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 South Toms River Silos in Toms River, 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 Toms River, 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.
“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”
“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”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services”
“Mai was wonderful in every way. She gave great care to my father and also”
“ALWAYS BEST CARE, Princeton Junction is the place to call if you need help in”
“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”
“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!”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care they provided for our Aunt and Uncle as they battled with diminishing health and mental conditions. Carmen and Gimbert were always available to us to answer questions and discuss aspects of care that was needed. Without their help the situations that we faced would have been so much worse. God Bless.”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services in the future if needed. I would recommend you to anyone needing your help. Again, thank you for caring.”
“Mai was wonderful in every way. She gave great care to my father and also cared for me and my family.”
“ALWAYS BEST CARE, Princeton Junction is the place to call if you need help in caring for a loved one. We have a brother and his significant other who were living independently and when visiting them realized they had not been eating or keeping their home clean. Since we knew of Always Best Care and heard of their excellent reputation we contacted them. They immediately stepped in and assisted us in knowing what steps we needed to take. After taking both our brother and his significant other to the doctors and learning that they had the beginnings of Alzheimer’s disease, we met with Carmen who helped us set up a plan. She suggested that we start with a few days a week of in home care so that we would know that they were eating. She provided us with excellent aids that not only helped prepare meals, but also interacted with our family members to encourage socialization. These few days increased to five days a week which left us with Saturday and Sunday to monitor their eating. While this was taking place, Carmen helped us find an Assisted Living Community where they could move. We visited several in the area and decided on one after consulting with Carmen. She and Gimbert were always available to take our calls if we had any questions. They helped us with finding someone to clean out the house and assisted us in relocating our bother and his significant other to their new home. We have recommended Always Best Care to several of our neighbors who have needed assistance with caring for loved ones. Carmen is on top of any situation that needs attention. Whether a person needs an aid for a week, a month or indefinitely she arranges the right person for the client’s needs. Always Best Care, Carmen and Gimbert, cared for our family members as if they were their own family. We would not have been able to care for our family members as well as the aids from Always Best Care.Hopefully we will not need the services of Always Best Care again, but if we do we know that they will be there to help us.”
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 Winding River Park in Toms River, 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 Dina's Bistro or visit Barnegat Bay Maritime Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Toms River, 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 Toms River, 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 Toms River, 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.
On a night when the offense produced six big-play touchdowns and the defense pitched a shutout, the public-address announcer saved some of his most effusive praise for the team’s 6-for-6 performance in extra points.He wasn’t alone, either. Atlantic City coach Keenan Wright was stunned, too.“I don’t think we’ve ever gone 6-for-6 in practice,” Wright said after Atlantic City rolled to a 42-0 victory over Toms River North in a NJSIAA/Xfinity South Jersey Group 5 sectional semifinal on Friday nig...
On a night when the offense produced six big-play touchdowns and the defense pitched a shutout, the public-address announcer saved some of his most effusive praise for the team’s 6-for-6 performance in extra points.
He wasn’t alone, either. Atlantic City coach Keenan Wright was stunned, too.
“I don’t think we’ve ever gone 6-for-6 in practice,” Wright said after Atlantic City rolled to a 42-0 victory over Toms River North in a NJSIAA/Xfinity South Jersey Group 5 sectional semifinal on Friday night on the Vikings’ wind-whipped field.
It was that kind of performance for top-seeded Atlantic City (9-1), which won its seventh in a row and advanced to host third-seeded Kingsway in the Nov. 14 sectional final.
The offense averaged 44 yards per touchdown, with sophomore quarterback Marvin Burroughs throwing for four scores covering 31, 33, 15 and 82 yards.
The defense held Toms River North without a pass completion and surrendered just 114 rushing yards on 36 carries.
And the special teams set the stage for a game-breaking touchdown late in the first half with a blocked punt by junior Omar Kelly and cherry-on-topped the dominant performance with six perfect placements by senior Brian Scott, a converted basketball player.
