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 Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage State Historic Sites 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 Bernards, NJ 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 care I receive from Always Best Care is outstanding and invaluable in keeping me”
“I am a current client of this provider I am extremely satisfied with my caregiver, thanks”
“I am a past client of this provider When my mother found the day to day”
“I am a past client of this provider Best in Care helped our family during a”
“I am a current client of this provider What a relief to find Always Best Care.”
“What a relief to find Always Best Care. My 84 year old mom raves about”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother needed help after a fall in”
“Greg, Robin, and Clara have been such a gift to our family We are so”
“Greg and all of his staff always go above and beyond to provide my mother”
“I am a past client of this provider We have been caring for my mom since”
“I am a current client of this provider We are currently receiving services from Always Best”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge has been”
“My family needed help with my Mom for a family wedding. She lives in assisted”
“My son was getting married and we needed someone to help with my mom during”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge (ABCBR) has”
“Gregg was a pleasure to work with. His caring manner, as well as, understanding the”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge proved to”
“When I injured my ankle, ABC at Bernardsville, NJ provided one month services to help”
“I am a past client of this provider My husband had a series of illnesses and”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care owners Greg and Robin have”
“Greg and Robin LaVersa truly work hard to make sure they provide exceptional service! Their”
“Greg and his wife, Robin, have been providing care for my mother. All of the”
“I am a current client of this provider Greg, Robin and the staff at Always Best”
“Robin and Greg are hands down the best employers anyone can ever wish for, they”
“I am a past client of this provider Our experience with Greg & Robin was top”
“The service and care that Greg and Robin provide is outstanding! They really listened to”
“I am a current client of this provider All positive experience with Robin and Greg .”
“Our aunt needed care but all of us are out of state. We called Greg”
“Always Best Care provided aides who would come to my mother-in-law's apartment in an independent”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided aides who would come”
“A year ago it became clear that my 90 year-old father and 87 year-old mother”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my”
“I am a current client of this provider Greg and Robin have been a true gift”
“I am a past client of this provider I needed a home health aide to care”
“Our brother a physician is a fully disabled Veteran . We considered ourselves lucky to”
“We couldn’t be happier with how Greg and Robin have helped us with our brother’s”
“I have been using Always Best Care for over a year to assist me with”
“Thanks for everything! I never feel like I can't call and discuss events or changes”
“I am a past client of this provider Although we where only in need of Always”
“The attention to detail by owners Robin and Greg cannot be matched. I made one”
“I am a current client of this provider The attention to detail by owners Robin and”
“Greg has been so amazing helping my family, let alone his amazing staff. They don't”
“Greg has been so amazing helping my family. Let alone his amazing staff. They don't”
“My mother has been a client since Feb 2017. Mother's aide, Alexandra, has become mom's”
“I would like to recommend the services of Always Best Care from personal experience through”
“Very caring, reliable and Greg is there to address your every concern.”
“I have known Robin LaVersa my whole life and Greg LaVersa for over 20 years.”
“Nikki does so much more than what is checked off. She talks to dad and”
“Robin and Greg are incredibly warm and engaging individuals. They clearly are in this business”
“Robin and Greg LaVersa of Always Best Care go above and beyond our expectations for”
“I have been very impressed by the attention this Always Best Care office pays to”
“We interviewed 3 different agencies before hiring Always Best Care in Basking Ridge. Greg made”
“My mother has been a client since Feb 2017. Mother's aide, Alexandra, has become mom's”
“I am a current client of this provider My mother has been a client since Feb”
“Always Best Care took away most of the stress I was having with the care”
“Always Best Care took away most of the stress I was having with the care”
“Robin and Greg have been and continue to be a great help to me whenever”
“I am a current client of this provider Robin and Greg have been and continue to”
“Other The owners Robin and Greg are exceptional. I highly recommend sending your loved one to”
“To Whom it may concern I would like to recommend the services of Always Best Care”
“Nikki does so much more than what is checked off. She talks to dad and”
“Robin and Greg LaVersa of Always Best Care go above and beyond our expectations for”
“Very Caring , reliable and Greg is there to address your every concern.”
“Robin and Greg are incredibly warm and engaging individuals. They clearly are in this business”
“I have known Robin LaVersa my whole life and Greg LaVersa for over 20 years.”
“I have been very impressed by the attention this Always Best Care office pays to”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my”
“The care I receive from Always Best Care is outstanding and invaluable in keeping me living independently. Robin and Greg are always responsive to my needs, whether it be basic household chores or assistance getting to places outside my home. They are always friendly, caring and concerned my needs are being met. I can’t say enough about how grateful I am having their assistance.”
“I am a current client of this provider I am extremely satisfied with my caregiver, thanks to Greg and Robin. They made sure it was going to be a good fit for the both of us. It is such a relief to have her do light housekeeping and take care of the chores around my house which I have found too exhausting to do myself. It's been a positive experience in every way having her in my home and working with Greg.”
“I am a past client of this provider When my mother found the day to day chores of independent living challenging, we brought in a home health aid from Always Best Care 4 days a week. Little did we know we were growing our family. The service Greg and Robin provided us exceeded our expectations. They often went above and beyond to ensure my mom stayed happy and healthy living in her home and kept me in the loop via phone calls and texts when questions arose.. The home health aid was extremely conscientious and attentive The companionship she provided kept mom engaged and active. And when mom transitioned to assisted living, Sarah was there every step of the way to help the move go smoothly. We feel so lucky to have found Greg and Robin and certainly have benefitted from working with folks within and familiar with our community. We look forward to keeping in touch.”
