It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Mac Harbor historical marker. 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 Stratford, 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 Wooster Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Biagio's Osteria or visit Stratford Point Lighthouse, 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 Stratford, 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 Stratford, 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 Stratford, 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.
Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.Amie Schaenzer, Patch StaffStratford, Connecticut — Connecticut is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.This submission comes...
Amie Schaenzer, Patch Staff
Stratford, Connecticut — Connecticut is full of bright, driven young people making a difference in and out of the classroom. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight students excelling in academics, athletics and community service.
This submission comes from Kathryn Shattuck who nominated Cameron H Vadnais of Connecticut.
If you know a student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured as a Star Student on Patch.
What is the star student’s name?
Cameron H Vadnais
What grade is the student in?
10th
How do you know the star student?
Grandson
Tell us about your star student's accomplishments and why they deserve to be recognized on Patch!
It is with great pride that I nominate Cameron Vadnais, a sophomore at Bunnell High School, as a "Stand Out Kid" in the Stratford community. Cameron’s commitment to community service, personal growth, and kindness is truly exceptional. Known for his spontaneous involvement in local events and volunteer activities, it’s no surprise that he was honored with the Asyria E. Ferrer Memorial Award by Flood Middle School for his compassion and kindness—a recognition voted on by both students and staff. At the young age of six, Cameron discovered his passion not on the baseball field, but in the martial arts studio. Through Taekwondo, he developed not only physical skills but also a deep sense of respect, discipline, and confidence.
Earning his black belt, Cameron has continued to give back by volunteering at Legacy Sports Taekwondo, where he instructs and mentors younger students. He not only teaches them self-defense but instills core values like integrity and self-respect. Cameron’s dedication to helping others only deepened as he got older. At 14, he became certified in CPR and as an Emergency Medical Responder, and soon after, he began volunteering with Stratford EMS—sacrificing his Saturday mornings to serve his community, often witnessing life-changing moments well before he could legally drive. In his freshman year, Cameron joined Bunnell’s chapter of Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), where he initially ran for president.
Though he didn’t win at first, he humbly accepted a different role on the team, only to later step into the presidency when the original winner stepped down. As President of HOSA, Cameron led presentations in local elementary schools about handwashing and hygiene, even engaging teachers in a memorable black-light demonstration to show how quickly germs can spread. He was re-elected as HOSA President in his sophomore year. As a result of his involvement and leadership in HOSA, Cameron was nominated to attend the National Academy of Future Physicians in Boston, MA, where he joined a select group of students from across the country and learned from world-renowned physicians and Nobel Prize winners. Cameron’s compassion continues to shine through in his work with Bunnell’s Unified Sports Program.
After a staff member observed his kindness while interacting with an autistic student during gym class, she encouraged him to join the program. Cameron eagerly accepted and has now volunteered for two years, supporting students with autism, Down syndrome, and other challenges—both through athletics and fundraising events. Most recently, having just turned 16, Cameron is preparing to take the next step in his medical journey by enrolling in EMT training this summer—a new chapter he can now drive himself to. Cameron Vadnais exemplifies what it means to be a "Stand Out Kid." He is kind, motivated, humble, and an inspiring role model to his peers and the community. His dedication to making a difference, even at a young age, is nothing short of remarkable.
What three words best describe your star student?
Kind Compassionate Inteligent
Keep up the great work, Cameron H Vadnais If you know an outstanding student who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.
This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.
Wooster Middle School in Stratford announces the honor roll for the third quarter of the 2024-25 school year.STRATFORD, CT — The following students have been named to the honor roll at Wooster Middle School for the third quarter of the 2024-25 academic year.Grade 8 First HonorsJeffery L Adams, Mahjoobah Afghanyar, Ejaya Agbere, Daniel Joseph Aguirre, Flavio Jesus Alarcon Diaz, Giselle Stephany Alegria, Joseph Almanzar Ramirez, Angie Arriaza, Mya Marie Barnum, Adriana Carolina Beria, Helayna Lavon...
STRATFORD, CT — The following students have been named to the honor roll at Wooster Middle School for the third quarter of the 2024-25 academic year.
