It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Carn Euny Ancient Village gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Cornwall, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work and truly cares about the people she is in contact with. She is dedicated, diligent, and is devoted to her job assignment. She not only takes care of my Mom, but she goes above and beyond her call of duty. Bessie has a unique ability to connect with every person she meets. No day goes by that my Mom is not pampered. Bessie make sure she's always comfortable. She makes exceptional meals for her 3 times a day, cleans her clothes, gives her showers, washes her hair and makes her look amazing every single day. Bessie is so beneficial to our family we can't imagine our family without her. I myself and my family members could never do what she does for our Mom. She has been with my mom and our family for almost 1 year and we don't know what we would do without her, she truly is a gift from God. She not only takes care of my Mom daily, nightly and weekly, she also takes care of her personal life and whatever life throws at her. She is a devoted caretaker and should be recognized with the utmost respect. Her dedication to improving the health and well-being of my Mom is commendable. You can't find anyone as special as she. Her life commitment has touched our lives through her delivery of exceptional care in a compassionate, respectful, and safe manner on a daily basis. She has become a member of our family and she has shown us the meaning of adaptability. Her strong faith in God, Forgiveness, and Believing in each other makes her the great person that she is. On behalf of our family, we would like to thank you for the extraordinary care and services your company has provided to us. Thank you for all you do”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a few hours a week, they were very thorough in asking about my mother's condition, and what were the needs that were required. It's more like bathing, medication, and companionship. We used them for about a week.”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of Always Best Care for the outstanding service you have provided for our parents. ABC provided professional, first-class support that allowed our parents to remain in their home while relieving of us of concern for their care and is something we will never forget. You can be sure we will happily refer any family member or friend that is seeking care at home to Always Best Care.”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at home assisted by the caregivers from your company Always Best Care of Greater Bristol. This letter is a personal thank you from my father and the entire Ceuch family on how your caregivers treated and attended to my father during this time. The caregivers became part of our extended family who shared in countless family events resulting in beautiful lasting memories. Caregivers Frances Boateng, Jeremy Turner, and Yanice Hernandez were awesome in their care of my father. I want to especially acknowledge Francis as a person who went above and beyond his responsibility and became part of the Ceuch inner circle. It was not uncommon for Francis on his off days to stop by during a family picnic to say hello...he is truly loved by my father. Again, I want to thank you for the loving care your caregivers provided my father. I would highly recommend your company to anyone interested in having a caregiver attend to a loved one. Thanks again”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my step father, Daryl. It's unbelievable how the progression of his illness happened so quickly, however, Always Best Care was always ready to provide the level of care he needed as it increased. Most importantly, I'd like to thank his aide, Sue Malasics. She was wonderful to Daryl and took great care of his needs. I knew I did not have to worry with Sue there with him. She was always cooking wonderful homemade meals and desserts and I was happy to see how happy she made Daryl. I think she is a wonderful asset to Always Best Care. Should I know of anyone needing help in the future, I would recommend Always Best Care and Sue Malasics.”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure. My mother was also very demanding about her care and who she would allow into her home. After several attempts with various in-home care agencies my mother really responded well to Always Best Care Senior Services of Greater Bristol and we cant thank them enough for the high level of compassionate care they were able to provide during my moms final months.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal care assistant until placement in a quality skilled nursing facility became available. We reached out to home health care agencies in her local area but, by this point, had already worked with several agencies for med reminders for Barbara (and 24/7 care for our Mom in another area of CT) and were a bit skeptical that that we’d find one that could provide consistent quality of care.When I spoke with Rick Downey of Always Best Care Senior Services in Bristol, he conveyed both confidence in his knowledge of health care and empathy in understanding the frustrations that families experience when seeking quality care for their loved ones. We were next contacted by their care coordinator,Heather Kozikowski, who came to our sister’s home to conduct an assessment and further explain the services offered by Always Best Care.A further testament to the exceptional quality of Always Best Care is the service and care we’ve received after Barbara is no longer a client; our thanks to Always Best Care for the excellent care of our sister, and the peace-of-mind it afforded our family knowing that she was in such kind and competent hands!”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company, Always Best Care, offered our family and especially the caring, loving attitude that Amber and Natalie displayed to Carol at all times. They were outstanding and you should be proud to place them in any situation with the full expectation they will represent your firm in a most professional manner. Thanks again for all your help.”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Paradise Park and JungleBarn Cornwall with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Dining Room restaurant or visit Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Cornwall, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Cornwall, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Cornwall, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
CORNWALL — After a series of public hearings, owners of Ridgway Farm secured permits to open a cider tasting room and farm store on Town Street.Planning & Zoning Commission members chose to approve Ian Ridgway's application for the cidery, which will be inside a new building on the 108-acre farm owned by Gordon and Ja...
