Consider helping a local family facing serious health issues

Ansonia native Keith Solsbury and his wife, Seymour native Maggie Solsbury, have been struggling for way too long with a multitude of health problems that in turn have led to major financial issues.

Keith, an 11-year survivor of esophageal cancer, is not able to work.

They are struggling to make ends meet. 

I'm posting a link to a Giveforward page that a friend of theirs has set up, in an effort to help them.

This link will bring you to the page where you can read about their family's plight.

And this is a link to a blog post I wrote about the Solsburys in April, 2015.

Please consider helping Keith and Maggie. 

Career Coach to visit Derby Public Library


DERBY - The American Job Search Career Coach returns to Derby Public Library from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 21.  

During both the morning session, 10 a.m.-noon, and afternoon session, 1-3 p.m., instructors will be offering a class, Using Social Networking in Your Job Search.

Both sessions will explain useful tools that job seekers need today.
Social networking has become one of the most popular ways of landing your next “big” job by creating useful online connections.
These connections make it easier to look for a job online through your created network.

The classes are free and open to the public.  
Registration is requested but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first come, first served basis.

The American Job Search Career Coach is operated by Career Resources.

For more information, stop by the Library, 313 Elizabeth St., call 203-736-1482 or visit www.derbypubliclibrary.org


This is a press release from Cathy Williams, Director, Derby Public Library.


Griffin Hospital in Derby to host talk on vocational counseling

The Griffin Hospital Life after Stroke Support Group will host a free presentation Oct. 13 on job placement and vocational counseling for people to re-enter the work force after an illness or disability./ Submitted photo

DERBY - The Griffin Hospital Life after Stroke Support Group will host a free presentation on job placement and vocational counseling for people to re-enter the work force after an illness or disability from noon-1 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital, 350 Seymour Ave.
Representatives from the Connecticut Department of Rehabilitation Services will discuss vocational counseling, job search assistance, supported employment services and services to assist in restoring or improving a physical or mental impairment.
The Life after Stroke Support Group at Griffin Hospital meets monthly and is open to stroke survivors between the ages of 20 and 65. 
This group will provide information from health experts, resources and support for individuals who have suffered a stroke in the prime of their lives. Caregivers are also welcome.
For more information, contact Griffin Hospital Rehabilitation Services at 203-732-7445.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

Officials hold groundbreaking for rebuild at McDonald's in Derby


McDonald's franchisee Joe Rodriguez poses Tuesday at a sign outside his Division Street store location in Derby. Elected officials and others joined him at a groundbreaking ceremony for the rebuild at the site. Rodriguez plans a December opening.
Stay tuned to Thursday's Valley Voice newsletter for more information.

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host talk on health benefits of gardening

Experienced horticulturalist Francine Vallillo will present “Constant Color in the Garden” Oct. 19 at Griffin Hospital in Derby./ Contributed photo

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a free talk about getting active through gardening at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 19 at the hospital, 130 Division St.
Experienced horticulturalist Francine Vallillo will present “Constant Color in the Garden,” providing tips for planning and planting a perennial flower garden that will bloom from spring to fall. 
The talk will include a list of perennials with the color, time of bloom, growth habits, unique foliage, and uses for each species, design elements for short to tall flowers and balancing the space, and a complete list of the plants suitable to take with you when purchasing plants.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gardening is a moderate-intensity level activity, which the CDC recommends two and a half hours of each week to help prevent chronic health conditions.

The program will also include a brief presentation by Griffin Hospital Occupational Therapist Fran Harmeyer on garden ergonomics to avoid injuries while tending a garden.

The talk is part of Griffin Hospital's Healthy U education series, which features Griffin Hospital medical experts and community partners providing trusted health information and answers to questions on a wide range of topics. 
Light refreshments will be served.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-1511 or visit griffinhealth.org/events.


This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Newsletter highlights Ansonia Harvest Festival fun




Dear readers,

Our latest newsletter is a recap of Saturday's harvest festival on Main Street, Ansonia.

Here's the link: 

http://media.wix.com/ugd/329bf6_cdbc75724bd5477db378a6947a1142fb.pdf

The fun-filled event featured food and craft vendors, kids' activities, magic, music, and more. 
An appearance by festival mascot Harvey, a scarecrow with a huge pumpkin head, wowed the crowd! 
Harvey posed for photos, and gave out lots of high-fives.

Thanks for reading!