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 Historic Portland Place 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 Middletown, 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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“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living”
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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 Poricy Park Nature Center 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 Oak & Reed or visit William Murray House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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.
Here's everything the library has planned for kids this summer, all the way through August 20:Updated Thu, May 29, 2025 at 11:18 am ETMIDDLETOWN, NJ — Summer is right around the corner, and here's everything the Middletown Public Library has planned for kids and teens:The library's "Color Our World" Summer Reading Challenge runs from June 23 – August 1. Early registration for the summer reading challenge begins June 2; visit ...
Updated Thu, May 29, 2025 at 11:18 am ET
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Summer is right around the corner, and here's everything the Middletown Public Library has planned for kids and teens:
The library's "Color Our World" Summer Reading Challenge runs from June 23 – August 1. Early registration for the summer reading challenge begins June 2; visit mtpl.org to register. Here's the Summer Reading 2025 page to learn more.
Color our World with Andrew’s Big Show – June 3 at 11 a.m.: Enjoy Andrew Scharff’s 45-minute family-friendly comedy and juggling performance as he shares tales of adventure around the world. For all ages.
Gymboree for Walkers/Crawlers – June 5 at 10 am and 11 am: Gymboree of Red Bank will offer gym classes for toddlers under 2 years old and babies 6 -15 months old.
Gymboree for Newborns-7 Months – June 11 at 1:30 pm: Gymboree of Red Bank will offer a pop-up class for babies, newborns to 7 months, with music and props, a floor mirror, parachute and bubbles! Please bring a blanket.
Just Chill – June 20 at 2 pm: Enjoy the first day of summer vacation at the library with games, crafts, and other activities. For ages 2-8.
Rainbow Fish Storytime Meet and Greet – June 24 at 11 am, July 17 and August 12 at 3 pm: Listen to the story "The Rainbow Fish" by Marcus Pfister followed with a special meet-and-greet photo opportunity with our Rainbow Fish character! For all ages. Please register for one session only.
Bright Star Theatre Presents The Wizard of Oz – June 26 at 3 pm: Follow the comic duo Lenny and Mabel down the yellow brick road to the land of Oz and meet all your favorite characters along the way in this interactive retelling of the L. Frank Baum classic. For all ages.
Little Sensei Storytime – June 27 at 10 am: Enjoy a reading of "The Three Ninja Pigs" followed by a martial arts demonstration. For ages 4+.
Color Our World Drawing Program with Illustrator Jay Cooper – July 9 at 3 pm: Learn to draw with book illustrator Jay Cooper, known for Last Kids on Earth, Bots and Styx and Stones! For grades 3+.
Talewise presents Color Our World – July 10 at 11 am: Science and stories collide in this interactive learning adventure featuring hands-on science experiments! For all ages.
Space Science with Snapology – July 22 at 3 pm: Blast off in Snapology’s Space Science Class! Students will study the solar system through hands on building activities. For Ages 5-8.
Miniature Horses Roxxy & Roo Visit– July 23 at 11 am: Welcome miniature therapy horses Roxxy and Roo for a meet and greet and demonstration with their handler Ms. Ana. For all ages.
Game Bots Robotics & Coding with Snapology – July 25 at 11 am: Calling all gamers! Have a blast learning about robotics while creating robotic games and learn to use coding to program them. For ages 9-12.
'Surfing Robot' PopDown® Card Craft – August 5 at 11 am: Graphic artists David & Susan Udovic return for another creative and unique PopDown® Card Craft. For grades K-5.
Eyes of the Wild – August 6 at 2 pm: Back by popular demand, meet another fascinating group of animals along with their handler Travis Gale. For all ages.
Dinoman and his Dinosaurs – August 11 at 11 am: Take a 40-minute ride through the Mesozoic era with Paleontologist Bob Lisaius in this entertaining and educational science program for all ages.
Color Our World Cartooning Lesson with Mike Dawson – August 20 at 3 pm: The local artist behind The Fifth Quarter series returns for another fun cartooning workshop for grades 3+.
