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Home Care In Rumson, NJ

Home Care Rumson, 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 Gunning Island 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 Rumson, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care Rumson, 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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Elderly Care for Josie J.
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“Such an amazing company with employees who truly care about their business and those they”

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.
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Senior Care for Pamgoldberg
551
Caring

“I can’t begin to tell to you how pleased I am with Always Best Care.”

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!!
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Senior Care for Theodore S.
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Facebook

“I cannot thank Always Best Care enough for helping us find an ideal Assisted Living”

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.
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Elderly Care for Leta J.
551
Caring

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

Your manager is always nice and flexible, and the caregivers are sweet and wonderful
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Senior Care for Carla500226
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“We are very happy with Always Best Care. They do 24hr care, and the caregiver”

We are very happy with Always Best Care. They do 24hr care, and the caregiver is excellent. I would recommend them.
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Elderly Care for Judy367738
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“We have hired Always Best Care. We have them for 5 to 6 weeks now.”

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.
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In-home Care for Nancy176801
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“We hired Always Best Care two weeks ago for my mom. The woman comes in”

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.
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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
×
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 Rumson, 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.

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Senior Care Rumson, NJ

Types of Elderly Care in Rumson, 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
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Respite Care Rumson, 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
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Caregivers Rumson, 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 Victory Park 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
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Home Care Rumson, 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 Red Horse by David Burke - Rumson, NJ or visit Riverside Park, 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.

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In-Home Care Rumson, NJ

Benefits of Home Care in Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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:

  • A Place For Mom - Senior Living Advisor Janet Wheeler
  • Sunrise of Shrewsbury
  • Brighton Gardens of Middletown
  • Serravalle Senior Care Solutions
  • The Atrium at Navesink Harbor
  • Arbor Terrace Shrewsbury
Home Care Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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 Rumson, 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.

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Elderly Care Rumson, NJ

Latest News in Rumson, NJ

Rumson's Forrestdale School In State Top 10: Media Outlet Reports

RUMSON, NJ — Forrestdale School in Rumson found a place in the top 10 of new education rankings from U.S. News & World Report for New Jersey's best K-8 schools - the only Monmouth County school on the list.The news outlet based its 2024 Best Elementary and Middle School rankings on publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Education, focusing on student proficiency in core subject areas, it notes.Forrestdale School, 60 Forrest...

RUMSON, NJ — Forrestdale School in Rumson found a place in the top 10 of new education rankings from U.S. News & World Report for New Jersey's best K-8 schools - the only Monmouth County school on the list.

The news outlet based its 2024 Best Elementary and Middle School rankings on publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Education, focusing on student proficiency in core subject areas, it notes.

Forrestdale School, 60 Forrest Ave., ranked No. 7 in New Jersey Elementary Schools and ranked No. 3 in New Jersey Middle Schools, according to the report.

Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation, and how well they prepare their students for high school.

In New Jersey, the top 10 public elementary schools are:

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

The top 10 public middle schools in New Jersey are:

The student population of Forrestdale School is 551 and the school serves grades 4-8, the report said. At Forrestdale School, 74 percent of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 77 percent scored at or above that level for reading. Student/teacher ratio is 10:1. You can see more details here.

Deane-Porter School is the other elementary school in the district and serves grades PK-3. It was ranked No. 58 in that category in the same report.

The U.S. News list includes data on more than 79,000 public elementary and middle schools nationwide, according to a Patch article.

In the analysis, U.S. News looked closely at state assessment of students who were proficient or above-proficient in mathematics and reading/language arts, while also accounting for student backgrounds, achievement in core subjects, and how well schools are educating their students. Student-teacher ratios are applied to break ties in the overall score.

LaMont Jones, managing editor for education at U.S. News, said the state and district-level rankings are intended to give parents a snapshot of their child’s school and how well it’s doing within its community.

“Easily accessible data on student-teacher ratio, district spending, and the number of school counselors available at the school can keep parents informed and involved,” Jones said.

Patch Editor Michelle Rotuno-Johnson contributed to this report.

Rumson St. Patrick's Day Pre-Parade Festivities Are Beginning

RUMSON, NJ — The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is March 10, but there's many a pre-parade activity planned to put you in the spirit, organizers say.Here's a rundown of the events happening in the weeks leading up to the parade - and they are starting soon:Green Tree Lighting: The borough is to adorn the town with green lights during this week - Feb. 26, culminating with the fu...