CORNWALL — After a series of public hearings, owners of Ridgway Farm secured permits to open a cider tasting room and farm store on Town Street.
Planning & Zoning Commission members chose to approve Ian Ridgway's application for the cidery, which will be inside a new building on the 108-acre farm owned by Gordon and Jane Ridgway. Ian Ridgway, their son, joined the farming operations in West Cornwall after finishing college several years ago.
Residents who participated in the public hearings in 2023 shared support as well as objections to the plan, which is new to Town Street. The cidery will bring visitors, revenue and improve the farm's chances to continue as an agricultural effort, the Ridgways said.
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Ian Ridgway, who attended the hearings as well as the Jan. 9 commission meeting, said he was pleased with the process the board followed to make a decision.
"The process they used; it's something we did from the beginning," he said. "I read through the regulations and followed them, and our narratives in the application exemplified that what we're doing fits into the regulations. (The cidery) is allowed, and encouraged in the town plan of development."
Chairman Anna Timmel asked members to decide on the Ridgways special exception permit by asking themselves whether the project fit Cornwall's Plan of Conservation and Development, if it promoted and sustained agriculture. All agreed the plan did those things.
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"What's important is that farming and agriculture is something that should be supported," Timmel said in phone interview. "There are also other things to think about; food production is becoming more and more important."
The commission also discussed concerns raised during the public hearings, including consumption of alcohol at the site, increased traffic on Town Street, and the farm's operations affecting other property values.
But in the end, the board agreed that the cidery was a good use for the farm.
"It was nice to see the commission follow through on everything that's been brought up, and come to the same conclusion: that it's something that will benefit the town, and fits our regulations," Ian Ridgway said. "I think they did a really good job, doing that exercise, and getting those answers."
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The approved plan will allow the Ridgways to build a tasting barn, which will sell selections of the farm's hard cider, made from apples grown on the farm as well as from other orchards.
Ian Ridgway is planting 350 new apple trees in spring, and is expanding the types of apples he grows and sells. Ridgway Farm already has a farm stand where it sells fruits and vegetables and plans to add a farm store with more produce, homemade food and cider.
The cidery will be open for 18 hours per week, with three six-hour days and longer hours on the weekends. In its conditions for approval, the commission is asking that the cidery be closed by 7 p.m. The family's first proposal hinted at other activities, such as food trucks and live music, but since those are not allowed without amending zoning regulations, they were removed from the proposal, which focused on cider production and sales.
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Ian Ridgway said the farm has three acres of apple trees, as well as greenhouses and gardens where they grow a variety of produce. There are two hayfields and 15 acres of sugar maples. The farm also has a sugar shack to make maple syrup.
"All of this is to attract visitors and create new business opportunities," he said.
Planner Martin Connor, who in 2023 retired as the longtime city planner in Torrington, helped the Ridgways develop the project, and stressed the importance of helping farms survive into the future.
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"Certainly the state Department of Agriculture supports farms, wineries, cideries and breweries," Connor said. "The state's agriculture deserves to be supported in every way possible."
Others agreed. Resident Richie Dolan, owner of the Maple Hill Family Farm, spoke at the commission's December hearing, and remembered his own grandfather milking cows and selling the milk from the dairy on Maple Hill Road.
"I'm a third-generation farmer, and I can't do what my grandfather did," he said. "People have to adjust to the times.
"Here's a young man who wants to bolster agriculture, and if he's going to succeed and make a living, he has to diversify," Dolan said.
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Dolan also noted that the Ridgways could easily sell their 108 acres to a developer, for solar arrays or housing. The commission discussed this during the Jan. 9 meeting.
"It’s hard for farms; part of our POCD is about protecting land," said member James LaPorta. "This application is really trying to do that. Growing an apple takes land, the applicant is already tending orchards outside of the farm and he's also got trees on order. He's trying to make a viable business out of it.
"If he can make cider and make that work, we want to recognize that it’s one of the primary things we talk about in our PODC, support the land and what’s coming from it," he said.
Now that he has his special permits, Ian Ridgway is awaiting his 350 apple trees, and for the weather to allow construction of the new cidery.
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"We have to finalize our business and building plans, and start construction, hopefully by spring," he said. "One of the things that drew me to apples and cider is, you don't have to fight with (fruit) trees in New England; they can withstand our rough weather."
