Griffin Health at Quarry Walk offers culinary skills program

 

The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk in Oxford is hosting a six-week program starting Oct. 20 to help individuals build foundational culinary skills that are crucial to a nutritional lifestyle.

"From Technique to Table — Culinary Skills for Everyday Meals" will help participants gain confidence in kitchen fundamentals, including safety, sanitation, and knife handling, while learning how cooking techniques affect flavor, texture, and nutrition. The course also covers healthier recipe adaptations that don't sacrifice taste, equipping participants to prepare balanced meals using fruits, vegetables, herbs, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, and lighter desserts.

The classes will be held on Tuesdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road. Weekly topics include: Introduction to Kitchen Basics and Healthy Cooking; Cooking Methods Using Proteins; Healthy Soups and Salads; Healthy Breakfasts; Healthier Pastas and Sauces; and Healthy Desserts and the Dessert Flip Theory.

The course costs $65 person and includes recipes and an apron. To register and for more information, visit www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. 

Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Learn about fermenting foods at Griffin Center for Healthy Living in Oxford

OXFORD - Come to the Center for Healthy Living [at Quarry Walk at 6 p.m. Oct. 15] to dive into all things fermented. 

So much more than sauerkraut, we'll be talking about all things lacto fermented, including homemade vinegars, vegetables, grains and herbs! 

Free but space is limited so you should definitely RSVP!

Bosomii to host breast cancer awareness scavenger hunt at Quarry Walk

 Get ready to run amok, amok, amok at the Hocus Pocus Breast Cancer Scavenger Hunt! 

Join BOSOMii on October 17 from 2–5 p.m. at Quarry Walk in Oxford for a wickedly fun adventure filled with riddles, clues, local businesses, treats, prizes, and a little breast health education along the way.

How it works:

 Pick up your entry card at the BOSOMii booth on the Green ($5 per participant)

 Follow the clues, solve the riddles, and collect stamps as you make your way through participating Quarry Walk businesses.

 Each stop will have a small candy, trinket, or prize waiting for you along the way!

 Fill out your entry card with your name, phone number, and email so we know who to summon if you win a grand prize.

 Return your completed card to the BOSOMii booth by 5 p.m. to be entered into the prize drawing.

And keep your eyes peeled…

Tiny “Breast Cancer is BOO-Sheet” ghosts will be hiding throughout Quarry Walk!  Find as many as you can along the way — whoever collects the most will win a special prize.

Come for the Hocus Pocus. Stay for the fun. Leave with a bag of goodies and a little more breast health knowledge than you came with.

Griffin Center for Healthy Living in Oxford to present fermenting foods demo

OXFORD - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen will host a free cooking demonstration on the health benefits of fermentation.
Fermenting Foods will be at 6 p.m. Sept. 17 at The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 2nd floor, 300 Oxford Road.

Former Executive Director of Massaro Farm and sustainable nutrition expert Caty Poole will discuss the cultural background of fermentation and how "lacto fermentation" can be used for vegetables, grains, dairy and more. 

Participants are encouraged the bring a large jar with a tight-fitting lid to get started with vegetable ferment based on seasonal ingredients.
Space is limited for this event, so registration is required. Visit www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or call The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen is part of Griffin’s commitment to the Planetree person-centered care model, which promotes greater well-being in communities through access to health information and assistance in helping individuals address the social determinants of health such as access to fresh nutritious foods and how to prepare them.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Griffin Center for Healthy Living in Oxford to host cooking demos in September

OXFORD - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road is hosting free cooking demonstrations to help individuals nourish the body through cancer oncology treatment and recovery.

These cooking classes will explore how food can support healing during cancer treatments, manage treatment side effects, and rebuild strength whether individuals are cooking for themselves or a loved one navigating cancer care.

Foods for Repair & Recovery, which discusses how lean proteins support tissue repair during and after treatment and the anti-inflammatory benefits of Omega-3s and olive oil, and features a demonstration Grilled Tuna Mediterranean Salad with Roasted Garlic Eggplant Dressing, will be Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 5-6:30 p.m.

Good for Your Appetite & Gut, which discusses how plant-based protein is easy to digest and gentle on the appetite during treatment, and features a demonstration of Roasted Tofu, Root Vegetables and Chickpeas with a Creamy Greek Yogurt Sauce, will be Sept. 29 from 5-6:30 p.m.

These events are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. 

Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Food drive at Quarry Walk to benefit Seymour Oxford Food Bank

 

Griffin Center for Healthy Living in Oxford to hold demo on pickling basics

OXFORD - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen will host a free cooking demonstration on the nutritional benefits of pickling.

Pickling Basics will be held Aug. 20 at 5 p.m. at The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road.

Former Executive Director of Massaro Farm and sustainable nutrition expert Caty Poole will discuss the history of pickling and the health benefits of turning fresh produce intro shelf stable products. Poole will demonstrate pickling with both sweet and sour brines and talk about the many fresh items, including fruit, that can be preserved this way.

