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 Old Town Hall 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 Old Greenwich, 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.
“I’ve booked back-up care for my two young children multiple times with ABC, and will”
“I booked Always Best Care through my Company's "Back Up Care" benefit. My Company's "Back”
“Alan is always there for us at all times with amazing care givers. He manages”
“Alan’s responsiveness in arranging home care far exceeded expectations. The home health aide”
“We had a lovely experience with Celenis! The company quickly swooped in to support us”
“In what was a tremendously difficult last few years caring for my mom with dementia,”
“This is a 5 star company. Their name is perfect. Always Best Care. The care”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care. We needed someone to help mom get back on”
“Amy Crowley at ABC Senior Services did a terrific job helping me find a suitable”
“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers”
“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers.”
“Please welcome the newest Connecticut office of Always Best Care to Norwalk and Lower Fairfield”
“Excellent!”
“I’ve booked back-up care for my two young children multiple times with ABC, and will continue to reach out to them first any time I have care needs. Not only was my caregiver great, but the service and care I got from Alan was above and beyond. He is so responsive, invested and attentive - feel like I’m working with a friend/family. They really care about their care recipients and make you feel like a VIP. The caregiver we were assigned was not only sweet and warm, but she wouldn’t sit still and made sure she was always doing something helpful. Couldn’t be happier with the company or caregiver, and will work with them anytime the need arises.”
“I booked Always Best Care through my Company's "Back Up Care" benefit. My Company's "Back Up Care" can be a little tricky to use and sometimes difficult to get the care properly confirmed. I reached out to Alan the day before my booking and he did a tremendous job at making sure that I had appropriate care for my 5 month old and that I wouldn't have to stress. Our actual caregiver, Chyna was great. She arrived on time, was knowledgable, respectful, and friendly. We had no worries leaving our 5 month old in her care. I'd book with Always Best Care again.”
“Alan is always there for us at all times with amazing care givers. He manages changes and last minute needs as though our family member is his family. He is also there in person to make sure everything is going smoothly.”
“Alan’s responsiveness in arranging home care far exceeded expectations. The home health aide is amazing as well. Thank you ABC for providing exceptional service!!”
“We had a lovely experience with Celenis! The company quickly swooped in to support us with childcare and she went above and beyond caring for our son permitting us to focus at work!”
“In what was a tremendously difficult last few years caring for my mom with dementia, we burned through multiple agencies and aides. Only at the end did we find unmatched compassion and competence with Alan and his team of aides at Always Best Care. A lot of times the whole experience felt overwhelming, disjointed and end of life care system just plain broken. They were the one shining bright spot. Our family would recommend them in the highest order.”
“This is a 5 star company. Their name is perfect. Always Best Care. The care givers for my mom in her final months were gracious, considerate, compassionate and professional. I spoke with Alan many times telling him how thankful i was to have him and the outstanding service his company provided to my mother. My highest recommendation to Alan and his staff at Always Best Care.”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care. We needed someone to help mom get back on her feet again after hip surgery and to be her companion for three weeks during Covid quarantine as she moved from rehab center back to her senior living apartment. All services were provided with the highest level of kindness, compassion and dignity and we are truly grateful for the help.”
“Amy Crowley at ABC Senior Services did a terrific job helping me find a suitable assisted living place for my Mom. She presented an array of good choices, gave me some very good advice about things to look for when I checked them out, responded quickly and completely to every question I had, and did all of this in the hurry done urgent circumstances required. No hard sell, just good knowledgeable work.”
“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers”
“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers.”
“Please welcome the newest Connecticut office of Always Best Care to Norwalk and Lower Fairfield County. If you know a loved one in need of care, please visit our website or call us anytime for a free no-obligation expert consultation.”
“Excellent!”
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 Greenwich Point 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 Le Fat Poodle or visit Putnam Cottage, 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 Old Greenwich, 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 Old Greenwich, 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 Old Greenwich, 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.
Here are six new restaurants that Connecticut diners can enjoy in October, including a "Detroit-ish"-style pizza place in New Haven, a new branch of popular fast-casual Mediterranean chain in Shelton, and two new locations of a cherished chicken nugget joint, in Shelton and Darien.The popular fast-casual restaurant chain CAVA Mediterranean Grill has opened in the Fountain Square development in Shelton. CAVA joins Playa Bowls and Trader Joe’s as tenants in the retail development located on Bridgeport Avenue. Along with ...