RUMSON, NJ — The Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade is March 10, but there's many a pre-parade activity planned to put you in the spirit, organizers say.

Here's a rundown of the events happening in the weeks leading up to the parade - and they are starting soon:

Green Tree Lighting: The borough is to adorn the town with green lights during this week - Feb. 26, culminating with the full illumination on March 1. Join us as we light up Rumson in festive hues to kick off the St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School Tower Lighting: On Friday, March 1, the tower of Rumson-Fair Haven High School will glow green in honor of the celebration.

Irish Soda Bread Contest: Co-sponsored with the Oceanic Library, the Irish Soda Bread Contest will offer Irish music, dance, bagpipers - and soda bread. The event is Thursday, March 7, starting at 7 p.m. Contestants will vie for the title of best Irish Soda Bread, with the winner receiving a plaque, prize, and a donation to the library. Registration forms (due March 4) are at the library, and there is a limit of 16 entries Registration is $25 by cash or check and the breads should be delivered to the library by 6 p.m. on night of event, Library Director Wendy Cettina said. The two owners of Cups & Cakes in Rumson will judge.

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

Irish Essay and Poster Contest: The Michael J. Larkin Memorial Irish Essay Competition invites participants to explore the contemporary identity of Irish Americans in the 21st century. With a deadline of March 1, participants can submit their essays for a chance to win cash prizes and recognition.

Additionally, the Rumson St. Patrick's Day Page Bigelow Irish Poster Contest encourages budding artists to showcase their creativity by depicting favorite Irish symbols or portraits of St. Patrick. Winners will be awarded cash prizes and accolades.

For the essay contest, winners will be awarded as follows: 1st place - $750 and plaque; 2nd place - $500 and plaque; 3rd place - $250 and plaque.

For the poster contest, winners will be awarded as follows: K through 3rd grade, 1st place - $25; 4th through 8th grade - 1st place winner, $50.

Post-Parade Awards Night recognitions will be announced soon, organizers say.

For more information and updates on these events, visit the Rumson St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee website at www.rumsonstpatricksdayparade.org/.

Heartbreaking overtime loss for Rumson in football state final: 'Sometimes the magic runs out'

PISCATAWAY — Football is a game of inches.Rumson-Fair Haven was closer than even that to beating an undefeated team and winning the NJSIAA Group 2 state championship Monday night.Rumson fell to Westwood, 21-20 in overtime, in a game that the Bulldogs led through four quarters and scored the first touchdown of the extra period at SHI Stadium on the campus of Rutgers University.But Westwood’s Aidan Dugan blocked the OT extra-point kick, opening the door for the Cardinals to answer with a matching touchdown and ...

PISCATAWAY — Football is a game of inches.

Rumson-Fair Haven was closer than even that to beating an undefeated team and winning the NJSIAA Group 2 state championship Monday night.

Rumson fell to Westwood, 21-20 in overtime, in a game that the Bulldogs led through four quarters and scored the first touchdown of the extra period at SHI Stadium on the campus of Rutgers University.

But Westwood’s Aidan Dugan blocked the OT extra-point kick, opening the door for the Cardinals to answer with a matching touchdown and the game-ending PAT kick by Sean Morrison.

More:Another football state title! Toms River North makes its case for No. 1 public school in NJ

The Bulldogs had been on the winning end of one-score games in the last two rounds of the playoffs.

Not this time.

“Last two games, we’re on the other end of it,” said Rumson-Fair Haven head coach Jeremy Schulte. “Sometimes the magic runs out a little bit. It’s a shame, that’s life.”

More:Why Toms River North’s football state title is a win for the ages: ‘No one else has done it’

Westwood rallies in crunch time

With less than six minutes left in the fourth quarter, and up by a touchdown, the Bulldogs opted to go for it on 4th-and-goal at the 1-yard line. However, the ballcarrier was stopped short with 5:50 left.

Westwood responded in a championship fashion by driving down the field 99 yards, capped off by a 6-yard Robbie Carcich touchdown throw to Tommy Bussanich. Morrison's point after tied it up with 5 seconds left.

“We thought we were going to score,” Schulte said of the decision to not kick a field goal. “It’s the little plays, they made more of those plays than we did. They deserve it.”

