Educate and Empower
There is confidence in knowing that you're working with an experienced and knowledgeable team. We are educators and problem solvers. We make sure that you understand all aspects of the solutions that we recommend and the strategies we use to design your plan.
Russell K. Bell, ChFC®, AIF®
Wealth Advisor
Growing up in England, I always had a passion for finance, economics, and investing. As a teenager, I took an extensive personality test, and a career counselor advised me that the top 3 professions I should consider were:
- An Attorney – I have a strong sense of right and wrong and enjoy researching issues.
- An Accountant – I like numbers and am well organized and logical.
- A Minister – I like helping people.
I wasn’t sure about any of the above careers on a full-time basis, but parts of each profession appealed to me. I embarked on my journey in the financial world on October 19th, 1987, famously known as Black Monday. I thought I was going to have the shortest career ever as a financial advisor, but over the last four decades, I have managed to guide my clients through many recessions, expansions, financial crises, and economic booms, and I still love what I do.
While I am not an accountant or an attorney, I use many of those traits while analyzing and advising clients on financial situations and developing strategies for them to help them reach their goals.
The biggest thrill I get is helping people and improving their current financial situation and that of future generations.
I am always grateful that many of the families I work with are not just clients; I have become not only a trusted advisor, but an extended part of their family.
I received the fullest extent of education in investment management offered by the Institute of Investment Management and Research in London, England. I earned my Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designation from the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA.
I am Registered Representative and investment advisor Representative with Commonwealth Financial Network.
Industry Registrations include:
FINRA Series 7 (General Securities Representative)
Series 24 – (General Securities Principal)
Series 63 – (Uniform Securities Agent State Law)
Series 65 – (Uniform Investment Adviser Law)
Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®)
I live in Glastonbury, CT, with my two sons. In my spare time, I am a chauffeur, driving my sons between their many sports and activities.
Scott J. LeClaire, CFP®, ChFC®
Wealth Advisor
My financial interest began early when I learned about “The Rule of 72” and the power of compound interest. Lacking “capital” to invest, I looked for ways to begin earning money. I sold seeds, delivered newspapers, mowed lawns, and shoveled snow. At age 15, I started a series of summer jobs: maintenance at my local police station, landscaper, veterinary assistant, amusement park ride operator, overnight cleaning crew member, and bank teller.
My financial interest fully blossomed as a finance major at St. Bonaventure University. When I graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree, I realized that finance wasn’t just an interest but a passion. I knew personal financial planning was what I wanted to do for my career. In 1986, I started advising investors professionally.
When I am not at work, I spend time with my wife, Noraleen, and our adult children, Spencer, Kammy, Tennaly, and Goldendoodles, Jasper and Dallas. We love to travel in the U.S. and abroad. I am an exercise aficionado (cycling, Tonal, Peloton). I enjoy boating, reading, music, wine, and cooking delicious meals for friends and family.
As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) professional and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) professional, I take pride in guiding my clients through the complexities of personal finance. For some of the less exciting yet essential details about me, my industry registrations also include FINRA Series 24 (General Securities Principal), FINRA Series 7 (General Securities Representative), FINRA Series 6 (Investment Company Products Representative), NASAA Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent State Law examination), and NASAA Series 65 (Uniform Securities Advisor Law examination).
James E. Tyrrell II, CFP®, ChFC®
Wealth Advisor
Meet James, a founding member of Heritage Capital Advisors, LLC, who brings over three decades of unwavering dedication to the world of wealth management, retirement, and estate planning.
James stands firm on the pillars of consistency and discipline, steering clients through market volatility with a steady hand. In today's world of cookie-cutter model portfolios, James sets himself apart by crafting personalized strategies tailored to each client's unique financial landscape. His dedication extends to crafting tax-efficient strategies that shield against unnecessary financial burdens while amplifying growth opportunities.
James firmly believes in the power of conversation. Through open dialogue with his clients, their tax accountants, and attorneys, he seeks to paint a complete picture, knowing that these collaborative discussions pave the way for sound financial decisions. His commitment to client education stands tall, forming the bedrock of his advisory practices.