“Brian came out, he’s a basketball player and he said, ‘I can go kick,’” Wright said. “I’m actually shocked that we went six-for-six.”
Atlantic City will be making its second straight appearance in the sectional championship game and third in program history. The Vikings won their lone sectional title in 1999, when a team featuring the late, great Jamar Reynolds used a last-second field to edge an Adam Taliaferro-led Eastern squad.
“We’ve got more of a taste since we lost (to Washington Township) last year,” Kelly said. “We’re going to win this time. We’re home this time so we’re very excited.”
The loss ended a remarkable run by fifth-seeded Toms River North (5-6), which had won the previous three Group 5 state titles and was riding a 16-game winning streak in tournament games, including last week’s road victory over fourth-seeded and previously undefeated Cherry Hill East.
Junior Wesley Tanner carried 13 times for 83 yards for Toms River North. But the Mariners were 0-for-6 passing in the blustery conditions and averaged just 3.1 yards on rushing attempts.
Toms River North coach Dave Oizerowitz declined to comment after the game.
Atlantic City took a 7-0 lead on the game’s sixth play as Burroughs lofted a 31-yard strike to sophomore Dontaye Thompson.
“My quarterbacks coach told me it was going to be an air show,” said Burroughs, who was 15-for-23 passing for 274 yards. “We don’t mind the wind. We practice in this all the tine. It actually was windier during the week than it was tonight.”
Said Wright: “Only one team can pass in the wind and that’s us.”
Atlantic City broke the game open with two touchdowns in the final three minutes of the first half.
First, Burroughs found Thompson for another score, this one covering 33 yards.
“Me and Dontaye, we’ve been together since kindergarten,” Burroughs said. “We’ve got that connection.”
Moments later, Kelly knifed through to block a punt, setting up the Vikings at the Toms River North 42 with 0:59 on the clock.
“I just tried to do what I do, be a dog,” Kelly said.
Burroughs hit Hanif Rios for seven yards, found Thompson for 16, then rifled a perfect pass to Rios for 15 yards and a score with just 0:05 remaining in the half.
On Atlantic City’s first series of the second half, senior Kenai Austin took a slip-screen pass from Burroughs 82 yards for another touchdown, weaving through and around would-be tacklers on his way down the right sideline.
“It’s always an air show,” Wright said. “You can’t have guys that can run like our guys can run and not throw the ball.”
Kelly and junior end Javon Lane (three tackles for loss, sack) led a dominating defensive effort that included an interception by sophomore Ahmad Chambers.
“The defense stepped up big,” Wright said. “It starts with preparation and we got guys locked in.”
Atlantic City added two rushing touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Joseph Rios broke loose for a 56-yard touchdown that jacked the lead to 35-0 and started a running clock, and Chambers rumbled down the right side for 47 yards and another score.
Scott’s final placement was a bit of a blooper, wobbling a bit in the wind before falling just over the crossbar.
“Six-for-six!” the public-address announcer declared. “That’s got to be a record.”
Patients and their doctors are both feeling blindsided as a health provider has announced plans to shut down medical offices around New Jersey, effective at the end of this month.Optum, a health provider owned by UnitedHealth, will no longer offer eight specialty services in New Jersey and is closing those offices as of Dec. 1.Discontinued services in the state by Optum are: Gastroenterology, Podiatry, Chiropractic, Dermatology, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, Pulmonology and behavioral health practices.? Gastroenterology? P...
Patients and their doctors are both feeling blindsided as a health provider has announced plans to shut down medical offices around New Jersey, effective at the end of this month.
Optum, a health provider owned by UnitedHealth, will no longer offer eight specialty services in New Jersey and is closing those offices as of Dec. 1.
Discontinued services in the state by Optum are: Gastroenterology, Podiatry, Chiropractic, Dermatology, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, Pulmonology and behavioral health practices.
