Big Honors, Small Crafts & Sweet February Fun

Hey there, Monmouth County! 👋
We’re kicking off the month with local hospitals in the national spotlight, sweet Valentine crafts to make with the grandkids, jazzy winter festivals, masquerade mysteries, and a dreamy Cape May getaway perfect for a midwinter recharge. Bundle up, scroll down, and get your calendar ready — this week’s Monmouth Senior Scoop is stacked!

🎨 Calling All Artists: Apply now for Thompson Park’s Creative Arts Festival
🌌 In the Parks: Stargazing, seal talks & 1890s game nights
📚 Beyond the Books: Mahjongg, tax help, book sales & ballroom dancing
🎭 Out & About: Jazz, doo-wop, murder mysteries & sweet strolls
🏨 Wanderlust Weekly: Winter escape to Cape May — no sunscreen needed
🚢 Cruise News: NYC to Montreal aboard a leaf-peeping dream
🍫 Tasty Treats: Valentine fondue, pink velvet cakes & more local flavor
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Grandkid Corner: Candy Heart Bark = easy, adorable, snackable
🎂 Birthday Cheers: Local shoutouts & celeb candles
🏥 One Last Thing: Monmouth hospitals rank among America’s best

Up first…

Got old tires hanging around the backyard or garage? Monmouth County’s got your back. From Feb. 1 through March 31, residents can schedule a free tire pick-up as part of the county’s mosquito control program.

Turns out, tires are mosquito paradise—just one rain-filled tire can breed 10,000 mosquitoes! 😱 Help keep your yard bite-free and your neighbors itch-free by calling 732-542-3630 to arrange a pick-up. You’ll need to provide your name, address, how many tires you have (limit: 10 car tires, no rims), and where they’re located on your property.

Commissioners Thomas Arnone and Susan Kiley say this effort is part of a larger health initiative to cut down on mosquito-borne illness before summer hits. The program pairs with larval habitat inspections, eco-friendly treatments, disease surveillance, and good old-fashioned public awareness.

🧼 Toss those tires, take a breath, and let the county do the dirty work.

📲 More at visitmonmouth.com or follow @MonmouthGovNJ on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Got a talent for painting, pottery, jewelry, or anything artsy? The Monmouth County Park System wants YOU for its annual Creative Arts Festival at Thompson Park in Lincroft!

🖼️ This juried art show and sale is open to artists and fine crafters of all mediums. If selected, you'll receive a 10'x10' booth (indoor or outdoor) to showcase and sell your original work on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. alongside live music, food vendors, and creative activities.

🎟️ How to apply:

Whether you're a seasoned exhibitor or a first-time crafter, this is a fantastic chance to show off your creativity in a beautiful park setting. Questions? Call 732-842-4000, ext. 3343.

Snuggle up in your coziest coat and step out for some fresh air fun — Monmouth County Park System is keeping February cool in the best way:

✨ Under the Winter Stars
Saturday, Feb. 7 · 7:30–8:30 p.m. · Dorbrook Rec Area, Colts Neck
It’s constellation time! Grab a flashlight, a camp chair, and a buddy for this after-dark stargazing session. You’ll scout out key night sky sights with a guide — just hope for clear skies! FREE.

🐟 Nature Talk: Seals of Monmouth County
Sunday, Feb. 8 · 12–1 p.m. · Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth
Yep, seals. Real ones. Learn which adorable flippered friends hang out at the Shore in winter and why. No binoculars required. FREE.

🎲 Parlor Games for Wintry Weather
Sunday, Feb. 8 · 12–2:30 p.m. · Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Think 1890s-style game night—Halma, Basilinda, Checkers and Reversi. Cozy up indoors and learn what rainy-day fun looked like back in the day. FREE.

🥾 Wondrous Winter Walk
Wednesday, Feb. 11 · 10–11:30 a.m. · Manasquan Reservoir, Howell
A little crisp air and quiet trails go a long way. Follow a Park Naturalist through winter woods, boots on and breath visible. Expect tree roots, inclines, and plenty of peace. FREE.

👉 Full details at MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000.

This week, Monmouth County libraries are serving up way more than just good reads — from Mahjongg to music history, ballroom to bridge, there's a seat for you!