“I am a past client of this provider Best in Care helped our family during a very difficult time. Mom had a broken neck and needed 24/7 care which my sister and I struggled to provide. We turned to Best in Care for a day time aid so that we could go home and sleep (Mom was up all night). My mom had always been resistant to anyone in the home, and I was worried she would be a problem. Much to my surprise and relief, she very quickly bonded with Ade. Ade was a great help to Mom and us. When my mom, shortly after, received a terminal cancer diagnosis, Ade continued to support my mom and the family with her compassionate presence and care. Greg and Robin worked closely with me to find a carer and then to be flexible with our needs and hours in my Mom's final days. I'm grateful to have found Best in Care at such a challenging and emotional time.”
“I am a current client of this provider What a relief to find Always Best Care. My 84 year old mom raves about Robin and Greg and the thoughtful, thorough and professional care they both give. Their years of experience have helped her- and my brothers and me- navigate the changes she is going through as her vision and balance decline. They really are the BEST!”
“What a relief to find Always Best Care. My 84 year old mom raves about Robin and Greg and the thoughtful, thorough and professional care they both give. Their years of experience have helped her- and my brothers and me- navigate the changes she is going through as her vision and balance decline. They really are the BEST!”
“I am a past client of this provider My mother needed help after a fall in her home and my friend referred me to Always Best Care. They walked me through the process and were very helpful in determining what level of care my mom needed. Her healthcare aide was wonderful and very caring and I was keep informed of my mothers progress. I would highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Greg, Robin, and Clara have been such a gift to our family We are so grateful and highly recommend!”
“Greg and all of his staff always go above and beyond to provide my mother with professional, compassionate, individualized care and companionship.”
“I am a past client of this provider We have been caring for my mom since my dad died. She is pretty great for her age. Managing now trading between sisters and myself. Now comes an event all have to attend and she can not. I explored all options and decided to use best care of Basking Ridge. I work in healthcare for 42 years. I was extremely impressed by their care and the whole procedure of this time. Coming to explain coverage, with forms and info. Introducing the covering aide, making sure mom comfortable(me too). Accessible to any/all questions. The event was a wedding which we were do a live stream. The aide was the one(brother in law and other sister there), who finally got the connection so my mom can watch the wedding! So grateful for this service. Recommend to anyone to use this service.”
“I am a current client of this provider We are currently receiving services from Always Best Care. We are beyond pleased with the effective and responsive plan set up by both Robin and Greg. Greg has provided custom care to get me from my home to the doctor and Robin has been helping with personal and home service. We could not have asked for a better team and they have gone above and beyond all our expectations. We highly recommend Always Best Care”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge has been providing care for our mom for a couple years and have been very happy with care provided. The aides that come truly care about who they are helping. I also like how the firm sends in a nurse on occasions to provide an extra level of support for our mom. Would definitely recommend them to someone in need of aides in your home to help with a loved one.”
“My family needed help with my Mom for a family wedding. She lives in assisted living nearby. The wedding was not close by, and an evening event. It was not a typical ask of Always Best Care. We needed someone to (in car service we provided) pick up my Mom, travel with her, engage her (even though they had never met), assist her as needed, attend the wedding AND travel back home. Greg and Robin asked all the questions to make sure Mom would enjoy the experience as a grandmother should at her grandaughter's wedding. Needless to say, the evening was perfect. Although she can't remember most of the event, we have the memories and pictures of a wonderful night, thanks to Always Best Care. We have two more weddings coming up and will certainly be calling Robin and Greg again.”
“My son was getting married and we needed someone to help with my mom during the wedding and reception. We found Always Best Care of Basking Ridge and were very happy with the professional care that she received. Having someone to be there with my mom allowed everyone to enjoy the special occasion without any worries. My mom has commented to me about the wonderful lady who was with her at the wedding. We all have wonderful memories that will last forever thanks to Always Best Care.”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge (ABCBR) has been an excellent provider of companion services for my wife. Having worked with other providers, I believe ABCBR is unique in how they provide service. Things we liked best include their local focus, the highest quality of caregivers and superb communication. We always knew ABCBR cared deeply about the quality and performance of their business and their people.”
“Gregg was a pleasure to work with. His caring manner, as well as, understanding the type of care my mom needed was spot on. The assigned caregiver was awesome! I wish I started with them sooner.”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care of Basking Ridge proved to be most helpful to our family and family member who needed the care. They were easy to work with to arrange the right individual to assist in our situation. The member of their team was terrific.”
“When I injured my ankle, ABC at Bernardsville, NJ provided one month services to help me go through the most difficult time. Services included transportation to the doctor's office and supermarkets. He provided protection when I walked up and down stairs with crutches. He has provided valuable safety advices.”
“I am a past client of this provider My husband had a series of illnesses and needed much attention during the night, which meant I didn't sleep. Caring for him during the day was exhausting and I was becoming irritable. Always Best Care arranged for 2 staff members who shared 6 12 hour night shifts. They were reliable, professional and caring. Greg checked in frequently to make sure all was well. It was a life-saver for me. I would recommend this agency without hesitation.”
“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care owners Greg and Robin have enabled me to give the best in home care possible to my significant other.Caregiving after sudden life altering injury creates not just one person with a progressive need for care, but also a caregiver with great ongoing needs for support. Respite care particularly, becomes a lifesaver when the caregiver needs time off. Greg and Robin stepped in and provided companionship and a high level of service that was, and still is, a great source of peace of mind for both of us. They are professional, very responsive, and committed to their client. I highly recommend them, and would want this level of care for any loved one.”
“Greg and Robin LaVersa truly work hard to make sure they provide exceptional service! Their aides have worked well with my mother, who has had difficulty in the past with aides from other companies. When a scheduling conflict arose, Robin herself went to my mother's house and helped out. Because they care not only for their clients but for their aides as well, the care is given in the best way possible. ABC Basking Ridge has been providing overnight care for my mother, but when a sudden loss of her daytime care (from another company) occurred, Greg and Robin worked tirelessly to help me find immediate coverage and then continuing day care. I don't know what I would have done without their assistance. It is a pleasure to deal with Greg on the phone (he is my contact person). He is always available, concerned and honest. I cannot recommend this company highly enough.”