Bussanich and Carcich connected again in overtime to lead up to the winning extra point on a 14-yard slant touchdown pass down the middle to tie the game, 20-20. Westwood, the team that fumbled the ball on the opening kickoff and never led in the game for a single second, finished on top and undefeated (13-0).

“Tommy’s been awesome,” Carcich said. “This is a great way to send him off not only him but the rest of the seniors. You can’t beat this, an overtime win against a loaded Group 2 Rumson-Fair Haven, this is just a storybook ending to a really great career by the seniors.”

Despite the gut-wrenching loss for Rumson-Fair Haven, their season was no cakewalk to their reappearance on the big stage. And even when the game leaked into overtime, the Bulldogs still responded each time.

“Our guys played their assess off the entire game,” said Schulte, whose team finished 8-5. “I’m so proud of them, they left everything out there. We were 2-4 at one point this year, and to be here now, I’m not just happy to be here, we weren’t happy to be here last year, it just [stinks] man. It’s a tough loss.”

More:Rutgers football bowl projections narrowed down: Will it be one of these two?

What it means

This is just the second year that the state of New Jersey has held state championships. Last year, Rumson Fair-Haven played in the final game but lost to Caldwell 18-14. The Bulldogs have won eight sectional titles since 2010. Westwood has won seven sectional titles.

Key plays

On third-and-10 with the ball on their own 1-yard line and down seven points under six minutes in the fourth quarter, Bussanich connected to Joe Klein down the sideline for 31-yards for a first down to keep Westwood’s hopes alive.

“They did a great job, going 99 yards at the end of the game to put it in to overtime,” Schulte said. “It’s tough.”

After Rumson-Fair Haven’s Jackson Gallagher finished a 2-yard touchdown run in overtime, it was Aidan Dugan who made the key PAT block for his team.

Unsung heroes

Right guard and defensive end Jack Harris finished with 4.5 total tackles for Rumson Fair-Haven. The 6-foot-3 sophomore was a clear impact in halting Westwood’s offense for most of the game.

“Yeah, he’s an animal,” said Schulte. “Absolute animal. Only a sophomore, he’s a great kid, he just does everything we ask him to do, he never comes off the field, he epitomizes our program.”

Westwood kicker Sean Morrison went was a perfect three for three in extra kicks and made the winning point for the Cardinals to win a state championship.

Westwood’s Steve Klein finished the game with 13 total tackles.

Rumson’s Wesley Kennedy led the Bulldogs in total tackles with eight.

They said it

Schulte on the words he gave his guys before and after the game: “We tell these guys, it’s what you do in the face of adversity that matters. These guys showing up for school tomorrow, getting back into lifting next week and make another run at it next year.”

Schulte on Westwood being a deserving champion: “There’s a reason they’re in this game, there’s a reason they’re undefeated, they’re a hell of a football team.”

Westwood 21, Rumson-Fair Haven 20, OT

Rumson-Fair Haven 7 0 7 0 6 – 20

Westwood 0 7 0 7 7 – 21

First Quarter

RFH: Alastair Orr 2 run (Ryan Child kick).

Second Quarter

W: Aidan Dugan 3 run (Sean Morrison kick).

Third Quarter

RFH: Jack Gyimesi 8 pass from Owen O’Toole (Child kick).

Fourth Quarter

W: Tom Bussanich 6 pass from Robbie Carcich (Morrison kick).

Overtime

RFH: Jackson Gallagher 2 run (kick blocked).

W: Bussanich 14 pass from Carcich (Morrison kick).

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

Rushing: RFH: Alastair Orr 28-96, Kellen Murray 12-74, Jackson Gallagher 3-24, Owen O’Toole 2-5, Team 1-(-2). W: Robbie Carcich 22-77, Aidan Dugan 14-40, Steve Klein 3-13, Aidan Carrazana 3-(-1).

Passing: RFH: O’Toole 12-22-1-128. W: Carcich 16-20-0-145.

Receiving: RFH: Gallagher 5-62, Nick Rigby 2-32, Nick Thomas 1-12, Jack Gyimesi 1-8, Orr 1-7, Matteo Gangemi 1-4, Griffin Kolb 1-3. W: Tom Bussanich 7-72, Joe Klein 5-55, Aidan Carrazana 3-5, Sean Morrison 1-13.

