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 Sailor's Refuge 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 Bristol, 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 Page Park 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 Chef's Table or visit Old Post Office, 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 Bristol, 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 Bristol, 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 Bristol, 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.
BRISTOL – Hibachi Buffet was bustling with happy customers Friday during their grand opening ceremony with city and chamber leaders.The 10,000 square foot buffet is located in the Bristol Commons Plaza at 99 Farmington Ave., near Planet Fitness and The Paper Store. Hibachi Buffet is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. They offer hibachi, Chinese, Japanese and American foods.“We had our soft opening on March 12,” manager Josh Liang said. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive.”Au...
BRISTOL – Hibachi Buffet was bustling with happy customers Friday during their grand opening ceremony with city and chamber leaders.
The 10,000 square foot buffet is located in the Bristol Commons Plaza at 99 Farmington Ave., near Planet Fitness and The Paper Store. Hibachi Buffet is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. They offer hibachi, Chinese, Japanese and American foods.
“We had our soft opening on March 12,” manager Josh Liang said. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Audrey Chen, owner of Hibachi Buffet’s Bristol location, said customers love the sushi and hibachi, as well as the roast pork, mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. They also have a wide variety of salad, fruits and seafood options.
“We make food that is healthy and low sodium but that will fill you up,” she said.
Hibachi Buffet currently employs 14 full time and 12 part time staff. Chen said she is still hiring and looking for more servers and hosts.
The buffet had a large crowd of customers on their grand opening day Friday.
Wayne Babin was getting his third plate with shrimp and hibachi chicken on Friday when Chen came over to say hello to him. He had previously been to Hibachi Buffet on their first day open and this past Saturday.
“Everything is fantastic,” he said.
Chen also greeted Luciano Alejo, who was eating at the buffet for the first time. His plate was piled with sushi.
“I love the sushi – it is very fresh and wonderful,” he said. “I will definitely be coming back and I want to bring the rest of my family.”
Morry Kalimian, owner of Bristol Commons, was at Hibachi Buffet’s ribbon cutting on Friday. He said they have been “rocking it” ever since opening.
“They are a fantastic business,” he said. “I’m so happy to see them here. They put a lot of money into bringing this place around. I don’t think there is anything like this in Bristol. Where else can you go for lunch to get amazing, homemade food, all you can eat for $13.99?”
Kalimian said the building that Hibachi Buffet is in now was once K-B Toys. It had been more than 10 years since the space was occupied.
“They have now sparked a lot of interest from other restaurants,” he said.
Justin Malley, executive director of Economic and Community Development for the City of Bristol, praised what Hibachi Buffet has been able to achieve.
“Audrey and her team are true professionals,” he said. “They have a formula for success. Based on what we’ve seen here and at their other locations, it is easy to see why they are so successful.”
Malley said Chen had “tapped into a new niche” for Bristol.
Katie D’Agostino, president and CEO of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, said she is very excited to welcome Hibachi Buffet to Bristol.
“They have been packed ever since they opened,” she said. “It’s great to have them right around the corner from our office.”
Mayor Jeff Caggiano said he’d heard a lot of good things about Hibachi Buffet since they opened. He previously visited the spot and shared a video on the Mayor’s Office Bristol CT Facebook page. Dawn Nielsen, marketing and public relations specialist for the city of Bristol said it was the most popular video shared on that page, receiving more than 119,000 views.
“They did a really nice job,” Caggiano said. “It is a very classy looking spot. It is good to see a new business come to Bristol. If people are looking for a great value, this is the place to go.”
Hibachi Buffet is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
For more information, call 860-973-8889 or visit /hibachibuffetbristol.com.
Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-269-0822 or [email protected].
Amidst one of the most contentious budget years in recent memory, Bristol is seeing an uncommonly public rift between its mayor and school administrators.With just a week to go until a key vote, both Mayor Jeff Caggiano and Acting Superintendent Iris White contend they’re seeing misinformation from the other side, and school board ...
Amidst one of the most contentious budget years in recent memory, Bristol is seeing an uncommonly public rift between its mayor and school administrators.
With just a week to go until a key vote, both Mayor Jeff Caggiano and Acting Superintendent Iris White contend they’re seeing misinformation from the other side, and school board Chair Shelby Pons is arguing that the budget dispute isn’t about the school system’s spending but instead was caused by lackluster economic development under Caggiano’s administration.
“Addressing the misinformation that blames potential tax increases to our children’s education is crucial, as it negatively impacts our community. This tactic of placing the blame for the city’s financial challenges on the Board of Education serves to divert attention from the actual issue: the budget deficits in Bristol stem from inadequate revenue growth,” Pons said in a statement.
“Consequently, the Board of Education has experienced underfunding throughout Mayor Caggiano’s tenure. The board is not overspending. It is deficit spending because it has not been given enough to fund the needs of the district to begin with,” she wrote.
Millions of dollars in operating expenses are on the table. The school administration initially asked for $147 million for next year, roughly $16.4 million more than this year. The school board subsequently chopped $6 million from that, so its formal request was for $141 million. That would have been an increase over this year of about $10.4 million, and even so, would have triggered job reductions in the new fiscal year.