“Greg and his wife, Robin, have been providing care for my mother. All of the aides that have worked with my mother have always arrived on time and have been wonderful. Greg and Robin have gone out of their way to always provide care and help me with any questions and figuring out how best to meet my mother's needs. They are warm and go above and beyond to be sure that my mother is happy and that all of her care is provided for. Because I do not live near my mother, I needed a service that I could rely on all of the time. I have found this with their services. I absolutely recommend using their services. You will not be disappointed.”
“I am a current client of this provider Greg, Robin and the staff at Always Best Care of Basking Ridge have been great. We reached out to them while looking for night care for our mother, My mother has had a great relationship with all of the aids that have worked with her as well as with Greg and Robin, the owners of this Best Care. Greg is always available when a question arose or we needed help with any aspect of caring for my mother who has a lot of needs. Greg and Robin have gone out of their way to be there and do everything possible and more to help us. And they continue to help us as my mother's needs change. I would high recommend using Greg and Robin. I highly doubt that you can find a more committed and warm couple to help you with caring for the elderly.”
“Robin and Greg are hands down the best employers anyone can ever wish for, they pay attention to what you need as a caregiver in order to carry out your duties effectively. They are open to work with you and are constantly training you to become the best version of yourself as a caregiver . I have no regrets working with this agency and I hope it continues this way.”
“I am a past client of this provider Our experience with Greg & Robin was top notch. They were professional, very knowledgeable and courteous and they made us feel like dear friends. My mother needed a short-term aide and we decided on a live-in for two weeks. My mother enjoyed her new friend and raved about the wonderful care she was receiving. Different family members witnessed the aide’s genuine caring and concern for our mother. I highly recommend Always Best Care of Basking Ridge.”
“The service and care that Greg and Robin provide is outstanding! They really listened to our needs and matched an aid that we would feel comfortable with! Also Greg and Robin truly care about their clients and go above and beyond with follow up calls and expertise advice! I highly recommend Always Best Care! Thanks Greg and Robin!”
“I am a current client of this provider All positive experience with Robin and Greg . They truly are like family. All the aides they have given us are very caring women.”
“Our aunt needed care but all of us are out of state. We called Greg and Robin and they took care of everything that needed to happen. Even when things went sideways they were right on top of it whether minor or emergecy. So caring and committed to her well being. Could not do it without you..Kudos to all and thanks Victoria”
“Always Best Care provided aides who would come to my mother-in-law's apartment in an independent living setting and help her with meals, organization and shopping, 3-5 times per week for 4 hours per day. Robin and Greg, who run the agency, made sure staff arrived on time and frequently checked in to provide us with information about my mother-in-law or seeking feedback about their staffing. The caregivers were great! They provided the nutritional, emotional and social support that my mother-in-law desperately needed. Always Best Care was always very responsive to requests, and Greg and Robin have become like extended family to us. If you are considering hiring aides for a family member, this agency will not disappoint. Just meet with them and you will see the difference between them and other agencies.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided aides who would come to my mother-in-law's apartment in an independent living setting and help her with meals, organization and shopping, 3-5 times per week for 4 hours per day. Robin and Greg, who run the agency, made sure staff arrived on time and frequently checked in to provide us with information about my mother-in-law or seeking feedback about their staffing. The caregivers were great! They provided the nutritional, emotional and social support that my mother-in-law desperately needed. Always Best Care was always very responsive to requests, and Greg and Robin have become like extended family to us. If you are considering hiring aides for a family member, this agency will not disappoint. Just meet with them and you will see the difference between them and other agencies.”
“A year ago it became clear that my 90 year-old father and 87 year-old mother could no longer remain in their home of 53 years without assistance. They lived in an area where caregivers are very hard to find. After much searching, I found Always Best Care Basking Ridge. While Mom and Dad did not like the idea of having anyone come into their home to care for them, Greg LaVersa was patient and understanding and helped me convince them that they would be well cared for. The caregiver that Always Best Care provided cared for Mom and Dad for a year, always caring and showing compassion. But most of all, she treated Mom and Dad with dignity. The amount of care increased with time, my brother moved in to assist with the care and eventually both of my parents went on home hospice. But throughout it all, Always Best Care Basking Ridge was there caring for Mom and Dad and granting them their wish to die at home. I promised Mom and Dad that they would remain at home until the end and that promise was fulfilled thanks to Greg, Robin and their wonderful caregiver. I would not hesitate a moment to recommend them to anyone in the Somerset Hills area of New Jersey who is looking for home care.”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my father for the last 2 years. I don’t know where I would be without them and I don’t say that lightly. They have provided top notch service, are amazingly responsive and provided an amazing aide for my father. My father’s aide is always arrives on time and they get along very well. Whenever I need to switch a shift, they answer me immediately. They go above and beyond whenever something is needed. Can’t recommend enough!”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my father for the last 2 years. I don’t know where I would be without them and I don’t say that lightly. They have provided top notch service, are amazingly responsive and provided an amazing aide for my father. My father’s aide is always arrives on time and they get along very well. Whenever I need to switch a shift, they answer me immediately. They go above and beyond whenever something is needed. Can’t recommend enough!”
“I am a current client of this provider Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my father for the last 2 years. I don’t know where I would be without them and I don’t say that lightly. They have provided top notch service, are amazingly responsive and provided an amazing aide for my father. My father’s aide is always arrives on time and they get along very well. Whenever I need to switch a shift, they answer me immediately. They go above and beyond whenever something is needed. Can’t recommend enough!”
