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 Asbury Park Casino in Asbury Park, NJ 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 Asbury Park, 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.
“We hired a caregiver from Always Best Care to help my father when he was”
“I have been a client of Always Best Care (ABC) for over 5 years. I”
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt.”
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt.”
“Always Best Care has provided us with the best caregivers. We are blessed with an”
“We are so appreciative of the care and service of your team. Mariama was a”
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding!”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them. The staff and”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind,”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college,”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides.”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and”
“We hired a caregiver from Always Best Care to help my father when he was declining from Parkinson’s and his continuum of care facility said he could no longer live alone in his apartment without help.. My father was very challenging to work with as he was slipping mentally and could not seem to grasp why the caregiver was there. The manager, Carli, and the caregiver, Stephen, could not have been more skilled and compassionate given his issues. The billing practices and necessary documentation for reimbursement from his Long Teem Care company also went very well. Ultimately my Dad needed placement in skilled nursing. However, this was no fault of the caregiving company, who went out of their way to communicate with me about what was going on every day so I stayed filled in. If my Dad needs an aide in the future for an outing I will definitely contact them.”
“I have been a client of Always Best Care (ABC) for over 5 years. I could not have taken care of my elderly mother with out them. They always provided excellent people who I could trust in my home and with my mother who was 102 1/2 when she passed away recently. The caregivers from ABC were always on time, polite, professional, and, above all else, caring. The office team was amazing, too! They always went above and beyond (Thanks, Carli & Samantha!). Most recently when my mom had a fall and came home from the hospital on hospice, they had a game plan for her care before I did. They anticipated what our needs would be. They had people skilled in hospice care to my house within 24 hours. I could not have gotten through her passing without their support. A very special thanks to Manite & Patience. I would highly recommend ABC.”
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt. Our primary caregiver was outstanding.....experienced, organized, warm and kind.....she became more than a caregiver, a friend that we depended on. All the caregivers that supported us on this journey were dedicated, professional, friendly and dependable. The administrative staff at Always Best Princeton were always available to assist and support. I offer my highest recommendation of Always Best Caregivers in Princeton.”
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt. Our primary caregiver was outstanding.....experienced, organized, warm and kind.....she became more than a caregiver, a friend that we depended on. All the caregivers that supported us on this journey were dedicated, professional, friendly and dependable. The administrative staff at Always Best Princeton were always available to assist and support. I offer my highest recommendation of Always Best Caregivers in Princeton.”
“Always Best Care has provided us with the best caregivers. We are blessed with an outstanding caregiver, Maria, who is exceptional in every way. Our recent substitute caregiver, Elizabeth, also provided my husband with excellent care. We so appreciate the high level of expertise, skill and overall care afforded to us by these wonderful ladies.”
“We are so appreciative of the care and service of your team. Mariama was a lovely caregiver, and I especially appreciated Carli's guidance throughout the process.”
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to thank you personally and Always Best Care for taking care of our needs! Your professionalism and support made our experience pleasant. After having experienced three different service providers in Maryland I can say your services are above par! And Ernesta is truly supportive of Megan’s needs. She is calm, compassionate and respectful. Also your on call service is very quick to react to our changing needs!”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding! And extra thanks to Carli, who always came through when we needed backup. Many thanks to the ABC team for all the care you gave to my husband Al H. through 3 years of Parkinson's suffering, and the support you gave me through a hard time.”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them. The staff and management are extremely professional and caring, resulting in a very comfortable experience.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind, attentive, and provided excellent care tailored to our family’s needs. Communication was clear and supportive throughout. We’re so grateful for their compassion and professionalism. Highly recommend them for anyone seeking trusted senior home care in the area!”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to support staff, they are exceptional”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING ALZ AND STAGE IV PANCREATIC CANCER. QUALITY OF CARE TAKER WAS SUPERB AND RESPONSIVENESS TO CHANGING NEEDS PERFECT.”