It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Stephen Crane House gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in 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.
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“Such an amazing company with employees who truly care about their business and those they”
“It is a pleasure to work for someone that genuinely respects caregivers for the job”
“I am a current client of this provider I can’t begin to tell to you how”
“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living”
“I am a current client of this provider Your manager is always nice and flexible, and”
“I am a current client of this provider We are very happy with Always Best Care.”
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“I am a current client of this provider We hired Always Best Care two weeks ago”
“I just started using always best care for my dad The certified aids that came from the agency were fantastic This situation is new for myself and my dad For having no complaints from my dad is a plus So ty again for such an easy transition for my dad Much appreciated Susan”
“Such an amazing company with employees who truly care about their business and those they take care of. Caretakers are top notch and customer service is great and they are available whenever you need them.”
“It is a pleasure to work for someone that genuinely respects caregivers for the job we do!”
“I am a current client of this provider I can’t begin to tell to you how pleased I am with Always Best Care. Not only have they placed the perfect caregiver with my mother they also take care of the billing and when I need to speak to a receptionist they are always available. Thank you!!”
“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living Facility for my mother. We moved to the city a month ago and had little idea about the local senior living communities. I’d like to thank the highly experienced and knowledgeable caregivers of Always Best Care for helping our family during the difficult time.”
“I am a current client of this provider Your manager is always nice and flexible, and the caregivers are sweet and wonderful”
“I am a current client of this provider We are very happy with Always Best Care. They do 24hr care, and the caregiver is excellent. I would recommend them.”
“I am a current client of this provider We have hired Always Best Care. We have them for 5 to 6 weeks now. My mother practically does everything herself, but sometimes they might fix her her lunch, there might be a little bit of shopping, and they take her to her appointment. My mother is fine. The hours are fine. She got the hours that she requested. I know she is being billed on her credit card. They have been very helpful and very cooperative. The women always call back.”
“I am a current client of this provider We hired Always Best Care two weeks ago for my mom. The woman comes in three days a week to assist my mother with doing the wash, keeping the house picked up, and just talking to her. She’s wonderful. We interviewed several people, and there was just something about the way they were organized in their presentation and their follow up. that impressed us. They were a level above the other ones that we spoke to. They really listen to you about your needs and work very hard to match the caregiver up with what you’re looking for. We were very impressed with them.”
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 Kennedy Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar or visit The Carousel Building, 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.
SEASIDE PARK — One of the Jersey Shore's most popular beach destinations is operating at "limited capacity" on Sunday morningThe New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry announced the closure of Island Beach State Park on its social media late Saturday night due to a sewage An update on Sunday morning said the park was open with "limited ...
SEASIDE PARK — One of the Jersey Shore's most popular beach destinations is operating at "limited capacity" on Sunday morning
The New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry announced the closure of Island Beach State Park on its social media late Saturday night due to a sewage An update on Sunday morning said the park was open with "limited functioning restrooms" after announcing a full closure via its social media on Saturday night due to "sewer line blockage issues."
In an update the agency said that there had been blockages over the past several days which has required the closure of restrooms while staff and outside contractors worked to identify and repair the issue.
"Per the New Jersey Department of Health’s Public Recreational Bathing Code, operational restrooms are required to safely allow public access. Without operational restrooms, it would be both unsanitary and unsafe to allow visitors into the park," the agency wrote on its Facebook page. "There are limited functioning restrooms available at this time; if issues persist systemwide, an early closure may be necessary. Island Beach State Park is working to bring in portable toilets to help accommodate visitors."
The 10 mile peninsula between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay is normally open for swimming, fishing, hiking, boating and canoeing.
NJ 101.5 Chief Meteorologist Dan Zarrow is expecting a high of 90 with an increase in humidity on Sunday that would have made Island Beach State Park a popular destination to cool off to round out the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Parking lots are typically full by late morning on a summer weekend.
Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and Lavallette are alternative beaches to Island Beach State Park.
