abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

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

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Pompton Junction, NJ

Home Care Pompton Junction, 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.

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 Pompton Junction, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Pompton Junction, NJ

location Service Areas

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.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Liz and her team are the consumate professionals when it comes to providing quality care for our seniors. They provide compassionate and competent care without forgetting about empathy and dignity for those entrusted in their care. Providing exceptional care...and then some...isn't what they do, it's simply who they are. Thank you, Liz, for providing such exceptional leadership to your team!”

Ron P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Liz…. Is simply the Best ! Her professionalism is amazing …”

Lincoln A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Liz is beyond TOP NOTCH at what she does, and the services she provides. We had a difficult family situation, and she handled it with grace, and provided my family with service, and advice above and beyond what I expected to receive!!! Thank you!!!”

Rick M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“When Always Best Care was referred to us by a friend, we didn’t quite know what to expect. Meeting the charming and charismatic Liz the owner and her smiling staff at the agency however put our hearts and minds at ease although we were in the middle of the pandemic. They are down-to-earth caring, compassionate and professional and our aunt could not ask for anything more. I truly recommend Always Best Care.”

Maria F.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent service, Always Best Care takes care well of your loved one. They are professionals and certified which makes them on top of everything. Just call Liz Johnson and she will help and goes above and beyond. I would highly recommend them.”

Mel S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“If you are looking for the right team to help you provide in-home care for your loved one, Always Best Care should be your first call. Liz and her team are trustworthy, caring, and compassionate. They go above and beyond for their clients and their families! They are truly exceptional!”

Nick S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Liz and her staff are hands down the best!!!”

John C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services and CEO Liz Johnson, provide compassionate and qualified care for seniors and patients recovering from surgery. Liz has a heart for families who need to make those tough choices and is a knowledgeable resource for those in need. She addresses questions and concerns with advice and solutions based on her professional acumen and life experience. I would recommend Liz wholeheartedly. Make her your first call when you need support for a loved one!”

Kristine P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides the highest level of in home care for your loved ones. I have used this agency to provide in home care for several family members and loved ones. Their aides provide compassionate care and have allowed my family members to age in their home with dignity and grace. Highly recommend !!!”

Carmen D.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent company! They care deeply for each person they work with and I highly recommend them. Very reliable and quick to respond. The owner is just amazing!”

Christian M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“You will always get the best care and service. Liz is so compassionate and attentive and treats everyone as if they were family. I highly recommend!”

Karen M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“When my special needs son broke his femur we called Liz for help. Although she specializes in Senior Care, we knew her company would take great care of our pre-teen. We can never thank Liz and her company enough for the kindness and great care they provided not just for our son, but for our entire family! What a relief it was to know he was being well cared for with such kindness and compassion. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Dan G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care have been a good company,and they always check on the workers,and make everything so easy for me,I never have bad experience wit them,I like my supervisor Mrs Leslie and the Coordinator Esoma bcos they always check on us wit my client and confirm if everything is working so good wit us,please all I want to say to them,is to keep the good work contine,may the company continues to be bless wit good people and so caring about the Aides....thank you so very much”

Rashidat O.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I was referred to Always Best Care by a close friend when I was searching for an assisted living community for my parents. I found the staff extremely professional and helpful right from our first meeting. What I appreciate the most is their prompt service and flexibility. Since I have my job in another city, I wasn’t able to take care of my parents and eventually had to make the difficult decision to move them to assisted living. Thanks to Always Best Care for speeding up the whole process according to my schedule. Highly Recommended!”

Nick J.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Quick and reliable assistance from the skilled team at Always Best Care played a major in my father’s recovery from osteoporosis. The assigned caregiver was extremely patient and supportive. He helped my father with all sorts of exercises. I strongly recommend Always Best Care for the well being of your beloved elders.”

Mustafa H.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“We found Anna through Always Best Care to take care of my ailing mother-in-law. She is honest, reliable, and goes out of her way to help my mother-in-law with her daily chores. I never have to worry that she wouldn’t show up on time or would find excuses for not doing some tasks. She is also very funny and keeps us laughing all day long. We are really happy with the services offered by Always Best Care. The attentiveness and quick response of their staff has made things quite easy for us. We know that they are there to address our needs no matter what time of the day we call them. They genuinely care about the health and well-being of their clients. And that’s what makes them so much better than other agencies.”