Here are six new restaurants that Connecticut diners can enjoy in October, including a "Detroit-ish"-style pizza place in New Haven, a new branch of popular fast-casual Mediterranean chain in Shelton, and two new locations of a cherished chicken nugget joint, in Shelton and Darien.
The popular fast-casual restaurant chain CAVA Mediterranean Grill has opened in the Fountain Square development in Shelton. CAVA joins Playa Bowls and Trader Joe’s as tenants in the retail development located on Bridgeport Avenue. Along with retail Shelton's Fountain Square will also include a 100-unit apartment development.
The Shelton location, 799 Bridgeport Ave., opened on Sept. 12, according to a CAVA spokesperson said in an email. CAVA's build-your-own menu includes Mediterranean bowls, salads and pitas with fresh ingredients. They also offer a kids menu, drinks and desserts.
The Shelton location has the same look and design "guests know and love," the CAVA spokesperson added. It will employ 25 to 40 people and offers dine-in and delivery options.
- Ciara Hooks
Connecticut-founded fast casual chain Garden Catering has announced in September those in Darien won't be waiting long to be dine on chicken nuggets, Hotsy breakfast sandwiches and corn fritters.
Garden Catering, which was founded in Greenwich, is heading to Darien on Heights Road at the end of October. An outpost is also set to open in Shelton in the beginning of November, the company announced in a news release.
The Darien location will be inside of Heights Crossing, which was the site of the former Noroton Heights Shopping Center. Meanwhile, the Shelton restaurant will be located in the former GameStop spot at 702 Bridgeport Ave.
First opening in 1978, Garden Catering has become synonymous with its chicken nuggets, which are "100% white meat chicken with no antibiotics ever," according to a news release. The Hotsy breakfast sandwich, which contains bacon, egg and cheese with Hotsy’s famous chili and potato cones, was named the best breakfast sandwich in the country by Restaurant Hospitality Magazine in 2020.
- Andrew DaRosa
Owners Douglas and Daneen Grabe, who are husband and wife, spent the entire summer renovating the 120 N. Main St. location, starting with the diamond windowpanes, according to previous CT Insider reporting. They set out to create a traditional pub look.
Douglas Grabe opened his first Little Pub in Ridgefield in 2009 and it remained opened for about 10 years, closing in 2019. Including Branford, the duo now operates a group of Little Pubs in Old Saybrook, Fairfield, Wilton, Stratford, Westport and Greenwich. The company was awarded the 2025 “Best Waterfront” restaurant in Fairfield county by Connecticut Magazine.
- Ciara Hooks
Not A Phase Café opened Sept. 12 at 1100 Main St. in Newington. Jared Linn, who co-owns the café with his wife, Kim Parker, said they have always been into the punk rock music scene and thought it would be a good theme for a café. The café has purple lighting and there is an art piece of an "emo" raccoon with facial piercings, which was created by local artist Kevin Boudreau, on the wall.
The café offers beverages like hot and iced coffee, iced tea and energy drinks. Customers can choose from a variety of flavors and options (like cold foam). It also offers food items like bagels, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burritos, pancakes and muffins.
- Joseph Tucci
Green & Tonic, a health-focused café chain, will be opened its third Greenwich location on Sept. 22.
The chain transformed the home of the former Sound Beach Sportswear shop, located at 239 Sound Beach Ave., into a modern wellness and sustainability oasis with hues of grey, brown and tiny pops of color. The café features an infamous grass wall with a neon sign that reads, “Nourish Your Soul,” and a salad station, where guests can customize a salad in a convenient on-the-go bowl, according to the release.
Green & Tonic will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner options from smoothies and salads to grab-and-go meals, snacks, juice cleanses and catering, according to the company's website. The café will also offer meal boxes, a customizable way to create two to five days worth of meals and snacks and the newly launched Vita Coco Strawberry Mango Matcha Cloud, a limited-edition drink special in collaboration with Vita Coco. The café has also recently expanded its offerings to include organic chicken and pasture-raised eggs, according to the release.
