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 Harrison House 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 Branford, 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.
“We had the most wonderful experience with Always Best Care. Cynthia was an answer to our”
“I am so appreciative for the time, patience, and insight that Cynthia Montano provided to”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me out a lot and things”
“This review is for Bernadette. She is exceptionally competent. You can feel how caring she”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom started requiring 24x7 care 2 years”
“I am a current client of this provider The client feels comfortable with the provider. I like”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom started only requiring part time care”
“I am a current client of this provider I deal with Deanna, and I can ask”
“I am a current client of this provider They are doing everything they can to help,”
“I am a current client of this provider The impact is great on my life, they”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother had short term care while I”
“I am a current client of this provider They give great service. I like that the caregivers”
“I am a current client of this provider They made a great difference in the client's”
“I am a current client of this provider They have changed my life because they take”
“I am a current client of this provider She helps me with bathing and she helps”
“I am a current client of this provider We have worked with Linda and team at”
“I am a current client of this provider They only come once a week but it”
“I am a current client of this provider They have helped the most in providing care”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care has been doing a tremendous”
“I am a current client of this provider Absolutely the BEST care provided! Simple and easy”
“I am a current client of this provider They watch over my mother because I am”
“I am a current client of this provider We are lost without them. My husband can't”
“I am a current client of this provider They have exhibited everything they are supposed to.”
“I am a current client of this provider The aides are very good. They are reliable.”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver is always here when she says”
“We had the most wonderful experience with Always Best Care. Cynthia was an answer to our prayers ????”
“I am so appreciative for the time, patience, and insight that Cynthia Montano provided to my brother and me in helping us transition our mother from independent to assisted living. Cynthia educated us about the various “models” of assisted living communities in an effort to ascertain the appropriate level of support required for our mom. She was sensitive to finances and lifestyle preference. Cynthia has a network of relationships among assisted living facilities, and always did hands on research before presenting us with options to tour. She is truly a professional. Cynthia has generously made herself available to brainstorm, as we begin to think about eventual next steps. Thank you, Cynthia.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me out a lot and things I can't do, they help me. I like that they are prompt and always on time.”
“This review is for Bernadette. She is exceptionally competent. You can feel how caring she is for her patient and for the entire family. Self directed.”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom started requiring 24x7 care 2 years ago and her primary aid was attentive to her needs and treated her with dignity and respect. She would often call my Mom her "Queen". They always provided advanced notice whenever the aid needed time off and was responsive to questions and concerns. I don't know what we would have done if not for ABC and its services.”
“I am a current client of this provider The client feels comfortable with the provider. I like that they are attentive to the patient.”
“I am a past client of this provider My Mom started only requiring part time care due to her cancer but as it progressed, we needed around the clock care. The aides were always extremely helpful and kind to my Mom and when we needed care 24x7 our aide was Na who was here for my Mom day in and day out. In a six month period she had only taken two days off where we needed coverage which Always Best took care of for us. Na was just wonderful and my Mom loved her and everything she had done to comfort her. I also appreciated everything Na had done for my Mom and to have an aide as dedicated to my Mom was critical in my eyes. I would also like to thank their entire office they always worked with me and were always available whenever I needed anything. Thank you Always best Care, my Mom couldn't have been treated any better!!!”
“I am a current client of this provider I deal with Deanna, and I can ask her to do what I need without question. I like that they're prompt.”
“I am a current client of this provider They are doing everything they can to help, they have sent me a lovely person that is agreeable. They came through on what they promised, I have a lovely person to come help me.”
“I am a current client of this provider The impact is great on my life, they have helped me in my house. They sent me people at fist that were not good but now they sent me a good person to work.”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother had short term care while I was vacationing. The agency matched her up with a wonderful caregiver whom my mother loved. She arrived on time every day and helped keep my mother company by sitting and chatting with her while still helping out with the evening meal and housekeeping. We will use the services again in the future. It was a positive experience for my mother and our family.”
“I am a current client of this provider They give great service. I like that the caregivers are on time and they know how to do their job.”
“I am a current client of this provider They made a great difference in the client's life. I like that they work until they find the right person.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have changed my life because they take me to the doctors and will take me to the grocery store I like that they help me clean my house for me.”
“I am a current client of this provider She helps me with bathing and she helps me with my dinner. They are very reliable.”
