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Home Care In Middletown, NJ

Home Care Middletown, 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 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.

 In-Home Care Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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 Middletown, NJ

Types of Elderly Care in Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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. 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:

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

 In-Home Care Middletown, NJ

Benefits of Home Care in Middletown, 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 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.

 Elderly Care Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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 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.

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 Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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:

  • Arbor Terrace Middletown
  • Brighton Gardens of Middletown
  • CareOne at Middletown
  • Serravalle Senior Care Solutions
  • Promenade at Middletown
  • The Eliot Erie Station
Home Care Middletown, 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 Middletown, 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 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.

 Elderly Care Middletown, NJ

Latest News in Middletown, NJ

Everything Planned In Monmouth County Parks This February

Also, the spring issue of the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide will be available in most county parks, and online, starting Feb. 2:|Updated Fri, Jan 26, 2024 at 11:16 am ETMONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — February may be the shortest month of the year, but the Monmouth County Park System has it packed with lots of fun — and many free — activities.Not only that, but copies of the spring issue of the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide will be available in most county parks and online (...

Also, the spring issue of the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide will be available in most county parks, and online, starting Feb. 2:

|Updated Fri, Jan 26, 2024 at 11:16 am ET

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — February may be the shortest month of the year, but the Monmouth County Park System has it packed with lots of fun — and many free — activities.

Not only that, but copies of the spring issue of the Monmouth County Parks & Programs Guide will be available in most county parks and online (www.MonmouthCountyParks.com) beginning on Friday, February 2.

This spring go on a Bird and Wildlife Boat Tour of the Manasquan Reservoir, get moving with Hula Hoop Dance and Fitness or discover Native Wildflower Gardening. These are just some of the fantastic programs the Monmouth County Park System has planned for the season. Other upcoming offerings include April Puddle Jumpers, Peek into the Life of Plankton and Thursdays on the Trails. All these programs and more can be found in the spring issue of the Park System’s Parks & Programs Guide, which will be released to the public Feb. 2.

(The majority of offerings in the Parks & Programs Guide require pre-registration and a fee.)

Registration for any of those above events and more starts at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, February 7. Registration will be available online 24/7; by phone by calling 732-842-4000, ext. 1, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; or in person by visiting Park System Headquarters in Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

Meanwhile, here’s what's planned in Monmouth County Parks this February:

Cutting, Splitting and Hewing

Sunday, February 4 from 12-2:30 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Get warmed up using a two-man saw and splitting wedge, and learn how farmers used a froe to rive shingles or a broad ax to hew beams. Open to adults. FREE!

Historical Valentines

Sunday, February 11 from 1-3 p.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Create a valentine of your own or write a letter to a friend using historically inspired materials. FREE!

Casual Birder

Tuesday, February 13 at 9 a.m.

Perrineville Lake Park, Millstone - Meet in the Agress Road parking lot.

Tuesday, February 27 at 9 a.m.

Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth

Join a Park System Naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk and meander through the park for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can find. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed. FREE!

Wondrous Winter Walks

Wednesday, February 14 at 10 a.m.

Big Brook Park, Marlboro - Meet in the parking lot.

Wednesday, February 28 at 10 a.m.

Clayton Park, Upper Freehold - Meet in the Emley's Hill parking lot.

Toss on your winter gear and tag along with a Park System Naturalist and explore the serenity that is nature in the wintertime. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Please note that sturdy footwear is recommended; trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. FREE!

Nature Lecture: Winter Flounder - More than Just a Flat Fish

Thursday, February 15 from 7-8 p.m.

Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth

Join a Park System Naturalist for a talk on this heavily regulated flounder that calls the Jersey Shore home and discover why its population is suffering. FREE!

Winter Beach Walk

Friday, February 23 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan

Take a guided walk with a Park System Naturalist along the beach collecting and identifying some of the ocean’s natural treasures. Make sure you dress in warm clothing and bring along something to carry shells. FREE!

Open Shoot Archery

Saturday, February 24 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.