- Ciara Hooks
Bobbi's, a "Detroit-ish" style pizza restaurant, opened at 51 Broadway on Sept. 29. The restaurant is founded by Ankit Chellani, the owner of Sherkaan Indian Street Food in New Haven, and chef Bryan Burke, the executive chef at Sherkaan.
The pies from Bobbi's will be served personal-style, and are available with a number of different toppings including a Butter Chicken pizza, which is inspired by Sherkaan, according to a news release. The technique that goes into making these "Detroit-ish" pies may be slightly different than coal-fired tradition that New Haveners are used to.
- Andrew DaRosa
Andrew DaRosa is a SPJ award-winning journalist who has worked at Hearst Connecticut Media Group since 2018. He currently works as a Senior Audience Producer and a Trending Reporter for CT Insider and also runs the SEEN section.
He can often be found covering Connecticut’s expanding music scene, supposedly “haunted” sites around the state or keeping track of big winners in the Connecticut Lottery. He has been at the forefront of multiple music-related stories around Connecticut, including the Sound On Sound music festival. With a passion for music, over the past decade, Andrew has interviewed members of Judas Priest, Goose, The National, Trey Anatasio Band, The Head and the Heart and Maren Morris.
Originally from Massachusetts, Andrew graduated from Fairfield University in 2018 with a degree in digital journalism. Since working for Hearst Connecticut, Andrew has become a four-time winner of Connecticut Society of Professional Journalism awards for his coverage of Connecticut band Goose, hiking the state and his human interest stories.
When he isn’t writing about Ed and Lorraine Warren or jam bands, Andrew can be found going to concerts with his wife or hanging out with his cat, Spud.
Ciara Hooks is a reporter with the Record-Journal. She has been with Hearst Connecticut Media Group since 2024. When not working, she can be found trying out the many great restaurants in the state, shopping, listening to music and spending time with family.
On the corner of West Putnam Avenue and Prospect Street, sits a Greenwich institution: Freccia Brothers Garage.“This garage was built from the ground up by my family in 1922. They came over from Italy,” Guinevere Freccia told News 12.Inside the landmark white building, you’ll find relics from days gone by—an old refrigerator, radio and clock. But time is running out for the repair shop.“Right now, we are facing a devastating eviction, and we are looking to relocate the business,” expla...
On the corner of West Putnam Avenue and Prospect Street, sits a Greenwich institution: Freccia Brothers Garage.
“This garage was built from the ground up by my family in 1922. They came over from Italy,” Guinevere Freccia told News 12.
Inside the landmark white building, you’ll find relics from days gone by—an old refrigerator, radio and clock. But time is running out for the repair shop.
“Right now, we are facing a devastating eviction, and we are looking to relocate the business,” explained Guinevere Freccia, who’s the fifth generation of her family to work there.
Her father, Frank Freccia III, still does, operating the business with his daughter and her husband. Frank Freccia III started at the garage when he was ten, learning from his father, Frank “Skip” Freccia Jr. According to court records, his death in 2018 resulted in a family dispute over ownership of the building and a years-long legal battle with his wife, Theresa Freccia, that ended with an order to vacate.
“It's heartbreaking. It's one of the saddest things I've ever been through. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. This shop is full of memories, not only of cars we worked on, but growing up here, me and my siblings were here every single day after school,” Guinevere Freccia said. “It's more than just a business. A lot of family memories are wrapped up in these four walls.”
Most of the shop’s tools, equipment and cars have been moved out already.
“We do need help from the public. Any leads on spaces are greatly appreciated, funds to help us move,” Guinevere Freccia told News 12, adding that much of their money has gone to the legal fight.
The Freccias launched a GoFundMe campaign, with a goal of raising $250,000 to help preserve their history and continue their legacy.
“We originally started painting horse-drawn carriages and eventually evolved into being the air cold specialists,” Guinevere Freccia explained.
The shop became known for repairing Volkswagens, even drawing customers from beyond Connecticut’s borders.
“It's mostly the tri-state area, but people will call from Vermont, further up past Massachusetts. We've even gotten phone calls from Florida,” Guinevere Freccia said.
Over the years, the Freccias have given back to the community with holiday displays, toy drives and fundraisers for public initiatives. Now they're the ones who need help.
“We are hoping that, you know, karma and energy come back,” said Guinevere Freccia.