“I am a current client of this provider We have worked with Linda and team at ABC for quite a while. Very professional and reliable at all times”
“I am a current client of this provider They only come once a week but it has been extremely helpful. They strive to get you the best care possible. If they can't fulfill something they work until they get you that.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have helped the most in providing care for personal hygiene. I like the caregiver that the company has provided us.”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care has been doing a tremendous job with my father’s daily needs. My fathers caretaker, has been doing a tremendous job and has really gone above and beyond with helping my father. Everything from getting a haircut, to bringing him to see a the podiatrist, and taking him out for food, it’s all gone very well. My father has grown accustomed to Steve and that has helped tremendously. I’m glad someone is there to fill in the gaps because it’s just not possible for me to do the things he needs solely on the weekends. The service is very flexible and has been a great help to me as I’m working full time and my father lives by himself. Highly recommended!”
“I am a current client of this provider Absolutely the BEST care provided! Simple and easy to deal with. Easy to contact and responded to our needs very quickly!”
“I am a current client of this provider They watch over my mother because I am on a the road a lot. I need somebody who will do a good job taking care of her while I'm away. We were having problems finding an aide that was consistent.”
“I am a current client of this provider We are lost without them. My husband can't get out of bed in the morning without the aides helping him with a lift. I am not able to help him in the ways that he needs, so the services are critical. They could have more substitute caregivers available. Every once in a while, we need a substitute, but we have to wait.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have exhibited everything they are supposed to. When I have people who come and care for me, it means a lot and usually lifts my spirits. Care is very prominent in the people that come.”
“I am a current client of this provider The aides are very good. They are reliable. When they say something, it happens. The aides are very good and responsive on service issues. If they say something, it will happen.”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver is always here when she says she is going to be here. She comes in the door and asks what she can do. She is very very helpful to my loved one and me. She often helps my loved one get dressed. She will fix breakfast if we haven't had breakfast. She makes lunch for us. She will do pretty much anything I ask her to do. I like the fact that I can count on them to do what they say. They follow through with everything they say they will do.”
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 Parker Memorial 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 Ôtoulouse or visit Stony Creek Museum, 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 Branford, 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 Branford, 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 Branford, 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.
Partnering with Blackstone Memorial Library, it offers opportunities for student & novice filmmakers including equipment rentals, workshops.From The Legacy TheatrePartnering with James Blackstone Memorial Library, the fest offers opportunities for student, novice filmmakers including equipment rentals, workshops.BRANFORD, CT — Submissions for the Legacy Theatre Independent Film Festival are now open. The three-day screening festival will run September 23-25 at the Legacy Theatre in Branford, which wa...
From The Legacy Theatre
Partnering with James Blackstone Memorial Library, the fest offers opportunities for student, novice filmmakers including equipment rentals, workshops.
BRANFORD, CT — Submissions for the Legacy Theatre Independent Film Festival are now open. The three-day screening festival will run September 23-25 at the Legacy Theatre in Branford, which was one of the first silent picture houses in New England and was once home to Orson Welles and his Mercury Players.
This year, the Legacy Theatre Independent Film Festival is excited to partner with the James Blackstone Memorial Library, offering more opportunities for student and novice filmmakers in and around the community, including equipment rentals and workshops.
Film submissions are accepted now through July 8, and those selected for the festival will be notified by August 30. The film festival runs mornings to evenings September 23-25, with a jam-packed schedule of screenings, networking events, and panels, and the award ceremony will take place the final evening of the festival, September 25th. Past esteemed judges and speakers have included 6-time Emmy-award-winning filmmaker Karyl Evans, acclaimed celebrity teacher and author on the craft, Matt Newton, and others. The 2022 Overall Legacy Theatre Film Festival winner, Christopher Rucinski, has gone on to receive critical acclaim internationally for his submitted film, Northern Shade.
“The Legacy Film Festival is a spectacular venue. The attending filmmakers delivered some highly talented people and films to the festival. (I) highly recommend this festival for new and seasoned filmmakers and attendees looking to view some creative film content.” - 2022 Legacy Film Festival participant
The 2024 Legacy Theatre Independent Film Festival Award categories include Short Drama Award, Short Comedy Award, Short Documentary Award, Feature-length Drama Award, Feature-length Comedy Award, and Feature-length Documentary Award. Additional award categories include Best Young Filmmaker Award, Best Actor Overall Award, Best Actress Overall Award, CT Filmmaker Award, National Filmmaker Award, International Filmmaker Award, and Overall Legacy Theatre Film Festival Winner. Day passes will be available for purchase to attend the festival events. To submit a film for consideration for the festival, visit FilmFreeway.com/LegacyTheatreFilmFestival.
