AA Learn more about in-home care options for your loved ones

Given the choice, most of us want to stay in our homes. Sometimes, people need help to remain at home. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“Staff is great there a great place to work and call your workplace”

Babispyce S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve been a nurse for over 40 years, and I am currently a nursing professor. When my mom was recently in the hospital, I knew it would not be possible for her to be completely on her own right away. She loves where she resides and enjoys all of the activities that are offered. My goal was to get her back into her apartment as soon as possible with the support she needed to increase her strength and return to her prior level of wellness she had before she went into the hospital. She was used to walking a couple miles a day. When I reached out to ABC I made it clear that my mom would need somebody who would be willing to walk with her in the morning, and in the evening enabling her to get back to her baseline. I would like to complement all of the staff at ABC who provided my mom such wonderful support after two weeks she returned to her baseline and remained in her apartment. She really enjoyed all of the staff that were with her , they were professional they encouraged her to walk, drink fluids, eat and were instrumental in assisting her to reach her prior level of independence. I would strongly recommend ABC to anybody who is in need of support for their loved one.”

Robin Y.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mom’s care needs have been progressing over the past month - increased difficulty standing. walking, decreased appetite, increased incontinence. (Part of the expected declining process per her Dr.) Tara has been wonderful in adapting to Mom’s changing needs as they develop and a very helpful partner in troubleshooting. brainstorming how to adapt to best support Mom. It’s also been helpful in my regular communication with Mom’s Dr, to let her know in detail what has come up and how we have approached. Thank you (again) for your talented staff!”

Jeremy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Outstanding personal service from this company. All of the caregivers were personable and provided outstanding care to our aunt. I would highly recommend them to anyone who has an elder family member in need. Also, the staff that helped to set up their services was outstanding as well. They made the decisions easy to understand with no hidden agenda. Thank you again to "ABC!"”

KEVIN M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“You can't go wrong with this crew. Extremely patient and caring.”

Daniel S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caring for family can be difficult and challenging at times. It's so nice to know that Always Best Care Senior Services is there to help!”

Cathy K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Taylor, John, and Kristine and their crew are the best. They are patient, understanding, and a joy to work with.”

Daniel S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sabina always has a pleasant, caring, and respectful attitude. I feel she treats me as she would as her own mother. She treats me the way she would like to be treated. We are a good “team” together.”

Tracy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Diana has a total commitment of compassion, empathy, and respect for myself and my family. My daughters feel she is truly a tremendous caregiver. They know I am in good hands. She acknowledges with commitment of my physical, emotional, and practical needs, my quality of life has excelled due to Diana’s help. I look forward to her presence everyday her attitude is exceptional, Diana comes to work daily with a smile on her face. She enters the front door, singing softly ready to work. She has never taken a day off, I have had many caregivers, but Diana is truly the best!”

Anne H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Tina has been with us since the start, caring for my mom. Tina has nothing but my mom’s best interest at heart. She continues to go above and beyond to care for my mom, and ensure anyone else who may be there also understands my mom’s needs. Tina has even gone so far to rearrange her schedule or give up her free time to stay with my mom to avoid her having someone that doesn’t know her. I can see that she genuinely cares for my mom, and treats her as if she was her own family member. That also goes both ways, my mom lights up when she sees Tina. We consider Tina part of our family.”

David L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care helped our family get through a very difficult time with my mother's care. Kristine and Taylor are a pleasure to work with. They are very knowledgable and had the answers to all our questions. They were able to help with all aspects of the care we needed. I highly recommend them.”

John S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kristine and John are extremely caring and compassionate about helping their client's and family and making sure they receive the best care available. Highly recommended!”

Greg G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We needed some home care services for Dad who has dementia, and we made the right decision to trust ABC Senior Services for this support. Dad was lined up with a caregiver who was attentive and helpful, and she and Dad really hit it off. The management and administrative staff from ABC were also very effective and professional. You'll make a good decision to go with ABC Senior Services...”