GREENWICH — For Greenwich Public Schools, Friday is the big day — the first day of school for the current 8,392 enrolled studentsFrom new school start times to fresh faces leading a few of the district's schools and programs, Superintendent Toni Jones said there are some changes that families should be aware of leading up to the beginning of the 2025-26 school year.New school start timesFor the upcoming school year, start times are changing slightly across the district. This came as a result of the budget-s...
GREENWICH — For Greenwich Public Schools, Friday is the big day — the first day of school for the current 8,392 enrolled students
From new school start times to fresh faces leading a few of the district's schools and programs, Superintendent Toni Jones said there are some changes that families should be aware of leading up to the beginning of the 2025-26 school year.
For the upcoming school year, start times are changing slightly across the district. This came as a result of the budget-setting process for this year's operating budget, during which the Board of Education voted to push up Greenwich High School's start time from 8:30 to 7:45 a.m. to save over $1.9 million.
This change is pushing back the middle school's start time from 8 to 8:15 a.m. For Julian Curtiss School and New Lebanon School, the start times are moving from 8:15 to 8:30 a.m. The rest of the elementary schools will be starting at 9 a.m. instead of 8:45 a.m., while Old Greenwich School and Riverside School will start at 8:45 a.m. Hamilton Avenue School will begin at 7:45 a.m.
Some pre-kindergarten program start times are being affected as well by this change, Jones said in a previous note to the district community.
On top of the new school start time, GPS switched bus providers, from First Student to DATTCO, so Jones said in a statement that this combination "could create a few challenges to start the school year."
"The great news is that the vast majority of drivers (from the previous provider) switched companies and will continue to drive their usual routes in Greenwich," she added. "Working together, we are trying to be proactive and solve problems before they arise. We are anticipating the usual cooperation, patience and understanding from our families and entire community as everyone gets acclimated."
A new school year means some programming changes, Jones said.
At the elementary level, Jones said the district will be launching new writing units for third through fifth grade and across kindergarten through fifth grade, GPS is offering a new program called Positive Pathways. This program will assist "students who need more support in a smaller and focused environment," she said.
At both the middle school and high school level, Jones said the district is "working on consistency" when it comes to giving students feedback.
Jones said this work will ensure students get their exams and quizzes back in a timely fashion so they can "have ample opportunity to work towards mastery and understand how they are doing the course."
"We are grateful to our students and families who have provided feedback to GPS that this is an area where we can be even better," Jones said.
Since the winter, Central Middle School students, families and staff members have been accustomed to seeing the construction of the new school building. But since the project's structural construction phase is completed, Jones said "they should expect to see even more action happening close by that will not interrupt their school day."
Julian Curtiss School students, on the other hand, will be heading back to school in a building that will now have an Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible entryway, a new office area, new playground equipment and more. Plus, the school will soon have an elevator.
"It will feel like a new school when you walk in the entrance," Jones said.
Along with welcoming around 70 new teachers, there are some new administrators that district officials hired over the summer.
International School at Dundee now has fresh faces leading the school, as it has both a new principal and a new assistant principal. Veteran New York educator Philip Hammack is the new principal, while former Greenwich Country Day School administrator, Kevin Thompson, is the new assistant principal.
At the district-wide level, Jones said that GPS has a new arts program coordinator, a new coordinator of student wellness and support and two new special education coordinators.
Jones said, looking forward, the district officials are "always on the lookout for substitutes and paraeducators."
"They are the true unsung heroes of education," she said.
This story has been updated to correct the Hamilton Avenue school start time, which is 7:45 a.m.
Don't Miss
Scene…The seventh annual Dancing Stars of Greenwich charity gala hosted by the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Greenwich to benefit Abilis takes place on Sept. 20 at Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich. The evening runs from 7 p.m. to midnight and includes a VIP cocktail hour, live entertainment, silent auction, seated dinner and ballroom performances vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy by local luminaries and their professional partners. The event, co-hosted by award-winning actor Brendan Fraser and ...