Grade 8 First Honors
Jeffery L Adams, Mahjoobah Afghanyar, Ejaya Agbere, Daniel Joseph Aguirre, Flavio Jesus Alarcon Diaz, Giselle Stephany Alegria, Joseph Almanzar Ramirez, Angie Arriaza, Mya Marie Barnum, Adriana Carolina Beria, Helayna Lavonne Blackwell, Mary Osei Boateng, Nigelina Molina Boiteux, Gabriella Emilie Brice, Brianna Elyse Briganti, Ksira Marissa Brown, Willem Aleck Scheck Burker, Kimberly Joseline Cabello, Savannah Michelle Calixte, Caleb Michael Cantiello, Gianna Jenise Carrillo, Janette Iris Casiano, Illiana Nicole De Oliveira, Mateo Franklyn deCastro, Rosalie Lucia DeMasi, Kaori Denton, Layla Simone DeVonish, Robert Kingston Duffus, Franki Isabella Finitsis, Brooklynn Daisy Galpin, Aiden Alexander Garcia, Brianna Catherine Garcia, Kourtney Lynn Generous, Isla Kate Goddu, Lillian Avery Goddu, Aliyah Denise Godfrey, Israel Gomez, Natalia Gabriela Gomez, Nathan Malik Grant, Ollie Janese Greist, Lincoln Fraser Handler, Jhanaylia Tashae Henry, Elias Gray Hodgson, Joan Sebastian Idarraga Morales, Rahifa Traore Issa, Gloriana Princess Janvier, Roody Jean-Baptiste, Harper Simone Johnson, Jollene Jacqueline Jones, Rodson Joseph, Adam Mansoor Khalid, Alexander Adam Lainez, Judy Lin, Denise Nataly Lopez, Liam Isaac Lopez, Nathaniel Paul Palomar Lopez, Aidan Joseph Loschiavo, Ellery Anne MacDonald, Marissa Elizabeth Marchetti, Natasha Martinez, Tyler John Maseto, Glean-Kae'lynn Janod McClain, Ayana Jenae McClester, Sarah Jessica Mencel, Caleb Anthony Mendenhall-Johnson, Riley Hannah Millenson, Laylani Estella Mora, Cristal M Mota, Alexandra Myers, Giselle Nino Lanche, Abigail Jeanette Orris, Jayden Daniel Ortiz, Ayden Isaiah Perez, Aidan Quoc Pham, Alexander James Pihonak, Christian Neves Pinheiro, Amiyah Rose Polite, Leihana Nicole Poppa, Cameron Maurice Powell, Mikayla Alise Powis, Shayla Alyssa Powis, Joaquin Enrique Ramirez Cordova, David Jonathan Ramirez, Paul Alan Ramirez, Olivia Grace Richardson, Jocelyn Rojas, Giulia Lynn Rollo, Natalie Sophia Rosario, Paige Joan Rywolt, Lily Alexandra Sanford, Matias Serrano Rojas, Savannah Rae Smith, Faith Leahoni Sorrells-Moreno, Nyla Corin Melani Soto, Zachary Logan Spurling, Addison Rain Sterling, Hayden Rose Tanner, Cade Taylor, Paighe MacKenzie Taylor, Angelina Marie Terlik, Alyanah Nicole Tixi-Torres, Sofia Elaine Maria Torain, Janyalee Torres, Eevee Maria Vasquez Sandoval, Elivia Caroline Vass, Kaili Brendaliz Velez, Tanaya Kourtni Webley, Angel Preyanka Williams, Elijah Machai Williams, Nathan Michael Wong, Bella Wu, Katherine Ximena Yanez-Valero, Brianna Rodriguez Zafe
Grade 7 First Honors
