Local Services

Experts Espresso Corner

Heather Colp, Owner, Colp Building Consulting; Jessica Olander, President, CT River Valley Chamber Article and Photography by The Importance of Project Management Do I need an Owner Project Manager? That’s a question clients often ask in the beginning stages of a design and construction project.  Effective time management is essential. As a client, active engagement in the project is important, but it should not detract from other obligations.  Expertise is essential. Knowledge of the...

Beauty

Hair Today

The Glastonbury Salon is Celebrating 40 Years in Business Article by Rachel Kaczynski | Photography by Allie Bellucci As Hair Today celebrates 40 years, owners Jane and Mike Chemerynski reflect, in a Q&A with their daughter, on a journey built on creativity, passion, and giving back - all with their signature “Look Good, Feel Good, Live Good” vibe. The couple, high school sweethearts, grew up in Colchester. They raised two daughters in Marlborough and now have four grandkids, Isabella (7)...

Travel

The Pampered Tourist

The Holiday Gift That Keeps Giving: Creating Travel Memories That Last a Lifetime Article by Karen Gillis As we enter the holiday season, we're surrounded by messages about finding the perfect gift. But after two decades of designing personalized travel experiences, I've learned something profound: the most valuable gifts aren't wrapped in boxes. They're wrapped in moments we share with the people we love, discovering the world together. Last spring, I helped plan something extraordinary for...

Life + Culture

Cavanna's Gray Granite Railroad

The North Pole Express Has Become a Popular Christmas Destination and Experience Article by Eileen M. McNamara | Photography by Katilyn Casso and Thomas J. Nanos Cavanna’s Farm is many things: a multigenerational family homestead, a seasonal destination for Christmas cheer, and an ambitious labor of love where train rail lines glint alongside fields of evergreens.  At the heart of it all today is the Cavanna family, whose devotion to preserving family legacy and building something new has...

Shopping

A Century of Style

The Store Morneault’s Stackpole Moore Tryon Shines at the Holidays Article by Eileen M. McNamara | Photography by John Helmke For more than a century, Morneault’s Stackpole Moore Tryon has exuded timeless style, craftsmanship, and community. Located on Trumbull Street in Hartford, the store stands as both a nod to the city’s gilded retail past and a vibrant part of its current downtown resurgence — especially during the holiday season, when its windows glow with festive warmth and the...

Food + Beverage

A Festive Raspberry Martini

Our December Drink Recipe Comes to us Courtesy of the Social Lounge Article and Photography by This lovely red-hued martini garnished with raspberries is a festive drink to serve at your next holiday party! To kick up the Christmasy vibe, try adding a sprig of something green - thyme or rosemary -  to the glass.  Raspberry Martini 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice  1 ounce raspberry simple syrup  2 ounces vodka  Fresh raspberries  Fill a drink shaker with ice and chill a martini...

Life + Culture

Inspired By: Former Glastonbury Police Chief James "Skip" Thomas

Captain Mark Catania Offers a Tribute to Glastonbury's Former Chief Article and Photography by It is with deep respect and sincere gratitude that I reflect on the recent passing of retired Glastonbury Police Chief James “Skip” Thomas. Chief Thomas was not only a dedicated public servant, but also a man of unwavering values whose impact on the Glastonbury Police Department, and on me personally, was profound. Chief Thomas hired me in 1996, giving me the opportunity to begin what has become a...

Life + Culture

Community Food Drives

Glastonbury Rallies for Local Giving Everything Thanksgiving Article by Eileen M. McNamara As the holiday season approaches, Glastonbury once again demonstrates the power of community spirit through a series of food and goods drives that help ensure no neighbor goes without a holiday meal. From long-standing traditions to newer initiatives, local organizations, congregations, and civic groups coordinate efforts each November and December to keep shelves stocked and tables full. Thanksgiving...

Professional Services

Experts Espresso Corner

Kim Poulin of Picture Perfect Landscape; Richard Hatch of R&W Heating Energy Solutions Article and Photography by Old Oil Tanks Can Leak, So When Should You Replace Your Tank? OIl tanks have a 20-25 year life expectancy, can't by accessed from the outside, and look no different from year to year. They fail from moisture accumulation inside over a long time. When your oil burner runs in summer to make hot water it pulls in hot, humid air that can cause moisture buildup over time. At some...

Food + Beverage

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A Unique Recipe That Combines Two Thanksgiving Favorites Article by Eileen M. McNamara   Stuffed Acorn Squash with Herbs and Crumb Topping A warm and hearty dish, stuffed acorn squash makes a perfect centerpiece for fall gatherings. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory fillings, while fresh herbs like rosemary and sage elevate the flavor. The breadcrumb topping adds a golden crunch, making each bite comforting and satisfying. Ingredients: 2 acorn squash, halved and...