Space is limited for this event, so registration is required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/pickling-basics or call The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen is part of Griffin’s commitment to the Planetree person-centered care model, which promotes greater well-being in communities through access to health information and assistance in helping individuals address the social determinants of health such as access to fresh nutritious foods and how to prepare them.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health in Oxford offers cardiopulmonary wellness cooking demonstrations

OXFORD - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk is hosting a series of free cooking demonstrations throughout July and August to help individuals strengthen the heart and lung connection.

Held July 14, 28, and every Tuesday in August from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Center’s Teaching Kitchen, these cooking classes will explore the powerful connection between nutrition, breath, and cardiopulmonary wellness by highlighting hydrating summer produce, nitrate-rich vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3-rich foods, fiber-forward legumes, and flavor-building aromatics like garlic. 

Participants will learn how specific foods and cooking techniques can help reduce systemic inflammation, support healthy blood pressure and circulation, and promote a calmer, more relaxed approach to eating and living.

Summer Hydration, which discusses the importance of hydration for healthy blood volume, circulation, and easier breathing in summer heat, and features a demonstration of Herb Grilled Flank Steak with Watermelon & Feta Salad, will be July 14.

Omega-3s for Heart & Lung Function, which discusses omega-3 fatty acids and their role in reducing inflammation in blood vessels and airways, and features a demonstration of Garlic Crusted Salmon with Broccoli, Apple & Walnut Salad, will be July 28.

Nitrate-Rich Foods, which discusses dietary nitrates in beets and their role in widening blood vessels and improving oxygen delivery, and features a demonstration of Herb Chicken Breast and Roasted Beet & Quinoa Salad, will be Aug. 4.

Cruciferous & Aromatic Vegetables for Airway Health, which discusses the protective compounds for lung tissue found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, and features a demonstration of Thai Basil Vegetable Stir-Fry and Blackened Shrimp, will be Aug. 11.

Legumes & Fiber, which discusses how fiber-rich legumes support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure, and features a demonstration of Black Bean Soup, will be Aug. 18.

Antioxidants & Mindful Eating, which discusses several foods that help improve heart and lung heath and the role of relaxed, unhurried eating in supporting digestion and the nervous system, and features Spring Vegetable Frittata and Vanilla Bean Chia Pudding Parfait, will be Aug. 25.

These events are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. 

Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Valley Shakespeare Festival to perform 'Measure for Measure' in Shelton, Oxford

 

Valley Shakespeare Festival to perform 'Measure for Measure' in Shelton, Oxford

The word is officially on the street! Meet the incredible cast bringing our 1920s-styled production of Measure for Measure to life this July 9–19!

To celebrate the big reveal, we are unlocking a very limited number of premium reserved seating spots for our performances in both Shelton and Oxford.

Skip the rush, bypass the crowds, and secure the absolute best view in the house. Just pack your favorite picnic, grab your lawn chairs, and stroll right up to your front-row spot. We'll handle the rest.

 Where to Catch the Show:
Shelton Performances: July 9–13 at Veterans Memorial Park

Oxford Performances at Quarry Walk July 16–19!

A massive thank you to the Valley Community Foundation!

 Note: These reserved spots are extremely limited per night and go fast. Grab your VIP spot today!

 Get your reserved seats here: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../reserved-seating-measure...

Griffin Health in Oxford to hold cooking demos during Men's Health Month

OXFORD - In recognition of Men’s Health Month, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road, is hosting a series of free cooking demonstrations to help men improve their health and lower their cancer risk through nutrition this June.

Held every Tuesday in June from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Center’s Teaching Kitchen, these cooking classes will focus on nutrition strategies that support men’s health, with an emphasis on prostate cancer prevention, heart health, inflammation reduction, and healthy aging.

Participants will learn new cooking techniques, including long-simmered sauces, slow-cooked legumes, smart grilling with marinades, and oven-roasting, to expand their everyday cooking skills while focusing on the foods most linked to men’s wellness.

The Power of Cooked Tomatoes, which discusses lycopene’s role in prostate cancer risk reduction and features a demonstration of Whole Wheat Penne with Marinara Sauce, will be Tuesday, June 2.

Plant Protein, which discusses the connection between fiber and prostate cancer and features a demonstration of Roasted Red Pepper & Chickpea Salad with Creamy Tahini-Lime Dressing, will be June 9.

Cruciferous Vegetables, which discusses sulforaphane, indoles, and the unique cancer-protective compounds in cruciferous vegetables and features a demonstration of Sautéed Italian Kale and Cauliflower & Romanesco Medley, will be June 16.

Smart Grilling, which discusses why charred and processed meats are linked to cancer risk and features a demonstration of Peruvian-Style Grilled Chicken Thighs with Peruvian Fingerling Potatoes with Aji Verde, will be June 23.