Under the Winter Stars

Saturday, February 24 from 7-8 p.m.

Dorbrook Recreation Area, Colts Neck - Use the soccer field parking lot.

Look for key objects and constellations in the night sky with a Park System 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!

Story Time in the Park

Sunday, February 25 from 11-11:45 a.m.

Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Join us as we read a story in front of the hearth in the Waln House. Children are welcome to bring a snack and a mat, blanket or towel to sit on. Open to grades pre-K to second. FREE!

Parlor Games for Wintry Weather

Sunday, February 25 from 12-2:30 p.m.

Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel

Play two long-forgotten 1890s board games - Halma and Basilinda. We'll also have old-time favorites like Backgammon, Checkers and Reversi. FREE!

To learn more about these Park System activities, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System TTY/TDD number is 711.

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More from Middletown

'Mean Girls,' Filmed Throughout NJ, Hits Theaters Friday

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — New Jersey plays a starring role in "Mean Girls," the movie musical released in theaters this Friday, Jan. 12.That's because nearly all of the movie was filmed in the Garden State.Mater Dei Prep, the Middletown Catholic school that closed in 2022, is where the bulk of the movie was made, with filming take place last March and April. Some Middletown resi...

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — New Jersey plays a starring role in "Mean Girls," the movie musical released in theaters this Friday, Jan. 12.

That's because nearly all of the movie was filmed in the Garden State.

Mater Dei Prep, the Middletown Catholic school that closed in 2022, is where the bulk of the movie was made, with filming take place last March and April. Some Middletown residents even appear as extras in the new movie.

Some theaters have “On Wednesdays We Wear Pink” early screenings at 7 p.m. this Wednesday.

The studio is Paramount Pictures, and producers saw Mater Dei as the perfect new North Shore High, the all-American high school where iconic Regina George and her team of Plastics ruled the earth — until new girl Lindsay Lohan decided to dish out some sweet teenage revenge.

Tina Fey wrote the original "Mean Girls" screenplay, which is based on Rosalind Wiseman's book "Queen Bees and Wannabes." This time "Mean Girls" is a musical, and it has some heavy hitters behind it: Fey and “SNL” producer Lorne Michaels are producers. Look for Fey to appear in the new movie as high school teacher Ms. Norbury. And "SNL" alum Tim Meadows will return to his role as Principal Duvall.

But the teenage actors are all new: Angourie Rice (of "Spider-Man") will play Lohan's role of Cady Heron; singer Reneé Rapp is queen bee Regina George, Bebe Wood is the new Gretchen Wieners and Indian-American actress Avantika Vandanapu will be Karen Shetty, the original role of ditzy Karen Smith, played memorably by Amanda Seyfried.

And it's not just Middletown that will appear in the film. According to NJ.com, “Mean Girls” filmed throughout New Jersey, including at:

Here's the trailer:

Reneé Rapp and Megan Thee Stallion sing theme song "Not My Fault," part of the movie's soundtrack:

Film crews could be seen on the shuttered Mater Dei campus, on Church Street in Middletown, all throughout last March and April. Producers also asked Middletown residents to appear as extras — so you may see some local faces in the movie.

Grant Wilfley agents held this casting call last February, where they asked Middletown residents to play high school students, teachers, jocks and skateboarders. They even said they were looking for suburban moms.

"We are looking for real people. This isn't L.A." said the agents last winter. "We want all types of people; we want authenticity. We want to represent what high school looks like in 2023."

'Mean Girls' Movie Musical Filming In Middletown In March And April (Feb. 2023)

How To Audition As An Extra In 'Mean Girls' Filming In Middletown (Feb. 2023)

Why are so many movies, TV shows and commercials being filmed in New Jersey lately?

It's because Gov. Phil Murphy has dramatically increased movie and TV production in the state. His administration has given Hollywood studios such as HBO, Netflix and Paramount hundreds of million in tax breaks to entice them to make movies in New Jersey.

The state gave Netflix up to $200 million in tax breaks to open what will be its largest filmmaking studio in the world in Oceanport, at the former U.S. Army base Fort Monmouth.