? Gastroenterology? Podiatry? Chiropractic? Dermatology? Endocrinology? Orthopedics? Pulmonology? Behavioral Health Practices
In addition, a number of pediatric and family medicine offices around New Jersey were also being closed, nearly 40 combined.
All the announcements were effective Dec. 1, according to individual listings on Optum’s website. Some New Jersey locations host multiple specialties. The closures break down as follows:
? 20 primary care offices? 19 pediatric offices? 12 offices offering podiatry services? 9 offices offering gastroenterology services? 5 offices offering dermatology services? 5 offices offering endocrinology services? 4 offices offering cardiology services? 4 offices offering rheumatology services? 3 offices offering orthopedic services? 2 offices offering pulmonology services? 1 office offering chiropractic services? 1 office offering behavioral health services
Optum Health declined to give details to New Jersey 101.5 about the number of doctors’ offices being shuttered in New Jersey, but shared a general statement that they were providing clear information to patients.
“As part of our commitment to making health care more affordable, we regularly review our services, footprint and staffing levels to ensure they meet the needs of the people we serve, our business and evolving market dynamics,” according to an Optum Health spokesperson.
As for doctors abruptly being told their offices would be closing, the statement added “We are supporting affected team members with job placement resources and will redeploy our talent to suitable open roles within the company. And we are providing clear information and support to our patients to ensure uninterrupted care.”
Patch first reported that Optum had filed 572 layoffs with the state in October.
That was a combination of four separate notices filed on Oct. 30 with the state under the NJ WARN Act.
Optum Care announced 390 layoffs around New Jersey, while Optum Medical Care announced 122 layoffs based in Secaucus.
Separately, Optum Services posted 49 layoffs and Optum Select Management announced 11 layoffs also based in New Jersey.
Patients concerned about potential loss of files can request medical records, by visiting the Optum Medical Records page.
Several towns, including Toms River, Maplewood and Belleville were each losing multiple specialists, some housed in the same medical offices.
Diabetic Foot Care Ocean - 3200 Sunset Ave Ste 107, Ocean, NJ 07712Podiatry Bayonne - 191 Lefante Way Suite C, Bayonne, NJ 07002Podiatry Belleville - 195 Cortlandt Avenue, Belleville, NJ 07109Podiatry Eatontown - 142 Highway 35 Ste 104, Eatontown, NJ 07724Podiatry Jersey City - 324 Palisade Ave, 2nd Floor Rear, Jersey City, NJ 07307Podiatry Manahawkin - 1364 Route 72 West 2nd Floor, Manahawkin, NJ 08050Podiatry Maplewood - 264 Boyden Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040Podiatry Maywood - 1 Maywood Ave., Maywood, NJ 07607Podiatry Rutherford - 201 State Rt 17 Floor 12, Rutherford, NJ 07093Podiatry Secaucus - 255 State Rt 3 Ste 107, Secaucus, NJ 07094Podiatry Springfield - 55 Morris Ave., Springfield, NJ 07081Podiatry Toms River Hooper Ave - 1868 Hooper Ave., Toms River, NJ 08753