“I am a past client of this provider I needed a home health aide to care for my wife while I was at work. What I found was a caring and knowledgeable partner. Greg and Robin not only provided the aide but helped me better understand the progression of the disease; what I needed to make house safer and most importantly, I felt supported emotionally. When the aide called EMS because my wife had fallen, Greg got to the house before I did. When the aide had an emergency and couldn’t show up, Robin came to house. So, I would strongly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Our brother a physician is a fully disabled Veteran . We considered ourselves lucky to have found Always Best Care to help us with his care. Simply put .....they are good and honest people. Thank you Greg and Staff. With our sincere gratitude, Dr. John Lampidis and family”
“We couldn’t be happier with how Greg and Robin have helped us with our brother’s care. It’s been only a few months that we have been associated with them but it’s been such a huge difference and benefit to my brothers life! Greg is such a caring and thoughtful person and is making sure everything is going right for our brother. We feel really lucky to have found them! They really do go the extra mile! Really Great people!”
“I have been using Always Best Care for over a year to assist me with my mother’s care. My mom has advanced dementia and requires full care as well as individualized one on one assistance with tasks and activities Her caregivers are gentle, patient and caring and I couldn’t be more pleased.”
“Thanks for everything! I never feel like I can't call and discuss events or changes with you. You are all very caring and responsive and my mother is happy (or at least accepting) of the help and company of Victoria.”
“I am a past client of this provider Although we where only in need of Always Best Care's services for just a short period of time. We where extremely happy and confident in the service providers sent to care for our loved one. The owners, Robin and Greg love what they do and it shows in all that they do. Have confidence that your needs will be completely met by the Care Providers, and the Owners, they all go above and beyond to provide it.”
“The attention to detail by owners Robin and Greg cannot be matched. I made one call to them, and they just handled everything that my father in law needed. The line of communication was consistently open, and our family was informed every step of the way with every detail of their service. They made a 90 year old man happy and that is all that I can ask for!”
“I am a current client of this provider The attention to detail by owners Robin and Greg cannot be matched. I made one call to them, and they just handled everything that my father in law needed. The line of communication was consistently open, and our family was informed every step of the way with every detail of their service. They made a 90 year old man happy and that is all that I can ask for!”
“Greg has been so amazing helping my family, let alone his amazing staff. They don't just meet expectations they go above and beyond. We would have been lost without them.”
“Greg has been so amazing helping my family. Let alone his amazing staff. They don't just meet expectations, they go above and beyond. We would have been lost without them.”
“My mother has been a client since Feb 2017. Mother's aide, Alexandra, has become mom's friend, not just her daytime caregiver. Greg and Robin have gone way beyond expectations of their service to assure that mom gets to her appointments on time and that Alexandra has enough instructional support to be able to do her job w/my mother. Knowing that mom is safely cared for during the day while we, her children are at work, has eased our family's worries greatly.”
“I would like to recommend the services of Always Best Care from personal experience through the tremendous care that our Father received during the last few months of his life. Greg and his team understood my Father's needs at a time when the caregivers we employed before Always Best Care were struggling to meet our expectations. Greg and my family had numerous conversations and follow up concerning schedules, specific caregiver personalities comparable with our Father, assistance during rehabilitation, and homebound assistance with our families primary caregiver. We were grateful for the patience the caregivers showed for our Father. Greg's ability to connect with our father was extraordinary. Frequent visits and personal check ins to his home made our care for him that much easier in what can be an overwhelming experience. Frequent long distance conversations kept me in touch with his care, progress of his health, and his personal needs. Greg is a unique businessman in that his connection with his clients is personal. Greg shared with us the progress of a close personal relative that was going through the same medical challenges as our Father. This foresite gave us a perspective into our eventual preparations and transitional stages that helped us cope a bit better till the end of Dad's life. Greg's upbeat personality was encouraging to my Father. He had many conversations about Baseball.my Dad's favorite pastime. Greg and his team attended our Dad's funeral which we thought was a kind gesture to our family. There were challenges along the way since this was a unique situation for all of us. Greg's team as well as his wife were very involved from the beginning. I hope this gives sheds some light on the culture of this small business.”
“Very caring, reliable and Greg is there to address your every concern.”
“I have known Robin LaVersa my whole life and Greg LaVersa for over 20 years. As individuals they are amazingly kind hearted and dedicated family people. Together their integrity and loyalty is overwhelming. I would trust them with the care of any family member as I have seen them take care of others in their lives without hesitation or complaint. To say you are in good hands with them is an understatement.”
“Nikki does so much more than what is checked off. She talks to dad and gets him interested and responsive.”
“Robin and Greg are incredibly warm and engaging individuals. They clearly are in this business because they truly care about people. I've seen them both work with the elderly eliciting smiles and laughs and, more importantly, trust. Robin manages the office. She is very organized and never misses a beat. If she has committed to something, it is as good as done. I highly recommend their business because I recommend them as individuals. You and your loved one will be in good hands!”
“Robin and Greg LaVersa of Always Best Care go above and beyond our expectations for our family. The home health aides they have provided have been wonderful. The care and assistance that they provide for your family member give you peace of mind as you go about your day. The caregivers that we have had treat my mother as they would their own mother or grandmother. Would highly recommend their services.”
“I have been very impressed by the attention this Always Best Care office pays to ensuring their clients receive the best possible care. They are very selective with the caregivers they hire. They do a very thorough job of monitoring their cases to ensure that the needs of the client are being met. If your family member needs care to help them get safely through the day, you should contact Always Best Care.”
“We interviewed 3 different agencies before hiring Always Best Care in Basking Ridge. Greg made us feel comfortable, and we knew our parents would be in good hands. Our fabulous caretaker has been with our family for 7 months. She has become an important part of our family.”
“My mother has been a client since Feb 2017. Mother's aide, Alexandra, has become mom's friend, not just her daytime caregiver. Greg and Robin have gone way beyond expectations of their service to assure that mom gets to her appointments on time and that Alexandra has enough instructional support to be able to do her job w/my mother. Knowing that mom is safely cared for during the day while we, her children are at work, has eased our family's worries greatly.”