The Legacy Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theatre, which has undergone a state-of-the-art 5-million-dollar renovation and opened to produce live theatre in its inaugural year as Legacy Theatre in 2021. The theatre is now in its fourth season. To learn more about the Legacy Theatre, please visit https://www.legacytheatrect.org/.
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Grants are focused on agencies that provide basic needs help, mental health services, child/youth development, and programs that create joy.BRANFORD, CT —In 2023, the Branford Community Foundation awarded 25 grants through its competitive grant making process, with an average award of $3,400. The Foundation's 2024 grant application is now available.Grants are awarded to 501(c)3 not-for-profit organizations and 170(c)(1) governmental agencies serving the Branford community and creating a positive impact within the areas ...
BRANFORD, CT —In 2023, the Branford Community Foundation awarded 25 grants through its competitive grant making process, with an average award of $3,400. The Foundation's 2024 grant application is now available.
Grants are awarded to 501(c)3 not-for-profit organizations and 170(c)(1) governmental agencies serving the Branford community and creating a positive impact within the areas of arts, basic needs, civic engagement, education, environment, health, and youth.
The Foundation notes in a news release it, "Seeks grants that enhance the quality of life in Branford. Grant applications should address a need within the focus area and demonstrate impact on the organization, project, community, or persons served."
Organizations unable to attend the meeting are encouraged to contact Jennifer Mullett, Program Director jmullett@branfordcommunityfoundation.org with questions about the grant guidelines or application process prior to submitting a grant.
The Foundation noted it "will not award grants to debt reduction, endowments, individuals, lobbying, political organizations and campaigns, or to replace government funding sources."
Grant award decisions will be announced by May 31.
Grant awards cannot be used retroactively to pay costs for programs or services that have occurred in the past. Applications from previous grantees are welcome; continued funding will be considered by CIC but is not guaranteed. All final reports from previously awarded grants must be provided prior to submission of a new grant.
For more information and to apply, visit BranfordCommunityFoundation.org/apply-for-a-grant.
About the Branford Community Foundation
The Branford Community Foundation, founded in 1980, is a public, nonprofit, tax-exempt, charitable trust. It provides an administrative, philanthropic service – a means by which public-spirited citizens may make gifts or bequests, the income from which is distributed for educational, cultural, health, social and civic needs. The Foundation is overseen by the Board of Directors, composed of community leaders who serve without compensation and who have been selected for their knowledge, interest and integrity of judgment. A part-time executive director works with the Board of Directors, and Advisors provide outreach with the community, give guidance to the Board, and help to develop future leadership.
For more information on upcoming grants, sponsorships and community events, or to make a contribution to the Branford Community Foundation, please email Marketing@BranfordCommunityFoundation.org.
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BRANFORD, CT — Two Branford elementary schools are now capturing the energy of the sun to produce electricity. The town announced that the power produced at Mary R. Tisko and Mary T. Murphy is expected to have a "cost savings over of $248,000 over the next 20 years."“This project aligns with the town’s goals and initiatives to use renewable energy to save on energy costs," First Selectman James Cosgrove noted, adding the town "continually looks for cost-effective opportunities to make our faciliti...
BRANFORD, CT — Two Branford elementary schools are now capturing the energy of the sun to produce electricity. The town announced that the power produced at Mary R. Tisko and Mary T. Murphy is expected to have a "cost savings over of $248,000 over the next 20 years."
“This project aligns with the town’s goals and initiatives to use renewable energy to save on energy costs," First Selectman James Cosgrove noted, adding the town "continually looks for cost-effective opportunities to make our facilities greener and more resilient."
Working with the Connecticut Green Bank, the town used a Power Purchase Agreement which enables consumers to readily switch to solar via a turn-key operation, the town noted in a news release.
"An electronic dashboard connected to the system will be available for students to access, view and learn about energy production in real time," it's noted. Branford public schools consume around two thirds of the town’s annual energy usage.
"We're happy that after pandemic related supply chain delays, our two solar installations are finally up and running," schools Superintendent Dr. Christopher Tranberg said. "I plan to work with my team to find ways to build curriculum connections for our students to take advantage of the many science and climate-related learning opportunities this project provides."
The two elementary schools were able to "go solar" using the Green Bank’s Solar Municipal Assistance Program, which provides technical support to help municipalities develop solar projects on their buildings, according to officials.
The Green Bank also provides financing for the solar systems through a PPA, which allows the municipality to access solar with no upfront installation costs, no new debt to incur, and no operations and maintenance costs, according to the town. The two new systems were installed by Greenskies Clean Focus.