Gastroenterology Belleville - 195 Cortlandt St., Belleville, NJ 07109Gastroenterology Clifton - 930 Clifton Ave, 2nd floor, Clifton, NJ 07013Gastroenterology Lakewood - 475 Highway 70 Ste 103, Lakewood, NJ 08701Gastroenterology Maplewood - 264 Boyden Ave, 2nd floor, Maplewood, NJ 07040Gastroenterology Maywood - 1 Maywood Ave., Maywood, NJ 07607Gastroenterology Ocean - 3200 Sunset Ave Ste 208, Ocean, NJ 07712Gastroenterology Rutherford - 201 State Rt 17 Floor 11, Rutherford, NJ 07094Gastroenterology Springfield - 55 Morris Ave, 3rd floor, Springfield, NJ 07081Gastroenterology West Orange - 449 Mt Pleasant Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052
Dermatology Belleville - 195 Cortlandt St., Belleville, NJ 07109Dermatology Hoboken - 1425 Bloomfield St., Hoboken, NJ 07030Dermatology Maywood - 1 Maywood Ave., Maywood, NJ 07607Dermatology Springfield - 55 Morris Ave., Springfield, NJ 07081Dermatology Toms River - 1314 Hooper Avenue, Bldg. B, Suite 2B, Toms River, NJ 08753
Endocrinology and Metabolism Brick - 254 Brick Blvd Ste 7, Brick, NJ 08723Endocrinology and Metabolism Manahawkin - 1364 Rt. 72 West, Manahawkin, NJ 08050Endocrinology and Metabolism Maplewood - 264 Boyden Ave., Maplewood, NJ 07040Endocrinology and Metabolism Ocean - 3200 Sunset Ave Ste 107, Ocean, NJ 07712Endocrinology and Metabolism Springfield - 55 Morris Ave. Springfield, NJ 07081
Orthopedics Edison - 1130 US Highway 1, Edison, NJ 08817Orthopedics Springfield - 55 Morris Ave., Springfield, NJ 07081Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Rutherford - 201 Rt 17, Floor 12, Rutherford, NJ 07070
Cardiology Belleville - 195 Cortlandt St., Belleville, NJ 07109Cardiology Maplewood - 264 Boyden Ave., Maplewood, NJ 07040Cardiology Toms River - 1314 Hooper Avenue, Bldg. B, Suite 2B, Toms River, NJ 08753Cardiology West Orange - 449 Mt Pleasant Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052
Pediatric Pulmonology Hoboken - 1111 Hudson St., Hoboken, NJ 07030Pulmonology Manahawkin - 1364 Route 72 West 2nd Floor, Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Rheumatology Bayonne - 191 Lefante Way, Bayonne, NJ 07002Rheumatology Manahawkin - 1322 Route 72 West Ste 201, Manahawkin, NJ 08050Rheumatology North Arlington - 312 Belleville Tpke, North Arlington, NJ 07031Rheumatology Ocean - 1500 Allaire Ave 203B, Ocean, NJ 07712
Behavioral Health Hoboken - 1425 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Chiropractic Rutherford - 201 State Rt 17, Floor 11, Rutherford, NJ 07070
Pediatrics Brick - 525 Route 70 Ste 1C, Brick, NJ 08724Pediatrics Edison - 1130 US Highway 1, Edison, NJ 08817Pediatrics Forked River - 34 Manchester Ave Ste 201, Forked River, NJ 08731Pediatrics Freehold - 495 Iron Bridge Rd Ste 1, Freehold, NJ 07728Pediatrics Hoboken Clinton St - 232 Clinton St., Hoboken, NJ 07030Pediatrics Hoboken Hudson St - 1111 Hudson St., Hoboken, NJ 07030Pediatrics Howell - 70 Ramtown Greenville Rd., Howell, NJ 07731Pediatrics Jersey City Palisade Ave - 324 Palisade Ave Fl 2, Jersey City, NJ 07307Pediatrics Manalapan - 831 Tennent Rd Ste 1A, Manalapan, NJ 07726Pediatrics Nutley - 228 Franklin Ave., Nutley, NJ 07110Pediatrics Rochelle Park -18 Railroad Ave Ste 103, Rochelle Park, NJ 07662Pediatrics Secaucus - 714 10th St level 1, Secaucus, NJ 07094Pediatrics Teaneck - 870 Palisade Ave Ste 201, Teaneck, NJ 07666Pediatrics Tinton Falls - 4000 State Route 66 Ste 125, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753Pediatrics Toms River - 1314 Hooper Avenue, Bldg B, Suite 2C, Toms River, NJ 08753Pediatrics Union City - 4201 New York Avenue, Union City, NJ 07087Pediatrics Wall 3350 - 3350 State Route 138 Ste 126 Bldg 2, Wall, NJ 07719Pediatrics West Caldwell - 616 Bloomfield Ave Ste 1A, West Caldwell, NJ 07006Pediatrics West Orange Northfield Ave - 745 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052