“I am a current client of this provider My mother has been a client since Feb 2017. Mother's aide, Alexandra, has become mom's friend, not just her daytime caregiver. Greg and Robin have gone way beyond expectations of their service to assure that mom gets to her appointments on time and that Alexandra has enough instructional support to be able to do her job w/my mother. Knowing that mom is safely cared for during the day while we, her children are at work, has eased our family's worries greatly.”
“Always Best Care took away most of the stress I was having with the care of my 98 year old mother. They got to know my mother. This meant that they just didn't send someone to watch her, but someone who would understand her likes and dislikes. At 98 she is very set in her ways but they did a great job finding someone who took the time to understand her quirks, but also keep me informed of any changes. I can't thank Greg and Robin enough for being so understanding and for the care they have given to my mother. I highly recommend Always Best Care if you need any assistants in the care of someone you love.”
“Always Best Care took away most of the stress I was having with the care of my 98 year old mother. They got to know my mother. This meant that they just didn't send someone to watch her, but someone who would understand her likes and dislikes. At 98 she is very set in her ways but they did a great job finding someone who took the time to understand her quirks, but also keep me informed of any changes. I can't thank Greg and Robin enough for being so understanding and for the care they have given to my mother. I highly recommend Always Best Care if you need any assistants in the care of someone you love.”
“Robin and Greg have been and continue to be a great help to me whenever I have questions about my mothers care. They go above and beyond on a regular basis!”
“I am a current client of this provider Robin and Greg have been and continue to be a great help to me whenever I have questions about my mothers care. They go above and beyond on a regular basis!”
“Other The owners Robin and Greg are exceptional. I highly recommend sending your loved one to them. They provide excellent caregivers and are willing to bend over backwards to make sure that your family member's needs are met.”
“To Whom it may concern I would like to recommend the services of Always Best Care from personal experience through the tremendous care that our Father received during the last few months of his life. Greg and his team understood my Father’s needs at a time when the caregivers we employed before Always Best Care were struggling to meet our expectations. Greg and my family had numerous conversations and follow up concerning schedules, specific caregiver personalities comparable with our Father, assistance during rehabilitation, and homebound assistance with our families primary caregiver. We were grateful for the patience the caregivers showed for our Father. Greg’s ability to connect with our father was extraordinary. Frequent visits and personal ”check ins” to his home made our care for him that much easier in what can be an overwhelming experience. Frequent long distance conversations kept me in touch with his care, progress of his health, and his personal needs. Greg is a unique businessman in that his connection with his clients is personal. Greg shared with us the progress of a close personal relative that was going through the same medical challenges as our Father. This foresite gave us a perspective into our eventual preparations and transitional stages that helped us cope a bit better till the end of Dad's life. Greg’s upbeat personality was encouraging to my Father. He had many conversations about Baseball….my Dad’s favorite pastime. Greg and his team attended our Dad’s funeral which we thought was a kind gesture to our family. There were challenges along the way since this was a unique situation for all of us. Greg’s team as well as his wife were very involved from the beginning. I hope this gives sheds some light on the culture of this small business.”
“Nikki does so much more than what is checked off. She talks to dad and gets him interested and responsive.”
“Robin and Greg LaVersa of Always Best Care go above and beyond our expectations for our family. The home health aides they have provided have been wonderful. The care and assistance that they provide for your family member give you peace of mind as you go about your day. The caregivers that we have had treat my mother as they would their own mother or grandmother. Would highly recommend their services.”
“Very Caring , reliable and Greg is there to address your every concern.”
“Robin and Greg are incredibly warm and engaging individuals. They clearly are in this business because they truly care about people. I've seen them both work with the elderly eliciting smiles and laughs and, more importantly, trust. Robin manages the office. She is very organized and never misses a beat. If she has committed to something, it is as good as done. I highly recommend their business because I recommend them as individuals. You and your loved one will be in good hands!”
“I have known Robin LaVersa my whole life and Greg LaVersa for over 20 years. As individuals they are amazingly kind hearted and dedicated family people. Together their integrity and loyalty is overwhelming. I would trust them with the care of any family member as I have seen them take care of others in their lives without hesitation or complaint. To say you are in good hands with them is an understatement.”
“I have been very impressed by the attention this Always Best Care office pays to ensuring their clients receive the best possible care. They are very selective with the caregivers they hire. They do a very thorough job of monitoring their cases to ensure that the needs of the client are being met. If your family member needs care to help them get safely through the day, you should contact Always Best Care.”
“Greg and Robin have been a true gift to me in taking care of my father for the last 2 years. I don’t know where I would be without them and I don’t say that lightly. They have provided top notch service, are amazingly responsive and provided an amazing aide for my father. My father’s aide is always arrives on time and they get along very well. Whenever I need to switch a shift, they answer me immediately. They go above and beyond whenever something is needed. Can’t recommend enough!”
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 Southard 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 Osteria Morini or visit Morristown National Historical Park - Fort Nonsense Unit, 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 Bernards, NJ, 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 Bernards, NJ 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 Bernards, NJ 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.
To the Editor:I am writing to express my strong support for Board of Education candidates Gupta and Liu in the upcoming November 5 election. Our district faces critical challenges that demand fresh perspectives and diverse expertise.Our district's concerning trends are clear: we've dropped to 39th in state rankings (according to publicschoolreview.com), experienced unprecedented levels of Bullying , Intimidation, and Harassment (HIB) reports, and face a growing student mental health crisis. These issues require innovative solut...
To the Editor:
I am writing to express my strong support for Board of Education candidates Gupta and Liu in the upcoming November 5 election. Our district faces critical challenges that demand fresh perspectives and diverse expertise.
Our district's concerning trends are clear: we've dropped to 39th in state rankings (according to publicschoolreview.com), experienced unprecedented levels of Bullying , Intimidation, and Harassment (HIB) reports, and face a growing student mental health crisis. These issues require innovative solutions and new approaches.
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Gupta and Liu bring exceptional qualifications to address these challenges. Ms. Gupta's financial expertise is crucial in today's economic climate, complemented by her commitment to arts education and responsible technology policies. Mr. Liu combines computer science background with U.S. Navy leadership experience, positioning him perfectly to advance STEM education.