Liam M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I approached Kristine regarding care for my elderly father. Even though he was outside her service area, she helped to find resources for us. Her commitment to providing outstanding care is only surpassed by her desire to help others. Thank you Kristine!”

Matt B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have known Kristine Lajeunesse for many years now through business networking and she and her Team at Always Best Care are very caring and professional and exactly who you would want on your side if you have a loved one who needs help!”

Ann B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The client care at Always Best Care Senior Service is outstanding”

Kimberly O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Rosemary has many great qualities. She is a hardworker, sensitive, has a giving nature and has an immense desire to help my father. Reliability is vital trait in Rosemary. When my father was in the hospital and came home she immediately wanted to be by his side. My father has come to rely and depend on Rosemary. She is always on time whether it is giving medication or administering food and often encourages my father and helps my father maintain his dignity”

Denise D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides caregivers to our building on a regular basis when we are short staffed. Due to our licensing, we can only have CNAs on the floor and Always Best Care has provided excellent CNAs every time we need some extra help. All of their CNAs have been helpful, willing to go above and beyond for our residents and we always have great responses from our own CNAs and supervisory staff. I am so thankful to Michelle and Wilda who will always staff a shift that I need, even if I call 30 minutes before the shift starts. You’ve been such a huge help!”

Kaytee S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have known John and Kristine Lajeunesse for almost 20 years and when my dad needed care following a diagnosis of dementia, I knew there wouldn’t be anyone better to call than them. The caregivers that have worked with my dad have been wonderful. They are true saints to my family, allowing us the knowledge that Dad is okay to stay at home. They have navigated all of the changes in his cognitive state with grace and kept my father’s dignity in place. He was always a very active man and the caregivers have managed to keep him active, even as his health declines.”

Belinda F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care helped me to get care lined up for my uncle, after I received their information from a close friend of mine that also used their agency. My uncle was a very proud man and did not want help from anyone, including family. Taylor met with me and spent time getting to know the ins and outs of my uncle’s care as well as his personality. She asked about his background so that they could look for a caregiver with similar interests. Although he took a turn for the worse rather quickly, the short time care was provided was wonderful. Thank you for your help and compassion.”

Karel O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My dad’s caregiver is great. He is a man of few words, but she is able to get him talking about all aspects and experiences of his life. They go out regularly and she encourages my dad to participate in the activities put on by the community he lives in. They run errands, go out for meals, or go for a drive just to get a change of scenery. I was nervous at first about how my dad would take having a caregiver come in to help him, but he seems so happy and has great things to talk about after his time spent with his caregiver.”

Martin F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you, Kristine - I am very appreciative of the professional manner with which you and your organization operates. From the initial phone and in-person conversations with Taylor, to the ongoing support of my mother's care - it's been thorough, timely and well managed. I am also struck by how the home-health employees conduct themselves. They are reliable/responsive *and* responsible, and making every effort to work through the challenges day to day with my mother. Thanks for the great job you and your organization are doing. It means a lot to me, especially during this trying time! Best Regards”

Anna T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I wanted to take a moment to thank you and your staff for all of your hard work and dedication to their clients. When my parents finally realized they needed help in their home, I chose ABC as the company I felt would be the best fit. Yes, we have had some ups and down, but when you paired Leah with my parents, it was truly a blessing. My parents love her. She genuinely cares for them and they speak highly of her work ethic. As my mom says, “she is too good to be true”. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your working with me to find the right fit. Well on our end, Leah fits like a glove and I hope she feels the same. She is a special person so I wanted to acknowledge her hard work and dedication to my parents. It makes me feel more at ease knowing there is someone coming to the home to properly care for them. Again I want to thank you all and encourage you to keep up the good work.”

Craig F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My family provides the care to my mother 24/7, we called Always Best Care to provide respite care to my mom while we took some time to ourselves for a weekend. Mom’s caregiver, Gloria, was great and she had the perfect disposition to work with my mom. She was attentive and kept mom well fed and engaged during the time we were away. We would definitely call Always Best Care again when we need some time away.”