Murphy says movie and TV production will bring jobs to New Jersey.

"(We want to) create a thriving industry from whole cloth, bringing with it countless additional jobs and boosting the regional economy," Murphy previously said.

Biodiversity Efforts Help Protect New Jersey Wildlife

In the sky and in the sea, New Jersey’s wildlife is thriving. But that wasn’t always the case.Take the osprey, for instance. The raptors’ declining population in the 1960s and 70s led to their inclusion on the New Jersey Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife’s endangered species list in 1974.Fortunately, the species has rebounded, reaching historical numbers of 500 nests in 2013 and now totaling at least 733 nesting pairs. However, increased development and deforestation has introduced another danger: powe...

In the sky and in the sea, New Jersey’s wildlife is thriving. But that wasn’t always the case.

Take the osprey, for instance. The raptors’ declining population in the 1960s and 70s led to their inclusion on the New Jersey Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife’s endangered species list in 1974.

Fortunately, the species has rebounded, reaching historical numbers of 500 nests in 2013 and now totaling at least 733 nesting pairs. However, increased development and deforestation has introduced another danger: power lines.

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With fewer trees to set up as homes, an increase in nests atop power poles along the Jersey Shore has spurred Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) to take action to keep the birds safe.

Protecting Nesting Birds: JCP&L crews routinely monitor for nests on and near electrical equipment. When identified, crews use drones to assess whether the nests are active with eggs rather than sending workers up to inspect and potentially disrupt the birds.

Following strict protocols and specifications developed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), nests are relocated away from power lines to specially built and JCP&L-installed nesting platforms. Diverters and other custom measures, such as fiberglass crossarms, are then placed on the power pole to prevent future rebuilding, further protecting ospreys and their eggs.

When nests can’t safely be moved, protective equipment such as insulated line covers are installed to mitigate any hazards to the nests or power lines.

Since 2016, JCP&L has safely relocated approximately 20 osprey nests, most of which have successfully produced osprey over several seasons. One nest was occupied by a Great Horned Owl that successfully produced at least one owlet.

This year alone, JCP&L crews are monitoring more than 60 nesting sites, including 30 active nests with the remainder of the sites showing intermittent activity this season.

Merrill Creek Home to Wildlife: In northern New Jersey, JCP&L plays a key role in the survival of New Jersey’s state freshwater fish, the brook trout – the Garden State’s only native trout species. Merrill Creek, designated by the New Jersey DEP as a “wild trout stream,” is considered to have exceptional water quality for trout production.

The creek flows into and out of the Merrill Creek Reservoir, a 650-acre artificial lake owned and maintained by JCP&L, its sister company Met-Ed, and other partner utilities. The reservoir, home to 28 different species of fish, is the only site in the state to support both a lake trout population and a land-locked salmon fishery.

Active surveying, using trail cameras and infrared drones for wildlife and an army of volunteers for fish, birds and rare turtles, have tracked more than 380 species on the property, which also includes a 290-acre environmental preserve and more than 2,000 acres of forests and fields.

Documented wildlife at the Reservoir includes:

“The ability to implement conservation work through the support of Merrill Creek Reservoir’s owners, including JCP&L, is key to ensuring resilient, diversified and properly functioning habitats that ultimately provide critical needs for wildlife species health and life-cycle requirements,” said John Parke, Environmental Specialist at Merrill Creek Reservoir. “This important work helps maintain, and in some cases increase, biodiversity aspects of the reservoir.”

JCP&L, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., is an electric distribution company serving 1.1 million customers in the counties of Burlington, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren. Follow JCP&L on Twitter @JCP_L, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/JCPandL or online at www.jcp-l.com.

Capone, Tobacco Win Re-Election To Middletown School Board

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Putting Children First slate of Frank Capone, Jacqueline Tobacco and Catarina Skalaski were re-elected to Middletown school board Tuesday night, according to Monmouth County election results."One thing is clear, and this victory shows it; parental rights matter in Middletown," said Tobacco at a victory party Tuesday night. "Tonight’s victory, after a contentious...

