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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

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Home Care In Deal, NJ

Home Care Deal, NJ

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 Boxwood Hall State Historic Site 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 Deal, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Deal, NJ

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 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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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Josie J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“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!!”

Pamgoldberg
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Theodore S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Your manager is always nice and flexible, and the caregivers are sweet and wonderful”

Leta J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We are very happy with Always Best Care. They do 24hr care, and the caregiver is excellent. I would recommend them.”

Carla500226
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Judy367738
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TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Nancy176801

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Deal, NJ?

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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.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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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.

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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.

 Senior Care Deal, NJ

Types of Elderly Care in Deal, NJ

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal 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:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Deal, NJ
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Deal, NJ
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

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.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Deal, NJ
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

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 PRIMAVERA RESTAURANT & BAR or visit Twin Lights State Historic Site, 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.

 In-Home Care Deal, NJ

Benefits of Home Care in Deal, NJ

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:

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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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

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 Deal, 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.

 Elderly Care Deal, NJ

Affordable 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:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NJ's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Deal, NJ

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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 Deal, 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.

Assisted Living Referral Services

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.


Respite Care Deal, NJ

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:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Deal, NJ

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:

  • The Chelsea at Toms River
  • Alcoeur Gardens at Toms River
  • The Orchards Assisted Living
  • The Chelsea at Brick
  • Harrogate Retirement Community
  • Serenity Gardens at Brick
Home Care Deal, NJ

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.

 In-Home Care Deal, NJ

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 Deal, 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.

 Elderly Care Deal, NJ

Latest News in Deal, NJ

Today’s the last day to score a major deal on Costco and Sam’s Club memberships

If you’ll be hosting New Year’s Day brunch or getting the kids ready to go back to school with supplies, ...

If you’ll be hosting New Year’s Day brunch or getting the kids ready to go back to school with supplies, lunch-box items and health must-haves, now’s a great time to go all in on a wholesale club membership.

You can sign up for Costco or Sam’s Club any time of the year. There’s no “open enrollment” period, but through today (Dec. 31), you can take advantage of special membership incentives.

Costco Membership Deal

Get a year-long “Gold-Star” membership for $60, and get a $40 digital Costco shop card for free. The card is redeemable within two weeks after providing your valid email address at the time of sign up.

The “Executive” membership is not included in this deal.

Sam’s Club Membership Deal

Get a year-long “Club” membership for $25 with auto-renewal one year from purchase. This is 50% off savings with an annual membership costing $50 for the year.

The “Plus” membership is not included in this deal.

You can find out more about each deal’s terms and conditions and included membership benefits/access points by visiting their respective promo pages: Costco and Sam’s Club.

With Super Bowl Sunday, Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras and more on the horizon, you can stock up on food, paper goods and party paraphernalia for much less than you would pay at the supermarket or party supply store.

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Veterans Day 2023 Freebies And Deals In NJ

See the restaurants, coffee spots, ice cream shops, and more offering deals for Veterans Day, which is Saturday, Nov. 11. Michelle Rotuno-Johnson, Patch Staff|Updated Thu, Nov 9, 2023 at 12:53 pm ETNEW JERSEY — As has become traditional on Veterans Day, several New Jersey restaurants are offering free deals and discounts to veterans and members of the military.Veterans Day is always Nov. 11, whi...

See the restaurants, coffee spots, ice cream shops, and more offering deals for Veterans Day, which is Saturday, Nov. 11.

Michelle Rotuno-Johnson, Patch Staff

|Updated Thu, Nov 9, 2023 at 12:53 pm ET

NEW JERSEY — As has become traditional on Veterans Day, several New Jersey restaurants are offering free deals and discounts to veterans and members of the military.

Veterans Day is always Nov. 11, which falls on a Saturday this year. Some of the deals start before or extend beyond the actual holiday.

Replacing the former Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of World War I, Veterans Day became an official holiday in 1954 to thank and honor all of those who have served honorably in the military, whether in wartime or peacetime.