Scene…The seventh annual Dancing Stars of Greenwich charity gala hosted by the Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Greenwich to benefit Abilis takes place on Sept. 20 at Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich. The evening runs from 7 p.m. to midnight and includes a VIP cocktail hour, live entertainment, silent auction, seated dinner and ballroom performances vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy by local luminaries and their professional partners. The event, co-hosted by award-winning actor Brendan Fraser and Afton Fraser will feature celebrity judges including Brendan Fraser, renowned model and actress Paulina Porizkova, and comedy writer Jeff Greenstein. Actress and author Ali Wentworth will serve as emcee and celebrity fitness guru and choreographer Billy Blanks Jr., founder of the fitness program, Dance It Out, will also be part of the festivities. For tickets call 203-340-2760 or visit greenwichdancingstars.com.
Scene…The Cos Cob Mianus Dugout Old Timers Annual Picnic, honoring Cos Cob’s own, the late Joseph “Doc” Orrico, takes place on Aug. 24 at the Tod’s Point clambake area beginning at 11 a.m. with coffee, lunch at noon, and a steak dinner provided by Kelly’s of Rye catering. For tickets, contact the St. Lawrence Society in Cos Cob at 203-618-9036.
Out there… First Bank of Greenwich is hosting an art event on Sept. 24 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich celebrating the work of abstract impressionistic artist Jodi DeCrenza and musical talents of harpist Nina Bogomas and electric violinist Yelena Mové. The event will also include the staff at Tati Entertainment and Marcia Selden Catering, and feature photography of photographer and musician Robert Romeo Capazzo. RSVP to [email protected].
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Out there…The Bedford Playhouse in Bedford, N.Y. is featuring an intimate evening of Broadway this Sunday at 5 p.m. The event, featuring Broadway stars Amanda Jane Cooper ("Wicked," Disney Channel's "Jessie"); Marie Eife ("Wicked" national tour); Jason Gotay (Broadway's "Floyd Collins," "Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark," "Bring It On: The Musical"), will include songs from their Broadway shows with Dan Micciche, musical director of "Wicked" on piano. For tickets and more info go to bedfordplayhouse.org.
Scene… A singles mixer is taking place at Valbella restaurant at 1309 East Putnam Ave. in Riverside on Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. For tickets ($49.87) go to eventbrite.com/e/singles-mixer-in-greenwich-ct-tickets-1520474051819.
Out there… Stamford Downtown Summer Restaurant Weeks takes place this Monday through Sept. 1, featuring over 30 restaurants offering specially priced prix fixe menus. Participating restaurants include Acuario Restaurant, The Americano, Bar Rosso, bartaco, Barcelona Wine Bar, Blackstones Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Capriccio Kitchen & Bar, Columbus Park Trattoria, Divina Modern Italian, FISH Restaurant + Bar, Hudson Social, Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant, Kouzina Greek Taverna & Bar, Love Meat Korean BBQ, Mecha Noodle Bar, Siena Ristorante, Taj Indian Cuisine Stamford, Terra and Gaucha Brazilian. Reservations are recommended. For more info visit visit stamford-downtown.com/event/restaurant-weeks.
Scene…The Sunset Summer Beach Concert at Penfield Pavilion in Fairfield takes place on Tuesday from 6 to 10 p.m. featuring Otis and the Hurricanes. The event, to benefit Schoke JFS which provides essential services to over 6,000 families in Fairfield County, will feature an open bar and food. For tickets ($136) go to sjfsconcert.givesmart.com.
Out there…The New Canaan Chamber of Commerce's sixth annual Taste of New Canaan Stroll to benefit the New Canaan Food Pantry, takes place on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. The kick-off party begins at Stewart’s Spirits at 215 Elm Street at 5 p.m. where patrons can collect wristbands and a map and take their selected tour: Taste Tour, a signature taste of some of New Canaan’s best eateries; Family Fiesta, a family friendly, shorter walking tour of the sweet and savory; and Pour Tour, restaurants and stores featuring wine or beer. For tickets and more info go to newcanaanchamber.com/2025/07/24/2025-taste-of-new-canaan-stroll. Valid ID required.
Scene… Nashville Country & Western band Gunsmoke will perform at the Greenwich Historical Society at 47 Strickland Road in Cos Cob on Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. For tickets ($10 non-members/Free for members and children) go to greenwichhistory.org.
And that’s all for now.
Later…
“Let silence be your general rule, say only what is necessary and in few words.” -Epictetus
Got a tip? Seen a celebrity? Email Susie Costaregni at [email protected].
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