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 Ogden House in Fairfield, CT 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 Fairfield, 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.
“The staff at ABC has been wonderful! It's easy to reach them, they are responsive,”
“We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always”
“I just wanted express our thoughts about Mary, who was the caregiver for the weekend.”
“Excellent company, very experienced management and staffs. Highly recommend”
“Thank you so much for your kind , personalized service. My mother was always resistant”
“We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always”
“Always Best Care Services is a good place to get good care. The employees would”
“My mother was in need of help after she broke her hip at 101 years”
“The staff at ABC has been wonderful! It's easy to reach them, they are responsive, respectful, and cheerful. This was the first step in getting outside assistance for our Mom and we were so impressed with how thorough the care was - the first helper checked to see that her home was safe and that she knew how to use her cell phone. We'd highly recommend using their in home care.”
“We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always Best Care is providing our parents. You have guided us through this very difficult time and have helped us deal with my mother’s illness and her inability to care for my dad. Your caregivers are very capable and caring, and your staff is competent and thorough. We believe this makes your company invaluable to families with loved ones in need of assistance. We would recommend Always Best Care to anybody in search of quality care for their loved one. Thank you for all you and your staff do.”
“I just wanted express our thoughts about Mary, who was the caregiver for the weekend. We all thought she was wonderful!! I think her biggest strength is that she sees the work, needs little/to no direction, offers to take things out of our hands, and is a true-go-getter. For Billie, this type of help is great since she feels like she can take some time to rest and trust all is okay. Mary works hard and is also very patient. I really think Mary is a natural dealing with elderly. She is patient and kind! Anyway, what I wanted to ask is if Mary can be the consistent caregiver for the weekends. The other 4 caregivers that I have met are also very nice. We would like Mary as much as possible as she is punctual, and as I mentioned before, sees what needs doing. She is focused on what she can do to help. She doesnt just sit there next to Bill, she has eyes in the back of her head and goes the extra mile. Anything that needs to get done, she says no wait, let me do it if she hasnt already initiated it herself. She seems to have endless energy and never complained. I just felt compelled to drop you a this note to let you know how impressed we were with her. Thanks”
“Excellent company, very experienced management and staffs. Highly recommend”
“Thank you so much for your kind , personalized service. My mother was always resistant to have someone come into her home to help care for her, but she is very, very pleased with Betsy. Not only does she have someone to keep her company and meet her physical needs—her kitchen is looking cleaner than I have seen it in a while. Thank you again. Your kind manner was reassuring to my mother and to me, and you have made the process of caring for my mother at home easy, and provided me with much needed relief so that I can actually return to work with a calm mind.”
“We would like to express our appreciation and thanks for the in-home care that Always Best Care is providing our parents. You have guided us through this very difficult time and have helped us deal with my mother’s illness and her inability to care for my dad. Your caregivers are very capable and caring, and your staff is competent and thorough. We believe this makes your company invaluable to families with loved ones in need of assistance. We would recommend Always Best Care to anybody in search of quality care for their loved one. Thank you for all you and your staff do.”
“Always Best Care Services is a good place to get good care. The employees would do their very best to take care of you in your time of need. I will recommended this facility to family and friends. I want to thank you so much for the exceptional care you took of my dad. I hold your agency in the highest regard and you have my deepest appreciation.”
“My mother was in need of help after she broke her hip at 101 years old. She refused to leave her home. Susan Oderwald took wonderful care of her. She found caregivers for her who treated her with kid gloves and she herself went above and beyond by getting papers signed, visiting her in the hospital and fetching things for her. I don't know what I would have done without her, since I live 3,000 miles away. I highly recommend her, her services and her staff of caregivers.”