“We are excited that these systems will not only help Branford save on their energy costs but willserve as educational tools for staff, students, and their families to learn about the benefits of solarenergy,” Mackey Dykes, Vice President of Financing Programs at the Green Bank, said.
Other projects completed by the town include solar panels at Branford Fire Headquarters, also site to a geothermal energy project; Transfer Station; Branford High School; and a 4.3 solar farm located at Tabor Drive. In addition, the town has entered into a contract with Verogy, a solar farm located in Bristol, to supply energy credits to eight town-owned facilities.
BRANFORD — The sign says Little Riggs. With a period. If it had a comma, it might be a law firm. But Indian Neck’s newest restaurant at 3 Linden Ave. has a sweet backstory to its name that makes it unique from such previous occupants as The Friki Tiki, Pasta Cosi, Cranberry’s and more, in the “if walls could talk” location.Watch MoreOpening his own brick-and-mortar restaurant was a dream for chef John Kronfeld, who first brought his imaginative gastronomy to the area three years ago via The Chef Tr...
BRANFORD — The sign says Little Riggs. With a period. If it had a comma, it might be a law firm. But Indian Neck’s newest restaurant at 3 Linden Ave. has a sweet backstory to its name that makes it unique from such previous occupants as The Friki Tiki, Pasta Cosi, Cranberry’s and more, in the “if walls could talk” location.
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Opening his own brick-and-mortar restaurant was a dream for chef John Kronfeld, who first brought his imaginative gastronomy to the area three years ago via The Chef Truck, taking portable his singular palate.
The Culinary Institute of America grad has not turned his back on his old friend. It’s been reinvented under the Little Riggs Pizza Co. moniker, hanging out these days at local breweries on weekends or at the restaurant to offer what Kronfeld calls his “pillowy-crusted Kronfeld’s special pizza.”
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The Chef Truck was no run-of-the-mill food truck. Little Riggs — subtitled “A gastropub for the early riser” — continues that singularity as its own place of invention with a nod to the food truck’s inspirations and much more.
“The menu is drawn by a thoughtful interpretation of what people enjoy and what they want,” says Kronfeld one afternoon at the end of the breakfast/lunch service. It’s a seasonal menu that reflects Kronfeld’s penchant for creative food with a homey vibe: “that comfort zone that’s evoked when you’re having friends at your house,” he says.
His present home with his wife Missy and toddler son may be just down the road in Indian Neck now, but the backstory for the restaurant’s name comes from another home on the other side of town in Short Beach.
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Nearly a decade ago, Kronfeld and Missy lived in a beloved little rental in Short Beach. When tossing out possible names for the restaurant, they did a little research with the Branford Historical Society, which pretty much sealed the search.
Turns out “Little Riggs was the nickname given to it by the original owners who vacationed there from the city, and they had a daughter Eleanor Rigby,” Kronfeld says, smiling with the recognition of a parent. Hence, Little Riggs.
Kronfeld has taken the creativity evident in The Chef Truck breakfast menus, some of them born as much out of space limitations as palate pleasers and expanded them exponentially. With an actual kitchen, albeit small, and “a talented young guy who responded to an ad who is going to be a great chef,” plus four part-time servers, he has added lunch entrees. With the liquor license coming through Friday, dinner and bar hours are imminent (check website for updates).The restaurant is now open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays.
Kronfeld speaks about food as if it’s a fond old friend who just keeps giving and inspiring.
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“All the food I’ve ever done has been representing something in my life … food memories or reflections of my life, things I’ve enjoyed with my friends … Every dish has a story,” he says.
He recalls a trip to France with his father, where, after disembarking as a hungry 14-year-old at Charles de Gaulle Airport, his eyes lit up to see ham and cheese sandwiches, “but in Paris, ham and cheese was a gourmet dish … a small dish that just seems to work well together,” he says.
His remembrance dish is Le Petit Dejeuner: toasted baguette, brie, prosciutto and arugula.
“When I got out of the Culinary Institute, I found out my dad really liked grits. It was a food word I really didn’t know in my youth.”
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But when he found out polenta and grits were basically the same except for the color of the corn used, and after experiencing all its iterations in his world travels, he created a dish as an homage to his Louisiana-born father: Sunny Side Grits: organic corn white cheddar grits with beef bacon lardons, redeye hot sauce, scallions, cracked pepper, fried egg.
“I bring something more nuanced than going to Dunkin’ Donuts,” he says of the breakfast entrée, nestled beside B-B-B-Bennie!, Undecided But Hungry, Belly Bombs on the menu.