Majedah Afghanyar, Aiden Joshua Aguirre, Alexander Gregory Allman, Mebelin Amesquita, Henry Michael Anderson, Alexandra Fedora Maya Andrews, Angelo Andre Barrera Jaime, Ava Cesilia Barrios Velasquez, Hallie Lena Bausher, Maximiliano Bautista Ochoa, Genii Elyse Bendolph, Landon Chase Benedetto, Antonio Noe Biondi, Liana Jai Blackwell, Ismaella Rosenatha Borgella, Nicolas Benjamin Burgess, Aiden Ja'Hai Burton, Gwendolyn Marie Carr, Evan Joseph Carrano, Chelsea Esperanza Carrington, Jovan Elijha Cartagena, Kaleigh Ceriello, Jaylynn Nichole Chapman, Krystian Chrabaszcz, Miguel Cipriano Beltran, Ayanna Jade Clennon, Tyson Joshua Coleman, Andy Daniel Colindres Cardona, Max Ricardo Coloma, Rodney Christopher Cooney, Susana Emely Corona, Shannon Mae Cyr, Ariya Devyani Dataram, Jack Urban Davis, Kajol Nevaeh Davis, Jose Antonio De La Cruz Callejas, Aiden Michael DeVeaux, Med-Saina Dorce, Melanny Maryan Duran, Serenity Prosper Francis, Elizabeth Nadine Glaudin, Alexander Gabriel Gonzalez Lopes, Layla Harmony Grasty-Amos, Zachary Morgan Gregoire, Amber Sherlyn Guaman, Wesleyn Alexandra Guante Villilo, Maliah I Hatton, Gamaliel Hernandez Gutierrez, Deverlin Hernandez, Maliah Lorraine Hibbert, Harmony Tracey Carol Hodges, Araf Al Hossion, John David Yamit Hunter, Minh-Quan Huong, Bree-Madison Anya Irving, Drake Ambiorix Jimenez, Avery Naomi Johnson, Sarah Alia Saeed Khan, Justin Daniel Kienzle, Tristan Larose, Jayden Thomas Lecointe, Aiden Giovanni Leon, Valentina Lopez Tamayo, Yino Alejandro Lozano Manzueta, Richard Charles Lupo, Cierra Madison Lynch, Kacey Alaine Maitland, Nahla Aubry Maitland, Luke Maldonado, Arelie Isabella Martinez, Armando Lorenzo Martinez, Mackenzie Marie Matyasovszky, Kaleb Lee Maysonet, Reginald Lawrence Meeson, Sebastian Emilio Mendoza, Jayden Xavier Mocha, Lemoi Chaun Zane Monsanto, Melanie MyJoi Moore, Ariana Justine Muthra, Landen Liam Nguyen, Noah Patrick O'Connell, Samuel Ocampo Bonilla, Samantha Priscilla Opoku, Bianca Abigail Ortiz, Matthew Richard Ortiz, Zacharie Zamaro Rian Osbourne, Kathleen Stephany Pascacio, Herlissa Paul, Ashley Marie Payero Artiles, Mekailah Grace Perdomo, David Julien Phillip, Bryanna Pires Piva, Annalise Marie Polanco, Treyvon Marshall Pope, Kyleigh Nathalia Powell, Ryleigh Temira Proctor, Faith Marie Petrus Prophet, Juan Diego Pucha, Emily Quechol Flores, Leonardo Gabriel Reyes Sanchez, Jameson Rial, Junielis Eileen Rivera Garcia, Mileidy Rodriguez, Katherine Melissa Romero Salgado, Jennaliz Michelle Santiago, Logan Tyler Santos, Grace Shi, Maria Marlena Simon Andres, Emely Sofia Solano Soriano, D'Angelo Sosa, Denys Stefanyshyn, Analiz Rose Tavarez, Mel-Lee Athaliah Theophile, Lucas Joseph Troilo, Brandon Liam Turcios, Chelsea Rose Uzhca, Kelly Denisse Villa Landi, Zechariah Lee Walker-Brown, Jayden Michael Webster, Leah Janelle Williams, Maleeya Janil Williams, Saniya Winston, Jayla Da'Nasia Womack, Andres Daniel Yupa
Grade 8 Second Honors
Maria Daniella Alvarado Aquino, Vianney Mayumi Amaro, Thamyra Dielys Antigua, German Antonio Ortega, Brianna Avila Santos, Landon Patrick Baird, Nyarie Star Baldwin, Jose Daniel Barrios, Samantha Anniah Batista, Giovany Antonio Bedoya, Bella Znai Bethea, Duvens Aly Bolivar, Angel Isaac Cameron, Ayden Dariel Campis, Jose Miguel Campis, Kaidin Carmona, Gerardo Isaiah Carrasco, Kyleigh Olivia Carrington, Connor James Cavaliero, Nitaima Anne Guerdy Ceus, Triniti Jon Sa'Nai