Jan 10, 2024
Emily M. Olson is the community editor for the Torrington Register Citizen, the New Haven Register and the Middletown Press.
She is a 1997 graduate of Western Connecticut State University with a degree in English and a minor in journalism.
She started her career at the Patent Trader newspaper in Westchester County in 1998. After a brief period as a reporter with the Register Citizen in 1999, she joined the former Housatonic Publications group as a reporter. She was managing editor of the former Litchfield Enquirer and helped run the weekly newspapers at Housatonic and the Litchfield County Times. She returned to the Register Citizen in 2009.
The northwestern and northeastern corners of Connecticut are the first to experience "peak" colors in its fall foliage. The vibrant reds, oranges and yellows will be at their peak visibility from Oct. 3 to 15, according to the ...
The northwestern and northeastern corners of Connecticut are the first to experience "peak" colors in its fall foliage. The vibrant reds, oranges and yellows will be at their peak visibility from Oct. 3 to 15, according to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environment's (DEEP) 2023 foliage report.
This area of the state consists of towns north of Litchfield in Litchfield County in the northwest corner of the state and towns in Windham and Tolland counties in the northeast.
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Route 202 and route 6 are considered scenic roadways, taking visitors through Litchfield Hills, home to Lake Waramaug and the Housatonic River as well as towns like Thomaston, Farmington and Bristol.
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Tolland and Windham counties are also accessible via major highways including I-84 and I-395, which bring visitors in from Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Drivers coming in from the east can take route 44 directly into northern Litchfield County while anyone coming from the south can take route 8, which passes by major towns and cities in the county including Torrington and Winsted. New York state drivers can take 44 in from the west near Salisbury.
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Both corners of the state offer sprawling state parks and forests that provide scenic views of the foliage, including Mohawk State Forest in Cornwall and Peoples State Forest in Barkhamsted. Bear Mountain in Salisbury boasts miles of trails that extend into New York and Massachusetts. Views at the top of Bear Mountain allow hikers to see foliage in three states all at once.
The James L. Goodwin State Forest sits on 2,000 acres of land in Hampton and Chaplin, and includes the parts of the Natchaug Trail and Air Line State Park Trail. Outside of hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities allowed inside of the park, the state forest also has the Goodwin Forest Conservation Education Center, an environmental educational center managed by DEEP.
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Located on a 44-acre farm in the middle of Woodstock, the Taylor Brooke Winery offers a front-row view to the changing leaves while down the street, the new Tree House Farm & Fermentory is a working farm that serves both beer and cider.
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For a sweet treat to top off the day, grab ice cream from the UConn Dairy Bar, which recently honored as the "2023 Connecticut Outstanding Dairy Farm" at the New England Green Pastures competition.
Those interested in live music can attend the Black Bear Americana Music Festival in Goshen from Oct. 6 to 8, featuring performances from both touring and local folk musicians. This year's lineup includes Joan Osborne, Adam Ezra Group, Alison Brown and the Uprooted Band, which features members of 90s world rock band Rusted Root ("Send Me On My Way," "Ectasy").
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Beer lovers can attend the Harvest Bounty Brewfest in Litchfield on Oct. 7, which will feature libations from 16 different brewers from Connecticut.
Parents of incoming college students, sports fanatics and leaf peepers can walk around the University of Connecticut campus in Storrs, which was recently ranked No. 58 in U.S. News & World Report's “Best National University” list for 2024. Visitors can go into downtown Storrs for shopping and dining, or enjoy miles of trails at the Albert E. Moss Sanctuary and Whetten Woods.
Connecticut and surrounding states were impacted by storm cells on Sunday evening that brought flooding rain to the region. Rains damaged roads and led to the death of one woman in Orange County, New York...
Connecticut and surrounding states were impacted by storm cells on Sunday evening that brought flooding rain to the region. Rains damaged roads and led to the death of one woman in Orange County, New York.
The woman, who was identified as being in her 30s, was found in the floodwaters after being swept away from her home, according to the Associated Press. The identity of the woman has not been publicly revealed.
In the town of Norfolk, Connecticut, parts of roads washed away, causing the town to declare a local emergency.
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Storms are once again expected to pass through Connecticut on Monday evening with the National Weather Service declaring that more flooding could be possible in parts of the state. The NWS has issued a flood watch for southern Connecticut through Monday afternoon and into Tuesday for northern Connecticut.