Their candidacy represents diversity in its fullest sense—encompassing varied mindsets, skills, and experiences. In our district, where Asian students constitute approximately one-third of the student body, their election would help balance the Board's cultural representation, which currently falls far short of reflecting our community's composition.
Recent criticism of these candidates has come primarily from long-term board members overseeing our district's declining performance. One incumbent, serving for 15 years, has played a part in rising property taxes and falling high school rankings in Bernards Township. At this time, we need fresh faces and a diversity of thoughts and cultures to represent us at the BOE. This resistance to new voices suggests a troubling pattern of groupthink.
What distinguishes Gupta and Liu is their commitment to genuine community engagement and willingness to listen to residents' concerns—a refreshing change from current dynamics in which community input often seems dismissed.
Our district needs leaders who will:
Gupta and Liu combine professional accomplishment with a deep commitment to educational excellence. Their election would bring valuable diversity in thought, experience, culture, and approach to our Board of Education.
I urge fellow residents to vote for Gupta and Liu on November 5. This election offers an opportunity to bring positive change to our district's leadership. The choice is clear: maintain the status quo or embrace qualified candidates who bring fresh perspectives and proven expertise to address our challenges.
Sincerely,
Iwan Juwana
Thackeray Drive
Basking Ridge
Editor's Note: The opinions expressed herein are the writer's alone, and do not reflect the opinions of TAPinto.net or anyone who works for TAPinto.net. TAPinto.net is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the writer. Click here for TAPinto's Letters to the Editor policy.
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Candidate Yijia Liu shares why she is running for election on the Bernards Township Board of Education in 2024.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffBASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.Yijia Liu is running for one of the three, three-year seats. Opposing candidates include Robin McKeon, Brett Omelianuk, Michael Talbot...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.
Yijia Liu is running for one of the three, three-year seats. Opposing candidates include Robin McKeon, Brett Omelianuk, Michael Talbot, and Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta.
Are you running for office in Basking Ridge? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at [email protected] for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Basking Ridge Patch.
Why are you seeking election for the Board of Education?
Our children are our future and most important investment. I want to do everything I can to make our schools the best they can possibly be so that every student can achieve their highest potential. That is why my campaign motto is "Excellence For All."
This past spring the Board wrestled with a large deficit in revenue during the budget process. How do you plan to address this in the coming years’ budgets?
Large deficits in revenue are not created overnight and cannot be resolved overnight. Going forward, the BOE, like Bernards Township and the rest of us, must find a way to live within its means while avoiding debt. A "pay as you go" approach and long-term planning are key. I understand costs have risen but we also have 20 percent fewer students than 10 years ago. Once elected, I will work with my colleagues to make a balanced budget together with a long-term spending plan, a reality we can all live with.
One idea I would like to explore is using stakeholder volunteers to address some of the functions that the BOE is currently paying for. This could be part of helping to control costs. For example, Bernards Township has an outstanding Volunteer Fire Department that performs a critical service on a purely voluntary basis. This level of dedication and service to the community is a prime example of engagement by residents. Perhaps a School Volunteer Corps could be established to promote stakeholder engagement as well as helping to control costs.
The district recently switched to triple-tiered bussing to address transportation issues. How do you feel about this change?
I have received mixed feedback from parents on this issue despite reported cost savings. It appears to many parents that the school-related traffic congestion surrounding the high school and center of town has increased.
In addition, I note that many homes (like mine) have two working parents. For those parents, this creates an additional complexity, especially for parents with children and young adults across multiple age groups. Perhaps the current arrangement should be evaluated with the benefit of more experience. Time will tell whether the plan remains as implemented. While not without challenges, let’s give it a chance.
A recent facilities condition assessment in May found that the district may need in excess of $35 million for repairs and upkeep of school buildings. How do you feel about the current state of the school buildings?
The good news is that I believe there is a sizeable amount of available tax dollars that were previously collected by the BOE but never spent. This can be allocated to address some of the much-needed repairs and maintenance. Unfortunately, delayed maintenance is often far more expensive than making timely expenditures.
Of course, necessary maintenance needs to be prioritized and a long-term approach to spending and budgeting implemented.
What other issues would you like to tackle if elected to the Board of Ed?
What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?
I have practical experience gained through my military and business careers. For example, my naval and professional training provided me with expertise in maintenance operations. I have a degree in computer science. I can bring that knowledge and expertise to the district with a systemic approach that can help us maintain first-class facilities while controlling costs. I would like to see and contribute to 5 and 10-year plans for facilities and equipment maintenance, repair, and replacement.
The combination of my experiences as a veteran, husband, father of a young child, and as a Chinese American provide me with a unique perspective on the school district. I have an appreciation of the various unique cultural backgrounds in Bernards Township as well a love for what binds us all together as neighbors.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your campaign?
I am a dedicated husband and father. I am well-organized and thoughtful. I am a strong believer in courteous discourse and dialogue as a means of solving problems and reaching consensus. In coming to America and achieving success, I have overcome many obstacles but while always keeping a positive attitude. I am proud to be both Chinese and American.
My biggest supporter is Wei Fan, my wife and mother of our beautiful daughter. We met first as friends, way back when we were in middle school. That friendship grew into love and we have been happily married for many years. Together we have overcome numerous challenges and obstacles. As parents of a special needs child, we understand the stress this can cause in a family. However, whenever we face difficulties, we rely on each other’s strength. We also share many of the same qualities, including empathy and compassion for others. We work hard to be responsible contributors to society and good role models for our daughter. In addition to being a wonderful partner to me and mother to our daughter, Wei Fan is Performance Marketing Manager at alarge company. I am so proud of her and grateful for her strength and support.
I will dedicate myself to achieving excellence for all students.
Please vote for me for BOE, Yijia Liu, and review my website and social media links below.