In most cases, the deals are extended beyond veterans to active members of the military and to their spouses and families in some cases. Most require some type of proof of military service, such as a military ID card or a Veterans Administration benefits card.

As curated from Military.com, a news and resource website for members of the military and veterans, deals in New Jersey include:

Find out what's happening in Across New Jerseywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza: Veterans and active-duty military get a free 12-inch pizza on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Applebee’s: Active-duty military, veterans, reserves and National Guard get a complimentary full-size entrée from a special menu and other perks on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Bar Louie: Active-duty military and veterans get a free Craft Burger on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse: Free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie with any $9.95 purchase and additional perks with a $14.95 purchase.

Bob Evans: Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Bonefish Grill: Active-duty service members and veterans get a complimentary order of Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft beverage on Nov. 11

Buffalo Wild Wings: Veterans and active-duty service members get a free order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on Nov. 11 with a valid ID. (Dine-in only, except at “go” locations, which will recognize the deals on walk-in orders placed at the counter).

Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary dine-in appetizer or dessert paired with a soft drink on Nov. 11.

Charleys Cheesesteaks: Veterans and active-duty military get free Gourmet Fries in-store with no purchase necessary on Nov. 11 at participating locations.

Chili’s: Veterans and active-duty service members get a free meal from a select menu on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Dave & Buster’s: Veterans get a free entree (up to $20) and a free $10 Power Card on Nov. 11.

Denny’s: All active and retired military personnel get a free Original Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to noon Friday, Nov. 10 (dine-in only).

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Veterans and active-duty military get a free pulled pork sandwich on Nov. 11 (in-store or through the online app for carryout).

Dunkin’: Veterans and active-duty military get a free doughnut of their choice on Nov. 11 (in-store only).

Einstein Bros. Bagels: Veterans and active-duty military get a free hot or iced coffee (any size) with an in-store purchase on Nov. 11.

The Greene Turtle: Veterans receive a free meal up to $15 on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Hooters Restaurants: Active-duty military and veterans get a free entrée from a special menu with the purchase of a beverage on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Huddle House: Active-duty military members and veterans get a free MVP meal on Nov. 11.

IHOP: Veterans and active-duty military get free Red, White, & Blueberry Pancakes or Pancake Combo from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Kings Family Restaurant: Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal from a select menu on Nov. 13.

Logan’s Roadhouse: Veterans and active-duty military personnel get a free meal from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Menichie’s Frozen Yogurt: Veterans and active-duty military get their first 6 ounces of Froyo free on Nov. 11.

Mission BBQ: Veterans get a free sandwich on Nov. 11.

O’Charley’s: Veterans and active-duty military can order one free entrée from the special menu and/or receive a free slice of pie at dinner from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 10-11 (dine-in only).

Outback Steakhouse: Active-duty military and veterans get a free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entrée on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Pilot Flying J: Service members and their families get a free meal Nov. 10-12 through a special offer in the app.

Playa Bowls: Veterans get a free bowl on Nov. 11 (in-shop only).

Red Lobster: Veterans, active-duty military and reservists get free printed meal vouchers for Veterans Shrimp & Chips from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 11.The voucher can be redeemed Nov. 13-Dec. 10 (dine-in only).

Red Robin: Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger with an endless side of steak fries on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Smoothie King: Active-duty military and veterans get a free smoothie from one of three red, white, and blue smoothies on Nov. 11.

Starbucks: Veterans, active-duty military personnel and their spouses get a free 12-ounce hot or or cold brewed coffee on Nov. 11.

TCBY: Veterans and active military personnel get their first 6 ounces of frozen yogurt for free on Nov. 11.

Uno Pizzeria & Grill: Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal on Nov. 11.

White Castle: Veterans and active-duty military get a free individual combo meal or a breakfast combo meal on Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

bb.q Chicken: Veterans and active-duty military get 25 percent off all orders placed in-store on Nov. 11.

Joe’s Crab Shack: Veterans get 20 percent off their meal from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 11 (dine-in only).