But Caggiano and the finance board are looking at just a $6.6 million boost, roughly $3.8 million below the board’s request. The finance board is scheduled to vote Tuesday on that as part of an overall city budget. In May, the finance board and council will jointly set the final version of the new budget.
In the past week, one of the most contentious issues to emerge has been the future of a former elementary school housing the pre-kindergarten programs for about 340 youngsters.
The Edgewood Pre-Kindergarten Academy had to shut down in February because of extensive roof leaks, and operations have been moved temporarily to another building about two miles away. The school administration wants to repair Edgewood, a former elementary school built in the 1950s, and keep pre-kindergarten classes there for the entire city.
Caggiano said it makes more sense to split the program between two very large schools that have excess space. Noting the school board is already running a deficit reported at anywhere from $7.3 million to $9 million, he said it’s wisest to focus on directing money to staff and programs instead of repairs to an older building that will only need more costly work in the future. He said he’d been told there was mold in the building and added that any large-scale renovation would also have to deal with asbestos there.
White replied with a written message to parents the next day: “Urgent clarification is needed on some statements made by Mayor Caggiano last night regarding Edgewood PreK Academy. These remarks have sparked confusion and concern in our community, and we must address them directly and clarify the facts for everyone involved.
White said a formal assessment in the south wing of Edgewood in February “showed no elevated levels of mold.” She also said that Edgewood, like many older schools, has asbestos, but it’s not a danger.
“We would never knowingly allow children to be in an unsafe environment,” she wrote.
Caggiano said his view has been misreported as opposing the special education component of the pre-kindergarten program. Rather, he claims he is trying to save jobs in the school system by reducing the burden of unnecessary building costs.
“I’m frustrated that they’re putting out misinformation. There were 40 or 50 people who spoke at our budget hearing saying I want to close the program. I don’t,” he said. “But I think we need to be smart about our capital dollars.”
Even if educators spent $16 million on a new roof and other improvements, Edgewood would ultimately need $30 million or $40 million in further renovations and upgrades, he said. That would drain funds that could be used to replace aging roofs or make repairs at other schools that are in better condition.
“Instead of investing in buildings which are inanimate objects, we should be focusing our money on the educators that provide service to our kids,” he said.
Courtney Sugarman, who heads the pre-kindergarten program at Edgewood, led dozens of teachers, aides and parents in telling the finance board that Edgewood is more than a building.
Educators said that’s particularly true for special education students, who make up more than half of its enrollment. They need different services than youngsters in kindergarten and up and having those services and specialists in the same building has been far more efficient than the years when they were spread around the city, educators said.
Sugarman cautioned the finance board that without Edgewood, the city would lose funding for some pre-kindergarten seats.
Location: Lake Compounce, Bristol, CTDate: 05-10-2025Who do you think will win? Tell us!Tweet to @eatingcontestDid you know that the histori...
Who do you think will win? Tell us!
Did you know that the historic Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park in Bristol, Connecticut is the oldest continually operating amusement park in the United States? There isn't a more iconic and fitting location to kick off The Road to Coney with the first qualifier of the 2025 season. Eaters from around the world have been waiting for this moment to sink their teeth into the most delicious HDB's to prove they have what it takes to earn a coveted seat at the table at the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Conest. In this historic place, history will be re-written with the names of our next great heroes as one male and one female will emerge victorious, stamping their ticket to Brooklyn.
If you think you have the fortitude, the determination, and the capacity to cement your legacy as one of the greatest eaters in the world, then we urge you to sign up and stake your claim.
This contest will take place at 1PM Eastern on Saturday, May 10th, 2025 at Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park, 185 Enterprise Dr., Bristol, CT 06010
About Nathan's Famous, Inc. Nathan's is a Russell 2000 Company that currently distributes its products in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and 20 foreign countries through its restaurant system, foodservice sales programs, product licensing activities, and manufacturing. For additional information about Nathan's, please visit our website at www.nathansfamous.com.
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*All applicants must be 18 years of age or older and fully acknowledge and understand the inherent dangers and risks associated with participating in an eating contest. The applicant further acknowledges and understands that the MLE/IFOCE coordinates with event sponsor(s) to select and approve eligible participants, and that the MLE/IFOCE shall decide, at its sole discretion, whether an applicant is eligible to participate in any eating event, and/or related activities. The MLE/IFOCE may revoke an applicant's eligibility to participate in the eating contest, or related activities, at any time, for any reason, at its sole discretion. The MLE/IFOCE and the event sponsors reserve the right, at any time, to change any and all details concerning the event, including, e.g., time, duration, location and prize structure.
The amusement park operator of Dollywood in Tennessee is buying Lake Compounce in Bristol and all of the U.S. properties of Parques Reunidos, the Spanish entertainment giant, officials of the two companies said Tuesday.Terms of the definitive purchase agreement ...
The amusement park operator of Dollywood in Tennessee is buying Lake Compounce in Bristol and all of the U.S. properties of Parques Reunidos, the Spanish entertainment giant, officials of the two companies said Tuesday.