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was very lucid and managed his own care with the agency, I was at his house alot and participated in his care with the aids. They were all very caring and he kindly spoke of the owners being very attentive and offered very personalized care. They even visited him. I am very fond of many of the home health aids..they were loving and concerned. They took their job to another level. I even formed friendships with some of them. The golden years are a very delicate part of our lives. Always best care not only offered good physical care to my father, but unbounded love and compassion !!!! Thank you and he is looking down at us. I'm sure.”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was to die in her home. I can’t say enough about how ABC was able to give her a quality of life that she valued as well as provide comfort to her family knowing that she was in good hands with ABC's Caregivers. From the caregivers that always went the extra mile to the fast response we got 24x7 from folks like Carli…you were there for us!”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to care for herself for that night. I called Always Best Care Senior Services (ABC) at the very end of the business day, asking if they could find someone for one night of 12-hour private duty care on pretty much an emergency basis. The ABC team went to work and secured a caregiver for mom within a matter of hours for an 8pm-to-8am care shift at mom's senior living community. We had worked with ABC in the past on a scheduled basis, but this experience was above and beyond the call of regular duty and it truly helped us get through a difficult and stressful episode. We would recommend ABC for any and all of your senior care needs.”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father in day to day activities. Sam helps him with gait training and understands dementia care and how to handle care, the way the client needs it. I would not hesitate using this agency and Sam is excellent.”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college, and they always provided me an aide that is helpful, considerate, and hardworking. Thank you for always providing me with an aide like Ms. Colleta!!”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He was God sent; thank God for him”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides. Thank you again!”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she is paid! I miss her. Her help was timely, professional, and invaluable”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had professional help. Tremendous your service”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The management met with us and assigned caregivers almost immediately. As our needs evolved and increased, they were responsive and flexible. The caregivers were well-trained, kind, hard-working, and truly fine people whom we enjoyed having in the house.”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up the good work, and be safe!”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and concern that was shown for my husband by the Always Best Care staff. Thank you for the exceptional attention to his comfort, as well as the wonderful insights, strength, knowledge, and emotional support you showed our entire family. Watching someone you love make the transition out of this life is a really difficult thing, and your wisdom and comfort helped us navigate this challenging time. I will always be thankful for the service you provided for him. I would also like to acknowledge the excellent care provided to my husband by Ms. Marie Louisjean. We thank Ms. Louisjean for her incredible patience, tenderness, and attention to his needs. We thank her for being such a dedicated caregiver. God has given her a very special talent and He has blessed her with a compassionate heart. I could not have asked for a more passionate group of people. May God continue to bless the Always Best Care staff as you continue to care for people in need.”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They came out to his house and offered suggestions so that he would be able to get around with his walker easily. Their person took great care of my Dad. It is such a relief to my sister and I that we had someone stay with my Dad that was so reliable. I highly recommend them.”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you enough. Thanks for always being there for us in every way.”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and how best to provide workable care solutions for aging relatives. They are well informed on current issues and available options. I speak from my own experience here and strongly recommend then and their company to anyone in need of assistance in this area. They are compassionate and caring people which is critical in their business!”
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 Asbury Park Boardwalk and Beach in Asbury Park, NJ 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 Pascal Sabine or visit Stephen Crane House, 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 Asbury Park, 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 Asbury Park, 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 Asbury Park, 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.
Sunday, September 20 was the second day of the Sea. Hear. Now. Despite the gray skies and misty weather, fans headed to the beach. Bustling with excitement despite all odds, I walked to the festival area with a few fans who were there the day prior. Prepared for anything, I firmly intended to stay even if it rained, unless I was instructed otherwise for safety.The first set of the day that I got to experience was Alice Phoebe Lou on the park stage. While the ground was wet, the spirits were high on the early rainy afternoon. Her angel...
Sunday, September 20 was the second day of the Sea. Hear. Now. Despite the gray skies and misty weather, fans headed to the beach. Bustling with excitement despite all odds, I walked to the festival area with a few fans who were there the day prior. Prepared for anything, I firmly intended to stay even if it rained, unless I was instructed otherwise for safety.