Kona Grill: Veterans and active-duty military receive 50 percent off food from Nov. 10-13.

McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants: Veterans, National Guard, Gold Star Parents, and Gold Star Spouses can enjoy a select half-priced entrée on Nov. 12 (dine-in only).

Military.com has more specifics about each of the deals and is updating its site daily as more eateries confirm their 2023 Veterans Day plans.

StayNJ property tax cuts survive in apparent NJ budget deal

After weeks of negotiations, New Jersey legislative leaders have agreed to terms on a budget deal that would include the property tax cut for seniors — the StayNJ initiative — proposed by Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin last month.Murphy administration officials confirmed Monday that they and leaders of the Legislature have agree...

After weeks of negotiations, New Jersey legislative leaders have agreed to terms on a budget deal that would include the property tax cut for seniors — the StayNJ initiative — proposed by Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin last month.

Murphy administration officials confirmed Monday that they and leaders of the Legislature have agreed to a tentative deal on the “global framework” of a state budget plan. The final version, officials said, would include some of the tax relief Coughlin had sought in his proposal — and addresses some concerns Murphy had with that plan.

Those concerns — including Murphy's desire for caps and qualifications on who could receive the new property tax rebates — were addressed in a compromise, officials said. The deal would allow for New Jersey to meet its obligations for a full pension payment, fully fund school aid payments and maintain the large surplus the governor built into the budget plan he proposed in February.

Charlie Stile:As StayNJ looms, some ask: Where are 'smarter' property taxes savings in NJ?

Earlier:Could NJ seniors get a 50 percent cut on property taxes? A proposal gets one step further

What will it cost?

Administration officials said they now expect the program to cost about $1.3 billion and stressed that in its final form, the initiative will include a “significant focus on equity.”

This new version of the program would include renters as well.

The agreement would set aside around $140 million for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. In addition, the state would set aside about $100 million, $200 million and $300 million for each of the next three years respectively.

This deal would also allow both senior homeowners and renters to get a $250 credit this year and next year, which is an increase to $700 from the $450 renters were previously eligible to receive through the ANCHOR program.

What else changed?

One of the biggest changes to Coughlin’s proposal is that StayNJ will now be implemented as a single program — rather than a combination of three.

A commission will make recommendations by next May on how to make that possible, because the logistics of the plan in its previous form also were a concern for the governor’s office.

This would “come in the form of a tax credit or credit on the tax bills, with seniors guaranteed 50% off,” officials said, with the goal of having that show up on tax bills in the first quarter of 2026.

Coughlin’s initial plan had no income limit, but the new plan would put a cap on incomes at about $500,000, with a projected 90% of eligible recipients earning less than $200,000, officials said.

Another change would be lowering the overall payout from $10,000 to $6,500.

“The goal or the intention is to have just one program when this is fully phased in in three years,” officials said, with the plan to adhere to Coughlin’s initial proposal and make sure seniors have the opportunity to get half off their property tax bill.

More Charlie Stile:NJ government shutdown over property tax relief gimmicks? Fat chance | Stile

Political pressures appear to ease

While the apparent compromise may project notions of a streamlined process, negotiating the StayNJ proposal's survival hasn’t happened without tension. When Coughlin and his leadership counterpart, Sen. Nick Scutari, first proposed the StayNJ program last month as a property tax credit program, it was met with resistance from the executive branch.

Murphy said at the time that there are a few things about the bill that are concerning, with the “biggest one” the expense being added to the budget, where “we’ve got revenues that are softening already,” and another being that it “would be for everybody,” so even millionaires like Murphy would get a break.

Murphy’s office was said to be preparing for all possibilities, including a government shutdown, though the governor himself noted that he has a great relationship with Coughlin and the Legislature overall and that both sides are “focused on seniors and making the state more affordable."

The StayNJ bill was amended to include the expansion of the Senior Freeze program, which Murphy included in his proposed budget for fiscal year 2024. The expansion of eligibility would include seniors earning up to $150,000, a $50,000 increase, and would decrease the residency requirement from 10 years to three years. It remains in the new agreement.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse.