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The Jersey Shore spans nearly 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. Along the way, you'll find more than 40 charming towns and sandy stretches, each offering something a little different, from family-friendly boardwalks to quiet, nature-filled retreats. To avoid the worst of the crowds and traffic, Fora travel advisor Stephanie Cavazuti suggests visiting midwee...
The Jersey Shore spans nearly 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. Along the way, you'll find more than 40 charming towns and sandy stretches, each offering something a little different, from family-friendly boardwalks to quiet, nature-filled retreats. To avoid the worst of the crowds and traffic, Fora travel advisor Stephanie Cavazuti suggests visiting midweek and taking public transportation; "New Jersey Transit runs all the way down to Bay Head on the Shore Line," she says. And if your schedule allows, plan for "local summer," the post-Labor Day stretch when the water is warmest, according to fellow Fora advisor and Monmouth County native Jennifer Coppolino.
Not sure where to begin? These are a few of our favorite Jersey Shore towns.
With its quaint downtown dotted with shops and restaurants and beautiful beaches, Bay Head is among Cavazuti's favorite New Jersey beach towns. "I love waking up early, grabbing a coffee from one of the local coffee shops or bakeries (shout out to Muellers!), and strolling the streets," she says. Beyond the beach, travelers can explore the Bay Head Historic District, which spotlights an impressive collection of more than 550 shingle, Queen Anne, stick, and Colonial Revival-style homes.
Easily accessible by boat from New York City, under-the-radar Sandy Hook is home to the northernmost beach of the Jersey Shore. "Despite being so close to New York City—on a clear day, you can see the skyline—it's a beautiful, expansive beach that feels like you are on Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket," says Cavazuti. While technically not a town, Sandy Hook is a barrier spit—a long, narrow strip of land that separates the Atlantic Ocean from Sandy Hook Bay. It's part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, known for its protected stretches of sand, scenic trails, birdwatching, and historic sites like Fort Hancock and the 250-year-old lighthouse.
Located at the southernmost point in New Jersey, Cape May is widely recognized as America's oldest seaside resort, having welcomed travelers since the late 1700s. Today, visitors still flock here for its expansive beaches, colorful Victorian architecture, and top-notch birding.
Among the most popular stretches of sand are The Cove, a lively spot with wide shores and calm waters; Poverty Beach, known for its fine white sand and laid-back atmosphere; and Sunset Beach, famous for its namesake views and "Cape May diamonds" (naturally smoothed quartz crystals found along the shoreline).
For a glimpse into the town's past, climb the 199 steps to the top of the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse (the panoramic views are the icing on the cake) or wander the grounds of Congress Hall. Dating back to 1816, this bright yellow haunt is often referred to as America's first seaside resort.
Point Pleasant Beach is a paradise for families, with its pristine swath of sand and ample attractions, including mini golf, arcades, and an aquarium, all of which can be found along the mile-long boardwalk, which Cavazuti describes as "so nostalgic." She continues, "Nothing reminds me of Jersey Shore summers as a kid more than an ice cream and a ride on the train that circles the amusement park." You can easily spend an entire afternoon strolling the mile-long stretch, stopping for treats like ice cream, popcorn, and cotton candy in between classic rides and arcade games. Off the boardwalk, go antiquing along Bay and Arnold Avenues and dine at local favorites like Spano's Ristorante Italiano.
According to Coppolino, Long Beach Island is "particularly good for families due to its immense amount of kid-friendly activities," including mini golf, Fantasy Island Amusement Park, ice cream parlors, and more. Many of these attractions can be found in Beach Haven, a bustling town located at the southern end. Also, because Long Beach Island is a barrier island, "its beaches are deeper than many others on the shore, making it easy for large groups to set up shop without being blanket-to-blanket on weekends or holidays." Don't miss a visit to Beach Haven's Bay Village, home to a slew of eats—from fresh sushi at Gazebo Grill to nostalgic sweet treats at Country Kettle Fudge.