Chappell, Parker Tristain Cortez, Farrah Lynn DiIorio, John Anthony Distasio, Averie Frances Douglas, Xavi-Nae Ellis, Skyylar Rosaria Feggins, Arziel Kesta Francis, Mikayla Amoy Francis, Brianna Elizabeth Garzon, Christopher Gabriel Gordon, Jackson Daniel Peter Greco, Dreama Marie Howell, Tianna Yamit Hunter, Mason Anthony Jaworski, Wilcliff Jean, Na'Kenya Jade Jean-Baptiste, Zaria Amaiyah Kinlaw, Brendan Christopher Lesczczynski, Jazmin Daniela Llivizaca, Jeremy Miguel Lora, Kelly Chrystelle Marquez, Malik Raphael McFarlane, Alexander Luis Medina, Marilyn Dayana Mendoza Torres, Khloe Mia-Angel Miller, Caitlin Naomi Mitchell, Tyrique Enado Montaque, Jamiyah Elyse Nelson, Julianna Lanay Nettles, Jack Andrew O'Brien, Liana Lyn Otero, Dexter Naoki Pearson-Lautenslager, Trevor Lee Pope, Matthew Proano, Juliana Eve Provo, Laylanie J'Marie Reboira, Josiah Nathaniel Reyes, Jeremiah Dwayne Rozario, Marrece Patrick-Terrell Sample, Nathan Joel Segui, Noah Mason Sepulveda, Michael Anthony Soto, Liam Thomas Sullivan, David Szczubelek, Adrian Tabaka, Jesiah Cazmere Thompson, James Patrick Urban, Lea-Ray Mickey Valentin, Angela Veccia, Aidan Samuel Villafane
Grade 7 Second Honors
Larin Abdalla Alaia, Jordyn Elizabeth Barbee, Stephanie Oliveira Barros, Kylie Idelkys Beltre, Eduardo Arturo Castillo Jaime, Ethan Castro, Mia Shanel Coleman, Adalee Jean Contreras, Takai Amir Crouch, Kathy Danh, Austin Charles Depalmer, Rashel Julissa Duran Chacon, Neymalie Edmond, Alexander Evangelista, Ethan Fabian, Ewan Ashayah Farquharson, Alexander Figueroa, Mason Patrick Glynn, Carlos Alberto Gonzalez, Joel Isaiah Grant, Nevaeh Joy Grant, Camryn Zion Holder, Austin J Howell, Zoe Loany Jerezano Oliva, Noah Josiah-Lee Jones, Oliver Christian Lanese, Arianna Marie Lemoine, Rousse Elaene Lora, Douglas Steven Martinez, Maxcimiliano Mazon, Steven Membreno Arriaza, Sebastian Manuel Mendoza, Brody Kai Mesavage, D'shawn Damian Miller, Davian Mondragon, Kendall Aaliyah Batista Navarro, Lucas Edward Padro, Travay Armoni Dior Parris, Valentina Gisselle Partida Monroy, Sofia Marcela Pena, Edwin Antonio Perez, Kameron Noel Pratt, Demari Tyler Radcliffe, Jay'lonie Samya Robertson, Daniel Jeremiah Rodas, Doraliz Daniela Roquel Garcia, Jayden Lee Rosa, Svettlana Angel Salmond, Ethan Zachary Schwartzer, Mirian Soneiry, Nathan Alexis Sosa Medina, Liam Emmett Spillane, Emilia Szczubelek, Dominik Tabaka, Michael Lowry Theagene, Cason Samuel Thomas, Nayeli Aliz Torres, Angelina Lynn Villanueva, Destiny Mona Walker, So'Nyah Eman Watson
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STRATFORD — The construction of an Aldi grocery store in the Stratford Square shopping plaza is a step closer to reality.The town’s Zoning Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to grant a special permit so a roughly 20,000-square-foot Aldi store can be built on a section of the parking lot at the shopping center at 411 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, which is owned by Brixmor P...