Interceptions: W: Michael Rinaldi.

Surf Bar & Grill in Rumson has closed

Surf Bar & Grill in Rumson, which Victor Rallo opened as Surf BBQ in 2016, has closed.Rallo shard the news in a message on the restaurant's website and on social media."To our customers, friends and wonderful community, after an incredible seven years of serving you at Surf Bar and Grill, we have chosen to close our doors Monday, Sept. 4," it reads. "Thank yo...

Surf Bar & Grill in Rumson, which Victor Rallo opened as Surf BBQ in 2016, has closed.

Rallo shard the news in a message on the restaurant's website and on social media.

"To our customers, friends and wonderful community, after an incredible seven years of serving you at Surf Bar and Grill, we have chosen to close our doors Monday, Sept. 4," it reads. "Thank you for your patronage and support during these past years. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to have provided all of you with warm and welcoming hospitality."

Rallo said he is planning a new concept for the space.

When the Rumson restaurant opened in the former Molly Maguire's Gastropub on East River Road, it represented new territory for Rallo, known for his Italian restaurants and PBS program, "Eat! Drink! Italy! with Vic Rallo."

More:Red Bank's Salt & Smoke Market has barbecue-inspired sandwiches, fresh salads and more

More:Almost Home at Red General to open in Atlantic Highlands this fall

To open Surf BBQ, he turned to Billy Durney of Brooklyn's Hometown Bar-B-Que and Alex Smith of the original Mighty Quinn Barbeque in Manhattan.

"I'm passionate about the cuisines of the world, and the only true American cuisine is barbecue," Rallo told the Asbury Park Press in 2016. "It's a historic cuisine with its origins in the South, and we're trying to be true to the origins."

Rallo also owns Birravino in Red Bank, Undici Taverna Rustica in Rumson, and Pastavino Trattora E Enoteca in Staten Island. A Staten Island Surf location opened in 2017 and closed in 2020.

Sarah Griesemer joined the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey in 2003 and has been writing all things food since 2014. Send restaurant tips to [email protected].

Sandy Hook Seal Spotting, Water Ceremony Planned By Waterspirit

RUMSON, NJ — Waterspirit, the eco-spiritual nonprofit based in Rumson, has a busy - and beautiful - Saturday coming up.First, you can Join Waterspirit’s program manager, Anne Price, as she monitors the many species of seals at Sandy Hook. The seals feed and then "haul out" to rest and digest, the organization says.Save Coastal Wildlife has been recruiting and training volunteers to monitor these seasonal populations, and Price is a trained volunteer.According to ...

RUMSON, NJ — Waterspirit, the eco-spiritual nonprofit based in Rumson, has a busy - and beautiful - Saturday coming up.

First, you can Join Waterspirit’s program manager, Anne Price, as she monitors the many species of seals at Sandy Hook. The seals feed and then "haul out" to rest and digest, the organization says.

Save Coastal Wildlife has been recruiting and training volunteers to monitor these seasonal populations, and Price is a trained volunteer.

According to Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey, true seals (not sea lions) traverse the New Jersey coastline between the months of November through April. The most abundant is the harbor seal, followed by the larger gray seal, the harp seal, and the least common, the hooded seal.

Those who attend can watch the seals and record data to report. While there, Price will discuss other area wildlife.

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

Registration is required for this free event, taking place from 1 to 4 p.m., Feb, 24. Sandy Hook Parking Area D is at 100 Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, 07732. See this map. Meet up near the restrooms in parking area D.

Remember your binoculars, spotting scope and camera. Dress for the weather. There is no protection from the elements.

In the U.S., all marine mammals, including seals, are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Whether with Waterspirit or on your own, view and photograph seals from a distance of at least a 150 feet away (half a football field). Do not bring pets to this event.

Later on Saturday, from 5:30 to 6 p.m., Waterspirit will have a Water Ceremony to mark its 26 years of working to protect waters.

Meet at Sandy Hook South Beach Parking Area C, Hartshorne Drive, Highlands 07732.

The ceremony will include poetry readings, a candle-lit labyrinth on the sand and watching the full moon rise.

This is a fair-weather event. All registered participants will be notified via email if the event needs to be cancelled.

Visit the Waterspirit events tab on its website to register for either or both. The events are free but registration is required.

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