Avon Business Buzz: Shop Moving Out, Store Changes Name and More

In the past week Patch learned that a newer business has plans to leave Avon, why a staple sports store changed its name, about a gym clinic unique to the state and about how pasta can have a purpose beyond good eats.

Here's the latest buzz in the Avon business scene:

• Bella Gusta owner Lynda Przybylski is excited about her soon-to-be new neighbor, Sev Shak, West Hartford Patch reports. The clothing and accessory store is moving from its spot next to Clyde St. Amand Hair Designs in Avon Village Marketplace to the space formerly occupied by JT Ghamo which never reopened its West Hartford location after a fire last year. Przybylski said that Bella Gusta's loyal customers returned in force when her store reopened, and she's hoping that having a clothing store next door wil attract even more business.

• Snap Fitness Avon has begun offering "stage presentation and posing clinics," according to this blog by owner Michele Welcome-Pellegatto posted on Avon Patch. Welcome-Pellegatto, a Canton resident, is a professional bodybuilder and figure competitor and is hoping to offer the gym as a place for others in the sport to prepare for competitions.

• New England Pasta Company in Avon is hosting Pasta with a Purpose on March 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. as a celebration of World Down Syndrome Day. Owner Kim Morrison's daugther, Meg is a Connecticut Special Olympics gold and bronze medalist in alpine skiing. Other Special Olympians will also be there for a meet and greet. The store is offering free samples and giveaways for people attending. Noelle Alix and Angela Martin, local authors of Just Cate, will be there to sign and sell their book about becoming friends after Alix's daughter was born with Down syndrome. Ten percent of the event proceeds will benefit Connecticut Special Olympics.

• Sports Buff used to be the place to go for all gifts sports, but the owners changed the name to Avon Gifts in December. The 51 East store still sells sports-related merchandise, but has broadened its focus to include gifts for many other occasions.

• Looking for a place to get corned beef last-minute for your Saint Paddy's Day cooking? The Meat House is just one local place where you can get it.