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Putting Children First slate of Frank Capone, Jacqueline Tobacco and Catarina Skalaski were re-elected to Middletown school board Tuesday night, according to Monmouth County election results.

"One thing is clear, and this victory shows it; parental rights matter in Middletown," said Tobacco at a victory party Tuesday night. "Tonight’s victory, after a contentious campaign of senseless attacks, only emboldens us to deliver on our purpose of putting children first. I look forward to building upon all of the progress we have made as a district."

"Having the support of the people in Middletown has been one of the most incredible honors of my life," said Capone. "I am incredibly humbled and fulfilled to be overwhelmingly re-elected by the voters of Middletown. Ensuring the well-being and education of our children is always my top priority, and I will always stand up against any attempts to undermine the rights or quality of education that make Middletown the best place to live and raise a family. The people of Middletown can rest assured that I will tirelessly advocate for their needs and interests and continue putting our children first!"

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Jacqueline Tobacco 8,144 (projected winner)

Caterina Skalaski 8,083 (projected winner)

Ashley Studd 5,520

Kelly Del Sordi 5,454

Justin Meehan 5,302

Mark Soporowski 2,679

Middletown Township Committee - voters are asked to choose two:

Middletown school board elections are always close, contentious races, but this year was especially filed with drama:

Candidate Mark Soporowski accused Jackie Tobacco of physically threatening him during a Facebook argument. Then last week he accused Middletown Town Hall of trying to intimidate him by sending a fire inspector to a fundraising party he had at his bar.

It was also revealed that candidate Justin Meehan has been arrested multiple times on drug charges; all the charges were dropped or downgraded.

As to the issues, bullying and redistricting in Middletown schools were discussed, plus how the district should best handle transgender students and the fact that actions by current Board leaders Capone/Tobacco got the district sued by the state of New Jersey this year. That lawsuit is still pending and has not been resolved. Critics say it's costing the already cash-strapped Middletown school district thousands in unnecessary legal fees.

At Home Middletown Now Open, Will Have Grand Opening July 15

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The brand-new At Home Middletown is now officially open:The store opened June 28, but will have its grand opening this Saturday, July 15. They are located at 1361 Hwy. 35 north, in Middletown Plaza, next to Meemom's.On Saturday, At Home will offer the first 50 customers in the store who sign up for the Insider Perks loyalty program a mystery gift card. The Middletown At Home is open sev...

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The brand-new At Home Middletown is now officially open:

The store opened June 28, but will have its grand opening this Saturday, July 15. They are located at 1361 Hwy. 35 north, in Middletown Plaza, next to Meemom's.

On Saturday, At Home will offer the first 50 customers in the store who sign up for the Insider Perks loyalty program a mystery gift card. The Middletown At Home is open seven days a week - Monday-Friday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

At Home says they are "the home & holiday superstore," and carry up to 45,000 on-trend home products to fit every room, style, season and budget, including furniture, mirrors, rugs, art and housewares to tabletop, patio and seasonal décor. At Home is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and currently operates 264 stores in 40 states.

Their Middletown location is their eighth — and newest — store in New Jersey.

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“At Home is pleased to bring our eighth store to New Jersey with the opening of At Home Middletown,” said Michael Dzura, At Home's senior vice president of stores. “Our hope is that this store provides customers endless possibilities for every room and style at every budget.”

“We are always excited to welcome new businesses to our community,” said Middletown Mayor Tony Perry in a statement provided to Patch. “At Home is a great addition to Middletown Plaza and we wish them much success!”

“We welcome our newest chamber member At Home to Middletown," said Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Jennifer Eckhoff. "We are excited to shop for unique home decor for every season at incredible values locally."

At Home bills itself as "the leading destination for home décor, giving customers a wide selection of style ideas all at a great price. Hundreds of new items arrive each week to provide fresh inspiration and shoppers will discover new collections from designers Laila Ali, Tracey Boyd, Willow Crossley, Grace Mitchell and Ty Pennington.

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