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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

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Home Care In Gaylordsville, CT

Home Care Gaylordsville, CT

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 Gaylordsville Historical Society 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 Gaylordsville, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Gaylordsville, CT

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 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.

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TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Debra T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Anita
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Madison R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Gregory C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Milissa K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Liam C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Dorothy W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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!”

Susan W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Pope A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Kevin N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Dorothy29
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Caring5863
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have a very good providers from this Company”

elizabeth S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Gaylordsville, CT?

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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.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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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.

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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.

 Senior Care Gaylordsville, CT

Types of Elderly Care in Gaylordsville, CT

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal 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:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Gaylordsville, CT
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Gaylordsville, CT
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

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 Emmanuel Williamson Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Gaylordsville, CT
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

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 Old Oak Tavern, 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.

 In-Home Care Gaylordsville, CT

Benefits of Home Care in Gaylordsville, CT

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:

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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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

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 Gaylordsville, 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.

 Elderly Care Gaylordsville, CT

Affordable 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:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your CT's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Gaylordsville, CT

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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 Gaylordsville, 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.

Assisted Living Referral Services

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.


Respite Care Gaylordsville, CT

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:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Gaylordsville, CT

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:

  • Chestnut Grove
  • Brandywine Living at Litchfield
  • The Ivy at Watertown Assisted Living and Memory Care
  • Apex Assisted Living & Senior Care
  • The Cascades Assisted Living
  • The Village at Brookfield Common
Home Care Gaylordsville, CT

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.

 In-Home Care Gaylordsville, CT

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 Gaylordsville, 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.

 Elderly Care Gaylordsville, CT

Latest News in Gaylordsville, CT

New Milford neighbors bring a ‘twist’ to the holiday season with lights competition

NEW MILFORD — A neighborhood in the Gaylordsville section of town is sharing holiday cheer in a unique way.Residents of Colonial Ridge Drive, Pilgrim’s Way and Hemlock Lane held a holiday lights competition and sip and stroll Sunday as a way to lift spirits during this holiday season.“It was so much fun,” said Meg Shaw, who coordinated the event that was first thought of by neighbor Erica Cabrera.Cabrera suggested the concept to a few neighbors. After conferring with Cabrera, Shaw took the lead a ...

NEW MILFORD — A neighborhood in the Gaylordsville section of town is sharing holiday cheer in a unique way.

Residents of Colonial Ridge Drive, Pilgrim’s Way and Hemlock Lane held a holiday lights competition and sip and stroll Sunday as a way to lift spirits during this holiday season.

“It was so much fun,” said Meg Shaw, who coordinated the event that was first thought of by neighbor Erica Cabrera.

Cabrera suggested the concept to a few neighbors. After conferring with Cabrera, Shaw took the lead a month ago and posted the concept on the neighborhood’s social media page.

“We all know each other and schedule nights to do things together,” Shaw said, noting how the social media page has afforded residents the opportunity to get to learn more about each other.

Neighbors were receptive to the idea of decorating and having a friendly competition, with the winner being awarded “bragging rights,” Cabrera said. Votes for the best display were still be tabulated as of Tuesday.

The initial concept grew quickly. Someone suggested incorporating a type of sip and stroll, since the local Sip & Stroll was canceled downtown due to the pandemic.

Participating residents signed up to put juice boxes, water bottles, hot cocoa or other family friendly drinks and snacks on small tables at the end of their driveway for neighbors to pick up as they strolled the neighborhood.

Shaw outlined guidelines for safety, and residents followed them, according to resident Chris Goodrich, whose family participated in the festivities.

On Sunday, neighbors headed outdoors to walk around the three roads to view the holiday lights.

“It was great to see everybody. Everyone was in a great mood,” said Goodrich, who said he annually decorates for Christmas but stepped it up this year.

Goodrich said he was impressed with the number of neighbors who participated. “It was nice to see the community come together,” he said.

“I’ve always been into Christmas lights and go overboard,” Goodrich said. “And even now this year, unfortunately, I ran out of trees in the yard, so I found other things to decorate.”

Shaw said as the event approached, she saw more neighbors get involved.

“There were more and more lights, more inflatables,” she said. “It was really fun to see.”

Goodrich said he used close to 100 sets of lights in his front yard and enjoyed the help he got from his children, Haley, 11, and Quinn, 8.

“I’m hoping everyone does this moving forward,” Goodrich said of the event. “It’s been a good twist to everything going on.”