Here are some pictures and videos of the flooding from Sunday night. Have a photo or video you'd like to share. Please email andrew.darosa@hearstmedia.com.
July 10, 2023|Updated July 10, 2023 3:41 p.m.
Andrew DaRosa is a SPJ award-winning journalist who has worked at Hearst Connecticut Media Group since 2018. He currently works as a Senior Audience Producer and a Trending Reporter for CT Insider and also runs the SEEN section.
He can often be found covering Connecticut’s expanding music scene, supposedly “haunted” sites around the state or keeping track of big winners in the Connecticut Lottery. He has been at the forefront of multiple music-related stories around Connecticut, including the Sound On Sound music festival. With a passion for music, over the past decade, Andrew has interviewed members of Judas Priest, Goose, The National, Trey Anatasio Band, The Head and the Heart and Maren Morris.
Originally from Massachusetts, Andrew graduated from Fairfield University in 2018 with a degree in digital journalism. Since working for Hearst Connecticut, Andrew has become a four-time winner of Connecticut Society of Professional Journalism awards for his coverage of Connecticut band Goose, hiking the state and his human interest stories.
When he isn’t writing about Ed and Lorraine Warren or jam bands, Andrew can be found going to concerts with his wife or hanging out with his cat, Spud.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmdarosa
There used to be a game we played as kids called — well, it didn’t really have a name. You took a broom from the closet, brought it outside and held it up to the sky and twirled in a circle. After a few moments the fun really began as your now-dizzy self tried to navigate the backyard.That childhood game may come to mind as you find yourself spinning and twirling under the boughs of giant white pines at Cornwall’s ...
There used to be a game we played as kids called — well, it didn’t really have a name. You took a broom from the closet, brought it outside and held it up to the sky and twirled in a circle. After a few moments the fun really began as your now-dizzy self tried to navigate the backyard.
That childhood game may come to mind as you find yourself spinning and twirling under the boughs of giant white pines at Cornwall’s Gold’s Pines and Ballyhack Preserve — Connecticut’s much smaller version of the redwood or giant sequoia forests of the West.
Tornadoes devastated a large part of an equally impressive 200-year-old stand of the nearby Nature Conservancy’s Cathedral Pines in 1989. Gold’s Pines and Ballyhack have taken over as one of the oldest publicly accessible pine groves in the state.
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Gold’s and Ballyhack have the first- and second-tallest measured trees in the state, at 155 and 149 feet, respectively, according to the Connecticut College’s Notable Tree Project. Six of the top 10 tallest trees in Connecticut are located within the pair of white pine stands.
Gold’s Pines, a Connecticut Natural Area Preserve designated by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, is located next to the Cornwall Conservation Trust’s Day Preserve, a 181-acre open space that includes an out-and-back trail. An interpretive board at the trailhead notes that the pines in the grove are estimated to be about 200 years old — middle age for the species. Let that sink in.
The former pasture was abandoned when farmers moved west for the more fertile, and less rocky, agricultural lands. According to the Cornwall Historical Society, Theodore S. Gold purchased a 12-acre plot of white pine and hemlock in 1870, eventually expanding it to 42 acres. The trail to the Day Preserve forks to the left while an unmarked woods road takes visitors through the heart of Gold’s Pines.
The woods road through Gold’s Pines passes a few white pine “saplings” that are probably 50–100 years old. Look for the giants starting at a clearing farther up the road. The tallest trees are next to the road, so it’s easy to marvel at the trunks and look skyward to the boughs, seemingly as high as the clouds. The 155-footer is on the right before the trail curves to the right.
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The trail through the Day Preserve is marked with yellow blazes and runs up the western side of a rock formation known as “The Cobble.” There are moss-covered boulder fields as well as large hemlocks shading the trail. The trail leads to a large hayfield bounded by stone walls, patches of white pines and white birch trees.
Be sure to head to the top of the field for some wonderful views of the area and north to the mountains of Massachusetts. A loop trail along an old farm road brings visitors back to the forest and past a beautiful farm, where horses frolic uninhibited in a large field.
Although close as the crow flies, Ballyhack Preserve is several miles away from Gold’s Pines along Route 125 at Dibble Hill Road. At 55 acres, this preserve is also small, but the tree specimens are stunning as you hike into the “Valley of the Giants,” as noted by the trailhead kiosk. It’s a “bottomland stand of massive, old eastern white pines and eastern hemlocks that tower above the canopy.” DEEP has designated this museum of huge trees a “state critical habitat.”