Rambo J.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“After my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we looked at all of the different companies in the marketplace. We received great care from our caregiver and really appreciated the patient approach they took with my dad. With much gratitude to the team at Always Best Care!”

Connie M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Nicky provided ten months of excellent care to my 82 years old mother who had dementia. She was caring in every possible way which was exactly what the family wanted for her. She passed away last month, but peacefully and with dignity. Thank you so much Always Best Care for the amazing service.”

Larry K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Waylon C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Your approach and calming demeanor are truly a gift and personal calling! You have helped more than you will ever realize”

Robbie M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Great Agency! Esoma The Coordinator is the best in the field! So caring about the Aides! Thanks again!”

Betty M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider My ninety year old grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few months ago. Without the in home care provided by Always Best Care, I do not know how we would have managed everything. I am grateful for the dedicated service they have provided to us.”

Allen B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“It has been a delightful experience to work with Always Best Care. Over the last three years, I have had a few caregivers come in to care for my mother who has Alzheimer’s. When she was diagnosed with the condition, I had little hope of her getting back to her normal self again. She had almost stopped smiling. But after I had the wonderful caregivers to care for her, I saw a great improvement in her health. She seems not only healthier, but happier too. Thank you Always Best Care.”

Cindy R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I really liked the caregiver who came to help my mom during her recovery from a major surgery. She took great care of her and ensured a quick recovery. A hearty thanks to Always Best Care.”

Christoper W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Stephen B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Waylon C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Pompton Junction, NJ?

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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 Pompton Junction, NJ

Types of Elderly Care in Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, NJ
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.

Common companionship services include:

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

Benefits of Home Care in Pompton Junction, 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.

Request More Information vector

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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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.

Home Care Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, 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

lm-right-arrow
01

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

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

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 Pompton Junction, 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 Pompton Junction, NJ

Latest News in Pompton Junction, NJ

N.J. weather: Which towns got the most rain from big coastal storm? Rainfall totals in all 21 counties.

The monster coastal storm that battered New Jersey with fierce winds and heavy downpours Sunday night into Monday morning isn’t finished yet. But it already has dumped as much as 4 inches of rain — a whole month’s worth — in some areas of the state.Preliminary reports from ...

The monster coastal storm that battered New Jersey with fierce winds and heavy downpours Sunday night into Monday morning isn’t finished yet. But it already has dumped as much as 4 inches of rain — a whole month’s worth — in some areas of the state.

Preliminary reports from the National Weather Service and the Rutgers NJ Weather Network show widespread areas of 2 to 3 inches of rain, with some places getting drenched with 4 to 5 inches.

All that water arrived just one week after another storm dropped 2 to 4 inches of rain across the region, along with a quick burst of snow in a few northern counties.

Here’s a look at rainfall totals reported as of late Monday morning from the latest storm. (Note: Some of these totals were updated Monday afternoon when new reports became available. Some towns are listed more than once, because the numbers came from different weather monitoring stations in the same town.)

Atlantic County

Bergen County

Burlington County

Camden County

Cape May County

Cumberland County

Essex County

Gloucester County

Hudson County

Hunterdon County

Mercer County

Middlesex County

Flooding in Donaldson Park in Highland Park, New Jersey as the Raritan River swells from today’s rainstorm. Nearing major flood stage. #NJwx @NWS_MountHolly @nynjpaweather pic.twitter.com/wwUnMQymJD

— Collin Gross (@CollinGrossWx) December 18, 2023

Monmouth County

Morris County

Ocean County

Passaic County

Salem County

Somerset County

Sussex County

Union County

Warren County

Current weather radar

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local weather news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Len Melisurgo may be reached at [email protected] or @LensReality on X.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

The Pequannock/Pompton Plains/Pompton name game

Columnist...

Columnist

The eternal question has come up again on the Internet: What’s the deal with Pequannock/Pompton Plains/Pompton?

Fasten your seatbelts, people. I am going to explain. By the way, I know I’ll get a lot of corrections and clarifications, so to expedite all that, if you were born in an even year, please email me on an even day, and if you were born in an odd year, well, I feel your pain. I was, too.

The names of where we lived were largely determined by the railroads, the U.S. Post Office, Western Union and also what was pretty much convenient.