🀄 Game Day in Holmdel
Every Thursday · 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Bring your game face (and maybe a lucky charm?) for Mahjongg or Bridge at the Holmdel Branch. It’s casual, first-come, first-seated — and yes, they’ve got five full tables thanks to the Friends of the Library. No registration needed, just shuffle in.

🧾 Tax Time, the AARP Way
Multiple branches, multiple days
Get those 1040s in order! AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide volunteers are offering free prep help all over Monmouth County — Marlboro, Hazlet, Wall, Eastern Branch, you name it. Appointments preferred, walk-ins limited. Click here to book or check your local branch for availability.

🕺 Let’s Dance (Even if You Have Two Left Feet)
Feb. 5 · 12–1:30 p.m. · Manalapan HQ
Ballroom, bachata, and cha-cha with the Social Dance Club — no partner required, and all skill levels welcome. Just bring your sense of rhythm (or a willingness to laugh trying).

🏛️ Frank Lloyd Wright’s Greatest Hits
Feb. 5 · 6:30–8 p.m. · Atlantic Highlands
Architect Joseph Sacco breaks down Wright’s most iconic designs in this fascinating talk for architecture buffs and HGTV dreamers alike.

📚 Howell Book Sale
Feb. 6 · All day
New books added daily, most for just a quarter. Honestly, you can’t afford not to go.

🎻 Colonial Dance Party
Feb. 7 · 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. · Manalapan HQ
Learn reels and cotillions with live music and a legit Colonial Dance Master. Yes, costumes welcome.

🎺 Celebrate America! Concert
Feb. 8 · 2–4 p.m. · Manalapan HQ
The Colts Neck Community Band is packing over 60 musicians into one high-energy, patriotic performance. First come, first seated — arrive early!

🧘 Qigong & Tai Chi in West Long Branch
Feb. 9 · 10–11 a.m.
Stretch, breathe, flow — and find your balance with this gentle wellness class. Registration required.

🎨 Craft Your Own Valentines
Feb. 11 · 6:30–7:30 p.m. · Hazlet
Love’s in the air, and on the table! Join Theresa Lau for guided Valentine-making magic (materials included). Waitlist only!

📻 Waves! The History of Radio & Music Tech
Feb. 10 · 6:30–7:30 p.m. · Manalapan HQ
From Walkmans to wartime spy gear, the Museum of Interesting Things brings a touch-and-play history lesson like no other. Prepare to be wowed.

🌸 Evening Gardens & Hummingbirds
Feb. 11 · 1:30–2:30 p.m. · Eastern Branch
Master Gardener Ann Sherwood shows you how to turn your yard into a twilight oasis. Fireflies not included. Register here

🧶 Yarn Works Drop-In
Feb. 11 · 1–3 p.m. · Allentown
No patterns, no pressure — just good company, cozy projects, and a room full of yarn lovers.

🕹️ And yes… Bridge is still having a moment!
Find weekly sessions at Manalapan, West Long Branch, and more — but get there early. Tables fill up fast!
👉 For full library details and event links, head to MonmouthCountyLib.org.

February’s rolling in with a full schedule of shows, strolls, pop-ups, and sweet surprises. Here’s what happening this week.

🎩 The Good Thief – Two River Theater, Red Bank
Now through Feb. 7
Irish gangster. One “simple job.” Total chaos. Catch this gripping, darkly funny solo play starring Broadway fave Christopher Fitzgerald in a limited run at Two River. It’s moody, mesmerizing, and totally bingeable — live theater style. 🎟 Info & Tickets »

🎤 David Foster & Katharine McPhee – Count Basie Center
Feb. 5 · 7:30 PM · Red Bank
A power couple performance! This Grammy-winning composer and the American Idol alum hit the stage for an unforgettable night of love songs and show tunes. 🎟 Info & Tickets »

🏀 NJ Sports Card Convention – iPlay America, Freehold
Feb. 6–7
Calling all collectors! Browse, trade, and geek out with dealers and fellow fans at this massive two-day card show. Bonus: iPlay’s got food and games if your grandkid tags along. 🎟 Info »

🖼️ First Fridays: Arts & Sound at the Station – Asbury Park
Feb. 6 · 5–8 PM
Monthly pop-up alert! Art, music, vendors, and serious community vibes — all packed into one energetic evening downtown. 🎨 Details »