James holds a BS in finance from Western New England University and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional and proud recipient of the certification from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards and the Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designation from the American College. His industry registrations include FINRA Series 7, NASAA Series 63, and NASAA Series 65, held through Commonwealth Financial Network®.
Beyond his professional prowess, James is a Connecticut native living in Bolton with his wife, Dina, and their dog, Maggie. They have two adult children, John and Gabriella. When he's not navigating the financial world, you'll find him casting lines while fresh and saltwater fly fishing, alpine skiing, or enjoying the great outdoors. James dedicates much of his time to improve the land on his farm in Vermont by nurturing a nature preserve on his property. Through his efforts, James not only works the land but actively contributes to the preservation of nature, leaving a legacy that transcends the financial realm.
Peter G. Yacovone, CFP®
Wealth Advisor
Since 1985, I have been offering personalized financial planning advice and guidance to clients.
I recognize that each client’s financial situation is unique and take a comprehensive approach to understand and help them align their individual goals, needs, and resources. In October 2018, after spending almost 20 years in managing clients and wealth advisors at regional and national brokerage firms, I rejoined my friends and past partners to focus as a wealth advisor at Heritage Capital Advisors.
My interest in financial management was ignited while pursuing my undergraduate studies at the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Finance, I continued my academic journey and earned an MBA in investment finance from the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT, and the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP) certification through the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards in Washington, D.C. I hold several industry registrations, including FINRA Series 7 (General Securities Representative), 9 & 10 (NYSE Branch Office Manager), and 24 (General Securities Principal); NASAA Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination) and 65 (Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination); and NFA Series 31 (Futures Managed Funds Examination). My official designations in our practice are Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative with Commonwealth Financial Network.®
Born and raised in the Hartford, Connecticut area, as an only child alongside several black labs, I now live in Glastonbury with my wife, Teresa, where we raised our four now young adult children with a menagerie of pets. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with our Bernedoodle Nora, gardening, reading, routing for UConn and the Red Sox, and exploring a variety of wines with a local group.
Robert D. Eberhardt, CFA®
Wealth Advisor
From the moment my mom handed me a book titled 'The Totally Awesome Money Book for Kids and Their Parents’ in elementary school, I was captivated by the concept of compound interest and its financial implications. The lesson, starting with a single penny compounding over time, ignited a passion for finance that has driven my career ever since.
In high school, I evaluated going to medical school or a career in finance; I opted for the latter, valuing the prospect of diving into the world of finance without the extensive commitment of medical school and residency. This decision led me to Bryant University, where I earned a degree in finance and applied actuarial statistics, graduating in 2005.
My professional career in the finance world began as a bond trader at G.X. Clarke & Co. in Jersey City, New Jersey, followed by a role as a senior fixed-income portfolio manager at Columbia Partners in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Along the way, I earned the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, solidifying my commitment to excellence in financial management.
After years of success in the bond market, an opportunity arose to join forces with my brother-in-law, Scott. Despite his persistent efforts to bring me on board, it wasn't until I married my wife, also a Connecticut native, that the stars aligned. In September 2017, I transitioned into financial advising at Heritage Capital, embarking on a new chapter in my career.
I reside in Glastonbury with my wife, Victoria, and our inquisitive daughter, Ellery, along with our high-energy dogs, Truffles and Daisy. When I'm not immersed in the financial world, you can find me cherishing moments with my family, creating special 'Dadurdays' with Ellery, appreciating the outdoors, and staying informed about market trends through avid reading. As a sports enthusiast, I make it a point to attend games whenever possible.
Tyler E. Fortier, MBA
Director of Planning Services and Wealth Advisor
My genuine enthusiasm for the financial services sector lies in my deep passion for delivering exceptional customer service. I derive immense satisfaction from positively impacting the lives of clients and those around me. I am often a go-to guy for those close to me because I never turn down helping others.