Visit mtpl.org to read more or to sign up for upcoming programs. Please contact Jenna O’Donnell at [email protected] for additional information.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Perhaps the prettiest month of the year, June is the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Even better, the Monmouth County Park System fills the month with activities the whole family can enjoy. Here’s what's planned:Milling DemonstrationsSaturdays & Sundays, May 31 & June 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29 at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.Historic Walnford, FreeholdSee the 19th century gristmill grind corn into meal...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Perhaps the prettiest month of the year, June is the perfect time to head out to your county parks. Even better, the Monmouth County Park System fills the month with activities the whole family can enjoy. Here’s what's planned:
Milling Demonstrations
Saturdays & Sundays, May 31 & June 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29 at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Freehold
See the 19th century gristmill grind corn into meal. Each demonstration lasts approximately 15 minutes. FREE!
Boat Tours of the Manasquan Reservoir
Saturdays & Sundays, May 31 & June 1, 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 28 & 29 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Friday, June 6 at 6 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell
These 45-minute tours are narrated by Park System naturalists and include opportunities to view local wildlife. The cost is $6 per adult and $4 per child, age 12 and under. Children must be at least one year or older to attend and be able to sit independently during the duration of the tour. Please call to confirm schedule as tours are both weather and water level dependent. All tours leave from the Visitor Center. Lifejackets required. Tickets can be purchased on day of tour only.
Dairy Day
Sunday, June 1 from 12-2:30 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Discover the vital role our dairy cows play in farm life through cheesemaking, butter churning and ice-cream making demonstrations. FREE!
Concert in the Park - Colts Neck Community Band
Friday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Thompson Park Activity Barn, Lincroft
Enjoy an evening of music ranging from light classical to marches to Broadway favorites. Indoor seating is available or bring your lawn chairs. FREE!
Basket Weaving Demonstrations
Friday-Sunday, June 6-8 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Visit the Penn/Jersey Basket Weaving Guild as they weave baskets. FREE!
Deep Cut Gardens Open House
Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown
Spend the day in the gardens! Activities include bonsai demonstrations, pollinator and gardening crafts, koi pond presentations and greenhouse tours. FREE!
Cookstove Demonstration
Saturday, June 7 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See what's cooking on the woodstove and discover how recipes, cooking techniques and kitchens have changed since the 1890s. FREE!
Lacemaking Demonstration
Saturday, June 7 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Watch lacemaking in action as our demonstrator shows the historic techniques of crochet, bobbin and shuttle work used in the Victorian era. FREE!
Thompson Park Canoe Rentals
Saturdays & Sundays, June 7 & 8 and 21 & 22 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Thompson Park, Lincroft
Canoes will be available for rent on Marlu Lake. All equipment provided; limited number of canoes available. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. All rentals must be returned by 3 p.m. The cost is $15 per boat for 1-3 people for two hours; cash or check only.
Victorian Laundry Demonstration
Sunday, June 8 from 1-2:30 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
From lighting the wood stove to ironing the aprons, experience a late-Victorian laundry day during this demonstration. FREE!
Concert in the Park: Sentimental Journey Big Band
Friday, June 13 from 7-8:30 p.m.
Thompson Park Theater Barn, Lincroft
Hear sounds from the Swing Era and beyond as Altha Morton performs with the Sentimental Journey Big Band for an evening of unforgettable music. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and soft drinks. Will move inside the Theater Barn if the weather is inclement. FREE!
Open Shoot Archery
Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Thompson Park Activity Barn, Lincroft
All equipment is provided for this open shoot. No outside equipment permitted. This is not an instructional clinic and NOT designed for beginners. If you are new to archery, register for one of our instructional classes prior to attending. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $10 per person; cash or check only.
Accordion Melodies of the 1890s
Saturday, June 14 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Listen to melodies of the 1890s played on the accordion during your visit. FREE!
Freshwater Fishing Derby
Saturday, June 14 from 2-5 p.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell
Sunday, June 15 from 2-5 p.m.
Turkey Swamp Park, Freehold
Starts with a free fishing clinic from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for the longest fish in three different categories. Fishing pole rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rental cost is $5 per pole. A container of worms is included with each registration. The cost is $28 per family of 4; $9 per person. Walk-ins are welcome; cash, check or credit card on site.