I also support Pankhoori Gupta’s campaign since her values and objectives compliment mine.
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Candidate Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta shares why she is running for election on the Bernards Township Board of Education in 2024.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffBASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta is running for one of the three, three-year seats. Opposing candidates include Robin McKeon, Bre...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.
Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta is running for one of the three, three-year seats. Opposing candidates include Robin McKeon, Brett Omelianuk, Michael Talbot, and Yijia Liu.
Are you running for office in Basking Ridge? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at [email protected] for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Basking Ridge Patch.
Why are you seeking election for the Board of Education?
I believe my approach of a balance of academics, athletics and art may enable every child to be the best they can be. All children have potential in different dimensions including those with special needs. We can find means to unlock their inner talent and ability through a diversified broad-based education. This summarizes my platform of EDUCATION+WELLNESS.
This past spring the Board wrestled with a large deficit in revenue during the budget process. How do you plan to address this in the coming years’ budgets?
As the ONLY candidate with a significant financial background and experience in different sectors including for-profit and not-for-profit, I am eminently qualified to evaluate, analyze data and provide thoughtful alternatives and recommendations.
In these inflationary times, we must find ways to live within our means and be smart about regular maintenance, creating a long-term capital improvements strategic plan so we do not end up with large bills in the outer years. We pay high property taxes allocated to the school district of about 66 percent and so we need to ensure the monies are well spent. Our schools are centers of learning for our children and teachers need to have a conducive environment to adequately perform their duties.
Our town is known for leaders in finance, telecommunications, healthcare, construction, and development; what about an advisory board ensuring we get objective expert guidance tapping local talent?
The district recently switched to triple-tiered bussing to address transportation issues. How do you feel about this change?
It has been challenging for families where both parents work and I have heard the same from many others. Overall, it appears the current established Board members and Administration did not conduct dry runs to model how the program would actually run. Perhaps, they should have piloted in one school first before launching a complete district roll out.
I have also heard the children enrolled in after school clubs have been affected and so a late bus may help those families.
A recent facilities condition assessment in May found that the district may need in excess of $35 million for repairs and upkeep of school buildings. How do you feel about the current state of the school buildings?
The Superintendent and Administration needs to develop or refine its strategic long-term capital planning process. If buildings and equipment are maintained on a schedule, there should be no surprises. As a Finance leader, I would ask for a detailed public review of this Plan to avert major expenses and repairs. I truly believe in no surprises and full transparency in terms of Financials and reporting.
What other issues would you like to tackle if elected to the Board of Ed?
We must create an inspiring and nurturing environment limiting distractions like social media to enable every child to be the best they can be. We need to create experiential learning for children so they are taught important social interaction life skills and resilience that will help them in college and beyond. This will be a positive step to address the deteriorating Wellness issue.
I’m also very concerned that we are losing great teachers to other districts because of salary and environment. In particular, the World Language department has lost many excellent teachers, and we need for our children to learn about global language and culture to adequately prepare them for an evolving world.
Most importantly, I want to enroll real world advisors for our graduating class. Our town is home to many Ivy league alums and senior executives from multiple industries. We need to utilize them as resources for our students and help restore top rankings for Bernards School district.
What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?
I’m the only candidate with a financial degree and real-world experience in managing the financials of both major corporations and non-profits. I am also an artist who understands that every child is different, and it is the process of education that enables them to be the best they can be. I believe we can help children unlock their creative spark and express themselves in novel ways. Art can become a major discipline in our district that helps those children who may not be inclined towards sports develop confidence and shine in another medium.
Let us elevate EDUCATION with WELLNESS in our beautiful town.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your campaign?
I respectfully ask for your vote and commit to working hard for parents enabling every child to be the best they can be.
I also support Mr Yijia Lui’s campaign as his values and objectives compliment mine.
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Candidate Michael Talbot shares why he is running for election on the Bernards Township Board of Education in 2024.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Sep 26, 2024 at 4:30 pm ETBASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.Michael Talbot is running for one of the three, three-year seats along with incumbe...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
|Updated Thu, Sep 26, 2024 at 4:30 pm ET
BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.
Michael Talbot is running for one of the three, three-year seats along with incumbent Robin McKeon and Brett Omelianuk. Opposing candidates include Yijia Liu and Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta.
Are you running for office in Basking Ridge? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at [email protected] for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Basking Ridge Patch.
Why are you seeking election for the Board of Education?
I am a public-school teacher, starting my 25th year of teaching history and civics in East Brunswick. During my time as a teacher, I have come to understand that the most effective boards of education work with all stakeholders to make decisions that maximize the opportunities for each student to achieve their own goals. Board members must be open to listening to everyone’s opinions and concerns. They need to make decisions based on facts and data with the education of all our students foremost in mind. As a teacher I know how schools work. I have been on the "front lines" and have worked with parents, community members and others to educate students. I know that students in my classroom today have different needs than even a few years ago. Technology has created opportunities and challenges to students, teachers and society as a whole. I have spent a lot of time working with students - even the most at risk - and I want to bring that experience and passion to the Bernards Township BOE.
This past spring the Board wrestled with a large deficit in revenue during the budget process. How do you plan to address this in the coming years’ budgets?
There are no easy answers to this issue - nor are there any that will please everyone. The one thing I am sure of is that we need to focus on long range planning in order to stabilize our tax base. The 0 percent tax increase of the recent past may have felt good in the moment but obviously it was not sustainable - especially during inflationary times - and it resulted in an almost 4 percent increase the next year - which was not fair to taxpayers and their need to plan their family’s budgets.
The BOE needs to look at and analyze data regarding the needs of our students - not just the number of students in each building as their needs have changed since COVID and with the prevalence of technology.
We must be mindful when allocating taxpayer money and keep our increases as low as possible. The current board has done some things that will help in this area - hiring in house maintenance staff and social workers to replace outside contractors, as well as implementing our new bussing schedule.