The first set of the day that I got to experience was Alice Phoebe Lou on the park stage. While the ground was wet, the spirits were high on the early rainy afternoon. Her angelic tone blended with the bluesy melody of her band. She opened with her song Touch and followed with Angel; ultimately, throughout the entire performance, her voice gave me chills with its soothing echo. The South African singer has six studio albums under her belt, and her most recent album, released in 2025, is titled Oblivion. Her band was phenomenal; together they seemed to charm the audience as if we were all snakes. I am overjoyed that I didn’t miss this performance.
I headed over to the beach to see if the surfing contest was still happening despite the weather conditions. I caught a glimpse of some waves and the band Makua from Hawaii. They have a tight, pop-punk-sounding beat and an energetic frontman. It was a pleasant soundtrack to watch some surfing. Makua played an additional set at The Wonder Bar on Saturday night as part of the late-night series of shows after the festival.
You know them, you love them—and if you don’t, you will soon—the punk rock band called Die Spitz from Austin, Texas. I’ve described them as the Linda Lindas but heavier; passionate lyrics and dynamic stage presence match their epic sound. I heard one woman in the crowd say she was probably old enough to be their grandmother, and she thinks they are amazing. Bassist Kate Halter is unapologetically having so much fun up there, and even walked out on stage doing a handstand! They showcase their talent throughout the set, especially when Ava Schrobilgen and Chloe de St. Aubin swap places on drums and guitar for a few songs. Eleanor Livingston and her fiery red hair have a phenomenal, echoey tone that’s complemented by Schrobilgen’s screams.
Soon enough, I was running across the beach to catch Fontaines DC—I might add you don’t realize how out of shape you are until you run on the beach. Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, I slowly noticed Irish flags and jerseys scattered across the audience before they started. Many people I talked to said they were here specifically to see them today. The band’s sound is like the love child of The Cure and LCD Sound System; I found myself impressed with the synth sounds live. People were softly moshing, especially the ones standing next to me in the crowd. I enjoyed their enthusiasm; I wasn’t sure what the crowd vibe would be going in. I admit I left with a newfound appreciation for their music; seeing them perform and pour pure energy into their craft added another dimension to their discography for me.
The Goo Goo Dolls revived the crowd’s energy after bouncing around to Fontaines DC. With a crisp, clear soft-rock sound, I was transported back to the early 2000s, when I realized how much of their discography I knew by heart. I think that I have heard bands cover Iris more than I can count on two hands, so it was really cool to finally hear it straight from the source. Aside from the fans singing along to John Rzeznik’s familiar voice and their nostalgic tunes, my favorite part was when local photographer Danny Clinch came on stage, sporting a harmonica, to jam alongside them. I absolutely fan-girled being a huge fan of Clinch, his work, and his remarkable gallery.
Headlining and closing out the festival were none other than The Strokes, aka New York’s own post-punk new wave darlings. In the crowd, I met two girls from Florida who had been anticipating this weekend for months to see The Strokes. I noticed people in the apartment buildings that overlooked the beach watching from their windows and waving flashlights excitedly. They are simply always going to be a great show, one of those bands that just fits like a glove. Perfect lighting, so bright that they all still wear their sunglasses at night (It’s much cooler when they do it). I wanted to take a moment to personally thank them for closing out on Ode to The Mets. I enjoy this song; the hundreds of fans cheering for you to play this song enjoy the song, and even Yankee fans enjoy this song. The rain sealed the deal and waited until the very end of the song, and it honestly felt like a movie.
Thankfully, the rain held out fully until the very end. I saw someone online say to thank the Etsy witches, because the entire festival still happened despite fear of rain. All in all, I would say this was a successful year of Sea. Hear. Now. This is a festival designed for everyone, whether you’re a die-hard fan of a specific artist or someone who’s just looking to chill out on the beach and discover new music. I’ve concluded this festival is very family-friendly, and many families seem to look forward to it year after year, making it an amazing pillar of culture for surrounding New Jersey communities. While the weather was overcast for most of the weekend, this festival was nothing short of entertaining, passionate, and inspiring.
Nearly three years after a flood gutted one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular beer halls, the space at 527 Lake Ave. in Asbury Park has reopened, this time as Asbury Social — a restaurant, supper club and rooftop bar.The venue takes over the building that housed the Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten, the German beer hall that opened in late 2014 and quickly became a cornerstone of Asbury Park’s downtown scene.The biergarten was known for its imported beer, giant pretzels, wiener schnitzel, with a rooftop that...