Bluegrass and Old-Time Music
Sunday, June 15 from 1-3 p.m.
Thompson Park, Lincroft – Outside the Theater Barn
The Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Association will meet for a jam session under the trees. Bring your own bass, banjo, fiddle, mandolin or guitar to join in, or just stop by and enjoy an afternoon of music. FREE!
Music on the Porch
Sunday, June 15 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Let the toe tapping tunes of an acoustic duo enliven your visit to this historic site. FREE!
Rigging 101
Tuesday, June 17 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell - Meet at the West Dock/Ramp.
If you are an experienced sailor but do not have a sailing certification or would like to refresh your skills, attend this session and learn how to rig our 15’ American sailboats. Sailors showing proficiency will have an opportunity to obtain a Monmouth County Park System sailing card, which will allow them to rent these boats during our drop-in sailboat rental times. FREE!
Casual Birder
Tuesday, June 17 at 9 a.m.
Hartshorne Woods Park - Meet in the Claypit Creek section parking lot in Locust.
Join a Park System Naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk. We’ll meander through the park for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can find. Participants should expect to be walking a few miles (2-4) on sometimes uneven or muddy terrain. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed. FREE!
Climb Time
Saturday, June 21 from 12-3 p.m.
Thompson Park, Lincroft – Use Marlu Lake parking lot.
Try the Park System's 25’ portable climbing wall. You must be 42” or taller to climb. Open to ages 8 and up; under 18 with adult. FREE!
Spinning, Knitting & Weaving Demonstration
Saturday, June 21 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Discover the art of spinning fleece and learn various methods of knitting. FREE!
Felting Demonstration
Sunday, June 22 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See the process of felting wool during this demonstration. FREE!
Seining Along Sandy Hook Bay
Wednesday & Friday, June 25 & 27 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth
Discover a variety of fish, crabs, and other sea creatures as we pull a long seine net along the edge of Sandy Hook Bay. Closed-toe shoes are required. Parents or guardians are required to stay with and supervise their children. No swimming during the event. This program is designed for individuals and families. Weather permitting. FREE!
Life in a Freshwater Pond
Thursday, June 26 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Freneau Woods Park, Aberdeen - Meet outside the Visitor Center.
Join Park System naturalists to explore a freshwater pond. We’ll look for basking turtles, hopping frogs, hunting herons, splashing fish, and anything else that catches our eye. We will also discover the unique life that lies underneath the water in a freshwater pond. Wear closed-toe shoes. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Weather permitting. FREE!
Nature Lecture: Sea Stars and Sand Dollars of the Jersey Shore
Thursday, June 26 from 7-8 p.m.
Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth
Learn about these little aquatic invertebrates during this talk by a Park System Naturalist. FREE!
Traditional Chair Caning Demonstration
Saturday, June 28 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See the process of weaving natural plant fibers into the seat of a traditional chair during this demonstration. FREE!
Piano Ballads from the Turn of the Century
Saturday, June 28 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Tap your feet, dance a one-step, or sing along to popular turn-of-the-19th-century ballads as they are played inside the farmhouse. FREE!
Under the Summer Stars
Sunday, June 29 from 10:30-11:30 p.m.
Dorbrook Recreation Area, Colts Neck – Use the soccer field parking lot.
Look for key objects and constellations in the night sky with our guide. Bring a camp chair to rest on as we star search and a flashlight to light your way in the dark. Program may be cancelled due to overcast skies or inclement weather. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. FREE!
That’s not all! The Monmouth County Park System has a number of sites listed on the National Registers of Historic Places that open for free tours during the warmer months including:
Historic Battery Lewis
Saturdays & Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; tours offered through October 13.
Hartshorne Woods Park - Use Rocky Point entrance in Highlands.
Historic Holmes-Hendrickson House
Friday-Sunday from 12-3 p.m. starting every half hour; tours offered through October 5.
Holmdel Park, Holmdel
Historic Portland Place
Wednesday-Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.; tours offered through November 16.