Yankees hope to sign Juan Soto to record deal during a Thursday spending spree

The Yankees are interested in Juan Soto becoming more than a one-year rental and they’d love to have his signature on a record contract very, very soon.It could happen.No joke.There is a catch.The Yankees won’t be signing their new superstar outfielder to a multi-year deal,...

The Yankees are interested in Juan Soto becoming more than a one-year rental and they’d love to have his signature on a record contract very, very soon.

It could happen.

No joke.

There is a catch.

The Yankees won’t be signing their new superstar outfielder to a multi-year deal, but they probably will make a historic one-year offer by 1 p.m., EST Thursday.

That’s the deadline for signing arbitration-eligible players before numbers are exchanged.

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A year away from free agency, Soto is projected by MLB Trade Rumors to get a salary bump from $23 million in 2023 to $33 million this year.

Shohei Ohtani’s $30-million salary last year is the record for a salary-arbitration player.

The Yankees acquired Soto and outfielder Trent Grisham from the Padres on Dec. 6 for four pitchers — Michael King, Randy Vasquez, Jhony Brito and Drew Thorpe — and catcher Kyle Higashioka.

If Soto and the Yankees don’t come to terms before the deadline, the two sides have until 8 p.m., to file numbers. If it gets that far, Soto and the Yankees either will come to terms on a deal or go to arbitration during spring training or early into the season and have a third-party adjudicator pick one of the two numbers for a 2024 salary.

It’s very unlikely the Yankees will get Soto to commit for more than one season at any point unless they offer a contract that blows away the $360 million over 10 years that they gave to Aaron Judge last winter when he tested the free agent market.

Soto turned down $440 million from the Nationals two summers ago and, according an NJ Advance Media source, is hoping to get $500 million in his next contract.

Would the Yankees go that high?

Doubtful.

If the 25-year-old, three-time All-Star settles for one year before Thursday’s deadline, the Yankees’ 2024 payroll could climb about $80 million if they come to terms with all nine of their arbitration-eligible players.

That’s their hope.

Last year, the Yankees had 10 arbitration-eligible players and signed nine before exchanging numbers. Fifteen days later, they were 10 for 10 avoiding a hearing when second baseman Gleyber Torres signed for $9.95 million after filing at $10.2 million with the Yankees countering at $9.7 million.

Entering his walk year to free agency, Torres is due for raise up to $15.3 million this year, MLB Trade Rumors predicts.

The Yankees’ other arbitration-eligible players are starting pitchers Nestor Cortes and Clarke Schmidt, closer Clay Holmes, reliever Jonathan Loaisiga, outfielders Alex Verdugo and Grisham, and catcher Jose Trevino.

Their eight arbitration eligibles are projected to make a combined $80.1 million this year, up from $54.3 million in 2023.

No Yankees player has taken the team to an arbitration hearing since reliever Dellin Betances lost in 2017.

Heading into Thursday, the Yankees had only eight players on their 40-man roster signed for $174.33 million: Judge and seven others with multi-year deals plus last week’s free agent signing, pitcher Cody Poteet for one season at $750,000.

Heading into the offseason, the Yankees had 17 arbitration eligibles. Since, they dropped 13 who were projected to make $22.5 million in 2024 and added three in trades that are expected to make $52.1 million this year.

The departures included the Yankees trading outfielder/first baseman Jake Bauers, Higashioka and King. Seven others left the organization via outright waivers — pitchers Matt Bowman, Jimmy Cordero, Domingo German and Ryan Weber, and outfielders Franchy Cordero and Billy McKinney — while pitchers Albert Abreu, Anthony Misiewicz and Lou Trivino were non-tendered.

Fangraphs predicts the Yankees’ 2024 payroll will be at $279 million if they make no additions, but it’ll go up when they add a veteran starter in a trade or through free agency, perhaps a lot. Last year they were at $273.5 million, which ranked second highest to the Mets’ $346 million.