Primary Care Belleville -195 Cortlandt St., Belleville, NJ 07109Primary Care Cherry Hill - 2322 Route 38, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002Primary Care Clifton - 930 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013Primary Care Edison - 1130 US Highway 1, Edison, NJ 08817Primary Care Florham Park - 131 Columbia Tpke Ste 3B, Florham Park, NJ 07932Primary Care Jersey City Palisade Ave - 324 Palisade Ave Fl 2, Jersey City, NJ 07307Primary Care Jersey City Summit Ave - 591 Summit Ave Ste 205, Jersey City, NJ 07306Primary Care Lakewood - 475 Highway 70 Ste 104, Lakewood, NJ 08701Primary Care Maplewood - 264 Boyden Ave., Maplewood, NJ 07040Primary Care Medford - 69 N Main St, Medford, NJ 08055Primary Care Mt. Ephraim - 2 South Black Horse Pike, Mt. Ephraim, NJ 08035Primary Care North Bergen - 7505 Bergenline Ave., North Bergen, NJ 07047Primary Care Nutley - 228 Franklin Ave., Nutley, NJ 07110Primary Care Ocean - 3200 Sunset Ave Ste 100, Ocean, NJ 07712Primary Care Ridgefield Park - 200 Main St., Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660Primary Care Runnemede - 165 S Black Horse Pike, Runnemede, NJ 08078Primary Care Saddle Brook - 299 Market St Ste 110, Saddle Brook, NJ 07663Primary Care Toms River - 40 Bey Lea Rd Ste C103, Toms River, NJ 08753Primary Care Union City - 4201 New York Avenue, Union City, NJ 07087Primary Care West Orange Pleasant Ave. - 449 Mt Pleasant Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052
If you were unable to get to the 86th Toms River Halloween Parade, check out the video and the winners list.TOMS RIVER, NJ — The 86th Toms River Halloween Parade made its way down Main and Washington streets on Friday night, with marching bands, youth groups and clever floats.There was something for everyone, from Santa Claus riding with Toms River Fire Company 1 to finish the parade to a couple dressed as "6-7" to the delight of the young teenage crowd, and a duo dressed as Waldorf and Statler in their balcon...
TOMS RIVER, NJ — The 86th Toms River Halloween Parade made its way down Main and Washington streets on Friday night, with marching bands, youth groups and clever floats.
There was something for everyone, from Santa Claus riding with Toms River Fire Company 1 to finish the parade to a couple dressed as "6-7" to the delight of the young teenage crowd, and a duo dressed as Waldorf and Statler in their balcony from The Muppet Show.
The parade also featured participants spanning a wide age range and from multiple towns. The youngest in line was a 1-month-old infant, and the oldest was 87 years old. The participants who traveled the longest distance were a family from Solihull, England.
The windy weather seemed to be tamed by the buildings and the crowds of spectators along the parade route, though it was a bit more chilly Friday night than it has been in a few years. (It was chilly enough that I dropped my phone because my hands got cold, so please excuse that in the video below!)