Terms of the definitive purchase agreement between Atlanta-based Herschend Family Entertainment and Parques Reunidos were not released. The deal calls for Herschend to acquire all 20 of the U.S. properties of Palace Entertainment, a subsidiary of Parques Reunidos.
According to park management, Lake Compounce is the the oldest continuously operated amusement park in the country, opening in 1846 as a picnic park with lakeside band concerts in a gazebo and small amusements.
Lake Compounce is Palace Entertainment's best-known entertainment property outside of Kennywood, an amusement park near Pittsburgh. The Pennsylvania-based Kennywood Entertainment Co. had become the managing partner of Lake Compounce in 1996 and both the Pennsylvania and Connecticut theme parks were sold to Palace Entertainment in 2009.
Herschend's amusement park portfolio includes Dollywood, a famous theme park in eastern Tennessee that is based in part on the life of country music star Dolly Parton. Dollywood draws about 3 million visitors annually and rivals some Disney parks in popularity, according to travel and amusement park websites. Andrew Wexler, chief executive officer of Herschend, said the acquisition represents a milestone that is fitting of the company's 75th anniversary.
"Today’s announcement marks a natural expansion and continuation of that vision," Wexler said. "By growing wisely and staying true to our purpose, we are building a future where we can continue creating memories worth repeating for generations to come.”
John Reilly, Palace Entertainment's chief executive officer, said Herschend "is the ideal organization to lead Palace Entertainment’s unique properties."
“Herschend is best in class in providing a high-quality guest experience within its parks," Reilly added. "Palace Entertainment's team members and its parks are in great hands as we make this transition.”
No immediate changes are planned at Lake Compounce and the other Palace Entertainment properties that are being acquired, according to Herschend officials. Herschend has more than 14,000 employees.
In addition to the U.S. properties it is selling to Herschend, Parques Reunidos operates about 40 amusement parks and entertainment centers in Europe and Australia.
SOUTHINGTON/BRISTOL, CT — One of Connecticut's most beloved attractions will have a new owner this year, according to an Atlanta-based family entertainment company.Officials with Herschend Family Entertainment out of Atlanta, Ga., announced Tuesday that the 75-year-old company had acquired Lake Comp...
SOUTHINGTON/BRISTOL, CT — One of Connecticut's most beloved attractions will have a new owner this year, according to an Atlanta-based family entertainment company.
Officials with Herschend Family Entertainment out of Atlanta, Ga., announced Tuesday that the 75-year-old company had acquired Lake Compounce, which is located in Bristol/Southington.
The two-town theme park is Connecticut's largest and is considered one of the oldest such amusement parks in the country.
Lake Compunce is home to an amusement park, a water park as well as a popular campground.
Its world-famous "Boulder Dash" roller coaster carved into a nearby mountain is considered a bucket-list ride for coaster enthusiasts.
According to an announcement from Herschend, Lake Compounce was acquired after a deal was reached with Madrid, Spain,-based Parques Reunidos, which owns Palace Entertainment out of Pittsburgh, Pa., which had Lake Compounce among its stable of properties.
Lake Compounce is one of 20 "historic and beloved entertainment venues" acquired by Herschend.
In addition to Lake Compounce, Herschend is also acquiring "Kennywood" in the Pittsburgh, Pa., area and the famous "Dutch Wonderland" in Lancaster, Pa.
Herschend dates back to 1950 when the Herschend family took over a small cave tour in the Ozark Mountains.
Since then, the family-run company has expanded to several theme parks nationally, including the world-famous "Dollywood" theme park in Tennesee, which was founded by iconic country singer Dolly Parton.
Herschend Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wexler said Tuesday's announcement fits in with the company's goal of expansion during its 75th anniversary.
“This year, we’re celebrating 75 years of bringing families closer together—and looking ahead to the next 75,” said Wexler. “Today’s announcement marks a natural expansion and continuation of that vision. By growing wisely and staying true to our purpose, we are building a future where we can continue creating memories worth repeating for generations to come.”
With this deal, Herschend properties will include theme parks, aquariums, resorts, and immersive attractions that serve 20 million annual guests.
“We look forward to building upon the strong foundation that Palace Entertainment has created and welcoming these properties and hosts into the Herschend family of brands,” added Wexler.
“The teams at these parks have done an incredible job building beloved destinations in their communities, and we look forward to learning from them, growing together, and building on their success. This is an exciting opportunity for all of us to continue creating exceptional experiences for guests and meaningful opportunities for our teams.”
Palace Entertainment officials said Herschend is the right buyer for their properties.
“Herschend is the ideal organization to lead Palace Entertainment’s unique properties,” said John Reilly, Palace Entertainment's chief executive officer, in a statement. “Herschend is best in class in providing a high-quality guest experience within its parks. Palace Entertainment's team members and its parks are in great hands as we make this transition.”
Said Herschend’s Board Chairman Chris Herschend: "Being a family business for 75 years has given us a deep understanding of what makes properties like these special—not just the rides and attractions, but the people who pour their hearts into them every day. These historic and beloved properties have been family traditions for generations, and we are honored to help carry that legacy forward.”
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
For more informatoin and the full announcement, click on this link.
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