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 Riverside Park in Fairfield, CT 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 BONDA Restaurant or visit Fairfield Burr Homestead, 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 Fairfield, 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 Fairfield, 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 Fairfield, 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.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Federal, State and Local Leaders join Bigelow Tea CEO Cindi Bigelow to Celebrate Dedication of David C. Bigelow Memorial BridgeBigelow Tea Celebrate Dedication of “David Campbell Bigelow Memorial Bridge” in FairfieldCindi Bigelow, CEO of Bigelow Tea will host a dedication celebration of David C. Bigelow Memorial Bridge at Bigelow Tea headquarter , 201 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield. State Sena...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Bigelow Tea Celebrate Dedication of “David Campbell Bigelow Memorial Bridge” in Fairfield
Cindi Bigelow, CEO of Bigelow Tea will host a dedication celebration of David C. Bigelow Memorial Bridge at Bigelow Tea headquarter , 201 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield. State Senator Tony Hwang will moderate the dedication ceremony.
FAIRFIELD, CT - Bigelow Tea and State Senator Tony Hwang announced that Bridge No. 05432, which carries Black Rock Turnpike over the Metro-North Railroad in Fairfield, has been officially designated the “David Campbell Bigelow Memorial Bridge,” following the passage of SB 1377/PA 25-65 by the Connecticut General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont.
Senator Hwang as moderator will join Bigelow Tea and the Bigelow family along with invited federal, state and local dignitaries on Mon, Oct 27, 2025, at 10am at Bigelow Tea HQ, 201 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield for a dedication ceremony ensuring that David Campbell Bigelow’s name and values he stood for continue to inspire future generations.
This bridge sits at the entrance to Bigelow Tea’s Fairfield headquarter - an enduring testament to David Campbell Bigelow’s visionary leadership in transforming a small family-owned business into a beloved national brand. David’s stewardship of Bigelow Tea not only grew the company’s reach but also deepened its roots in Fairfield, exemplifying how a thriving business can fuel a community’s prosperity and philanthropy.
“It is hard to describe the amazement I felt when I received the call from Tony that they were going to name the bridge after my father. It brought me such joy knowing he was being remembered for all he has done for our employees, the community and our wonderful consumers. I have always said I consider my father a “bridge builder. Someone who has dedicated his life to bringing people together with grace and kindness. This is an honor that has humbled me and my entire family.” said Cindi Bigelow, third generation President and CEO.
“David Bigelow embodied the very best of what it means to be both a visionary business leader and a compassionate community builder,” said Senator Hwang. “Through decades of hard work, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality, he transformed Bigelow Tea into an enduring symbol of American craftsmanship and integrity. But David’s true legacy reaches far beyond business success. He built bridges - between generations, between tradition and innovation, between enterprise and empathy. His philanthropy and community partnerships reflected a belief that success is most meaningful when it lifts others. Whether supporting local charities, advancing education, or strengthening Fairfield’s civic life, David led with humility, generosity, and purpose. His devotion to family, employees, and community stands as a timeless reminder that leadership rooted in values can unite people and open doors of opportunity for all.”
The dedication ceremony is open to the public. For more information about Bigelow Tea and the Bigelow family's legacy of community engagement, visit www.BigelowTea.com or follow @BigelowTea on social media.
The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?
Fairfield resident Shenton King tells Patch why he should be elected to the Representative Town Meeting.FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.Candidate's Name: Shenton KingWhat office are you seeking?...
FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.
Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.
Candidate's Name: Shenton King
What office are you seeking? RTM District 3
What town do you live in? Fairfield
Campaign Websitehttps://www.fairfieldrtc.com/2025-rtm-candidates
Party Affiliation:Republican
Occupation: VP Commercial Operations
Family:I'm one of six children, and a twin. I'm married to Fairfield native, Kelcey Kirik-King and have three amazing children. The boys are in Ludlow Middle, and our daughter is in Riverfield Elementary. Family interests include Antique Cars and DIY projects that always need another two weeks (Me), GHCC Volunteering & a major garden operation (Kelcey), Tennis, back flips, and making music (Paxton), Star Wars and arena rock guitar (Briggs), and K-Pop Demon Hunters and crafting aka making messes (Pepper). Our faithful four-legged fur baby is Watson, a 13-year-old westie, who still chases dear with the fury of a puppy - just much slower these days.