Toms River Volunteer Fire Company 1 announced the winners from the parade. They are as follows:
Best Decorated Baby Carriage, age 4 and younger1. Moana, Morganville2. Hagrid, Fleur, Delacour, 2 dragons, Forked River3. Ghostbusters, Toms River
Best Walking Group, Scouts1. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Toms River2. Robots: Geared Up for Adventure, Toms River3. Pack 70: Outerspace We are “Outta This World!” Pine Beach
Best Decorated Float, Scouts1. Girl Scouts, Toms River2. Girl Scout Pajama Party, Toms River
Best Costume, Children 5-121. Deadly Doll, Toms River2. Glinda from Wicked, Toms River3. Spiderman, Toms River
Best Group, Emergency Services (motorized)1. Fire truck, Toms River2. Lavallette Fire, Pickup with trailer/jetski3. Island Heights Fire Truck, Island Heights
Best Group, Community Organization1. Toms River Futbol Club, Toms River2. Ocean County Library Cartwheeler Performers, Toms River
Best Group, Community Organization (motorized)1. Seaside Heights Business Improvement District 2. Barnegat School District Bus3. 3-wheel Motorcycle Club, Jackson
Best Family Group In Costume1. Scary face child and parents, England2. Resident Evil, Steelmantown, NJ
Best Family Group In Costume (motorized)1. Motorized Jack-O-Lanterns, Old Bridge2. The Witch of West Cape, West Cape May3. Christmas time, Toms River
Best Group, Commercial1. Zombie Saucy Dancers, Toms River2. The Haunted Mansion, South Toms River3. Titan Championship Wrestling, Bayville
Best Group, Commercial (motorized)1. 15-person pedal-powered bike with motor assist, Toms River2. Ocean County Vehicle Services flatbed tow truck, Toms River3. Pirate Party with live band, Toms River
Best Decorated Family Pet1. Horses, Brick2. Jaws 50th Anniversary, Toms River
Best Costume, 18 and older1. Marv from Home Alone, Point Pleasant2. Predator, Point Pleasant3. Scary bloody crazy hair clown mask and jester outfit, Seaside Heights
Best Vehicle Pre-19501923 purple T-bucket, Jackson
Best Vehicle 1951-19791. 1969 MG Midget (Midgie Boo), Brick2. 1960 Cherry Red Corvette, Milford, New Jersey3. 1972 Nova, Toms river
Best Vehicle 1980-20001. Castle with graveyard, Pemberton2. 1993 Chevy Silverado electric blue, Toms River3. 2001 Mercury Villager zombified, Lakewood
Best Vehicle 2000-present1. Y-5 (no description available)2. 3 wheel auto cycle, Toms River3. 2012 Dodge Charger Srt8 Superbee, Bayville
OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — As the federal government shutdown continues and a halt to payments to SNAP recipients looms, many people will be scrambling to find food to get through November and perhaps longer.Here is a list of food pantries in Ocean County, along with contact information and times and days they operate.Also listed are soup kitchens that provide meals.The lists have been compiled by Fulfill, former the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Fulfill helps to provide food to the pantries that help those in n...
OCEAN COUNTY, NJ — As the federal government shutdown continues and a halt to payments to SNAP recipients looms, many people will be scrambling to find food to get through November and perhaps longer.
Here is a list of food pantries in Ocean County, along with contact information and times and days they operate.
Also listed are soup kitchens that provide meals.
The lists have been compiled by Fulfill, former the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Fulfill helps to provide food to the pantries that help those in need of assistance.
Those looking to help people facing a lack of food with the halt to SNAP payments on Nov. 1 can donate directly to Fulfill through the organization's website.
The New Jersey Food Council also has compiled a list of resources to help those who need food via a Link Tree (https://linktr.ee/SNAPNJ). The links include local food rescue operations, government food assistance programs, food security partners and SNAP program updates, the council said.
“It is our hope that SNAP recipients access the LinkTree now and begin learning about the resources available to them,” said Linda Doherty, president and CEO of the New Jersey Food Council. “We all need to do our part to ensure New Jersey families are fed as our federal leaders work to reopen the government.”
BARNEGAT
BERKELEY
BEACHWOOD
BRICK
LACEY
ISLAND HEIGHTS
JACKSON
LAKEHURST
LAKEWOOD
LAVALLETTE
LITTLE EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP
LONG BEACH TOWNSHIP
MANAHAWKIN
MANCHESTER
NEW EGYPT
POINT PLEASANT BEACH
SEASIDE HEIGHTS
SOUTH TOMS RIVER
TOMS RIVER
TUCKERTON
WARETOWN
WEST CREEK
SOUP KITCHENS
609-455-2886