Brenda
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TESTIMONIALS

“The caregiver that helped my husband and I were so kind to us both, especially to my husband while I spent some time in the hospital and rehab. Our caregiver brought my husband to see me every day while I was at the hospital and at rehab, I knew he was in excellent hands and I could focus on getting stronger again.”

Heather R.
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“i really like my caregiver, Victor very much. Victor is a very patient and observant aide who knows when I need his help. I knew from the first day meeting him that we would get along very well.”

Johnson L.
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TESTIMONIALS

““I want to give a huge thank you for the care that Always Best Care provided over the last year and a half. They started out assisting just my dad since he was wheelchair bound and then began providing care to my mom as well who had advanced dementia. The two ladies that helped them both did an amazing job and gave me the confidence that they were being well cared for since I live on the other side of the country. Up to my dad’s passing, his caregivers were there for him to provide comfort and companionship while managing my mom’s emotions as well during the difficult time my dad had. Being a nurse myself and in the healthcare field for a while, I had high expectations which were exceeded by the caregivers and office staff of Always Best Care.”

harry B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Both of Mom’s caregivers are exceptional. They are always professional, calm and extremely patient with my mom. They know how to keep her calm and to manage her anxiety. My whole family is very grateful, knowing that Mom is getting really competent care, great meals and friendly companionship. Thank you.”

Kathleen F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My husband had care from Always Best Care until he passed away. Thankfully he is on his "next journey" and finally pain free, while he was here with us, his caregiver, Craig, did an amazing job caring for him and was here to help us from our first day of services. Craig always managed to get my husband to share stories from his time in the war that even I had not heard before. It was a great way to get to know more of my husband so his memory can continue with others around him.”

Beth F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am very pleased with the care that Craig gave to my husband. My husband enjoyed having another man to talk to instead of conversation only between him and I. Craig managed to keep him occupied and safe so that I could go and get some time to myself, allowing me peace of mind that my husband was in great hands”

Sonia T.
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“I hired Always Best Care to help my mom who was living with me at home. She was diagnosed with dementia and within 3 months she could hardly do much for herself anymore. I was able to continue working full time while my mom received care from Always Best Care. We had the same caregiver from day 1 and she was absolutely amazing. She kept everyone in the loop with any changes my mom experienced and the regular in person and phone check ins were a great added support to myself and my family. Thank you ABC for all the help and compassion that you showed my mom until her passing.”

Laura
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TESTIMONIALS

“They are very caring and easy to deal with. They work with the family and the patient to see that the patient has what is needed for their care. In all we had a good experience with Best Care.”

Elaine G.
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“Our caregiver is the absolute best, you all got lucky finding her.”

Bob G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Anything from Always Best Care is good to have. The care from them has given me my life back. I wasn’t expecting a perfect match on the first caregiver, but Always Best Care did a very good job.”

Claudia B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have been using the services of ABC for almost three years, and I have worked personally with John, Kristine, Taylor, Michelle and Wilda, as well as the many wonderful caregivers who have attended to my mother’s needs with great care and attention. Throughout this time, my mother’s care needs have changed many times, and they have always been very responsive to any requests, including the directives of the hospice nurses that work in concert with all of them. Taylor and Michelle are incredibly diligent about keeping on top of issues that arise day-to-day, and running their questions and concerns by me. I remain a loyal customer to ABC because I feel that my mother is getting really great care, and will continue to see the warm, friendly faces she has come to know and trust today and every day. At 94 yrs old, my mother is quite dependent on the care providers for almost all her needs, and they always show up and make her feel safe and secure.”

Rachel C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“It has been a true pleasure working with you and your organization. You all demonstrate empathy and compassion in caring for frail elderly family members and insure distant families are comforted knowing you are there.”

Steve S.
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“Mom’s caregiver is a part of the family, we absolutely love her!”