Nearly three years after a flood gutted one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular beer halls, the space at 527 Lake Ave. in Asbury Park has reopened, this time as Asbury Social — a restaurant, supper club and rooftop bar.
The venue takes over the building that housed the Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten, the German beer hall that opened in late 2014 and quickly became a cornerstone of Asbury Park’s downtown scene.
The biergarten was known for its imported beer, giant pretzels, wiener schnitzel, with a rooftop that stayed packed year-round, even in winter, when plastic igloos kept diners warm. It ranked No. 2 on NJ.com’s list of the best Asbury Park bars in 2018.
The biergarten never recovered from the flash floods of Sept. 29, 2023, when nearby Wesley Lake overflowed and swamped its basement. Surveillance video showed water blowing a door off its hinges as it poured in, filling the basement with roughly 5 feet of water and sweeping beer kegs into the lake, some of which were later found in neighboring Ocean Grove.
General Manager Nick Falco pegged the damage in the seven figures. “Not even during Sandy was it this bad,” he said at the time, referring to the powerful “superstorm” that ravaged many areas of New Jersey in 2012.
After the insurance company denied the claim and an appeal, and with a rent increase looming as its 10-year lease expired, the owners announced in early 2025 that the biergarten would not reopen.
“It’s just a decision that had to be made because of, we can honestly say, bad luck,” Falco said.
The owners of House of Independents, the live entertainment venue down the street at 572 Cookman Ave., have transformed the space into Asbury Social. The group bills it as “an all new entertainment destination and supper club concept,” built around elevated comfort food, handcrafted cocktails and live music.
The centerpiece is the Supper Club, which the venue describes as a room featuring velvet banquettes and worn leather seating under low light, with seasonal menus made for sharing and programming that ranges from intimate performances to songwriter sessions.
Early menu including a smoked turkey sandwich with brie and apple chutney, a Mediterranean sandwich with hummus, grilled vegetables and halloumi, and pastas such as garganelli with cream, peas, truffle butter and prosciutto.
Tucked inside the main dining level is the Green Room, a private dining space for up to 50 guests, wrapped in velvet drapery and featuring olive-green interiors, with its own dedicated entrance. The venue is marketing it for corporate dinners, birthdays, rehearsal dinners and cocktail receptions.
Still to come is the rooftop, which the venue plans to open above the Supper Club with a focused cocktail menu, small bites and seasonal events.
The Supper Club is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m. It is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Reservations are available through the venue’s website.
ASBURY PARK, NJ — Sometimes, the biggest difference in a community starts with something as simple as a family address.For the Swenarton family, that address was 1 Joel Road in Ocean Township. And more than 15 years later, it remains the inspiration behind a family tradition that has helped Asbury Park High School graduates pursue their college dreams while supporting charitable causes throughout the region.The One Joel Road Foundation, established by the six children of Victoria and Eugene Swenarton, has turned their par...
ASBURY PARK, NJ — Sometimes, the biggest difference in a community starts with something as simple as a family address.
For the Swenarton family, that address was 1 Joel Road in Ocean Township. And more than 15 years later, it remains the inspiration behind a family tradition that has helped Asbury Park High School graduates pursue their college dreams while supporting charitable causes throughout the region.
The One Joel Road Foundation, established by the six children of Victoria and Eugene Swenarton, has turned their parents' legacy of generosity into a growing charitable effort that now spans four generations.
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And with Asbury Park High School celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the family's commitment to helping the next generation of Blue Bishops is especially meaningful.
Eugene Swenarton was himself a graduate of Asbury Park High School's Class of 1945. Eight decades later, his family's connection to the school remains strong.
In 2026, the foundation awarded two $1,500 Victoria and Eugene Swenarton Scholarships to graduating seniors headed to Brookdale Community College.
Those awards brought the foundation's total to 20 scholarships and $26,000 invested in local students since the program began.
For a family that has made giving back part of its identity, those numbers represent something far more important than dollars and cents. They represent opportunities, education and the chance to help young people build a better future.