🎭 Midnight at the Masquerade – Brookdale PAC, Lincroft
Feb. 6 · 7 PM
Masked mystery and a murder to solve — you're not just watching this show, you're in it. Grab your fancy mask and best sleuthing skills for this interactive night out. 🎟 Tickets »

🎷 Bradley Beach Winter Jazz Festival
Feb. 6–7
Two nights, one jazzy lineup: legends like Jerry Weldon, Winard Harper, and Roberta Gambarini take the stage in this intimate winter celebration. 🎶 Info »

🍫 Red Bank Valentine's Sweet Stroll
Feb. 7 · 11 AM–2 PM
Downtown Red Bank turns sugary sweet with samples, shopping, and stroll-worthy charm. Bring a sweet tooth — and maybe someone sweet, too. 💘 Event Info »

🛍️ Be Mine Bazaar – Town & Country Inn, Keyport
Feb. 7 · 11 AM–3 PM
Local artisans, Valentine’s gifts, and zero pressure. A perfect stop for treats, treasures, and Galentine’s vibes. 💝 Details »

🎂 Love at First Bite – Jersey Shore Arts Center, Ocean Grove
Feb. 7 · 12–4 PM
It’s speed dating... for cake. Taste your way through local bakers and find your dessert soulmate. Gluten-free sweethearts welcome. 🍰 Event Info »

🎶 The Doo Wop Project – Monmouth University, West Long Branch
Feb. 7 · 8 PM
Doo Wop meets Taylor Swift? Yes, please. This Broadway-powered harmony group revives the classics and reimagines today’s hits, one street-corner croon at a time. 🎤 Tickets »

🍺 Tall Oaks Pop-Up Market – Farmingdale
Feb. 8 · 12–4 PM
Sunday = sips and shopping. This brewery-hosted market has all the cozy, craft beer energy you need — plus local makers, good food, and great vibes. 🛒 Market Info »

👉 Bookmark your favorites and go make a few memories — February’s calling.

Links to the latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

Patients Can't Keep Up with At-Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Even with a ton of assistance — free automated devices, education, personalized support — nearly two-thirds of people participating in an at-home blood pressure management program failed to take once-a-week readings requested by their doctor, researchers found. HealthDay News, Jan. 26.

Today's Senior Living Communities Are Not Your Grandma's 'Old Folks' Home': Senior living facilities have improved over the years and are as diverse as the people who inhabit them. Now, they're more than just a place to go — they're a place to grow. Kiplinger, Jan. 28.

What to Do if AI Denies Your Medicare Claim or Prior Authorization: Facing a Medicare denial? AI may be involved, but you still have the power to appeal and get the care you need. U.S. News & World Report, Jan. 29.

9 Tour Companies That Make Travel Easier (and better) After 50: While it’s true that many tour companies capably serve travelers in their 50s through their 90s, some take it to another level. USA Today, Jan. 27.

Skip the crowds, score the views, and fall in love with this seaside stunner all over again—because Cape May in winter is pure magic (and bonus: parking is free!).

🏨 Where to Stay
Want to feel like you’re in your own little snow globe by the sea? Congress Hall has all the charm. Dubbed America’s First Seaside Resort, it offers sweeping Atlantic views and an elegant, historic vibe.

For something more intimate, try Rhythm of the Sea, Cape May’s only oceanfront B&B. Housed in a romantic 1912 Craftsman-style home, it's perfect for honeymoons or low-key Valentine’s escapes. Don’t miss their special Valentine’s Weekend Package.

More cozy options? The Mainstay Inn offers regally decorated rooms and a beachside suite with a fireplace. Or curl up with a good book at The Mason Cottage, a charming downtown inn blending 1871 Victorian elegance with modern comfort. Pro tip: the parlor fireplace is the ultimate reading nook.

🍳 Where to Eat
Start your day at The Mad Batter, the granddaddy of Cape May dining, located on historic Jackson Street. Whether you're team chorizo and eggs or Mad Batter Benedict, it’s the kind of spot you'll want to hit for every meal (they do lunch and dinner too—plus live music!).

Next, warm up by the fire at The Blue Pig Tavern, tucked into the corner of Congress Hall. Their cozy ambiance and farm-to-table dishes—featuring produce and eggs from their own farm—make it a can’t-miss. Award-winning and always welcoming.