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?No
Previous public office, appointive or elective:No
Why are you seeking this office?I’m running for several reasons; First, I want to preserve the character and charm of this great town that has given us so much. Second, as parents of a child with special learning needs, I want to ensure that our education programs are continually improving through good decisions and smart investments in our SPED programs. Third, I want to stop being frustrated with town operations and decision making related to financial discipline, 8-30g, traffic, and public safety among other things. Lastly, I believe the intent and beauty of a representative-style government is that it thrives on a balance of ideas. The best results come from hearing healthy debate from multiple sides using common sense, to find common ground, to reach a common goal. Unfortunately, since I can remember, Fairfield has been widely unbalanced in town hall and recently feels like decisions are made in a vacuum. With balance restored on the RTM, I'll represent District 3 and any other underrepresented voices in town hall with my absolute best efforts at refining, presenting and voting on my constituent's collective vision for our great town. No matter your party affiliation - I will act and vote in line with the best interests of the town that we all knew growing up, the town we all love now, and the town we want to become in the future - finding the balance between all three is where we will succeed!
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:Aside from issues outside the scope of RTM like 8-30g, and school redistricting, the next single most pressing issue facing my constituents is child and pedestrian safety, with a lot of passion behind the E-bike and E-scooter challenges still ahead of us. While the new state Bill No. 6862 has defined what is legal in terms of specs and where they may operate or not, we still see groups of children driving upwards and over 30 mph and making terrible in-traffic and cross-intersection decisions. I think the new law is wonderful, and I think parents are doing their best. However, there is still more to do to make the new law effective at preventing a child fatality. With the help of local PD, committees, other legislators, advocates, and the voice of the community, I’ll draft, sponsor, or simply support education programs and possible ordinances, which will help bring the law into action on a more local level. I’m talking about simple measures like a rider safety and awareness class or certification program, an owner operator family pledge, incentivized bike and scooter registration options, more traffic safety signage, continued support for more bike lane painting and highly effective rumple strips, and other smart ideas already being discussed through the Safe Streets Alliance, the Bike and Pedestrian Committee and from feedback through public affairs groups. We have a lot of work ahead of us in preventing a child fatality in Fairfield. Let’s work together, politics aside, to bring the state’s intentions down to our street level and into the hearts and minds of families in town.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?I’m an outsider, not a politician. Regardless of party affiliation, I think town operations should be run by amenable people with a spectrum of experience that represents the complexity of our wonderful community. I’m a mid-sized manufacturing business leader juggling strategic operations and decision making for the benefit of over 250 employees and their families, directly impacting the company’s ability to grow and be an exemplary corporate social citizen. My professional role as VP of Commercial Operations requires innovative thinking, discovering out of the box opportunities, creating lasting procedural change, and tracking our strategies for effectiveness. Much of my role is compliance based – ensuring a disciplined and proceduralized approach to continual improvement. With me in RTM, I’ll bring an outside perspective with creativity, discipline and transparency all rooted in preserving our character and planning for the future.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?I am very passionate about safety and practical sustainability. Regarding safety, as the leader of my company’s ISO45001 compliance systems for safety, emergency response, planning and prevention - I’m very excited to join and contribute to standing safety and emergency response committees. Regarding sustainability - I grew up fishing the Norwalk River and Long Island Sound and have great relationships with the oyster farming families on the Norwalk Harbor. I’m very passionate about the health of our rivers and Long Island Sound related to pollution, pesticides, and sewer system integrity. I'm looking forward to joining any committees or NPO groups that contribute to smart and sustainable solutions that help preserve our great Mill River, and Long Island Sound. One thing I'd like to bring to Fairfield through working with Fairfield University and Sacred Heart Environmental Science Departments is a study of Fairfield's coastal benthic layer invertebrate biodiversity. This is a study that I volunteer for and fund privately through our company's CSR initiatives in Norwalk. I'd love for Fairfield to learn more about our own coastal benthic layer ecosystem and how we can support it - doing our part to preserve the health of Long Island Sound and its fishery.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?My professional accomplishments and reputation of running a multinational manufacturing company directly support my potential in RTM. Aside from professional accomplishments, I'm proud of recognized from STAR, Inc. in Norwalk this year as a key partner leading the way for more companies to employ individuals with special needs. I’m also on the Board of Directors of the Norwalk Seaport Association. Separate, but certainly related - supporting my wife Kelcey and her incredible ability to juggle the wildly complex lives of growing kids, IEPs, PPTs, sports, and other family commitments is incredibly important. I acknowledge that I can’t manage or be the expert on everything and that in many areas of life, business, and community - the best thing to do is simply listen, support someone who you trust, and be their first cheerleader. So, regardless of affiliation - if I think what you're proposing in RTM is a good idea, I will listen and support you with my vote.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?"Don’t take the goodness out of it".