“Our family is incredibly proud to carry on the legacy our parents started and give back to a community that meant so much to them,” said the Swenarton family. “As Asbury Park High School celebrates 100 years, it’s especially meaningful to help the next generation of students pursue their dreams and know that this tradition continues to grow with our family and community.”
The foundation's story is as much about family as it is about fundraising.
Before her passing, Victoria Swenarton led the organization alongside her six children — Stephanie Engelstad, Bill, Mark, Chris, Paul and Susie McCool — and their spouses.
Today, the effort has expanded to include the family's 14 grandchildren and their spouses, along with eight great-grandchildren.
That's four generations connected by a shared commitment to honoring Victoria and Eugene's legacy and making a difference in the communities they called home.
Since 2009, the family's signature fundraising event has been the annual Swenarton 5K, a friendly boardwalk walk/run that brings together relatives, friends, coworkers, neighbors and supporters.
While the scholarships remain central to the foundation's mission, the family's generosity extends well beyond the classroom.
Over the years, One Joel Road has donated more than $30,000 to other charitable organizations and causes, including the Bradley Beach Food Pantry, Autism Services of New Jersey, JDRF/Breakthrough T1D, Melanoma Research Foundation, Alzheimer's Foundation of America, World Central Kitchen, Asbury Park Music Foundation and American Brain Tumor Association, among others.
From fighting hunger to supporting medical research, the foundation has made helping others a lasting part of the Swenarton family story.
The family is inviting the community to become part of that story once again when the 2026 Swenarton 5K takes place Sunday, November 8, at 10:30 a.m. at the Belmar Fishing Club.
The annual event is designed for participants of all ages and abilities, whether they're looking to run, walk or simply enjoy a morning on the boardwalk while supporting a worthwhile cause.
Last year's event raised more than $10,000 with the help of nearly 70 donors, providing an important boost to the foundation's ongoing scholarship efforts.
This year's goal is to continue that momentum and raise additional funds to help future Asbury Park High School graduates take their next steps toward higher education.
And while a 5K might be measured in miles, the impact of this particular event stretches far beyond the finish line.
As Asbury Park High School marks a century of educating generations of local students, the Swenarton family's story is a reminder that the school's legacy extends well beyond its classrooms.
A young man who graduated in 1945 went on to raise a family whose commitment to giving back continues to benefit students more than 80 years later.
What began with Victoria and Eugene Swenarton and a home at 1 Joel Road has grown into a charitable tradition involving children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and an entire community of supporters.
And every scholarship awarded adds another chapter to that story.
For the Swenarton family, keeping their parents' memory alive isn't just about remembering where they came from.
It's about helping someone else get where they're going.
For more information about the foundation, its scholarship program or the November 8 Swenarton 5K, visit OneJoelRoadFoundation.org.
Forget the beach towels, flip-flops, and summer crowds. On Oct. 3, Asbury Park will be overcome by thousands of zombies — and somehow, it will be one of the most entertaining days of the year. It is the 18th annual Asbury Park Zombie Walk.The Zombie Walk encourages the participants to dress like their favorite zombie. This is one day when looking like death is a fashion statement. The creativity is outstanding and the enthusiasm during the day is very catchy.Unfortunately I cannot attend the walk but please stop by the Ne...
Forget the beach towels, flip-flops, and summer crowds. On Oct. 3, Asbury Park will be overcome by thousands of zombies — and somehow, it will be one of the most entertaining days of the year. It is the 18th annual Asbury Park Zombie Walk.
The Zombie Walk encourages the participants to dress like their favorite zombie. This is one day when looking like death is a fashion statement. The creativity is outstanding and the enthusiasm during the day is very catchy.
Unfortunately I cannot attend the walk but please stop by the New Jersey 101.5 1-800 GAMBLER Boardwalk Studio and say hello to Mike Brant. He will be doing my show from from 10 a.m - 3 p.m. He cannot wait to see the costumes and participants!
It all takes place on the boardwalk in Asbury Park, where on a normal summer day you can sit and watch the people stroll by. The Zombie Walk is much better than a parade. There are so many great costumes and makeup jobs with some special effects. Asbury Park must set a record for the largest amount of fake blood used outside of a movie set.