Be on the lookout for Connecticut’s second-tallest tree (149 feet) as you hike through the preserve along a loop trail marked by yellow blazes. The mile-long loop trail passes through dense stands of mountain laurel and a rocky granite ledge with views down a ravine and a series of waterfalls along the energetic Baldwin Brook. One of the biggest pines hangs over the edge of the ravine.
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The white pines in Ballyhack grow amazingly straight. They probably would be worth the “king’s mark,” a designation given the evergreens in Colonial times that were sought out for sailing masts. Trees would be given the “King’s Broad Arrow” mark preventing colonists from harvesting the timber set aside for British sailing ships.
Gold’s Pines and Ballyhack Preserve, West Cornwall
The bottom line: This pair of Cornwall open spaces will take visitors under some of the tallest trees in the state. The Cornwall Conservation Trust’s 181-acre Day Preserve will bring hikers through a deep hemlock forest up to the top of a cobble with views across a field into the mountains and hills of Massachusetts.
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Difficulty: Easy to moderate due to changes in topography.
Length: The Gold’s Pines trail is about a mile out and back. Day Preserve has a two-mile loop trail. Ballyhack has a mile loop trail.
Directions: Follow Route 128 several miles west of its intersection with routes 4 and 43 for Gold’s Pines and Day Preserve. A small parking lot is located on the left between the Little Guild of St. Francis animal shelter and the West Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department. Go to cornwallconservationtrust.org for a map of the preserves. Follow Route 128 south to Route 125 or Grange Hall Road and look for Ballyhack on the right. Park at the small lot on the opposite side of the street.
Pet friendly?:Leashed dogs are allowed and must be cleaned up after with the waste removed if placed in a plastic bag.
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Things to do nearby
Bad Dog Brewing Co.: The brewery is housed in a restored former firehouse (complete with a restored antique fire engine) where flagship and seasonal beers are brewed in small batches, including Blonde Ale, brewed with single malt and single hop, Sunny Deez, the flagship New England IPA, Black Lab ale and Boats & Oats, a classic oatmeal stout. 117 Water St., Torrington, 860-335-5321
Falls Village Café: Breakfast is served all day on weekends and includes items like a burrito, croissant and breakfast plate with hash browns, scrambled eggs, sausage, grilled tomato, and mushroom with toast. Other menu items include Great Falls burger, cheddar BLT and spinach feta wrap. There are also special events including burger night Fridays and Tex-Mex Saturday nights. 107 Main St., Falls Village, 860-453-4183
Covered Bridge Electric Bike: This bike shop rents electric bikes for two hours, a half-day, or a full day, and offers several sizes and models. Self-guided tours designed to the biker’s abilities include hills, dirt or paved roads, farms or quiet routes to villages. For larger groups, the shop offers a variety of trips, all leaving from the historic West Cornwall Covered Bridge. 421 Sharon-Goshen Tpke., Cornwall, 860-248-3010
These Towns In Connecticut Come Alive In WinterConnecticut, located in the beautiful New England landscape, transforms into a wonderland of outdoor adventures and festivals in the winter. The "Constitution State" welcomes winter enthusiasts to explore its incredible ski areas, scenic mountains, and New England charm. Throu...
Connecticut, located in the beautiful New England landscape, transforms into a wonderland of outdoor adventures and festivals in the winter. The "Constitution State" welcomes winter enthusiasts to explore its incredible ski areas, scenic mountains, and New England charm. Throughout the state, several small towns come alive in winter. These small towns boast winter events for aspiring Olympic athletes, miles of snowshoe and cross-country ski trails, and serene river walks to explore. From the northwestern town of Salisbury to Bethlehem and several towns in between, these small towns in Connecticut provide the perfect New England winter getaway.
Salisbury is the northwesternmost town in the state, situated along the tri-state area of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. The town is a haven for winter enthusiasts, particularly in February when the town celebrates the annual Jumpfest. A tradition since 1926, skiers and aspiring Olympic athletes compete in the ski jumping competition on Satre Hill. Skiers and outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy skiing in the nearby Berkshires, a segment of the Appalachian Mountains. The Appalachian Trail also runs through the town and connects winter hikers in boots or snow shoes to Bear Mountain. Located within the Taconic Mountains, it is the tallest mountain in the state at 2,316 feet. For more outdoor adventures, outdoor enthusiasts can ice fish in East Twin Lake or take a scenic stroll around the lake.
Nestled amid the Litchfield Hills of northwestern Connecticut, the charming town of Litchfield transforms into a winter wonderland when cold weather arrives. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and tubing in Topsmead State Forest. More cross-country skiing adventures await at White Memorial Conservation Center, the state's largest nature center and wildlife sanctuary, with 40 miles of snow-covered trails that range from easy to moderate.