Maybe not related to my possible RTM seat, but my dad let me drive his antique speedster at around 14 or 15 years old around our cul-de-sac. My driving got a little “spirited” so he leaned over and shouted, “Let off a little”, I lifted the throttle, and could hear him now, when he calmly said, “Don’t take the goodness out of it”. He said his father gave him the same advice when he started driving. It stuck with me, and I’ve reflected on it so many times in my life in so many different situations outside of driving old cars. It’s served its purpose over the years in my personal and professional life and has evolved into a reminder to slow down, appreciate things with a wider lens, and to take it all in.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?I went to Fairfield Prep, then Salve Regina University. My hobbies are fishing, snowboarding, skiing, and antique cars from the pre-war era (1939 and earlier). I’m the president of the regional Horseless Carriage Club of America, and Antique Automobile Club of America. I love working with my hands and doing DIY projects. I love whole-family fun like tapping our maple trees for sugaring, setting up our backyard ice rink, and going on antique car tours. We're all ski bums and dream about owning a house in VT one day. I'm a man for others thanks to my parents and Fairfield Prep, and my wife who supports me. My positions on things are clear - we have wonderful colonial form of representative government that needs to be more balanced to effectively act on the long-term whole community driven vision for our great town. I don't like making decisions in vacuums or silos and when I look at town operations - we have some work to do in balancing the RTM, the Board of Finance, and the Board of Education. I'm excited to get to work!
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.His research studies the detection of suicidal ideation in social media through artificial intelligence (AI) tools.FAIRFIELD— Jie Tao, DSc, is an associate professor of business analytics and the director of the AI and Technology Institute in the Charles F. Dolan School of Business. His research studies the detection of suicidal ideation in social media through artificial intelligence (AI) tools.Through the research mod...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
FAIRFIELD— Jie Tao, DSc, is an associate professor of business analytics and the director of the AI and Technology Institute in the Charles F. Dolan School of Business. His research studies the detection of suicidal ideation in social media through artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
Through the research model KETCH: “A Knowledge-Enhanced Transformer-Based Approach to Suicidal Ideation Detection from Social Media Content,” Dr. Tao and his team trained large language models (LLM’s) on a vast number of texts. Ultimately, the process integrated human expertise into AI models and, according to the business analytics professor, “the model [was] adopted by psychiatrists and counselors in the field, and it did improve their efficiency in following up with users at suicidal ideation (SI) risk.”Over the course of more than five years, Dr. Tao and his research colleagues collected their longitude data to build the prototype by looking at multi-cultural social media platforms such as Reddit, X, and Sina Weibo (a blogging website in China). The team then implemented a real-world prototype in China, scaling the work of what would have previously taken 18 mental health experts into a single curated AI-augmented system, largely boosting their detection accuracy and intervention efficiency.With a background in machine learning and Natural Language Processing, the AI and Tech Institute's ethos of “AI for the greater good” remains at the forefront of Dr. Tao's efforts, both inside and outside the classroom.“'AI for the greater good' is not just a mission, it’s our compass. I believe the most powerful technology can, and must, be a force for human flourishing,” he said.As a continuation of his mental health research and as the recipient of the Robert E. Wall Award for the 2025–26 academic year, Dr. Tao’s research proposal, “Using Large Language Models (LLMs) for Mental Health Detection and Intervention on Social Media,” was recognized for its innovative use of AI to address a critical societal need with global relevance, according to University Provost, Christine Siegel, PhD.The process of choosing the Wall Award by a selection committee comprised of the academic deans and the chair of the Faculty Research Committee is a highlight of each academic year, bringing forward the best of Fairfield University faculty’s essential scholarly work.To learn more about Fairfield’s research in artificial intelligence and the work of experts like Dr. Tao, visit Fairfield.edu/ai.