Basking Ridge is one of the best places to raise and educate children and our schools need proper funding. I will work with our administrators and other board members to try to find creative solutions to this difficult issue - while keeping our ultimate goal of providing opportunities for all students to succeed.
The district recently switched to triple-tiered bussing to address transportation issues. How do you feel about this change?
Change is hard and I understand that there are members of our community who are not happy with this change. However, there is a nationwide shortage of buses and bus drivers and our BOE had to do something to close a large budget gap. They had also been looking at changing the start time at Ridge HS for several years, in order to give students a little extra sleep in the morning.
Ultimately, I feel the board did a good job explaining all the issues, and why they made the decisions that they did. If I am on the board I will follow this model and make my decisions transparent. I realize not every decision will be popular with every member of the community; however, I will always make it clear why I made the decisions I made.
A recent facilities condition assessment in May found that the district may need in excess of $35 million for repairs and upkeep of school buildings. How do you feel about the current state of the school buildings?
Our schools are aging. There is no disputing that fact. We have to be proactive and implement the 5-year strategic plan adopted by the current board and start working on one for the next 5 years. NJ provides grants to schools to be used for facilities improvements and I would encourage our Business Administrator to continue to be aggressive when applying for grants. We need to keep money in our capital reserve accounts in order to qualify for ROD grants. The current board has hired an in-house plumber who is able to do other maintenance, and maybe that will help. I applaud them for thinking outside the box and looking for solutions to ongoing issues such as shortages of maintenance workers. Inflation and supply chain shortages have set us back for a while but with proper planning and smart spending we can maintain our schools into the future.
What other issues would you like to tackle if elected to the Board of Ed?
What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?
I have spent my entire career as a public school teacher. I am in the classroom with students every day. I know how public schools work and that good boards of education make decisions that positively impact every student in the district. Conversely, ineffective or dysfunctional boards can be disastrous for students and taxpayers. Our school district is excellent. It is one of the main reasons people from all over the country choose to move here. The field of education is facing countless challenges and I want to make sure we attract and retain the best teachers. This starts with an effective board that respects the teachers and allows them to do their job. As a teacher, I know the most effective boards communicate, collaborate and arrive at decisions that maximize the budget to the benefit of as many people as possible. If elected to the Board of Education I will work to ensure every student in our district is fully prepared for their future.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your campaign?
Politics has no place on a board of education. As a teacher I keep my political opinions to myself. I am very careful in my classroom to make sure that I am teaching my students how to think - and not what to think. I teach them how to do research and to formulate their own opinions. The Board of Education Code of Conduct states that, "I will refuse to surrender my independent judgment to special interest or partisan political groups or to use the schools for personal gain or for the gain of friends." To state the obvious: It is essential for every Board Member to follow the official Code of Conduct. To do otherwise would be a disservice to our students and our community.
Candidate Robin McKeon shares why she is running for election on the Bernards Township Board of Education in 2024.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff|Updated Wed, Sep 25, 2024 at 11:13 am ETBASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.Robin McKeon is running for one of the three, three-year seats along with Michael T...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
|Updated Wed, Sep 25, 2024 at 11:13 am ET
BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township's general election on Nov. 5 has five candidates running for three open seats for the Board of Education.
Robin McKeon is running for one of the three, three-year seats along with Michael Talbot and Brett Omelianuk. Opposing candidates include Yijia Liu and Pankhoori Agarwal Gupta.
Are you running for office in Basking Ridge? Contact Alexis Tarrazi at [email protected] for information on being featured in a candidate's profile and submitting campaign announcements to Basking Ridge Patch.
Why are you seeking election for the Board of Education?
I am passionate about education and want to ensure that our district continues to provide for all children in our community the amazing academic and extra-curricular opportunities that our children have benefitted from.
This past spring the Board wrestled with a large deficit in revenue during the budget process. How do you plan to address this in the coming years’ budgets?
The board needs to return to the stable long-range budget planning that we have followed prior to the past two years. We need to carefully invest in our school district by keeping the tax impact stable while making sure we build the capital reserves so we can maintain our facilities and qualify grants. We need to pursue grant money and programs that save us money, such as ROD grants, Direct Instal, prescription rebates, and shared services, and maximize the interest earned on our investments.
The district recently switched to triple-tiered bussing to address transportation issues. How do you feel about this change?
Although the change was difficult for many families and staff members, overall in the long run I think this was a very good thing to do. Research shows that a later start time for high school students is extremely beneficial. In addition, triple bus tiers make our district more appealing to bus companies. This allowed us more success in bidding our routes and resulted in significant cost savings ($1.3 million of savings this year).
A recent facilities condition assessment in May found that the district may need in excess of $35 million for repairs and upkeep of school buildings. How do you feel about the current state of the school buildings?
As expected with older buildings, maintenance and upkeep is very expensive. In addition to aging buildings, there are costs associated with the turf field, track, and other athletic fields. Over the years the district has maintained significant capital and maintenance reserves so that when large projects emerge, we can fund them and also qualify for grants that require that the district have the matching funds.
What other issues would you like to tackle if elected to the Board of Ed?
I would like to continue to focus on the impact of technology and social media on our kids and work together with families to address this. I would also like to continue to focus on equity and inclusion and bring our community together to support our children and our school district.
What sets you apart from the challenging candidates?
My experience as a 15 year veteran on the Board of Education member and my institutional knowledge about the school district set me apart. I have served 5 times as board president and 3 times as vice president.
I have served on and chaired all the Board committees. In addition, my academic research on educational policy and K-12 leadership helps me be a more effective board member.
Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself or your campaign?
Boards of education are non-partisan. I will continue to fight to make sure our board is not making decisions based on personal ideologies or politically motivated agendas. I will continue to collaborate to bring our board and our community together and will strongly encourage the board to take advantage of training available from NJSBA to learn about how to be a more effective board.
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