🍦Monmouth Senior Scoop: Custard, Vintage Treasures & Cozy Week Plans

❄️Hope everyone made it through the Blizzard of 2026 in one piece—and let’s be crystal clear: do not even think about picking up a shovel. Seriously. Heart attacks spike after big storms, and no driveway is worth it. Call a neighbor, bribe a grandkid or hire someone, and supervise from the window with a hot drink in hand.

And until it’s actually safe to venture out, this week’s agenda is simple: blanket, beverage, and binge—and if you’re feeling extra ambitious, take on that junk drawer of doom.

👀What’s on tap this week:

🍦 Tasty Treats: Freddy’s coming to Freehold
🛍️ ReFresh Vintage Market at Bell Works
🌿 NJ Home & Garden Show (Edison)
🍁 Take the Grandkids: Maple Syrup Days (Manalapan)
📍 Around Town: music, sweets, history, shows, parade + DIY gin
🗞️ Prime Time News (aging, money, tech, health)
🧾 Free Tax Help (AARP Tax-Aide)
🍝 In the Kitchen: Beef Tagliata + quick ragu
📚 Beyond the Books: library events galore
🃏 Game On: bridge & mahjongg meetups
📺 TV Time: what to watch
🎂 Celebrity Birthdays
🎸 One Last Thing: Springsteen hits the road

Up first…

Clear a little closet space… you might be bringing something home. ReFresh Vintage Market pops up at Bell Works in Holmdel on Sunday, March 1 (11 AM–4 PM), turning the place into a full-on vintage treasure zone. Bonus: it’s free, family-friendly, and dog-friendly.

Inside, you’ll find racks of vintage clothing from every era, antique and retro jewelry, broken-in leather jackets, rock tees, and even mid-century finds. Collectors can dig through vinyl, old-school toys, VHS tapes, glassware, and other nostalgic gems. There’s also plenty of creativity in the mix—upcycled books, handmade journals, reclaimed art, wood-burned pieces, and pop culture goodies.

Feeling adventurous? Grab a mystery package sold by weight—no one knows what’s inside until you open it.

And when you need a break from the hunt, sweet treats like ice cream, pretzels, and puddings are on standby.

📍 Bell Works, Holmdel
📅 Sunday, March 1 | 11 AM to 4 PM

Go for the nostalgia… stay for the “I can’t believe I found this” moment.

Got a list of “we should really fix that” projects? The New Jersey Home & Garden Show is back at the NJ Convention Center in Edison, Feb. 27–March 1—and it’s basically three days of inspiration, ideas, and “okay, let’s finally do this.”

You’ll find 100+ local pros (contractors, designers, landscapers, kitchen & bath experts) ready to help you upgrade everything from your floors to your backyard. There are also five fully designed show gardens to stroll through—perfect for stealing a few ideas for spring.

Two big highlights:
• A healthy home expert breaking down hidden toxins and air quality tips
• The “Renegade Gardener” offering live advice—bring photos of your yard and get real feedback

There’s also a marketplace with handmade goods, plus a fun “plant-your-own herb” station for kids (grandkid outing, anyone?).

📍 NJ Convention Center, Edison
📅 Feb. 27–March 1
🎟️ $10 online | $12 at the door | Kids 15 & under free

Want a winter outing that’s equal parts fun and hands-on? Head to Happy Day Farm in Manalapan for Maple Syrup Days—where kids can see (and help with!) the magic of turning sap into syrup.

Hop on a tractor ride across the 130-acre farm, visit the “Sugar Bush,” and learn how trees are tapped (yes, they can lend Farmer Tim a hand). Then it’s off to the Sugar Shack to watch sap boil into real maple syrup—about 80 gallons of sap for ONE gallon of syrup.

There are also goats and chickens to feed, plus pancakes and syrup available for purchase.

📍 Happy Day Farm, Manalapan
📅 Feb. 28 & March 1, 14, 15, 21, 22
⏰ Tours: 10 AM, 11:15 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:45 PM
🎟️ $18 (ages 2+) | Tickets sold at the door

Bundle up—it’s outdoors, a little muddy, and totally worth it.