Pequannock Township includes the localities that were determined by the Erie Railroad to be Pompton Plains and Pequannock. But when the railroads were built, Pequannock Township was more of an abstract concept that included most of northeast Morris County. Then all those little towns fought for and won their independence. Mostly, though, if was a state charter thing, but that’s another story.

But Pequannock, as we all know, is the Leni Lenape word meaning “cleared land, ready for cultivation.” Pompton was also derived from Leni Lenape, and meant the “place where they catch soft fish.” I suppose the Leni Lenape Area Chamber of Commerce back in the day attempted to highlight the best attributes of each area, but honestly, if you were an investor, you’d probably go with the “cleared land,” which is another way of saying “subdivision.” You could always have the soft fish delivered.

“Pompton” was the name of the area Riverdale now occupies. In fact, the train station was known as Pompton, and was only grudgingly changed to Pompton-Riverdale late in its life. North of that was Pompton Junction, where two railroads connected, offering important connections to the west.

But before any of these names were applied to towns, they were the names of rivers. The Wanaque, Ramapo and Pequannock rivers all met in the northeast corner of Pequannock Township to form the Pompton River.

Here’s where it gets tricky. Pompton Lake and the dam that forms it, traditionally known as Pompton Falls, are located on the Ramapo River. They could have called it “Mississippi Lake” for all it has to do with the river it’s named after.

After those three rivers form the Pompton River, it flows through Wayne Township to join the Passaic River. The headwaters of the Passaic River begin in what until a few years ago was Passaic Township. But very few people used that term, because the localities were known and Millington, Sterling and some others, to avoid confusion with the city of Passaic, in Passaic County, the good citizens renamed their town Long Hill Township.

And Wayne Township was more often known as Mountain View and Preakness. What was considered to be Wayne was the area on Ryerson Avenue, where the train station was named “Wayne.”

So, if you were on the train, you’d ride from Mountain View, Wayne, Pequannock, Pompton Plains, Pompton and Pompton Junction. Oh, and the station east of Pompton Junction on the other railroad was Pompton Lakes.

You have to wonder how many people got off the train at the wrong stop and just stayed there.

N.J. weather: Early snowfall totals across the state as storm lingers with ice threat

It’s not a blockbuster snowstorm by any measure, but the winter coastal storm that swept across our region Monday night is lingering into Tuesday afternoon, and it has given New...

It’s not a blockbuster snowstorm by any measure, but the winter coastal storm that swept across our region Monday night is lingering into Tuesday afternoon, and it has given New Jersey its first statewide accumulating snow since March 2022.

Preliminary reports from trained weather observers across the Garden State show at least a half-inch of snow on the ground in all 21 counties, with some areas getting 2 to 3 inches of snow by late Tuesday morning. Hundreds of schools announced closures and delayed openings.

The snow has changed to sleet and freezing rain or has turned to an icy mix in some areas of central and southern New Jersey, as well as parts of northern New Jersey, including Essex, Hudson and Union. More than a tenth of an inch of freezing rain was reported in Mount Holly in Burlington County and Trenton in Mercer County Tuesday afternoon, with exactly a tenth of an inch reported in Millville in Cumberland County.

Temperatures are cold enough to support some additional snow in the state’s far northern and northwestern regions through this afternoon, forecasters said.

Gov. Phil Murphy is urging drivers to be cautious on the roads, especially with the possibility of icing making surfaces slick. The “main concern,” he said, is freezing rain.

“I’d ask everybody to be really careful,” the Governor said during an unrelated event in South Amboy. “Please remain cautious heading into the evening.”

Latest snow totals in New Jersey

Here’s a look at snow totals reported by the National Weather Service and the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow Network, known as CoCoRaHS, as of late Tuesday morning. (Note: Some of the numbers below were updated Tuesday afternoon, Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, after new reports came in.)

Current weather radar

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local weather news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

NJ Advance Media staff writer Brent Johnson contributed to this report.

Len Melisurgo may be reached at [email protected] or on X at @LensReality.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Saving old-school sound: N.J.’s record shops preserve musical relics

New Jersey has a remarkable number of independent, idiosyncratic vinyl record stores all across the state. There should be a guided tour of all its vinyl record shops because they get right to the heart of our state’s charms, history, distinctive attitude and variety. The stores range from small, funky shops that feel like being inside someone’s mind, to spacious, upscale record havens. One thing they all share is owners who are passionate about music on vinyl.Yes, vinyl is back and better than ever. Vinyl sales have conti...