What started in 2009 as a Halloween-themed gathering quickly became something much bigger. By 2010, the event had grown enough to earn a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of zombies. The record was broken again at the 2013 Asbury Park Zombie Walk.
The Zombie Walk encourages participants to dress like their favorite zombie and usually will march in unison, or should I say shuffle like a zombie in unison along the boardwalk in Asbury Park.
Participants can dress in any zombie costume that they prefer.
During the Zombie Walk, participants are encouraged to and usually stay in character. Imagine walking onto the Asbury Park Boardwalk and seeing hundreds, or thousands of people who look like they just escaped from a horror movie.
Blood-covered faces, torn clothing, elaborate makeup, zombies from movies and television and completely original creations. Then the crowd starts moving.
This free, all-ages Halloween tradition takes over the Asbury Park Boardwalk and downtown area, featuring professional makeup tents, costume contests, and a massive march of the undead.
11:00 a.m.: The official info booth, merchandise stand, and the Zombie Walk Makeup Tent open on the 4th Avenue Green Space along the boardwalk.
3:30 p.m.: Thriller Dance performance outside the Paramount Theatre.
4:00 p.m.: The official Zombie Walk begins in front of Convention Hall, heading down the boardwalk, through downtown, and ending near Johnny Mac House of Spirits.
The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5 weekend host Big Joe Henry. Any opinions expressed are Big Joe’s own.
Jessica Springsteen is about to embark on a new adventure -- a baby!Springsteen of Colts Neck showed off a baby bump Saturday, Oct. 10, on her Instagram account with the caption “New adventure (heart emojis).” Springsteen, daughter of Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa, also showed pics of beau Nicola Philippaerts in the post.Philippaerts, 33, is a Belgian show jumper. Jessica started riding horses in Colts Neck and won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics with the U.S. Equestrian Team in 2021....
Jessica Springsteen is about to embark on a new adventure -- a baby!
Springsteen of Colts Neck showed off a baby bump Saturday, Oct. 10, on her Instagram account with the caption “New adventure (heart emojis).” Springsteen, daughter of Bruce Springsteen and Patti Scialfa, also showed pics of beau Nicola Philippaerts in the post.
Philippaerts, 33, is a Belgian show jumper. Jessica started riding horses in Colts Neck and won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics with the U.S. Equestrian Team in 2021.
The baby will be the second grandchild for Springsteen and Scialfa. Lily Harper Springsteen was born in July 2022 to son Sam Springsteen and his wife Alexandra Reph.
Jessica, 34, has been an advocate for horses in addition to her equestrian career. In 2012, Jessica petitioned New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to sign legislation to make it illegal to slaughter horses for human consumption in the state and he did so.
Check out 7 decades of Asbury Park Press coverage of Bruce Springsteen.In 2025, Jessica lent her voice to a public service announcement calling for the passage of the Save America’s Forgotten Equines Act, which would ban the shipment of horses to slaughterhouses in Canada and Mexico.
“Every year, 20,000 American horses — thoroughbreds, ex-show jumpers, lesson ponies, Arabians, wild hoses, even donkeys — are shipped to slaughter in Mexico and Canada,” said Jessica in the voiceover as film of horses is shown. “These are not unwanted animals. These are partners, athletes, companions but instead of love and compassion, their final moments are ones of abandonment and terror. Please stand with the lost horses.”
Jessica also co-produced, with mom Patti and the late Robert Redford, the film “The Mustangs: America’s Wild Horses” to draw focus to the peril wild horses face in the United States.
Jessica has served as a brand ambassador for several fashion and equestrian labels including Citizens of Humanity, Tommy Hilfiger Equestrian; Polo Ralph Lauren; Gucci; and Kentucky Horsewear.
She graduated from Duke University in 2014. Bruce and Jessica were spotted at the Harry Styles Sept. 9 show at Madison Square Garden in New York City where dad has often performed in the past.
In addition to Jessica and Sam, Bruce and Patti are also parents of Evan Springsteen, 36.
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Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at [email protected]
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