Simsbury Bank and Millwright's Restaurant Hosts First "Ladies Tertulia"

On Thursday, November 20, 2014, over 55 Simsbury women leaders gathered for a gourmet luncheon prepared by Chef Tyler Anderson of Millwrights Restaurant and to be inspired by Yu-Hui Rogers, Site Director of Jackson Labs, Genomic Division.

Simsbury Bank, event sponsor, provided the underwriting for the day’s event which began with networking in Millwright’s Loft overlooking the beautiful late fall scenery and Mill Pond waterfall.

After enjoying complimentary refreshments in The Loft, the ladies were escorted to the main dining room for the tertulia. Tertulia is a Spanish word for “a social gathering of like-minded people having similar interests to talk about current affairs.”

Guest speaker for the event was Yu-Hui Rogers, Site Director for Jackson Laboratories for Genomic Medicine. Ms. Rogers spoke about her early years in China, the struggles to complete her education as a young woman in the United States and her perseverance in knowing what path to chose to fulfill her dreams.

As with all successful people, there is a certain amount of luck to go along with the stubbornness it takes to rise to a leadership role.

Jocelyn Mitchell, Senior Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer for Simsbury Bank spoke of Simsbury Bank’s role in supporting the community. As part of the program, Simsbury Bank made a donation to Mickey Lecours-Beck, Director of Simsbury Social Services, for the “Keep Simsbury Warm” fund.

Chef/Owner Tyler Anderson welcomed guests to Millwright’s Restaurant and spoke about his choice of a Spanish influenced menu which included slow roasted salmon with sauce romesco, torilla espanol accompanied by a mix of fennel, olive and orange. Dessert included Tres Leches cake with caramel and spiced almonds.

Charity Folk, marketing coordinator for Millwright’s, emceed the program and welcomed the attendees as contertulio’s, or participants in a tertulia. Ms. Folk spoke of the importance of women networking with each other and reaching out as friends and colleagues to work together for the betterment of the community.

“I want to empower and encourage you to “rolodex” each other, add contact info to your cell phones and social media. I hope this gathering will strengthen the thread that binds us together and to reach out to each other on a regular basis” remarked Ms. Folk. “The tertulia is also an opportunity to hear inspiring stories from accomplished women who are now in leadership roles.”

Millwright’s 1680 Tavern recently unveiled a new logo and redecorating which included new booths, lighting and eclectic artifacts on the tavern walls. Guests were invited to tour before leaving.

Millwright’s Restaurant & 1680 Tavern plans to continue the “Ladies Tertulia” in the spring and fall. By the reaction of the guests as they were leaving, this will be invitation they will eagerly be awaiting.

Owner/Chef Tyler Anderson leads a team of professionals passionate about food, service and making their guests feel welcome. Millwright’s Restaurant and 1680 Tavern offers fine dining, tavern fare, and private, corporate, wedding and social events. www.millwrightsrestaurant.com