New pastor brings ‘pep’ to Gaylordsville church

NEW MILFORD — Growing up, Jacob Eun considered following in his father’s footsteps and becoming a pastor.But while on a youth church retreat in high school, he felt in his heart God was calling him for a greater purpose. Years passed and he began to doubt this feeling, so he asked God for a sign — something like the burning bush he showed Moses.“But then I realized that God’s presence is anywhere — everywhere I go,” Eun said. “That’s when I realized I don’t need any si...

NEW MILFORD — Growing up, Jacob Eun considered following in his father’s footsteps and becoming a pastor.

But while on a youth church retreat in high school, he felt in his heart God was calling him for a greater purpose. Years passed and he began to doubt this feeling, so he asked God for a sign — something like the burning bush he showed Moses.

“But then I realized that God’s presence is anywhere — everywhere I go,” Eun said. “That’s when I realized I don’t need any sign.”

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Now 26, Eun is the new pastor of a tight-knit parish of about 50 people at Gaylorsdville United Methodist Church, established in the mid-1800s.

“Our church is very loving, very caring, very welcoming,” Eun said. “It’s like my family. They were so kind and they really do appreciate me being here. And I do, too. I am so blessed by this church.”

Heidi Haug, who has been going to the church on and off since childhood, said she loves Eun’s spirit and excitement.

“He’s kind and thoughtful and has great ideas,” she said. “He loves everybody. You can tell when he’s doing a service, it’s really coming from his heart.”

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Eun may be young, but he is “wise beyond his years,” said Kathleen Weinzierl, who has been a parishioner for four years. She said he brings a younger perspective that is critical.

“He is very humble,” Weinzierl said. “He is very intelligent. He has really been a blessing to the church. He is very spirtual. Any decision he makes, he prays about it first. He’s the real deal.”

Eun describes himself as a “born-and-bred Methodist.” His father, John Higon Eun, was the pastor at a church in South Korea until Jacob was 12 and the family moved to America. The senior Eun was seeking better educational opportunities for his two sons.

“He had to sacrifice a lot,” Eun said. “He actually gave up everything he built in South Korea.”

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For Eun’s teenage years, the family lived in Fairfield and Easton, as his father served as a pastor at Fairfield Grace Korean Methodist Church. John Higon Eun then became the pastor at the Chamsarang Korean Methodist Church in Long Island.

When Eun told his father he wanted to be a pastor, his dad had a piece of advice.

“He said being a pastor is not just being a pastor for one day out of seven days,” Eun said. “You have to embody God’s ministry in all (your) life.”

Eun has tried to do that by keeping God at the center of his life, he said. Much of his day is spent praying and preparing for his Sunday sermon.

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“Always, at the core of the sermon, there’s the love of God that is accessible to anyone who wants it,” he said.

Parishioners said his services are interactive, with the music, prayers and Scripture readings on a wall in front of the church so people do not need to follow along in their Bibles. He asks questions or has parishioners review the previous week’s sermon, Haug said.

“He’s really bringing a lot of pep to the church, a lot of excitement,” she said. “We’re learning from him. We weren’t sure how that was going to work because we’re all older than he is, pretty much. But it’s great because it’s all fresh with him. It’s new.”

Eun graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Arts in history and psychology in 2012. In 2015, he earned a Master of Divinity at the Drew Theological School in New Jersey. He attended Princeton Theological Seminary, last year earning a Master of Theology with a concentration in New Testament.

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Before starting at Gaylordsville in July, Eun was the English ministry pastor and youth pastor at his father’s church and as the elementary pastor at Arcola United Methodist Church in New Jersey.

Few young people are at the Gaylordsville church, but Eun hopes to change that.

“That’s one of my passions,” he said. “I want to engage in more church ministry and bring more children (and) youth into the church, bring more livelihood into the church.”

He hopes to be a resource for Korean international students in nearby schools.

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He is planning a “Holyween” event where attendees dress as Bible characters and play games and other activities at the church.

“I’m going to open the church door more to the community so they can come and enjoy the fellowship together,” Eun said.

Oct 19, 2017|Updated Oct 22, 2017 9:02 a.m.

Julia Perkins is the managing editor of the Danbury News-Times. She was previously a reporter with The News-Times since June 2016 and covered the towns of Bethel and Brookfield. She also has covered breaking news for Hearst Connecticut. Graduating from Quinnipiac University in 2016, she served as the editor-in-chief of The Quinnipiac Chronicle, the weekly, student-run newspaper. She is a huge “Harry Potter” fan.