Player……………..…… Service time .............2023 ........ 2024

LHP Nestor Cortes ........ 4 years, 94 days .... $3.2M ..... $3.9M

CF Trent Grisham ........... 4 years, 60 days ... $3.175M .. $4.9M

RHP Clay Holmes .......... 5 years, 31 days .......$3.3M ...... $6M

RHP Jonathan Loaisiga .. 5 years, 22 days ....$2.26M .... $2.5M

RHP Clarke Schmidt ...... 2 years, 148 days .... $740K .... $2.6M

OF Juan Soto ................... 5 years, 134 days .... $23M ...... $33M

2B Gleyber Torres ........... 5 years, 162 days .. $9.95M ... $15.3M

C Jose Trevino ................. 4 years, 63 days ...... $2.36M ... $2.7M

OF Alex Verdugo ............. 5 years, 78 days .......$6.3M .... $9.2M

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For Phillies, the numbers were right to bring Aaron Nola back on a seven-year deal

Aaron Nola and Phillies president Dave Dombrowski said all the right things after the Phillies’ season abruptly ended with a National League Championship Series Game 7 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks.Nola, who had spent nine years in the major leagues and 10 years overall i...

Aaron Nola and Phillies president Dave Dombrowski said all the right things after the Phillies’ season abruptly ended with a National League Championship Series Game 7 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Nola, who had spent nine years in the major leagues and 10 years overall in the Phillies’ organization, wanted to re-sign with the only team he had ever known despite heading into free agency as one of the top pitchers on the market.

Dombrowski wanted to keep Nola in the fold.

Money, however, often talks more than words. But in this case, Nola reportedly left some money on the table and the Phillies retained one of their top starting pitchers with a seven-year deal on Sunday.

According to multiple reports, the contract includes a no-trade clause, does not have any opt-outs and is worth $172 million.

" At the outset of this offseason, we made signing Aaron our top priority,” Dombrowski said in a statement. “We are committed to winning, and having an individual like him in our uniform for years to come only helps us in that regard. Aaron has proven to be one of the best and most durable pitchers in our game for a number of years now, and when considering his leadership abilities and his character, it was very important for us to keep him a part of the Phillies family.”

The deal follows other long-term contracts the organization has handed out - Bryce Harper’s 13-year, $330-million contract and Trea Turner’s 11-year, $300-million deal. In each of those cases, the AAV (average annual value) is lower but the player has the long-term security of knowing where they are going to play until late in their career.

Harper was looking at 10 years and $330 million when he hit free agency, so the last three seasons could be seen as years the Phillies already paid for. Same with Turner, who potentially could have ended up with $40 million more.

Now, while Nola will be in his 16th major league season and 37 years old when he throws the final pitch on this contract, he is still making less than $25 million per season when he entered the market a candidate to receive as much as $30 million per year.

Consider the Yankees signed Carlos Rodon - an arguably less accomplished and certainly far less durable pitcher - to a six-year, $162-million contract last year for a higher AAV than Nola. The oft-injured Rodon was a bust this season.

Nola is 90-71 with a 3.72 ERA in his career and while he has made just one all-star team, he has been among baseball’s most durable pitchers. With the exception of the COVID year of 2020, Nola has made 32 or more starts every year since 2018 and threw over 200 innings three times - four if you count the postseason innings this year.

Nola is coming off an up-and-down season where he was hampered by giving up 32 long balls. He was 12-9 with a 4.46 ERA, though pitched well down the stretch and in the postseason.

In the playoffs, Nola is 5-3 with a 3.70 ERA. The Phillies have been to one World Series and were a game away from another the last two years.

As he left the field after his last few starts at Citizens Bank Park this season, he tipped his cap to the crowd, not knowing what the future holds.

Now he knows.

Nola - who lived through the toughest part of a long rebuild - has a chance to finish the job by helping to win a World Series, while this contract could allow him to perhaps finish his career with the Phillies.

In the end, Nola and Dombrowski both achieved what they were looking for.

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