STRATFORD — The construction of an Aldi grocery store in the Stratford Square shopping plaza is a step closer to reality.
The town’s Zoning Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to grant a special permit so a roughly 20,000-square-foot Aldi store can be built on a section of the parking lot at the shopping center at 411 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, which is owned by Brixmor Property Group.
“Welcome to Stratford,” said Zoning Commission alternate Richard Fredette, who filled in for absent member Len Petruccelli during Wednesday’s meeting. “You truly have piqued everybody’s interest, and everyone’s excited that you’re coming.”
Fredette said he hopes the grocer’s arrival will encourage other stores in Stratford to adopt a cart system like Aldi’s, in which shoppers insert a quarter to unlock a cart and get the coin back once they return the cart to a corral. Bruno Lourenco, a director of real estate for Aldi, said the system keeps carts out of parking lots, so the store doesn’t need to hire people to collect them.
Planning and Zoning Administrator Susmitha Attota said the project is only “somewhat consistent” with Stratford’s Plan of Conservation and Development, but that shouldn’t stop it from moving forward.
The town plan recommends transit-oriented development — with commercial uses on the ground floor and residential units on the floors above — in the area of the shopping center.
“However, this is an extension of an existing commercial plaza, and while we have aspirations to see residential at some point on the top floors, we cannot limit the development that is coming before us today with hopes that something else might come later on,” Attota said.
Planning and Zoning staff also recommended changes to the proposed site plan, including adding landscape islands, relocating light poles and adding bicycle parking.
One concern Attota and commissioners raised was about food waste.
“Honestly, the thing we worry about is rodents,” said Chair Harold Watson. “That’s become a huge problem in this town.”
Lourenco said the store will have a 10-yard dumpster, and waste will be picked up two to three times per week. As recommended by the town’s Architectural Review Board, the dumpster will be enclosed.
“We prepare no food on site,” Lourenco said. “Everything comes in prepackaged from our distribution center in South Windsor, Connecticut.”
He said Aldi also has a contract with a pest control company that includes weekly visits.
Chas Evans, a professional engineer with consulting and design firm Bohler, said about 120 parking spaces in the plaza will be eliminated as part of the development. There will be about 60 parking spots around the grocery store.
“We’re actually reducing impervious coverage overall by about 7,600 square feet,” Evans said. “Currently, the whole center is at 85.7% impervious coverage, and we’re bringing the site down to 84.8%.”
Evans noted that the plans also include installing a system to treat stormwater runoff.
Aldi already has more than 30 stores in Connecticut, including in Fairfield, Monroe and Milford.
Officials announced the appointment this week.Vincent Salzo, Patch StaffSTRATFORD, CT — Stratford Town Planner Susmitha Attota will take over as the Planning and Zoning Administrator, effective immediately, officials announced this week.“With almost 25 years of experience in municipal planning, Susmitha brings a comprehensive understanding of l...
Vincent Salzo, Patch Staff
STRATFORD, CT — Stratford Town Planner Susmitha Attota will take over as the Planning and Zoning Administrator, effective immediately, officials announced this week.
“With almost 25 years of experience in municipal planning, Susmitha brings a comprehensive understanding of long-range, strategic planning and zoning knowledge to the role,” according to a news release from the Mayor’s Office. “Before becoming Town Planner for Stratford in 2018, she worked in several communities, including municipalities in southeast Florida, upstate New York, and Connecticut.”
Attota has a Master’s Degree in City and Regional Planning, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. She is certified with the American Institute of Certified Planners and the Connecticut Association of Zoning Enforcement Officials, according to the news release.
