Josh Elliott

On Thursday, I was proud to join Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett, State Representative Laurie Sweet, and Crystal Zukauskas, President of Eli’s Garden of Healing, to announce that a $250,000 planning grant has been awarded to the Hamden-based nonprofit by the State of Connecticut Community Investment Fund (CIF).

Eli’s Garden of Healing was founded in 2022 in memory of 15-year-old Elijah Gomez, a Hamden High School football player whose life was tragically cut short when he was senselessly killed while walking home on the Farmington Canal Trail.

In Elijah’s honor, the organization is working to transform a former Winchester machine gun test firing range at Denicola Park into a $1.7 million healing garden, a peaceful, restorative space for individuals and families impacted by violence.

This planning grant marks a significant step toward making that vision a reality and advancing healing, remembrance, and community resilience in Hamden.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Governor Ned Lamont has officially proclaimed October 2025 as Disability Employment Awareness Month in Connecticut, recognizing the contributions and achievements of residents with disabilities in the workplace.

Connecticut is a state that values inclusion and remains committed to fostering a workforce where individuals of all abilities are welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed. Inclusive employment benefits both employers and employees which in turn enriches the workplace and strengthens the community.

The Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities find, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment. The department helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplace. Assistance for jobseekers with disabilities is available virtually and in-person, below are links to services:

• Department of Aging and Disability Services: information on employment and other services available to people with disabilities
• Department of Developmental Services: resources and job information for individuals with intellectual disabilities
• Visit one of the Connecticut Department of Labor’s American Job Centers (appointments are recommended)
• CTHires: serves as a one-stop resource to search for jobs, create a resume, and find training
• Attend one of several job fairs that are scheduled across the state

As we celebrate this month, let’s continue working together to build a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, honoring the strength and resilience of survivors and recommitment to breaking the cycle of abuse.

By raising awareness, standing in solidarity, and supporting prevention and recovery efforts, we send a clear message: help is always available, and no one is alone.

Let’s continue working together to build a future free from violence, one rooted in safety, dignity, and respect for all.

Available resources:

• Interval House: Providing emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy. 24/7 hotline: (888) 774-2900
• CT Safe Connect: Statewide support and resources for anyone affected by domestic violence. Call or chat 24/7 at www.CTSafeConnect.org

Connecticut has been staking its claim as the Pizza Capital of the United States for years, and now with the launch of the Connecticut Pizza Trail, pizza lovers finally have a curated way to explore the state’s legendary slices.

The trail features the Top 100 pizzerias across the state, chosen by public vote, and mapped out to help guide your journey. From the coal-fired classics of New Haven to hidden gems in smaller towns, the trail celebrates the diversity and quality of Connecticut’s pizza scene.

The Pizza Trail offers a one-of-a-kind way to taste your way across a state that’s serious about its pizza.

Click here for a full guide to the trail and to download the map.

Join the Movement Community, a free eight-week, in-person group experience for people who are living with a life-disrupting loss. The group gathers on Sundays through November 23 from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at Sleeping Giant State Park. 

It combines movement—like walking, hiking, or biking—with intentional grief support, held in community with others who get it. A trained E-Motion Facilitator leads each group of 15–20 grievers.

Each week, the group gathers in a Sacred Circle to connect, reflect, and then move together toward a shared distance goal—like walking or running a 10K. Between gatherings, participants receive a grief-informed email with a weekly grief concept to consider and move with, along with a simple, supportive movement practice to integrate into your week.

Click here for more information and to register.