26TH
Jon Pousette-Dart with Jim Chapdelaine
The Sounding Board Coffeehouse, 433 Fern St. | 7:30 PM
Jon Pousette-Dart, founder of the Pousette-Dart Band, will join West Hartford's Jim Chapdelaine, a music producer, four-time Emmy winning composer, recording engineer, and guitarist, in a duet performance at the Sounding Board Coffeehouse. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:30. Tickets start at $27. Visit thesoundingboard.org for more information.
APRIL 26TH
Playhouse on Park Hosts Encore Pop Rocks!
Bristol Events Center, 112 Century Drive, Bristol | 6:00 PM
Playhouse on Park will host Encore Pop Rocks, an evening of fine dining, dancing, auctions, and entertainment. Proceeds from the event will help keep professional live theatre on the Playhouse on Park stage and bring theatre arts programs to children, youth, and schools through Playhouse Theatre Academy for years to come. Visit Playhouseonpark.org for tickets and information.
Classes
FOUNDATIONAL
STUDY SKILLS
Reading Comprehension practice uses text previewing techniques, outlining, finding main ideas, vocabulary building and note taking.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