While I am a Glastonbury native, my career began in a marketing and promotions role in Florida after graduating from UConn with a BA. Shortly after taking on that role, an opportunity arose for me to teach English in Japan, so I headed to Tokyo for a year. I enjoyed traveling around Japan and then China, including hiking Mt. Fuji and the Great Wall of China. After returning to America, my mentor, a.k.a. my dad, encouraged me to head into the finance arena. I spent more than 13 years in retirement services with ING, which became Voya Retirement Services, and then four years as an internal wholesaler with Lincoln Financial Group. During the initial years of my finance career, I obtained an MBA from the University of Hartford. I was saved from Corporate America when Scott approached me to join the LeClaire Team in October 2021.
My amazing wife, Karen, and our two daughters, Isabella, and Lydia, inspire me daily. I love participating in my daughters’ activities and coaching softball. On the weekends, you will also find me hiking with my dog, Jack, or hanging out with friends. I have a close-knit extended family with whom we also spend much time. I am a sports enthusiast for UConn sports, the New York Giants, and the Yankees.
Jason Lombardi, CPA
Wealth Advisor
For as long as I can remember, I was the person in my family to whom everyone reached out with financial questions: “I have a new job, what should I do with my old 401(k)?” “I have a question about a letter I received from the IRS, what does it mean?” “I am getting ready to retire, what do I do or (unfortunately), I retired, now what should I do?” Given my background as a certified public accountant and chief financial officer of a real estate investment company, it made sense for them to ask me for help. I had the background and experience to understand the documentation that was confusing them or causing them anxiety or a connection to someone who could help navigate to the answer.
Then, in 2023, I decided that the time had come to make a change in my professional life. With the support of my wife and encouragement from my family and good friends who were already in this business, I took the SIE and Series 7 exams to start on the path to becoming a financial advisor. I left the CFO role that I had been working in for many years and joined Heritage Capital Advisors. After joining Heritage, I quickly realized that this was the career that I was meant to do. Whether working on a financial plan for a meeting with our clients, helping them navigate a major life event, or tracking down someone to help them with a problem, I love that I am helping people, solving problems, and learning new skills every day.
I have lived in Connecticut my entire life. I attended the University of Connecticut and received both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in accounting before starting my career as a CPA with PricewaterhouseCoopers. After working with various middle-market clients in the manufacturing, real estate, gaming, and hospitality industries, I joined a real estate investment firm in Hartford. Working closely with the owners of the real estate investment firm, I helped to build a business, raise capital, structure deals, obtain financing, and operate the properties, giving me a solid financial and operational background for modeling, cash flow planning, financial statement analysis, and taxes—all skills I bring to each client situation as the CFO of their personal balance sheet.
When I am not at work, I am usually on the sidelines with my wife and dog at one of our three children’s sporting events, unless it is ski season, where you can find me and the family on the slopes of Mount Snow or Okemo Mountain.
Jay R. Tibball, ChFC®, CLTC
Wealth Advisor
My journey into the world of finance traces back to my teenage years, where evenings spent watching Wall Street Week with Louis Ruykeser with my father ignited my passion for the field. Encouraged by his belief in the importance of financial literacy, investing and planning for the future, I eagerly pursued this interest throughout my academic and professional endeavors.
During my college years, finance classes became my favorite, laying the groundwork for what would become a fulfilling career. In 1987, fresh out of college, I embarked on my professional path at Merrill Lynch, where I delved into the world of financial advising.
After many years with another advisory firm in Glastonbury, CT, I transitioned to Heritage Capital Advisors, LLC. in 2005 joining former associates. During my initial five years with Heritage, I concurrently held the role of compliance officer.
My academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Bryant University. I hold the professional designations of Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) earned from The American College in 1994 and the Certified in Long-Term Care (CLTC) designation conferred by the Corporation for Long-Term Care in 2001. I hold several FINRA and NASAA certifications, including Series 6, 7, 24, 63, and 65, underscoring my commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and expertise in the financial industry.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I find fulfillment in family life, residing in Cromwell, Connecticut, with my wife, Rebecca, and our son, Jack.