Finding food “togetherness” is kind of what sparks Kronfeld’s creative process. “Mushroom toast is not a new invention, but when I saw [Groton’s] Seacoast Mushrooms at the Farmer’s Market in Guilford, I grabbed them, some artisan bread, went home and said let’s make mushroom toast. This is stuff I want to serve,” says the admitted breakfast lover. “It’s not about creating the perfect breakfast dish. It’s about creating an inspiring food to enjoy. There’s this variety that I crave.”
You see eggs. He sees Egg Bites: feta and herb-baked egg bites, greens and berry salad, fig reduction, everything croutons, pain au levain toast. A Buttered Muffin is a honey macadamia nut, griddled. His take on sandwiches or “Sammi’s” as he calls them: Bahn MI-L-T: crispy Thai bacon, shredded romaine lettuce, sliced tomato, pickled cherry peppers, chipotle aioli, feta cheese, spinach herb tortilla. Not your neighborhood diner menu, but that’s the point. Most of the items are also offered on the to-go menu.
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The 40-person occupancy space, for which Kronfeld and a business partner have a 5-year lease, has a clean black-and-white color scheme with crisp white shiplapped walls, two levels of seating and the original adobe floor tiles. There’s a bar on the upper level. The outdoor screened-in area is still a work in progress.
The soft rollout in July brought many neighbors curious to see what was going into this familiar space, and promising to come back. Each time, they’ll find something new or a finessed version of something on the menu because a better vegetable or cheese or idea came out of the cornucopia of a new season of the year.
“When something goes on the menu, it’s not the first time; it’s more like the 40th time I’ve tried it,” says Kronfeld. “I want to find the dish that’s hiding in the chef’s soul.”
And give tastebuds a new treat.
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Little Riggs, 3 Linden Ave., Branford is open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays for breakfast and lunch. Reservations and info are available at 203-499-7930; thecheftruck.com/little-riggs-pizza-com; Instagram: @little_riggs_ct.
Donna Doherty is the former arts editor of the New Haven Register.
Dame Julie Andrews Edwards, yes the Julie Andrews of “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music” fame, will be directing a musical at the Legacy Theatre in Branford this summer.Andrews will be directing “The Great American Mousical” which will run at the ...
Dame Julie Andrews Edwards, yes the Julie Andrews of “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music” fame, will be directing a musical at the Legacy Theatre in Branford this summer.
Andrews will be directing “The Great American Mousical” which will run at the Legacy Theatre July 11-28. The show is actually based on the children's book Andrews published in 2007, which made its world premiere in Connecticut when it was staged at Goodspeed’s Norma Terris Theater in 2012.
“With the outpouring of support we have had from the community, fellow artists in the theater world, and the kind recognition we have received from BroadwayWorld and beyond, it is a crowning glory to welcome Dame Julie Andrews Edwards into our theatrical home and bask in the presence of her artistry, skill and her own particular legacy,” Keely Baisden Knudsen, the Legacy’s artistic director and co-founder, said in a statement.
Knudsen said Broadway actress Anne Runolfsson who also acts as the development manager at the Legacy is “a long-time family friend” of Andrews. Knudsen added that she met Andrews when she directed the show at the Goodspeed back in 2012.
“At that point (2012), Legacy Theatre was merely an idea that co-founder Stephanie Williams and I had! Fast forward to this moment, in which Anne has invited Dame Julie's team of extraordinary creatives to consider the Legacy Theatre for the next phase of their show, and I couldn't be more thrilled or more honored,” she said.
“The Great American Mousical” is about an acting troupe of mice who have to deal with their venue being threatened by demolition and a missing star all while ensuring that the show must go on. Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Gattelli will also be part of the Legacy’s production.
“Our audiences have proven that they love great, funny, moving, exciting musicals that are terrific for all generations of their family. This production could not be a better fit for that directive,” Knudsen said.” It has such extraordinary wit by the great Hunter Bell, lyrics to match from Marcy Zeisler, and a tremendous score from Zina Goldrich. Coupled with Christopher Gattelli's celebrated choreography and Dame Julie Andrews Edwards' directing excellence, this production is such a special milestone moment in Legacy's growing legacy!”
Prior to directing the premiere of “The Great American Mousical” in Chester, she directed “The Boy Friend” at Goodspeed in East Haddam in 2005.
Andrews is a busy octogenarian, in addition to her upcoming directing role at the Legacy, Andrews has been putting her famous voice to work as as voice of Lady Whistledown in Netflix’s “Bridgerton” series as well as playing Gru’s mom in 2022’s “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”
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