New Jersey has a remarkable number of independent, idiosyncratic vinyl record stores all across the state. There should be a guided tour of all its vinyl record shops because they get right to the heart of our state’s charms, history, distinctive attitude and variety. The stores range from small, funky shops that feel like being inside someone’s mind, to spacious, upscale record havens. One thing they all share is owners who are passionate about music on vinyl.

Yes, vinyl is back and better than ever. Vinyl sales have continued to rise, increasing a whopping 29.2% to $619.6 million in 2020, compared to $479.5 million in 2019. The rise in vinyl sales made up for the continued decline in CD sales, and artists are now recording on vinyl. (Country singer Kacey Musgraves is trending in the vinyl space.)

Stepping into New Jersey’s record stores is like stepping into history. Among the pleasures of vinyl records is their pleasing, reassuring size; the artwork on the cover that gives you a hint of what to expect inside, and — they have liner notes you can read. Then there is the ceremonial, tactile aspect of playing the record. You don’t just pop it in. You gently remove the record from its paper sleeve, carefully place it on the turntable and even more carefully touch the stylus (needle) to the album. Since you have earned it, you can sit back, listen to the album and let it wash over you. No skipping, sampling, no distractions: You are one with the music.

There’s also the quality of sound issue. Vinyl (analog) sound is considered “warmer” by some, and the fade out on analog is gentler to the psyche than the CD’s abrupt end. I remembered reading in the NY Times that Dusty Springfield singing “The Look of Love” on theCasino Royale” album was considered the ultimate in analog listening pleasure. Darren Revilla of Revilla Grooves and Gear in Milltown backed me up on that.

Here’s a sampling of just a few of our state’s independent record shops.

Elmwood Park’s Music Connection. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Music Connection in Elmwood Park is on a quiet side street off River Road. Once you step in, you are overwhelmed by the volume: a large room with racks and racks of records, a smaller CD section and some cassettes and assorted DVDs and 45s. You could easily spend half a day there.

Address: 12 Summit Ave., Elmwood Park, N.J. 07407

Music Merchants in Westwood. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Music Merchants in Westwood is lighter and brighter with a vast collection. Owner John Schlapak founded the store in 1979. With his distinctive, piquant take on things, he could be mistaken for a particularly sassy resident of Middle Earth. Besides all the goodies in his store, he’s fun to talk to.

Address: 157 Westwood Ave., Westwood, N.J. 07675

Revilla Grooves and Gear in Milltown. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Revilla Grooves and Gear in Milltown has a chill, Jedi vibe that attracts true sound believers. The displays are well-organized, and you can sample music on headphones at three listening stations with state-of-the-art equipment in front of the store. If you walk through the beaded curtain to the back, you’ll find a cozy room with a couch where you can test the first-rate sound systems that Revilla has on display in the next room. Owner Darren worked at the legendary Princeton Record Exchange before he opened his place. Whether you’re a true believer or a neophyte, Revilla is worth a trip.

Address: 126 North Main St., Milltown, N.J. 08850

Scotti’s Record Shop in Summit. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Gary Scotti of Scotti’s Record Shop in Summit knows his stuff. Scotti’s, founded in 1956 by his father, is a bright and welcoming 2,000-square-foot store that sells vinyl, CDs, cassettes (they’re making a comeback) T-shirts, mugs and stereo equipment. Everything is thoughtfully categorized: rock, hip-hop, jazz, classical and movie soundtracks. What does Gary listen to? A mix of the classic rock and new artists, like Jason Isbell and the Black Pumas. He does a big business in Christmas records, too. Like most record dealers, he buys used vinyl, and he explained the concept of matrix numbers — the alphanumeric code stamped in the run-out groove area at the end of a record. It can tell a dealer if a record is an original pressing or a reissue, which affects its value.