Spencer P. LeClaire
Wealth Management Associate
Growing up in a family dedicated to financial planning, I was immersed in the business from an early age. One of my earliest interactions with our clients dates back to our then-annual Christmas open house in 1999—when I was just seven months old! Over the years, I watched my father approach his work with an incredible sense of calm, purpose, and passion. His ability to guide clients through life’s financial complexities left a lasting impression on me.
My interest in finance was further shaped by the time I spent working part-time in the office while in college, gaining firsthand experience with the LeClaire Team. I especially valued working alongside my father, whose intelligence and expertise I have long admired. After earning my degree in Applied Economics from the University of Connecticut, I began my career in corporate finance as an internal wholesaler in the insurance industry. While that role provided valuable experience, I felt drawn back to the family business and the opportunity to make a more personal impact in people’s lives.
I’m very family-oriented, so working in a business built around strong relationships—both within our team and with our clients—feels like the perfect fit. Outside of work, I’m passionate about giving back, whether volunteering with Veterans and Special Olympics or coaching high school recreational basketball. I also enjoy scuba diving, golf, wake surfing, and working out daily. A die-hard sports fan, I follow the NY Yankees, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Real Madrid with unwavering loyalty. Like my father, I remain a devoted and suffering Dallas Cowboys fan.
I’m excited to be part of the next generation at Heritage Capital, continuing the tradition of helping clients navigate their financial futures with confidence.
John J. Tyrrell
Wealth Advisor
I began my journey at Heritage Capital in July 2025, collaborating with my father as I entered the world of financial planning. Guided by his mentorship, I work to understand the complexities of managing a well-oiled financial advisory firm. Being part of a family run practice allows me to work in an environment that values trust, transparency, and long-term planning.
I attended the University of Connecticut, where I earned a degree in Finance. My time at UConn was a meaningful experience, not only academically, but personally. It’s where I made lifelong friends and began to see how helping others understand their finances could be a rewarding career path.
After graduating college, I seized the opportunity to move to Austin, Texas, to join Charles Schwab. The experience gave me a broader perspective on financial services and deepened my commitment to putting clients first. It also played a pivotal role in shaping my professional development and laying the foundation for the work I do today. More importantly, the long-distance move taught me valuable life lessons that helped me grow as a person.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, playing golf, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends.
Nicholas J. Yacovone
Client Relationship Manager
I started at Heritage Capital in May 2022, joining forces with my father. Working under his mentorship, I dove into learning the intricacies of a financial planning practice. Serving as the Client Relationship Manager for the Yacovone team has been a fulfilling experience, allowing me to take pride in assisting clients as they navigate their financial journeys and work towards achieving their personal goals.
I was born and raised in Glastonbury, Connecticut. In 2019, I earned my B.S. in Finance from Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island. My professional journey began in mid-2019 when I took on the role of an investment analyst specializing in equity mutual funds at a mid-level consulting firm. Despite enjoying the analytical aspects of the job, I felt a calling toward personal wealth management.
Currently residing in my hometown of Glastonbury, I appreciate the balance between my professional and personal life. Outside the financial world, I enjoy activities such as golfing, hiking, and playing pickleball. Summers often see me traveling to Rhode Island to visit the beach, while winters take me to Vermont for skiing or, when the ponds freeze over, a game of hockey.
Beyond my financial pursuits, I'm an enthusiast for film, music, and sports, with basketball being a particular favorite. A life goal of mine is to travel to Scotland and play golf at The Old Course at St. Andrews.
Tammy Casale
Director of Client Services and New Business
Being a people person at heart, I thrive in connecting with others, offering assistance, and providing direction and comfort. When the chance to join the Heritage Capital Advisors team presented itself in 2007, I seized it eagerly, becoming the Director of Client Service and New Business on The LeClaire Team. My main goal is to make sure our customer service is top-notch.