Seafood lovers, say hello to The Lobster House with five harbor-view dining rooms and a top-tier menu. Looking for something totally different? Pull into Exit Zero Filling Station, a quirky, converted gas station serving up global flavors (Indian, Thai, burgers galore!) and plenty of photo-worthy fun. Yes, you can eat in a restored Chevy truck.

🛍️ What to Do
Cape May = shopping heaven, even in winter! Don’t miss the award-winning West End Garage, filled with fashion finds, vintage gems, local art, and home decor. Over at Washington Street Mall, you’ve got three blocks of boutiques, cafes, fine dining, and more.

🍷 Sip & Stroll
Raise a glass at Cape May Brewing Co., home to one of the state’s largest tasting rooms. Take a self-guided tour and stock up on beer-to-go at the Brewtique. Or unwind at Cape May Winery & Vineyard, where daily tapas and educational wine tastings pair perfectly with coastal views.

🕯️ Explore the History
Two must-visits: the 18-room Emlen Physick Estate, a perfectly preserved Victorian mansion, and the Harriet Tubman Museum, which honors Tubman’s life and legacy—especially her time in Cape May aiding the Underground Railroad. Be sure to book ahead.

🦆 Relax & Reconnect
Make time for a spa afternoon at Cape May Day Spa, or bundle up for some peaceful winter birdwatching at South Cape May Meadows. Keep an eye out for northern pintails, teal, shovelers, and majestic harriers soaring the marshes.

❄️ Whether you're rekindling romance, toasting with friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy weekend escape, Cape May in winter still brings the charm—no beach umbrellas required.

Looking for a sophisticated way to celebrate America’s 250th? Oceania Cruises has you covered with an elegant series of 2026 sailings — and the one we’re eyeing departs right from New York City.

✨ Autumnal Allure — 11 Days from NYC to Montreal
Departing October 6, 2026 aboard the Oceania Vista, this fall sailing is pure heritage-meets-harbor magic. You'll explore:
📍 Newport, RI – Gilded Age grandeur
📍 Boston, MA – Revolutionary roots
📍 Bay of Fundy & Halifax, Canada – Epic tides and coastal charm
📍 Quebec City & Montreal – Cobblestone cool and European flair

🍁 Bonus: This is peak leaf-peeping season, and every port offers crisp air, rich history, and the kind of food that pairs well with a chunky sweater.

Onboard, expect all the luxuries Oceania is known for — designer-inspired suites, small-group shore excursions, and The Finest Cuisine at Sea® (don’t skip Jacques or the Polo Grill).

🇺🇸 Celebrate the nation’s past while sailing into something unforgettable. Visit oceaniacruises.com or call your travel advisor to book.

Feeling couch-bound? We've got your weekly binge guide!

🎢 “Splitsville” (Hulu, Thurs)
Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona headline this screwball-ish comedy from the creators of The Climb. It’s divorce, open relationships, and emotional chaos—with elaborately choreographed roller coaster scenes and a throwback flair. Critics loved it. You might too.

🏛️ “Ella McCay” (Hulu, Thurs)
Emma Mackey (Sex Education) plays a rising political star who unexpectedly takes the reins from her boss. Reviews were...not kind (“disjointed” was the word), but Mackey’s performance may save the day.

♟️ “Queen of Chess” (Netflix, Thurs)
Fresh from Sundance, this new doc from Rory Kennedy tells the real-life story of Judit Polgár—the Hungarian chess prodigy who dared to challenge Garry Kasparov. Smart, fierce, inspiring.

⚖️ “The Lincoln Lawyer” Season 4 (Netflix, Thurs)
Defense attorney Mickey Haller is used to defending others—until he’s the one on trial. This season promises even more legal drama, slick L.A. style, and moral gray areas.

🐶 “Puppy Bowl XXII” + “Great American Rescue Bowl” (Sun, Feb. 8)
Clear the schedule: it's fluffball football time. Puppy Bowl airs everywhere (Animal Planet, HBO Max, etc.). Want more tail-wagging goodness? Tune into Great American Rescue Bowl for a dog and cat adoption fest.

