Home Services

Lion's Share Family Services

Steve Lamantini Helps Seniors Live Life on Their Own Terms Article by Eileen M. McNamara | Photography by Carrie Draghi For many families, caring for an aging loved one involves much more than finding someone to help with daily tasks. There are errands to run, household problems to solve, transportation to coordinate and, perhaps most importantly, a person who still wants to get out and enjoy life. That’s where Steve Lamantini comes in. The founder of Lion’s Share Family Services, Steve...

Local Services

Taking Mystery Out of Medicare

With an emphasis on education, Springli Sage helps clients navigate their Medicare choices. Photography by Cheryl K Photography For many people approaching Medicare, turning 65 looks very different than it did a generation ago. Today’s seniors are working, traveling, volunteering, starting new ventures, helping with grandchildren, staying active, and making plans for what comes next. In other words, they’re  busy living. The last thing they want is to spend hours trying to decipher Medicare. ...

Local Services

Experts Espresso Corner

Planning a Budget For Property Upkeep; How Medspa Services Work Over Time Article by Eric R. Judge, Julian Grant | Photography by Photos by LJK Plan to Budget For Home Maintenance Homeownership comes with routine maintenance and inevitable repairs, from gutter cleaning and tree trimming to replacing roofs and driveways. While some major expenses may have a 20-year replacement horizon, homeowners still need to plan and budget for them. Many don’t, leaving them to dip into emergency savings...

Life + Culture

Giving Back, Sharing Culture

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe's philanthropy, education and cultural outreach Article by Eileen M. McNamara   For the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, giving back has long been part of its commitment to its members and the surrounding communities. Since Foxwoods Resort Casino opened in 1992, the Tribe has supported local organizations, charitable causes, municipalities and programs that help families throughout the region and beyond. The Tribe has contributed more than $100 million in...

Life + Culture

40 Years of Living Good at Hair Today

The Glastonbury Salon is Deeply Involved in Local Philanthropy Photography by Allie Belluci For more than 40 years, Hair Today has been grateful to call Glastonbury home.  While styles have evolved and the salon has grown, clients and the community have remained at the heart of everything Hair Today does. At Hair Today, the “Look Good, Feel Good, Live Good” vibe comes to life through genuine care for people and causes close to home. Over the years, Jane and Mike “Ski” Chemerynski, along with...

Health + Wellness

Keeping Care Personal at Home

Dynamic Touch Home Care Gives Families Peace of Mind Article by Eileen M. McNamara | Photography by Kevin Savage For many families, the desire to remain at home as they age is about more than convenience. Home represents familiarity, independence and the comfort of being surrounded by the people and possessions that have shaped a lifetime. That becomes challenging when everyday tasks become more difficult or when a family member needs additional support. That’s where Dynamic Touch Home Care...

Food + Beverage

Thanksgiving Made Easy

Whether it's Partial Takeout or Dining Out, There Are Numerous Options Locally For Thanksgiving Meals Article by Eileen M. McNamara If you're looking to spend less time in the kitchen this Thanksgiving and more time enjoying family and friends rather, the West Hartford area offer plenty of options to help you prepare your Thanksgiving Day feast.   Cotton Hollow Kitchen South Glastonbury's Cotton Hollow Kitchen, 840 Main St., offers Thanksgiving options for both diners and those celebrating...

Food + Beverage

Cotton Hollow Kitchen

A Q&A With Cotton Hollow Head Chef Mario Velasquez Article by Eileen M. McNamara | Photography by John Helmke For our Food Issue, we spoke with Cotton Hollow Kitchen's Head Chef Mario Velasquez about his culinary journey, the global influences behind his cooking, the importance of local ingredients and his passion for creating elevated comfort food. 1. How would you describe your cooking philosophy, and how has your culinary  journey shaped the food you create? My training began in Peru...

Wellness

Food for Thought

The Connection Between Diet and Wellness Article by Chloe Seddon | Photography by John Cordasco Food does far more than satisfy hunger. The choices we make influence our energy, how our bodies function and, increasingly, how we think about overall wellness. At its most basic level, food is fuel. The body relies on carbohydrates, proteins and fats for energy and vitamins and minerals to support everything from muscles and bones to the immune system, brain and nervous system. A balanced diet...

Food + Beverage

Chocolate Hazelnut Praline Tart

Anu Ojha, owner of Rum n Plum bakery, shares one of her delectable recipes Article by Anu Ojha This elegant chocolate hazelnut tart is built around contrast: a delicate buttery tart shell, a crisp praline layer, and a smooth chocolate ganache, with a chocolate mirror glaze. The hazelnut croustillant adds roasted nuttiness and delicate texture beneath the creamy filling, while the glaze creates a polished finish. This classic French layered pastry, each component has a distinct role. Thorough...