My journey in customer service kicked off in 1979, starting as a customer service rep in banking and then working at a Fortune 500 financial service organization. Before landing here at Heritage Capital Advisors, I was the right hand to another investment advisor.
In my other life, I am blessed with an amazing husband of over 40 years. We've raised four fantastic, successful children. I am now soaking up the pure joy of being a grandmother to two grandchildren who have stolen my heart. I'm a horseback-riding enthusiast, and when I'm not in the saddle, you'll find me on my boat, creating memories with my family.
Seth Christmas
Financial Assistant
All my life, I’ve been someone who values connecting with people and building meaningful relationships. After graduating from Bryant University in 2021 with a B.S. in Business Management, I knew I wanted a career that was both complex and centered around helping others. My early experience in the insurance industry—as both an agent and a wholesaler—gave me valuable exposure to working directly with clients and families.
Joining Heritage Capital as a Financial Assistant has allowed me to focus on what I enjoy most: supporting and educating clients as they work with our advisors on their financial planning strategies. My goal is to simplify complex topics and create an approachable, comfortable experience that equips our team to deliver well-supported plans.
Beyond the office, I call Vernon, CT home, where I live with my fiancé, Sarah, and our Australian Shepherd, Macie—who keeps us both active and endlessly entertained. Music is another creative outlet for me; you’ll often find me playing my Les Paul guitar or listening to music with great riffs. I also train and compete in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a discipline that continually pushes me to grow both mentally and physically. During my time at Bryant University, I was also a member of the Division 1 Cross Country and Track & Field teams
. As a lifelong sports fan, I proudly root for UConn, the New England Patriots, the Boston Red Sox, NASCAR and the UFC.
At the heart of it all, I’m someone who believes that the right guidance can change a person’s financial future—and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to be part of that journey.
Sarah Dodd
Client Concierge Representative and Operations Assistant
I became a part of Heritage Capital Advisors in January 2022, where I serve as the Client Concierge Representative and Operations Assistant. I am responsible for delivering an exceptional customer service experience to our clients and assisting in our firm's day-to-day operations. My favorite part of my role is meeting and talking to the clients. I am also a Notary Public.
Before joining Heritage Capital, I held the position of Senior Office Service Representative at KPMG, where I accumulated over 13 years of valuable customer service experience in the financial services sector.
A native of Glastonbury, I graduated from Glastonbury High School and pursued my studies in business administration at the University of Hartford. Currently residing in Glastonbury, I am not only dedicated to my professional life but also deeply passionate about soccer and animals. I began playing soccer at age five and remained actively involved until I was twenty-five. My commitment to animals extends beyond my professional life, as I have volunteered at local animal shelters and personally rescued several animals. Currently, I share my home with a cherished cat named Callie.
I love spending time with my family. Some of my fondest memories come from childhood at my family's beach house in Orleans, Cape Cod. It's a place filled with cherished moments that hold a special significance in my heart. During my annual Cape visits with my family, my favorite thing to do is walk for miles on the bay, looking for shells and watch the beautiful sunset.
Beth Drazak
Director of Client Services and New Business
I started working with James in February of 2000; he was my mentor as I went through the advisor training program. After ten months, I knew that was not a path I wanted to continue, and James, at that moment, needed to fill an assistant position. I started that role in November 2000 and have enjoyed being a part of his team ever since.
I grew up in Massachusetts, on the Rhode Island border, and graduated from Bryant College (now known as Bryant University), Smithfield, Rhode Island, with a B.S. in Business Administration. My degree allowed me to manage in various industries, including pharmacy, clothing, and managing bank branches throughout Connecticut. I finally found my career path at Heritage Capital Advisors.
As the Director of Client Service and New Business for the Tyrrell Team, I have developed many client relationships. Hearing about their children growing up, getting married, and starting their own families is very rewarding. I maintain the highest level of customer service while working directly with the clientele, scheduling meetings and phone calls, and handling paperwork at all stages of the planning process. I also work with retirement, education, and tax planning software.