"Typically," says Coppolino, "when Jersey Shore-goers think of beautiful, colorful Victorian homes quintessential of the late 1800s to early 1900s, they think they have to travel all the way south to Cape May." However, "Ocean Grove, about 75 minutes from New York City, has a similar colorful aesthetic but is much more relaxed in its vibes (and typically a fraction of the cost during peak summer months)," she says. Stroll the boardwalk before or after exploring Main Avenue, which has several locally owned shops and restaurants, including what Coppolino calls "my all-time favorite place for giant salads and sandwiches, SeaGrass." One thing to note: The town has strong Methodist roots and is technically dry; however, as the pro says, "many restaurants allow clients to BYOB."
Coppolino calls Asbury Park "without a doubt" her favorite beach town in New Jersey. "As a Monmouth County native, I've seen it transform over the past couple of decades," she says, noting that its "diversity in people, food, art, and music is what sets it apart from the surrounding, more homogenous, beach towns."
The town has something for everyone. Foodies can sample all sorts of tasty dishes—two of Coppolino's favorites are the Johnny Porkroll and Sprout House food trucks, as well as Ada's Gojjo, a local spot run by a chef who blends Ethiopian and Caribbean cuisine. Meanwhile, the nightlife scene draws high-energy travelers, with Coppolino calling out top spots like Paradise, Johnny Mac's House of Spirits, and The Beach Bar. She also recommends listening to "whoever is playing at the Stone Pony's summer stage," noting that she "loves to grab Mogo tacos and set up shop on a patch of grass facing the venue."
Atlantic City is one of the Shore's most iconic—and sometimes infamous—beach towns, known for its casinos, nightlife, and historic boardwalk, the first in the United States. The five-mile stretch serves as the town's lively core, packed with restaurants, bars, mini golf, arcade games, amusement rides, and more, making it pretty much impossible to be bored.
For a more serene Atlantic City experience, explore nearby spots like the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge or the Brigantine Nature Center. Then, sample the local culinary scene along New York Avenue and climb 228 steps to the top of the 19th-century Absecon Lighthouse, one of the country's oldest.
This bustling beach town sits on a barrier island, offering wide, sandy beaches that are free to access and perfect for families. The famed 2.5-mile-long Wildwood Boardwalk is lined with retro amusements, classic arcade games, and snack stands serving up boardwalk staples like Curley's Fries and Kohr Bros. frozen custard. For a step back in time, visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum, which pays homage to the town's mid-century architecture and features a collection of restored vintage neon signs. Thrill-seekers of all ages, meanwhile, will enjoy a visit to Morey's Piers, home to over 100 rides and attractions; alternatively, cool off at nearby water parks like Raging Waters and Splash Zone.
While not technically a beach town—it's a waterfront community on a protected bay—Highlands sits at the northernmost tip of the Shore, just a 40-60-minute ferry ride from New York City. It's especially close to Coppolino's heart, as she has a home there. "We love its access to the city, neighborhood inlet beaches (ours is funded by our street's HOA so that we can have a local lifeguard on site), and long-lasting residents (which are a testament to its greatness)." She continues, "Places like Franny's and Bahr's Landing cater to local families and tourists alike, with warm staff and reasonably priced cuisine." As a bonus, it's an easy bike ride to Sandy Hook for ocean beach access, while the Henry Hudson Trail is "a wonderful place to stroll as well, particularly during the shoulder seasons."
The Fourth of July in 2025 falls on a Friday and sets the stage for an action packed long weekend in New Jersey of fireworks, parades, concerts and festivals to celebrate Independence Day.There’s no shortage of July 4th festivities and if you’re making plans for a busy weekend of grilling or visiting the Jersey Shore, we’ve got you covered.A quick reminder - while some gr...
The Fourth of July in 2025 falls on a Friday and sets the stage for an action packed long weekend in New Jersey of fireworks, parades, concerts and festivals to celebrate Independence Day.
There’s no shortage of July 4th festivities and if you’re making plans for a busy weekend of grilling or visiting the Jersey Shore, we’ve got you covered.