“In her role as Town Planner for Stratford, Susmitha managed a variety of long-range plans for the town, including the development of the most recent update of the Town’s Plan of Conservation and Development, the planning and ongoing implementation of Complete Streets, and the development of coastal resiliency plan updates, all in addition to pursuing grant funding for the implementation of coastal resiliency projects,” the news release states.
Attota has also served as primary staff to the Town's Planning Commission, Architectural Review Board, and Greenways and Complete Streets Committee.
“Susmitha’s keen understanding of Stratford ensures that she will successfully, and responsibly, help navigate the development of our Town,” Mayor Laura R. Hoydick said. “We are fortunate to have a consummate professional within our existing team who is willing and excited to take on this new role, and I look forward to continuing to work with Susmitha and the Planning & Zoning team.”
Attota said it has been “an absolute honor to serve the Stratford community as the Town Planner for the past seven years.”
“I will continue to serve with utmost dedication and hard work in my new role to promote responsible development and enhance the quality of life for residents,” she said.
Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick recently presented a $266 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026 to the Town Council.Vincent Salzo, Patch StaffSTRATFORD, CT — Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2026 that she said fully funds the Board of Education’s proposed budget, and keeps taxes flat.Hoydick recent...
Vincent Salzo, Patch Staff
STRATFORD, CT — Stratford Mayor Laura R. Hoydick has proposed a budget for fiscal year 2026 that she said fully funds the Board of Education’s proposed budget, and keeps taxes flat.
Hoydick recently presented a $266 million operating budget to the Town Council that maintains the 40.20 mill rate and the vehicle mill rate of 32.46.
“Since taking office in 2017, tax relief has been a priority,” Hoydick wrote in her letter to the Town Council. “My administration reduced taxes for five years, kept the FY24 increase minimal, and maintained a zero-increase last year. For FY 2025-2026, we are holding taxes flat again, with a total Town budget of $266,046,133. This budget supports Town departments while prioritizing efficient services and investing in our schools and students.
“Special Education and appropriate funding for public schools has been a focus for all municipalities in the State of Connecticut. I have worked closely with the Interim-Superintendent Borges to fund the proposed school budget as requested. The proposed Town budget for the 2026 Fiscal Year fully funds the operating budget requested by the Stratford Board of Education and SPS Administration. In addition, I suggest we add a Special Education Non-Lapsing Fund so we have reserves set aside should the cost of Special Education exceed the approved budget. The total proposed budget for Stratford Public Schools is $132,953,937, and we are confident this will provide the necessary resources, infrastructure, and support to those who work tirelessly to improve the academic achievement and social emotional well-being of our students. This budget is a commitment by the Town to moving our students, our schools, and our community forward.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the school administration, Board of Education and the Town Council to provide the necessary funding to all Town departments, and I am confident that this proposed budget represents a fiscally sound path for Stratford.”
The Town Council will review the budget through Ordinance Committee, with workshops covering the various town departments. The workshops are scheduled to take place over the next several weeks at the Baldwin Center (1000 West Broad Street in Stratford).
“I am excited to start our budget process,” Town Council Chairman, and District 8 Councilman, Carl Glad said in a news release. “The Mayor has submitted a budget that continues to support the services our community needs and fully funds the Board of Education proposal without raising taxes. I look forward to working with all of the members of the Council to go through the details and approve a budget that continues to move Stratford in a positive direction.”
Ordinance Committee Chair Alan Llewelyn said he’s “appreciative of Mayor Hoydick’s continued dedication to moving the Town of Stratford and its school system forward while being responsible to Stratford’s taxpayers.”
“Her recommendation of introducing a Special Education Non-Lapsing Fund is a sensible approach to ensure we have a safety net, in the event that Pupil Services / Special Education costs exceed the approved budget,” he said. “As a housekeeping reminder, budget workshops are currently scheduled to be held at the Baldwin Center; however, the schedule and location of the workshops are subject to change. I encourage anyone interested in attending to please check the Master Town Calendar under the Calendars tab at stratfordct.gov for the most accurate and up-to-date information.”
Read the full proposed budget here.
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