Address: 351 Springfield Ave., Summit, N.J. 07901

In Station 1, a record from the 1977 film ‘Eraserhead’ can be found, which is packed with a haunting soundtrack. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Station 1 Books Vinyl and Vintage Shop is a handsome store inside the old Pompton Lakes train station. Owner Daniel Salsberg was an online book dealer when he bought the place four years ago. Now, records, mostly vinyl, make up 85% of sales. Music manager Joe Smith said the biggest vinyl sales are in classic rock, punk or metal and jazz of the Miles Davis, John Coltrane variety. I asked him what the most treasured of vinyl records were: 13th Floor Elevators (one of the first psychedelic rock bands from the ‘60s) and early Zombies. Station 1 also sells turntables, DVDs, VHS and an intriguing assortment of books you won’t find at Barnes & Noble.

Address: 1 Station Plaza, Pompton Lakes, N.J. 07442

New Brunswick’s Spina Records. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

Rutgers alumnus, Andrew Spina, opened New Brunswick’s Spina Records in 2014 inside a cozy basement shop, then moved to 118 Easton Ave. in 2017. A record collector since he was kid, he saw the rising interest in vinyl and got on board. The Hub City, with its lively music scene, is the home of several influential bands, like Screaming Females (he went to school with lead singer Marissa Paternoster) and Cook Thugless. A former musician himself, Andrew connected the dots between record lovers and coffee and has a partnership with Hidden Grounds Coffee. The espresso bar, at 4C Easton Ave., is just minutes from Spina’s and has hundreds of his handpicked vinyl records to browse while you sip.

Address: 118 Easton Ave., New Brunswick, N.J. 08901

Jack’s Music Shoppe in Red Bank. Photo courtesy of Jack’s Music Shoppe

From the street, Jack’s Music Shoppe in Red Bank looks like a beautiful, Parisian bookstore, circa 1920. Inside, it’s just as beautiful: a spacious, 6,000 square feet filled with the best vinyl (and CDs and cassettes) in every genre. These are smart music people (manager Tim Cronin was a sound man for bands). Its selection is vast, beautifully laid out and well-organized. And there are musical instruments to sample and buy in a room off the first floor.

Address: 30 Broad St., Red Bank, N.J. 07701

The Record Collector in Bordentown. Photo courtesy of The Record Collector

The Record Collector in idyllic Bordentown was voted the “No. 1 favorite independent record store in the tristate area” by Details magazine. It’s a good-looking store in the heart of town. Like all the best stores, it offers an immense selection of new, used, rare and collectible music in all formats, and management has been doing it for over 40 years. At last count, the store held over 1 million LPs, 45s, and CDs. And, like most shops, they also buy and trade almost anything that spins on a turntable or CD player.

Address: 358 Farnsworth Ave., Bordentown, N.J. 08505

Music Country in Cliffside Park. Photo by Manuel Igrejas

While researching this story, I came across Music Country in Cliffside Park, and I just had to check them out. It opened in 1934 as Taliaferro Radio and Electric and sold radios, record players and records. Daughter Joan started working there when she was 10 years old and eventually took over the business. It was renamed Music Country in the 1980s. Joan runs Music Country with her husband, Jim Demarest, a musician who once played back up for Sammy Davis Jr. It’s a small space tucked into a busy block, and when I walked in, Jim was picking on a guitar. Though cramped, Music Country is well-organized and jam-packed with music treasures. The walls are lined with classic album covers such as that of Keely Smith, Bobby Darin and Sinatra that make the place seem like a museum of music history. Jim was an informed and charming guide.

Address: 728 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, N.J. 07010

No “New Jersey Iconic Record Shop Tour” (let’s make it a thing) would be complete without a visit to these enduring pioneers of the record business. But you don’t have to sign up for the whole tour. You can jump in your car and, just a few miles from wherever you live in New Jersey, there’s vinyl magic waiting for you.

Manuel Igrejas has worked in the theater as a playwright and a publicist on and off-Broadway. He was the publicist for Blue Man Group for 15 years, and his other clients included Richard Foreman, John Leguizamo, Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding, STREB, Julie Harris and Peak Performances.

This article originally appeared in the Winter 2021 issue of Jersey’s Best. Subscribe here for in-depth access to everything that makes the Garden State great.

Sign up for our Newsletter

Delivered to your inbox every other week on Thursdays, Jersey’s Best is pleased to offer a FREE subscription to Garden Statement, highlighting the most popular Jersey’s Best content.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.