Hartshorne Woods Park, Locust section of Middletown
Historic Racing Stable
Fridays from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturdays & Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; tours offered through October 19.
Thompson Park, Lincroft
Historic Seabrook-Wilson House
The first of three strategic planning meetings will be Thursday night at North. Open to all residents.Updated Mon, Jun 2, 2025 at 10:33 am ETMIDDLETOWN, NJ — The first of three strategic planning meetings will be Thursday night at Middletown High School North. Open to all residents.These meetings are open to all residents, not just Middletown school parents.All three meetings are hosted by the school district and will be facilitated by the New Jersey School Boards Association. They are holding the meetings...
Updated Mon, Jun 2, 2025 at 10:33 am ET
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The first of three strategic planning meetings will be Thursday night at Middletown High School North. Open to all residents.
These meetings are open to all residents, not just Middletown school parents.
All three meetings are hosted by the school district and will be facilitated by the New Jersey School Boards Association. They are holding the meetings to hear from the community as the Middletown school district is about to embark on a "Strategic Planning process."
This "Strategic Planning process" will possibly include closing at least one — but likely multiple — Middletown schools in the future. Redistricting is also on the table.
"They are likely going to recommend closing at least two schools, possibly more," Board member Gary Tulp said previously.
Here are the meeting dates:
The school district already hired an outside strategic planning firm and is paying that consulting firm $24,000 to tell the district how to solve its budget holes, said superintendent Jessica Alfone.
First, the consulting firm will assess all the buildings in the district; that facilities assessment will take place during the month of June.
They will then present a report in mid- to late September about "how our boundaries could be redesigned" and any Middletown school buildings "that are aging and could be taken offline," said Alfone.
"I think we all know that something needs to change," Alfone said at the April 30 BOE meeting.
The NJSBA will hold three public meetings where they will hear from the Middletown community. The dates of those meetings are:Updated Wed, May 7, 2025 at 1:07 pm ETMIDDLETOWN, NJ — As Patch told you repeatedly, redistricting is next on the Middletown school district's agenda. This will possibly include closing at least one — but likely multiple — schools in the future.The Middletown school district is about to launch a "Strategic Planning process" facilitated by the New Jersey School Boards ...
Updated Wed, May 7, 2025 at 1:07 pm ET
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — As Patch told you repeatedly, redistricting is next on the Middletown school district's agenda. This will possibly include closing at least one — but likely multiple — schools in the future.
The Middletown school district is about to launch a "Strategic Planning process" facilitated by the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA).
The NJSBA will hold three public meetings where they will hear from the Middletown community. The dates of those meetings has now been announced and they are:
These meetings will be open to all, not just Middletown school parents. They will be open to all Middletown residents. There is also this "Strategic Planning Interest Form:" https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScQb9a2OrHuzbQqC2WC20OA2zjQ9BIIVx0cX7qU6uBYtasf0A/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawKIXc5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBseklZbHZkNGc4WmZzOXByAR63Xov0Bbm-A_B8djHf7z9Ustly81LZIEyEwMiapTJhcDAbZosIDbF6uRG9ug_aem_ZYy31nxyyfyy__Drk33zfw
As part of this process, the school district already hired an outside strategic planning firm to tell them how to redistrict and where to save money and plug budget holes. The district will pay that consulting firm $24,000, superintendent Jessica Alfone previously said.
The consulting firm will first assess all the buildings in the district; that facilities assessment will take place during the month of June, Alfone said previously. They will then present a report in mid- to late September about "how our boundaries could be redesigned" and any Middletown school buildings "that are aging and could be taken offline," she said.
"I think we all know that something needs to change," said the superintendent at the last Board meeting, held last Wednesday, April 30.
"There is no way chemo is going to completely remove all the cancer. The transplant is really my only choice," said Heather Candrilli.Carly Baldwin, Patch Staff|Updated Mon, May 19, 2025 at 9:48 am ET(GoFundMe/used with permission)MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A 36-year-old woman who lives in the Belford section of Middletown is currently battling stage 4 colon cancer.The young woman is Heather Candri...