Winter enthusiasts seeking tranquility can stroll around the Little Pond, a 10-acre pond that receives water from the Bantam River. The winter fun continues in town at the Litchfield Farmers Market. One of the few year-round farmers markets in Connecticut, visitors can warm up with seasonal items, artisanal breads, and live music during the winter.
Although the town of Cornwall has a population of only 1,379, the small town offers big winter adventures. Cornwall boasts the largest ski area in the state, Mohawk Mountain, which offers a 650-foot vertical drop. The ski area provides 26 trails for expert and beginning skiers, along with the thrill of night skiing and snow tubing. More winter adventures await at Mohawk State Forest, also known as Mohawk Mountain State Park. The rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas within the forest provide the perfect place for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The area is also home to the Mohawk Trail, previously part of the Appalachian Trail, providing glimpses of wildlife in the winter, such as deer and bobcats. When there is six inches or more of snow, more than ten miles of trails in the park open up to snowmobiles.
The small town of Bethlehem, Connecticut, is a wonderland for winter enthusiasts. In December, visitors enjoy Bethlehem's annual Christmas Town Festival, featuring an old-fashioned Christmas celebration near the Weekeepeemee River. Festival attendees enjoy hayrides, bell choir concerts, and viewing historical landmarks, such as the Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden. The house was built from 1754 to 1767 by Reverend Joseph Bellamy, a renowned New England preacher at the time.
For outdoor adventures, visitors can explore the area's hills and valleys for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking. Located south of town is Nonnewaug Falls, a cascading waterfall that offers a short hiking trail, weather permitting, in the winter. More scenic winter hikes are available nearby at the scenic Mattatuck State Forest.
Kent comes alive in the winter with scenic views, annual festivals, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the quaint downtown during the annual Gingerbread Festival in December when gingerbread creations by local artisans are on display. The town also hosts the annual Kent Holiday Fest in December, a joyful celebration with Santa Claus, fire pits, and seasonal entertainment. Located along the Housatonic River, the charming town offers scenic winter views along the banks of the river. For those willing to brave the cold and snow in winter, Kent is home to several hiking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in Macedonia Brook State Park for views of snow-capped Catskill and Taconic Mountains. Weather permitting, visitors can also hike the .25-mile trail at Kent Falls State Park for a view of the 250-foot waterfall in the winter.
Norfolk invites visitors to explore the town's New England charm and musical heritage during a winter escape. In February, the town harmonizes its natural beauty and mountain music at the annual Winter Weekend Festival in Norfolk. Set against the Berkshire Mountains, the festival features live performances by local musicians, art shows, and ice skating at the town skating rink. The town also offers outdoor adventures at the festival and throughout the winter season. For those who enjoy the winter weather, there are several scenic hiking trails of snow-covered trees in the area. Nature lovers can hike at Dennis Hill State Park, Campbell Falls State Park, and Haystack Mountain State Park. Atop Haystack Mountain is a 34-foot stone tower with views of Massachusetts, New York, and the Green Mountains in Vermont. For a tranquil winter escape, visitors can stroll along the Blackberry River, which flows through the town.
The winter season transforms the town of Simsbury into a snowy playground, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore local parks and trails. Visitors can cross-country ski on trails at Stratton Brook State Park. Hikers can also brave the cold and take the scenic trails at Talcott Mountain State Park and Massacoe State Forest.
For those who visit the town early in the winter season, the Simsbury Celebrates festival illuminates the winter sky with fireworks, a parade, and a celebration ringing in the holidays. Visitors can also explore the town's colonial history by visiting the Simsbury Historical Society and the 16 buildings preserved by the society, including Phelps Tavern from 1771. The historic buildings are enchanting when blanketed in snow during the winter.
7 Unforgettable Small Towns To Visit In ConnecticutConnecticut also has gorgeous little towns that are filled with small-town charm and hospitality. Each town is unique in its own way, and tourists through the communities will surely enjoy the local historic locations and natural sites.
When winter arrives, these small towns in Connecticut transform into winter wonderlands of snow and serene outdoor adventures. From the exciting ski jumping competition in Salisbury to the charming Christmas Town Festival in Bethlehem, these small towns provide unforgettable winter escapes. Whether enjoying historical landmarks, the excitement of seasonal festivals, or the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, Connecticut's small towns offer something for all who wish to experience the enchantment of the winter season.
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