Joe L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has done a fantastic job in providing us with at-home care for my step-mother while we prepared for her transition to move permanently to a skilled nursing facility. With their help, she was able to spend a full six months at home before moving. We would not have been able to do it without them. All the caregivers we have met and used have been kind and attentive, frequently going the extra mile, whatever that may be on any given day. The office staff is friendly, empathetic and very diligent in keeping all parties informed of all aspects of day-to-day care. They are knowledgeable, respectful and efficient. I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone who is looking for help in keeping their loved one at home for as long as possible.”

Sarah C.
 In-Home Care Chester, CT

How does In-home Senior Care in Chester, CT work?

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it's 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 ages, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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 Senior Care Chester, CT

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.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a unfamiliar assisted living community, 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:

Comfort
Comfort

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, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Chester, 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.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

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.

Independence
Independence

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 an assisted living community. 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.

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

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 to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be 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 in Chester, CT 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.

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

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:

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

Aid and Attendance benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

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.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

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.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

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.


Respite Care Chester, CT

During your Care Plan consultation with Always Best Care, your Care Coordinator will speak with you about in-home care costs and what options there may be to help meet your budget needs.

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 Chester,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.

 Caregivers Chester, 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 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:

An assessment of your senior loved one

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An in-depth discussion of the needs of your senior loved one to remain in their own home

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Reviewing a detailed Care Plan that will meet your senior loved one's needs

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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.

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.

Latest News in Chester, CT

Chester Honored with Sustainable CT Certification

Chester is among the Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this year for achieving Sustainable CT certification. Sustainable CT is a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities to become more efficient, resilient, and inclusive. Chester met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious Silver-level certification.The Chester Museum at the Mill. This property, situated along Pattaconk Brook near the center of Chester, was used for manufacturing for almost 100 years...

Chester is among the Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this year for achieving Sustainable CT certification. Sustainable CT is a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities to become more efficient, resilient, and inclusive. Chester met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious Silver-level certification.

The Chester Museum at the Mill. This property, situated along Pattaconk Brook near the center of Chester, was used for manufacturing for almost 100 years, beginning around 1825. Purchased in 2001 by the Chester Historical Society, the building officially opened as the Chester Museum at The Mill in 2010.

“Hats off to Cindy Lignar and the Sustainable Chester Team for achieving this prestigious milestone for our small but mighty town! The certification recognizes the inclusive, resilient, and vibrant community of Chester and provides more opportunities for current and future grant funding,” said Pat Bandzes, Chester’s Economic Development Commission Chairwoman.

In its application, Chester demonstrated achievement in 12 sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building and thriving local economies to vibrant arts and culture and well-stewarded lands. Chester was able to successfully document actions related to its historical, cultural, natural, and business assets with the assistance of many organizations and their efforts, including Chester Historical Society events; Chester Merchants and Tourism Liaison collaboration; Chester Public Library programs; Chester Land Trust and Conservation Commission invasive species education and mitigation; Cedar Lake benthic barriers to control aquatic weeds; Town pollinator gardens and education; and Chester Rotary’s activities and financial support of efforts. Additionally, Chester documented fifteen sustainability events, including the first town-wide Earth Month & Day celebration; new opportunities for residents to recycle; initiation of the Region 4 Food Scraps program; Chester Land Trust town-wide clean up, Chester Fair’s Zero Waste Efforts, and the Sunday Farmers’ Market.

“The silver certification process was extensive and extremely detailed, but it was well worth the effort! It required collaboration between town officials, departments, boards and commissions, and the Chester community. We came together to demonstrate Chester’s “can do” attitude and to showcase the many accomplishments that make Chester a healthy and forward-looking community,” said Cindy Lignar, Chester’s Sustainability Team Lead.

“Congratulations to our certified communities,” said Lynn Stoddard, executive director of Sustainable CT. “We are inspired by the leadership and commitment of these communities. From elected officials and town staff to resident volunteers, these certified towns are improving opportunities and the quality of life for all.”