A quick reminder - while some ground-based fireworks are now legal in New Jersey, leave the big pyrotechnics to the pros.
Here’s a rundown of Fourth of July concerts, festivals, fireworks, and parades planned throughout the state.
Did we miss something? If you have an event you’d like for us to add, send the information to [email protected] or Stephanie Loder [email protected].
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.
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TOMS RIVER -- Toms River Regional School District officials announced they would defy an order by the New Jersey officials to stop summer school programs for students who need extra educational support, despite a state order to begin proceedings.School officials also said they are beginning the process to file for bankruptcy protections, a rare move by a public entity.On June 30, Toms River's Board of Education said there was no way to approve a balanced budget unless they raise local school taxes by 12.9%. The a...
TOMS RIVER -- Toms River Regional School District officials announced they would defy an order by the New Jersey officials to stop summer school programs for students who need extra educational support, despite a state order to begin proceedings.
School officials also said they are beginning the process to file for bankruptcy protections, a rare move by a public entity.
On June 30, Toms River's Board of Education said there was no way to approve a balanced budget unless they raise local school taxes by 12.9%. The amount is "unconscionable," according to the board's President Ashley Lamb.
"To meet the DOE's (Department of Education's) demands, we would have to impose a 12.9% tax increase on top of last year's 9.3% increase — a cumulative 22.2% burden over two years," Lamb said in a news release. "This is unconscionable, especially when the state's own flawed funding formula has created this crisis by underfunding our district by $107 million."
On June 30, David Corso, assistant commissioner of financial services for the New Jersey Department of Education, said in a letter to Toms River Regional officials that the district was "prohibited from expending any funds, or operating any educational programs past today's (June 30) date, until a budget for FY26 (fiscal year ending 2026) is approved." School district budgets run from July 1 to June 30 of the following year.
"Accordingly, the (Toms River) Board and Administration must initiate closure procedures and activities to ensure no funds are expended until a budget for FY26 is approved," Corso wrote.
You can read copies of the state's letter, and the board's resolution and news release, at the bottom of this story.
Instead of starting proceedings to shut down summer school programs, the Board of Education passed a resolution saying the board "rejects the illegal directive from the Department of Education to delay services, programs and expenditures … and rejects and does not adopt the proposed 2025-2026 budget with a 12.9% tax increase."
The resolution instructed Toms River regional administrators, teachers and staff to continue to operate programs as usual. The school district offers an "extended school year" program for students with special needs or who require additional educational supports to stay on track for September. The program begins Monday, July 7, and ends Aug. 7, according to the district's job postings.
The board's recent resolution also directs Toms River Regional administrators to hire an attorney and begin filing for Chapter 9 bankruptcy protections. Chapter 9 in the federal bankruptcy code gives cash-strapped municipalities, counties, school districts and other taxing entities protection from their creditors and a way to reorganize and renegotiate debt.
Toms River Regional officials said the district has lost a cumulative $175 million in state aid in recent years because of New Jersey's school funding formula.
"Our district has already endured devastating cuts — we've lost over 250 teacher and staff positions and seen class sizes increase to critical levels. Enough is enough," said Lamb, the school board president.
"While other districts received loans and state aid advancements, Toms River has been consistently denied such funding," she said. "We've been forced to sell $20 million in assets just to keep our doors open while providing what we can only describe as 'survival' education to our students."
Earlier this year Ocean County agreed to buy the district's headquarters for $15.4 million, and in 2023 it sold 18 acres near Silver Bay Elementary School to Toms River Township. So far the district has resisted selling a school.
The school board president said the board has an ethical obligation to educate students, but also a fiduciary duty to taxpayers.
"We will continue to attempt to engage the DOE (Department of Education) in finding a solution that best serves our community," she said. "But make no mistake — we will not abandon our students or compromise their education while the state refuses to address the crisis they created."
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 17 years. Reach her at @OglesbyAPP, [email protected] or 732-557-5701.
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