🏡 “The ’Burbs” (2026 reboot) (Peacock, Sun)
Keke Palmer reimagines the 1989 Tom Hanks dark comedy with an eight-episode binge-drop. Moving to suburbia should’ve been peaceful... until one neighbor starts acting way too suspicious.

Looking for a Valentine’s dinner with a twist? Melting Pot is bringing back its interactive four-course fondue experience — perfect for date night, Galentine’s, anniversaries, or just a cozy winter splurge.

Dip into artisan cheese fondue, fresh salads, premium entrées, and wrap it up with their signature chocolate fondue (think: brownie bites, cheesecake, and seasonal fruit 😍).

Valentine’s specials vary by location, (there’s one in Red Bank) so check your local Melting Pot for details and reservations: meltingpot.com.

Paris Baguette is making hearts (and taste buds) flutter with its limited-time Pink Velvet lineup — available now through Feb. 15. From romantic cakes to heart-shaped macarons and ruby chocolate–dipped croissants, it’s love at first bite.

🌸 Highlights include:

Find your nearest café or drool over the full menu at parisbaguette.com.

Welcome the Year of the Horse in delicious style! Now through Feb. 24, P.F. Chang’s is serving up a limited-time Lunar New Year menu packed with symbolic dishes and festive cocktails to honor the holiday.

🥢 Highlights include:

🎁 Every guest also receives a Red Envelope during the celebration — with surprise offers like free apps, desserts, sushi rolls, or BOGO entrées for a future visit.

🧧 Reserve your table (there’s one in Freehold) and join in the flavor-packed festivities at pfchangs.com.

A no-bake Valentine’s Day treat to make with the grandkids that’s as easy as it is adorable.

You’ll need:

Directions:

💌 Wrap it in little bags with a ribbon for the grandkids to give to teachers, neighbors, or save for snack time.

Let’s kick things off with a hometown shoutout to Gary Lubin of Keyport, celebrating a fantastic 81st birthday this week! Wishing you a year full of good health, great memories, and plenty of reasons to smile. 🥳

Now let’s light the celebrity candles…

🎸 Feb. 3: Guitar legend Dave Davies of The Kinks turns 79, and Morgan Fairchild, queen of glam and drama, celebrates 76 in style.

📺 Feb. 5: David Selby (Dark Shadows, Falcon Crest) turns 85, and multitalented funnyman Christopher Guest joins Barbara Hershey at 78. Also, actors Jennifer Jason Leigh turns 64, and the always-brilliant Laura Linney is 62.

🎤 Feb. 6: Hollywood bombshell Mamie Van Doren is 95 while news icon Tom Brokaw turns 86 — that’s a lot of headlines. Also blowing out candles: teen idol Fabian, now 83 and forever cool.

🤠 Feb. 7: Actor James Spader hits 66, country superstar Garth Brooks celebrates 64, and Bon Jovi’s own David Bryan is also 64.

🎂 Got a local birthday worth cheering? Send it our way — we love spotlighting hometown stars!

Big kudos to several of our local hospitals — they’ve just made the prestigious Healthgrades 2026 America’s Best Hospitals list, placing them among the top-performing medical centers in the nation for overall clinical excellence.

🌟 Ocean University Medical Center (Brick)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025)
Also recognized for excellence in gastrointestinal care and more.

🌟 Jersey Shore University Medical Center (Neptune)
🏅 America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025)
Plus accolades for cardiac surgery and a range of specialties.

🌟 Riverview Medical Center (Red Bank)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025, 2024)
Honored for critical care and additional high-performing departments.

🌟 Bayshore Medical Center (Holmdel)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026)

👏 Congrats to the dedicated teams behind these honors — and a heartfelt thanks for keeping our community in such capable hands. Curious about the full rankings or want to check out more award winners? Visit healthgrades.com.

Whether you’re crafting valentines, planning a cruise, or just heading to the library for Qigong and cotillions, we hope your week is full of heart.

See you next week,
💌 The Monmouth Senior Scoop Team

⁉️Questions, comments or news to share? We’d love to hear from you! Just hit reply to this email!

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📝 Newsletter Disclaimer:
We’re here to inform, inspire, and sprinkle a little fun into your day — but nothing in this newsletter should be mistaken for medical, legal, or financial advice (even if it sounds smart!). Always check event details before heading out, and consult the pros when it comes to your health, taxes, or anything that might land you in hot water. 😉