Falling tree sets New Milford house on fire

NEW MILFORD — A couple and their pets escaped serious injuries when a tree crashed down on their house Tuesday night causing it to erupt in flames.Alex Quinn, who was asleep in the home at the time, said he woke up around 11 p.m. after hearing a loud crash. After inspecting the house, he discovered a huge tree had fallen onto the single family home, smashing through the roof.“It brought down the electrical wires that were sitting next to the house and there were a lot of sparks,” Quinn said.Advertisemen...

NEW MILFORD — A couple and their pets escaped serious injuries when a tree crashed down on their house Tuesday night causing it to erupt in flames.

Alex Quinn, who was asleep in the home at the time, said he woke up around 11 p.m. after hearing a loud crash. After inspecting the house, he discovered a huge tree had fallen onto the single family home, smashing through the roof.

“It brought down the electrical wires that were sitting next to the house and there were a lot of sparks,” Quinn said.

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Within moments, the exterior of the home caught on fire.

“That’s when I knew we had to get out,” he said.

Quinn and his girlfriend grabbed what they could before fleeing the structure, including their 18-year-old Jack Russell Terrier named Scout and two cats named Simi and Cleo.

The tree, which was nearly 2 feet in diameter at its base, snapped near the ground and fell on top of the single-story home on Route 7 near the Housatonic River.

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There was no storm at the time and no apparent reason why the tree fell, authorities said.

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Fire Marshal Brian Ohmen said the tree did significant damage to the home’s attic but didn’t penetrate the ceiling.

Ohmen said responding firefighters quickly doused the flames before it spread to the rest of the home. Firefighters from several companies including Water Witch, Gaylordsville and the Kent Volunteer Fire Department responded.

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Quinn praised the work of the volunteer firefighters in knocking down the blaze and offering any assistance they could.

“They were really amazing,” he said. “There were at least 30 firefighters here, all volunteers, doing everything they could to help.”

Quinn, who had been renting the riverside home for nearly three years, said he had a small recording studio inside.

“The firefighters were able to cover all the equipment with tarps,” he said. “As a result none of the equipment was damaged.”

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They also asked Quinn and his girlfriend if they needed any other assistance.

“One guy realized we had a cat and said your going to need your litter,” Quinn said. “Next thing I know here is is 6-foot-tall fire fighter coming out of the house with a bag of Tidy Cat in one hand and the litter box in the other. I just can’s say enough about how great they were.”

The animals were staying at a relatives home while Quinn was working Wednesday with the American Red Cross. The home is currently unlivable.

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dperrefort@newstimes.com

Sep 5, 2018|Updated Sep 5, 2018 5:53 p.m.

I’m a senior reporter who has spent more than 15 years covering the region including stints as a court reporter as well as providing political coverage for the Danbury area. I am currently a business writer with The News-Times covering everything from the corporate world in the greater Danbury area to economic issues, the jobs picture and small businesses.

9 Things You Could Build on the 50 Acres of Land for Sale in Gaylordsville

There are over 50 acres of land for sale in Gaylordsville, CT.I learned about the land sale after viewing a new Youtube video by Brookfield Photography. They posted beautiful aerial footage to the social media platform on August 14, 2022.After watching the video, my creative juices started to flow, I was wondering what I could one do with 57 acres of land? I did some research and these are some of the things you can fit on 50 acres.There are 57 acres ...

There are over 50 acres of land for sale in Gaylordsville, CT.

I learned about the land sale after viewing a new Youtube video by Brookfield Photography. They posted beautiful aerial footage to the social media platform on August 14, 2022.

After watching the video, my creative juices started to flow, I was wondering what I could one do with 57 acres of land? I did some research and these are some of the things you can fit on 50 acres.

There are 57 acres of land for sale in Gaylordsville, CT. That got us to thinking, what could a person do with that much land? Here are 9 things that would fit there.

Basically, if you can dream it, you can do it with 50 acres of land. Personally, I'd install an Ewok Village for me and my friends to live in, as Ewoks.