Outside of work, I recently moved to Glastonbury with my two cats and four guinea pigs. My daughter and son are finding their paths in life, attending college and pursuing entrepreneurship. I enjoy many hobbies, including reading, yoga, diamond painting, spending time at the beach, or with friends and family. I also volunteer at Protector of Animals in East Hartford on the clean/feed team, as well as act as a foster. Lastly, I am working on my passion project of opening “Marcie’s Angels Cat Café” in Hartford County.
Noraleen LeClaire
Director of Marketing and Operations
My love of finance and interest in financial planning began at Loyola University in Maryland. In the summer of 1995, I was fortunate to secure an internship at Heritage Capital Advisors. Little did I know that this opportunity would shape my professional path and bring Scott into my life.
Freshly graduated a year later, I enthusiastically joined the LeClaire Team as a para-planner. Several months into my new role, I joyfully married Scott. Three years later, with the arrival of our first child, I paused to be a full-time mom. Ten years later, after our youngest child went to kindergarten, I rejoined the team and our valued clients in a customer service position. As the years unfolded, my role evolved, and I transitioned into Director of Marketing and Operations, a role I proudly hold today.
Beyond my professional world, my life is enriched by various interests. Family time is everything. I love hanging with our adult children (Spencer, Kammy, and Tennaly), our golden doodles (Jasper and Dallas), and our extended family. I am passionate about health. I love working out, especially circuit training, cycling on my road bike and Peloton, sculpting with Tonal, swimming and wake surfing in Canandaigua Lake, and walking the beaches of Vero Beach. I also enjoy reading and listening to books, especially historical fiction. I am a car enthusiast and love watching Formula 1 – Let’s Go, Ferrari!!!
Dina Tyrrell
Director of Operations and Marketing
I’ve been a part of the Heritage family since the firm was founded in 1990; its where I met James. We’re not just partners at work; we’re partners in life. We’ve been married for over 25 years and together have worked hard to create a successful balance between work and home life. We were lucky enough to have Beth come on board back in 2000. She took over the reins quickly and became James’ right hand. After taking some time away, I came back to the office and re-joined The Tyrrell Team. Now a days at the office, you’ll find me in the background, handling the day-to-day operations of the practice, keeping things organized and running smoothly.
On most nights and weekends, I’m in the kitchen whipping up all sorts of delicious and unique dishes. I absolutely love to cook, and its my way of bringing a little extra flavor into life. I love cooking for my kids, John, and Gabi. I always send them pictures of my latest creations, enticing them home because I miss them so! I also love to read, there’s nothing better than getting lost in a good book. I’m all about staying active too; whether riding my bike, Peloton or taking walks in the neighborhood.
Creating a warm and inviting home is one of my true joys. I believe that a cozy, personal space reflects who we are, and it’s essential for creating a sense of well-being. But what truly lights up my life is spending time with my family and friends. Whether it’s sharing a meal, going on new adventures, or just enjoying each other’s company, these connections are what truly matter to me.
Teresa L Yacovone
Director of Operations and Marketing
Recently retired from a fulfilling career in the insurance industry, I am excited to join The Yacovone Team in support of client operational services and marketing. With a proven background in client relationships and financial solutions from my years in corporate finance, underwriting and account sales management, I genuinely enjoy listening to clients, offering support, and learning from every individual I meet. I am looking forward to continuing to meet and support clients in my new role.
I hold a Master of Business in Health Finance and an undergraduate degree in Biology/Genetics from the University of Connecticut, and I maintain my health and life insurance license in Connecticut.
I live Glastonbury with my husband, Pete, where we raised our four now young adult children.
Outside of work, you can find me cherishing time entertaining family and friends, baking cookies for the Little Sisters, walking with our Bernedoodle Nora, reading, crocheting/knitting, spending time outside hiking or going to the beach, supporting UConn and the Red Sox, and exploring the world, including visiting one of our children in Edinburgh.