Fairfield resident Laurie Quick tells Patch why she should be elected to the Representative Town Meeting.FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.Candidate's Name: Laurie QuickWhat office are you seeking?...
FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.
Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.
Candidate's Name: Laurie Quick
What office are you seeking? RTM
What town do you live in? Fairfield
Campaign Websitehttps://www.fairfieldrtc.com/2025-rtm-candidates
Party Affiliation:Republican
Occupation: Business Management Professional
Family:I am married to Thomas and we have two children, Bradley and Kelsie, who attended Fairfield Public Schools
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?No
Previous public office, appointive or elective:Treasurer, Roger Sherman School
Why are you seeking this office?After having lived here over 25 years, I love the dynamic mix of the resident population made up of college students, families, empty nesters and seniors who all contribute to making Fairfield a wonderul place to live. I would like to dedicate my time, talent, and energy to give back to a place that has given my family and me so much.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:The single most pressing issue facing Fairfield is overdevelopment and the stress it is placing on town infrastructure. I plan to advocate for a long-term plan on town infrastructure by supporting sensible commercial development that grows Fairfield's tax base and eases homeowner tax burdens.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?My years of experience in corporate and small business management have given me a clear perspective on fiscal responsibility and successful negotiation for optimal results.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?What is also important to me is fiscal prudence that delivers value for taxpayers by investing wisely in our schools, roads, and essential services while keeping budgets lean and taxes fair.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?My key acccomplishments in fiscal management which include establishing and managing budgets, overseeing cash flow and monitoring business compliance are proof of my abiity to do a great job for my district.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?As a manager in my early career for Dixie Products, the President's motto was: "What We Say We Do, We Do" That has always stuck with me.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?I believe that decisions made for our town need to be balanced to ensure that the voices of my constitutents are heard. I believe in citizenship first and civility for productive collaboration and respect in local decision making.
Fairfield resident Karen McCormack tells Patch why she should be elected to the Representative Town Meeting.FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.Candidate's Name: Karen McCormackWhat office are you seekin...
FAIRFIELD, CT — The 2025 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.
Connecticut Patch asked local candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.
Candidate's Name: Karen McCormack
What office are you seeking? RTM Member District 3
What town do you live in? Fairfield
Campaign Websitehttps://www.fairfieldrtc.com/2025-rtm-candidates
Party Affiliation:Republican
Occupation: Attorney
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?No
Previous public office, appointive or elective:I previously served two terms on the RTM (I served from 2019-2023).
Why are you seeking this office?I am hoping to bring a voice of reason and rational thought to the debates and discussions while ensuring that the constituent voices of District 3 are taken into account in the decision making process on all matters brought before the RTM.
The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ____, and this is what I intend to do about it:The overburdening and overtaxing of finite town resources (think traffic, sewer capacity, school capacity and more!) and the budgetary constraints that come with ever increasing pressures to spend taxpayer dollars wisely, efficiently and thoughtfully.
What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?I bring a different perspective and skill set to the table in that I am an attorney and have spent the last 30 years analyzing complex problems and coming up with creative solutions to compromise when necessary. This is what I do every day in my work.
What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?I believe that Fairfield is severely lacking a balance of power. All of the town boards and commissions are under one party rule. This is very dangerous and inhibits healthy debate, discussion and compromise which are often necessary in coming to the best solution for any given problem or issue.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?I have previously served as a member of the RTM for a total of four (4) years. I am familiar with the procedures and processes involved in being a member of this town body. I am committed to advocating for and representing my constituents interests at all times in my capacity as a member of the RTM.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?Always stand up and speak up for what is right and just.
Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?I am a lifelong Fairfielder having been born and raised here. I was educated in the Fairfield Public School System. I love Fairfield and want to preserve the small town feel and close knit community that I have experienced here as both a child and adult.
While change is inevitable, I want to see our growth in size tempered by what we can reasonably handle without impairing the quality of our lives and paving over the entire town.
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