The Sustainable CT program includes actions that help municipalities build community connection, social equity, and long-term resilience. It includes an action roadmap and support tools that are especially relevant as towns seek practices and resources to promote social justice and respond to the ongoing challenges of climate change and economic uncertainty. Sustainable CT is independently funded, with strong multi-year support from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, Hampshire Foundation, Connecticut Green Bank, Common Sense Fund, and the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut.

Chester and all of this year’s certified communities will be recognized at the Sustainable CT’s Awards Celebration. For more information about this event and to register to attend, visit sustainablect.org/celebration.

Beloved wishing booth in Chester removed by state

CHESTER, Conn. (WTNH) — It was a beloved piece of local charm in one Connecticut town. A wishing booth – where neighbors and visitors alike could take a moment to dream big. But now – their wish is that it would come back – after the booth was suddenly taken down.The wishing booth once stood on Main Street towering over downtown Chester.The artists who made it say it had a direct line to the universe, but the booth has been taken down this week leaving the folks here without a place to manifest.&l...

CHESTER, Conn. (WTNH) — It was a beloved piece of local charm in one Connecticut town. A wishing booth – where neighbors and visitors alike could take a moment to dream big. But now – their wish is that it would come back – after the booth was suddenly taken down.

The wishing booth once stood on Main Street towering over downtown Chester.

The artists who made it say it had a direct line to the universe, but the booth has been taken down this week leaving the folks here without a place to manifest.

“We made our wish in December it was very magical and scenic and it just seemed for the holiday season but we would like to have it continue to be here,” said Sarah Riggles, Chester resident.

Chester residents Sarah and John Riggles want the wishing booth back.

It opened on Dec. 2, 2022, and was filled with good memories.

“It’s part of the town charm the thing we like about Chester, in general, is that it’s a small town but there’s really tight-knit community there are things to do,” said John Riggles.

Caryn Paradis and Christopher Owens created the booth – to look like the ones you’d see in London.

The state owns the bridge the booth was standing on and Paradis said she hadn’t pulled a permit for the booth so because of that this week it was taken down.

The stars are coming down on March 1st.

Paradis is determined to bring this booth back at a place in this village the state will approve of.

“We’re very open to somewhere else on main street or applying for a permit properly and getting it back in this location,” Paradis said.

For Paradis it’s more than just a place to share hopes and dreams.

“I mean it’s a piece of art so it’s an art installation.”

Owner Nora Murphy’s shop is right across from where the wishing booth used to be.

Murphy told us her customers really miss being able to pick up the phone and make their wishes.

“It’s fantastic though people loved it it’s very joyful and happy. I love everything they do here in Chester for the holidays.”

Paradis has all the recordings of the wishes, and they speak to what this little town is all about.

“They are beautiful they are about hope they are about family and love and people’s heartfelt desires,” said Paradis.

I reached out to the state for a comment but haven’t heard back.

But for now, the only wish the folks in this village have is to find a new home for the booth.

Chester, CT voted America’s 74th favorite small town to visit

Vacationing in small towns has become increasingly popular in recent years – it can be a refreshing change of pace from traditional destinations, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience. Small towns often have a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life, allowing visitors to slow down and truly connect with the local culture.But where are the small towns we would most like to visit in 2023? ...

Vacationing in small towns has become increasingly popular in recent years – it can be a refreshing change of pace from traditional destinations, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience. Small towns often have a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life, allowing visitors to slow down and truly connect with the local culture.

But where are the small towns we would most like to visit in 2023? FamilyDestinationsGuide.com, which offers kid-friendly vacation ideas, surveyed 3,000 families to find the top 150 across the country they’d love to spend time in this year.

In 74th place came the town of Chester, Connecticut. Families can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the historic downtown area, explore the nearby hiking trails, and visit the nearby museums and galleries. With its picturesque scenery, friendly locals, and plenty of things to do, Chester is the perfect place for a family getaway.