9 Things You Could Build on the 50 Acres of Land for Sale in Gaylordsville

1 - I could put 39 football fields on 50 acres, that is a lot of football, and to keep it going around the clock, I'm going to need at least 78 energetic football teams. 2 - According to Measuring Stuff, I could fit 13,600 (20 x 8) shipping containers. 3 - I could fit 6,800 tiny homes. I guess if I go that way, I might as well establish my own cult, otherwise these homes are going to seem pointless. 4 - I could put 85 replicas of the White House. 5 - Real Estate Info Guide says I could start a massive parking lot that fits around 7,800 parking spaces. 6 - 750 Tennis Courts 7 - If the land is fertile, I can start my own farm. 8 - Discount Lots says I can turn a profit one 50 acres of land by becoming a beekeeper. DL says: "an acre of land can host up to 10 hives and you can make up to $50 per hive. If we do the math, that can get you up to $500 per acre of land. With 50 acres, you could make a decent amount of money." 9 - According to Sky Tough, I can build my own private air strip, depending on a lot of factors, including how big the aircraft are that we'll be using.

P.S. I don't know who you contact about the land sale, I can't do everything for you. Just call Gaylordsville.

New Milford firefighters adjust to changing times

For more than a dozen years Karl Fuchs, a second lieutenant in the Gaylordsville Volunteer Fire Department In New Milford, routinely headed for the do...

For more than a dozen years Karl Fuchs, a second lieutenant in the Gaylordsville Volunteer Fire Department In New Milford, routinely headed for the door when there was a major fire in town, even when he was at work.

But four years ago, Fuchs was forced to look for another job when Nestle, his longtime employer, closed its research and development operation in town.

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"I didn't go to every call, but if it was a structure fire or something major, there was no problem," said Fuchs, a third-generation volunteer whose grandfather was a founding member of the department. "Now I'm working in Westchester. I'm an hour away, and I can't do that."

Fuchs isn't the only volunteer fireman in New Milford or elsewhere forced by the changing economy to take a job outside the community where he lives and serves.

"Twenty to 25 years ago, a lot of members worked in town and were able to leave their jobs when they were needed," said Chief Jim Galbraith of Water Witch Hose Co., the town's largest volunteer department. "But now it's tougher, because a lot more people work out of town."

Three years ago, chiefs from Waterwitch, Gaylordsville and Northville devised a plan to ensure adequate fire protection during the crucial daytime hours when many of their members may not be available.

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If there is a report of a structure fire between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the week, anywhere in town, the call goes out to all three volunteer companies.

The system is used even if the report is of smoke in a building or a car fire inside a garage, former Northville Chief Jerry Romaniello said.

"The `all call' tone activates all three departments' pagers, and gets everybody moving," he said. "It seems to be a fantastic system."

Under that system, the highest ranking officer of the department that answers the call is in charge until an officer from the company that would normally respond arrives on the scene, Galbraith said.

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Occasionally too many firefighters show up, but that's not a problem.

"There's nothing wrong with getting people there, because you can always turn them away," Galbraith said. "You don't want to be caught short."

Although many volunteer ambulance corps in the Danbury area and elsewhere in the state have been forced to rely on paid personnel to answer calls during the day, the situation with volunteer firefighters isn't as dire, most local fire chiefs said.

"On the fire side during the day, we're fine," said Sherman fire and ambulance Chief Matt Heinz. "But the times are changing. "Years ago when there was a fire call, employers said go. Now they're saying you can't do it."

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One reason the reduced number of daytime volunteers has a greater impact on the ambulance corps is that it responds to twice as many calls as firefighters do, said Chief Ken Parciasepe of the Stony Hill Fire Department, one of two volunteer companies in Bethel.

"Our ambulance corps will run approximately 700 EMS calls per year, and 60 to 70 percent of them are during the daytime. Last year we had about 400 fire calls, and half were during the day," Parciasepe said. "There's just a lot higher demand for the ambulance, and part of the reason is that people are getting older."

A decade ago, volunteer fire departments across the state were complaining about manpower problems, although the shortage has been eased in recent years as more departments have established junior corps to attract young members.

Northville is one of several volunteer departments with an active complement of aspiring volunteers, like 17-year-old James Hall, who joined two years ago because he wanted "to do something for the community."

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Hall's father, stepfather and brother are all volunteer firefighters. Junior members aren't allowed to fight fires, but they help out at fire scenes and can become regular members when they turn 18.

"We've got seven junior members now, and we've got quite a few regular members from the juniors in the past, which is the whole idea," said Northville volunteer Dave Lang

at jpirro@newstimes.com

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or at 203"' 731-3342.

April 12, 2010

By John Pirro

By Staff Writer

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