Carly Baldwin, Patch Staff
|Updated Mon, May 19, 2025 at 9:48 am ET
(GoFundMe/used with permission)
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A 36-year-old woman who lives in the Belford section of Middletown is currently battling stage 4 colon cancer.
The young woman is Heather Candrilli, and she is the mother of two young children, a 5-year-old and a 2-year-old, both boys. Her oldest son goes to Bayview Elementary.
Candrilli was diagnosed in May 2024, and she is currently going through weekly chemotherapy treatments. However, in order to survive she needs a liver transplant. So far, 47 people applied to donate a portion of their liver to her, and one of the first people who signed up was her sister. However, none of them fit as a perfect match.
"Two people are currently being evaluated right now," Candrilli said this week.
She was blunt: "There is no way chemo is going to completely remove all the cancer. The transplant is really my only choice."
Candrilli also shared how she discovered she had cancer, and why it was discovered at such a serious, stage-4 level:
"The symptoms started after my second child was born. I just felt bloated all the time. I was fatigued. I was bleeding (when she used the bathroom). I would eat something and I would immediately look six months pregnant," she said. "At first, I just blamed it all on post-partum. But it was still going on when my son was 2."
"Her fatigue got to a very bad, a very serious level," said her husband, Cory Candrilli. "At 4 or 5 p.m. every night she would just crawl to the couch, turn the lights off and doze off. I would come home and she would be too tired to get off the couch."
By this point, both husband and wife were alarmed. She made an appointment to see a gastroenterologist who gave her an endoscopy and checked her for all the usual suspects: Celiac disease, Crohn’s and diverticulitis. When they discussed a colonoscopy, she was told health insurers considered her too young, at 35, to be covered and she would have to pay $500 out of pocket.
"I did it, because I wanted to figure out what was going on," she said. "But I ended up having an ultrasound first and that's when they discovered all these lesions on my liver. That made them immediately suspect cancer, so they moved up the colonoscopy."
The colonoscopy detected a mass growing on her colon. It was May 2024 that she got the diagnosis: The colon cancer had grown to stage 4 and spread to her liver.
"I got hooked up with an amazing oncologist at RWJ Barnabas Medical Center in Long Branch and he wanted to fight this aggressively, start me on chemo right away. My first round of chemo was last June, actually on my son's fifth birthday," she said. "In a way, I was lucky because colon cancer usually does spread and luckily for me, it only spread to my liver. For a lot of people by the time it gets to stage 4, it's in their lungs, their ovaries, their uterus."
"While my numbers have been very good after the chemo, there is no 'end date' for when the chemo treatments can stop. I need to keep getting them until I get a liver transplant. That's my only possibility for a cure."
She gets the chemo weekly on Fridays at a fusion center in Long Branch. While the nurses "are great," the chemo makes her nauseous and tired. She also has to wear a pump all weekend to keep the chemo going. It takes her the entire weekend to recover, said her husband, who said he makes sure he can be home from his job in the NJ film industry to help with the kids while she rests.
Right now, Candrilli just stays positive and thinks about surviving.
"I look at these kids every day. I can't picture not being with them. We're gonna do everything we need to do."
Candrilli also has a message she wants to stress to busy, working parents: "At the end of the day, if you don't feel right, please go to a doctor and have it checked. You can think it's a stomachache; you can say you're just tired or chalk it up to any of the plethora of things happening in our daily lives. But don't neglect yourself. I think that's the biggest problem with our age group and our demographic: We are moms, dads, so busy with the kids, school, work. We don't take time off for ourselves."
Also, New York lawmakers who know her story (the couple used to live in Staten Island before they moved to Middletown) are advancing a bill to get colonoscopies covered for patients starting at age 35. The bill is currently being reviewed by the NY state Senate Insurance Committee.
Here is a GoFundMe launched for Candrilli and her family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sup...
And if you are interested in becoming a liver donor, here is her page: https://openredcap.nyumc.org/a...
And if you're interested in learning more about how to advocate for colon cancer screenings to be covered by insurers at a younger age: https://fightcolorectalcancer....
A similar story: Middletown Woman Diagnosed With Brain Tumor 1 Month After Baby's Birth (2023)
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