Other Connecticut towns included in the top 150 were Cornwall (100th), where families can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming in the nearby Housatonic River, as well as exploring the town’s historic sites, shops, and restaurants. The other town on the list was Chaplin (115th) – its close proximity to New York City, makes it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some quality family time.

At number one is the tiny village of Holualoa, in Hawaii. No surprise there really, as Hawaii is so utterly beautiful, and this laid back ‘burg, on the western coast of the Big Island, has charm by the bucket-load. It’s located on the slopes of the Hualalai volcano, and derives its name from the traditional – if somewhat terrifying – local practice of sledding down the mountain on long, wooden sleds. If you enjoy a caffeine fix, you’ve come to the right place; Holualoa sits between the towns of Kailua-Kona and Keauhou, in the heart of Kona coffee country. 600 coffee farms surround it, and every November they hold the Kona Coffee Festival.

In at number two was Ely, in Nevada. This remote former mining mountain town, which sits at the base of the Great Basin National Park, was originally founded as a stagecoach station along the Pony Express and Central Overland route. You can still visit the nearby Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, where six, giant beehive-shaped ovens were used to process silver ore. Elsewhere, you can take a guided tour of the Lehman Caves, a massive cavern over 500 million years old in the Great Basin National Park, or do scenic hikes such as the Island Forest Trail or Bristlecone Pine Trail.

Not far behind at number three is beautiful Anna Maria Island on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Seemingly preserved in time, it showcases how ‘Old Florida’ used to be, with its pastel-coloured clapboard houses and old-timey storefronts.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, due to their stunning natural sceneries, both Hawaii and Alaska each had two towns (Holualoa; Old Koloa Town and Sitka; Ketchikan) in the top 10.

Visiting small towns has become increasingly popular as travelers seek authentic and personalized experiences that provide a break from the fast-paced, commercialized world. These hidden gems offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, connect with friendly communities, and escape the stress of everyday life.” says Rose Ackermann of FamilyDestinationsGuide.com.

Sustainability Committee Releases Plans for Heritage Trail in Chester

Two years of cross-municipality organization and higher support for greater bicycling and pedestrian infrastructure in Chester are set for work as outlined in the “Lower Connecticut River Valley Heritage Trail Action Plan 2023,” released by the town’s Sustainability CT Team last month.The plan, which spells out the organizational components that would go into the creation of an 18-mile trail stretching from the Chester Historical Society to the Amasa Day House in Moodus, is the culmination of a collaboration between ...

Two years of cross-municipality organization and higher support for greater bicycling and pedestrian infrastructure in Chester are set for work as outlined in the “Lower Connecticut River Valley Heritage Trail Action Plan 2023,” released by the town’s Sustainability CT Team last month.

The plan, which spells out the organizational components that would go into the creation of an 18-mile trail stretching from the Chester Historical Society to the Amasa Day House in Moodus, is the culmination of a collaboration between Chester, Haddam, East Haddam, and state and regional bodies including the Lower Connecticut River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG).

Heritage Trail originated from a community desire for more infrastructure to support walkability along a one-mile corridor that would “safely connect agritourism and historic sites along Town Street” in East Haddam, reads the plan. After considering similar data related to biking and town assets in Chester, the project was extended, and the proposed path now reaches the heart of the town in the downtown village area.

The trail’s snaking into Cheser could mean multiple benefits in the areas of sustainability and environmentalism, economic development, and health and wellness for Chester residents, according to Cindy Lignar of the Sustainability CT Team.

“The Loop Trail will be a unique and excellent option for outdoor recreation, allowing all to enjoy the magnificent beauty of our area, including our many shared natural resources, as well as the historic and art destinations, shops, and restaurants along the route,” she said. “The trail will provide improved cyclists and pedestrian safety and provide for equitable access for all ages and diverse backgrounds.”