Building the Plate, which discusses a simple framework for building a healthy meal with vegetables, lean protein, whole grains or starchy vegetables and features a demonstration of Turkey Burger with Heirloom Tomato & Avocado Salad, will be June 30.

These events are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required.

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

BHcare annual fundraising walk slated June 6 in Oxford

OXFORD - BHcare’s A Chance to Shine fundraising walk and free community celebration, now in its 10th year, will be held June 6 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Quarry Walk.

This event will benefit all BHcare’s programs, which include The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services, Parent Child Resource Center, Alliance for Prevention and Wellness, BHcare’s mental health and substance use services and Hope Family Justice Center.

At the heart of the event is our Walk to Remember, held in memory of Lori Jackson and all those who have lost their lives to domestic violence, mental illness, or addiction. We also walk in honor of the survivors who continue to persevere, heal, and thrive. The cost for registration is $25 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 – 18 and children 4 and under are free. Register at achancetoshinect.org. 

The walk will be followed by a FREE community celebration with fun for the whole family. 

The day will feature live music by Morgan Skelly and the Old Crows, inflatables, touch-a-truck, face painting, raffles, lawn games and more! 

At 1 p.m., a kids’ bike parade around the green will be led by Joe Furey, Co-Chief Meteorologist at WTNH News 8 with free helmets, lights, locks, and reflectors for those who preregister for the parade. Spend the day exploring the charming shops and dining options throughout picturesque Quarry Walk or take your experience to new heights with a scenic helicopter ride for $60 per person. Whether on the ground or in the air, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

“We’ve been proud to stand alongside BHcare for many years, supporting a mission that truly changes lives,” said Tom Haynes, President of Haynes Group and Presenting Sponsor of A Chance to Shine. “Seeing how this event continues to grow and touch so many individuals and families makes our partnership incredibly meaningful.”

“Every year, A Chance to Shine reminds us what’s possible when a community comes together,” said Roberta J. Cook, President/CEO of BHcare. “With the support of our sponsors and participants, we’re able to reach more people with critical services and create pathways to hope and healing.”

We will also hold an online auction where you can bid on tickets to professional sporting events, vacation homes, golf foursomes, wine tastings, restaurant certificates and more while supporting BHcare. 

The online auction runs from May 31-June 14. Register to bid at: www.givebutter.com/c/ACTS2026/auction.

Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Haynes Group, and our media sponsor WTNH News 8.

For more information, to register for the walk, kids’ bike parade or for sponsorship opportunities, visit www.achancetoshinect.org.

BHcare provides a comprehensive and integrated system of care with wrap-around services for adults, children, and families struggling with mental health, substance use, domestic violence and other health-risk behaviors.  

Last year, BHcare provided services for more than 16,500 clients throughout the Greater New Haven area. Visit BHcare.org for more information.

This is a press release from BHcare.

Griffin Center in Oxford to host cooking demo on stress-relieving herbs

OXFORD - In recognition of Women’s Health Month, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen will host a free cooking demonstration about the nutritional and stress-relieving benefits of common garden herbs.

Garden Calm & Herbal Stress Relief will be May 21 at 5 p.m. at The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road.

Former Executive Director of Massaro Farm and sustainable nutrition expert Caty Poole will discuss spring herbs and how they can be combined into teas and tinctures that can lower blood pressure, detox the liver, help control blood sugar, and contribute to overall stress relief and a person’s level of calm. 

Poole will demonstrate how to make a simple tea blend, and all participants will receive an herbal tincture that can help relieve stress and promote calm.

Space is limited for this event, so registration is required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/garden-calm or call The Griffin Center for Healthy Living coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen is part of Griffin’s commitment to the Planetree person-centered care model, which promotes greater well-being in communities through access to health information and assistance in helping individuals address the social determinants of health such as access to fresh nutritious foods and how to prepare them.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health cooking demo in Oxford to feature adaptive equipment uses

OXFORD - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living, Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road will host a cooking demonstration for individuals who have difficulty cooking due to health conditions such as arthritis and various auto-immune diseases.

Griffin Health Occupational Therapist Jenna Reno and Executive Chef Todd Concilio will lead Adaptive Equipment Uses in the Kitchen April 28 from 5-6:15 p.m. 

This interactive cooking workshop will guide participants through making a fresh and delicious pasta salad while demonstrating adaptive equipment and practical techniques that make cooking safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

Participants will learn how to use tools such as jar openers, rocker knives, non-slip cutting boards, easy-grip utensils, and other adaptive kitchen devices that help reduce strain on the hands, wrists, and shoulders. 

The demonstration will help attendees build confidence and independence in the kitchen by breaking down each step of the recipe into manageable tasks.

This event is ideal for older adults experiencing arthritis, decreased strength, limited mobility, or coordination challenges, as well as anyone interested in learning new strategies for safer meal preparation. 

Additionally, there will be valuable tips on energy conservation, joint protection, and kitchen setup to support everyday cooking at home.

This event is free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/adaptive-equipment or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. 

Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.