These opportunities could lead to “an overall healthier community…because of expanded safe exercise opportunities, [a] healthier environment with increased walking and cycling versus driving…increased economic development by attracting visitors to our area,” said Lignar.

Results from a Sustainability CT Team survey active from May to June 2022 saw numbers that supported that extension. Around 83% of respondents said they would “possibly” to “definitely,” “walk/jog/run more frequently if sidewalks or pathways in Chester were interconnected,” with more than 62%, or 249 respondents, answering the latter choice. The same number of respondents answered yes to the question, “Do you think the addition of crosswalks that provide marked areas for pedestrians to cross streets should be a high priority for the town?”

With promising results, the team moved ahead collaborating with the two towns, members of the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program, and RiverCOG, the latter of whom met with Chester on June 2, 2022, and the trail’s planning team to walk the route southward to the downtown area.

A year later, the Heritage Trail plan was released, and now the Sustainability CT Team has identified its next steps and the short- and long-term goals to realize this multi-town project.

One of the steps has already been taken with the creation of an advisory committee to oversee the implementation of the necessary infrastructure to support the 18-mile route. The committee consists of multiple town stakeholders in the Chester portion of the project. Along with the Sustainability CT Team, it includes members of the selectmen and finance boards, commissions of planning and zoning and inland wetlands, and public works, among others. These stakeholders and their representatives would formulate short-term and long-term plans to create a well-equipped and functional bike and pedestrian path, from identifying proper locations for waste disposal and bathrooms, signage, and water stations.

According to the plan, the identified short-term goals are to be completed within two years, with long-term goals taking place beyond that timeframe.

As an example of a short-term goal, Lignar said, “The Economic Development Commission [EDC] is working on water stations, and we have been in contact with the public works foreman…the Board of Selectman and others in town seeking guidance as to the best locations and all of the works that would go into installing water stations and maintaining them as well,” said Lignar.

Lignar said the results of an approved road safety audit by the Department of Transportation’s Community Connectivity Program found that “their recommendations also overlap with roads that are on the Heritage Trail loop,” which include state Routes 148 and 154. To improve connectivity, the audit lists several transportation and infrastructure shifts that can be made to link adjacent local roads to those two highways.

Along with meetings with the advisory committee, a second step has already been taken to bring plans to a higher level of planning.

“Our next steps are working with RiverCOG, the senior transportation planner [Robert Haramut]. We have already initiated conversations with him,” said Lignar.

In the short term, the Sustainability CT Team will continue to apply for state grants to financially support the creation of the trail and focus on communications. The plan lists methods of communication as creating a trail logo and marketing package and organizing a website. Lignar said the team is also interested in hosting public information sessions on the topic in collaboration with the EDC.

The action plan can be found on the town’s website at www.chesterct.org.

Theater Review: 'Here You Come Again' at The Terris Theatre in Chester

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Arts & EntertainmentJust about guaranteed to make audiences smile, whether they are fans of Dolly or not.|Updated Thu, Aug 10, 2023 at 7:30 am ETBy Nancy Sasso JanisThe title of the new jukebox musical that is running at The Terris Theatre pretty much says it all: “Here You Co...

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Arts & Entertainment

Just about guaranteed to make audiences smile, whether they are fans of Dolly or not.

|Updated Thu, Aug 10, 2023 at 7:30 am ET

By Nancy Sasso Janis

The title of the new jukebox musical that is running at The Terris Theatre pretty much says it all: “Here You Come Again How Dolly Saved My Life in 12 Easy Songs." The new work is part of the 2023 season at Goodspeed Musicals and is presented on their second stage in Chester, which has reopened after a three-year closure.

Tricia Paoluccio and Matthew Risch Photos by ©2023 Diane Sobolewski

This is a rollicking yet touching new musical that tells the story of a diehard fan whose imaginary version of Dolly gets him through the very trying time of the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic. With her down-home wit, humor and charm, Dolly teaches Kevin a whole lot about life, love and how to pull yourself up by your bootstraps…even if they don’t have rhinestones.

The script written by Bruce Vilanch, Gabriel Barre (“Billy Elliot,” “Amazing Grace” at Goodspeed) and Tricia Paoluccio cleverly finds the humor in the weeks when everyone was in quarantine. You may remember Emmy winner Vilanch as a Hollywood Square and he was the writer of “A Sign of the Times” at the Terris Theatre.

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The action is set in May of 2020 in Longview, Texas. Kevin climbs a ladder in order to enter his attic “treehouse” room without any physical contact with his parents. The 40+ son uses a fishing pole to bring up the basket of food and mail via a dumbwaiter.

Although I wore a mask to the press night performance, I felt that enough time has passed since the scariest days at the beginning of COVID that I was able to fully enjoy the comedy that runs throughout the story that holds together the selected songs. There are references to endless hand washing, Lysol, banging on pots, and finding toilet paper.

The show features songs written or recorded by Dolly Parton and a few others. There are some that are very familiar, like “Two Doors Down,” “9 to 5,” Jolene,” “Islands in the Stream,” the title song and Parton’s composition “I Will Always Love You.” Numbers that were new for me included “Light of A Clear Blue Morning,” “God’s Coloring Book,” “The Seeker,” and “Hush-A-Bye Hard Times.” The song “Coat of Many Colors” was cut from the performance I attended.

Tricia Paoluccio plays Dolly Parton. Her Broadway credits include “Fiddler on the Roof,” her television credits include a recurring role on “Saint X,” and she will appear in the upcoming film “Portrait of a Young Man.” The Equity actress always had dreams of following in the musical footsteps of her lifelong inspiration and now she is literally wearing her big shoes.

Equity member Matthew Risch is perfectly cast as Kevin Risch was most recently seen in Hulu’s “Saint X,” and also played Carlos in the original company of “Legally Blonde” on Broadway. He does so well with the comedy in his character a

The first production of this show was both directed and choreographed by Barre with a clear understanding of what goes where. Eugene Gwozdz is in charge of music direction of the (slightly more than) a dozen Dolly songs. He plays keyboard as he conducts the other three musicians, with Marty Wirt on percussion, Jeff Carlson on guitar and Sean Rubin on bass. The last two musicians come onstage with the actors for the final number, watching Gwozd on the monitors for the cutoff.

The scenic design by Anna Louizos is so much fun to experience. It takes almost the entire time that patrons are in the theater to catch all of the details that are evident in the set decoration that Dolly describes as “early American clutter.” Louizos has brought Kevin’s attic room to the stage so effectively that the audience feels like they are in the room with the two characters.

Photos by ©2023 Diane Sobolewski Tricia Paoluccio and Matthew Risch

The costumes designed by Bobby Pearce are spot on for the two performers. The four changes for Dolly are perfect for the iconic singer. The first act opens with Dolly in a sparkly butterfly dress that shines for the first act closer “Love Is Like A Butterfly.” The second change is a “Nine to Five” suit, followed by a sparkly blue dress and a silver gown for the finale. The big Dolly wig stays in place perfectly, as I am sure is true wherever she appears in public.

Kevin is dressed in stay at home outfits, except when he channels his idol in one scene.

Michael Misko served as the magic consultant, but I won’t spill the beans about the reason that he was needed. There is some magical lighting, including a disco ball, designed by Alyssandra Docherty, that adds to the charm.

As a reviewer, I had fun noticing all of the lines pulled from Broadway shows. Audience members are invited to use the flashlights on their cellphones for a song late in the second act, and are given permission to video some of the final musical number, so have your phone ready.

The show has a PG age rating and is just about guaranteed to make audiences smile, whether they are fans of Dolly or not, for even she acknowledges that there may be a few who are not.

Nancy Sasso Janis is the membership chair of the Connecticut Critics Circle. For the first time in the history of the Terris Theatre, critics have been invited to review the productions.

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