Freehold, this one’s for the grown-ups (with a sweet tooth).

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is planning a new location in Freehold near W. Main Street in front of Walmart, with hopes to open by summer. (There’s one already operating in Holmdel). And here’s the part seniors will appreciate: They offer senior-friendly meal options — smaller portions, classic comfort food, and combo pricing that doesn’t require a second mortgage. Think steakburgers, fries, and a drink — just right-sized.

But let’s be honest.
You’re really going for the custard.

Freddy’s frozen custard is richer and creamier than regular ice cream, churned fresh throughout the day. We’re talking:

🍨 Classic sundaes
🥄 Thick “concretes” blended with candy or fruit
🍦 Old-school cones
🍫 Turtle sundaes dripping in caramel and hot fudge

It’s the kind of dessert that brings back boardwalk memories — without the beach traffic.

Freddy’s was founded in 2002 and named after Freddy Simon, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient whose hospitality roots inspired the brand’s old-fashioned diner feel.

So yes — you can grab a sensible senior combo. But you’re leaving with custard. We both know it.😉

🎸 George Harrison Tribute at Bell Works
A little Beatles, a little Traveling Wilburys, a whole lot of nostalgia. Marc Ribler & Friends celebrate George Harrison’s musical legacy with a live show that hits all the eras.
📍 Bell Theater, Holmdel
📅 Fri, Feb. 27 (7:30–9:30 PM) & Sat, Feb. 28 (8–10 PM)

🍦 Free Ice Cream Alert (Yes, Free!)
The Baked Bear is saying thank you the best way possible—free scoops all afternoon. Build your dream ice cream sandwich or keep it classic.
📍 The Baked Bear, Pier Village, Long Branch
📅 Sat, Feb. 28 | 12–6 PM

📜 Local History with Heart (Black History Month)
Step back into Revolutionary-era Monmouth County with a fascinating talk on abolitionist Richard Waln and the lives he touched.
📍 Historic Walnford, Allentown
📅 Sat, Feb. 28 | 1–3 PM

🎭 Spelling Bee… But Make It Hilarious
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee brings laughs, heart, and a little friendly competition to the stage (yes, there’s a “ding” bell involved).
📍 Middletown Arts Center
📅 Feb. 27–28 & March 1, 6–8 (showtimes vary)

🍸 Make Your Own Gin (Cheers to That)
Ever wanted to create your own signature gin? Now’s your chance—blend botanicals, design a label, and take home your custom bottle.
📍 3BR Distillery, Keyport
📅 Sun, March 1 (plus April 5 & May 10) | 3–5 PM

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

Want to Age Well at Home? Take Our Room-by-Room Tour: Aging in place — growing old in your own home rather than a nursing home — offers a lot of benefits. But it also involves risks. The New York Times Wirecutter, Feb. 20.

Should Drug Companies Be Advertising to Consumers? Aging means “becoming a target” of the industry, one expert said. After decades of debate, politicians of all stripes are proposing bans. KFF Health News

16 Retirement Mistakes You Will Regret Forever: From saving too little to taking early withdrawals from your retirement account, there are plenty of ways that current and future retirees can sabotage their golden years. Kiplinger, Feb. 19.

How to Monitor Mom and Dad Without Becoming Big Brother: In-home sensors and location trackers can help families keep tabs on aging loved ones while respecting their privacy. Wall Street Journal, Feb. 21.

Blood Test Estimates When Alzheimer’s Symptoms Will Start: Imagine knowing exactly when your brain might start to fail. It sounds like a plot from a futuristic movie, but a new "biological clock" developed by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine may make it a reality. HealthDay News, Feb. 20.

Why Adults Pursuing Career Growth or Personal Interests Are The ‘New Majority’ Student: Interested in starting a business, learning about artificial intelligence or exploring a new hobby? There’s a class for that. Associated Press, Feb. 22.

Tax season… but make it easier. The AARP Tax-Aide Program is back across Monmouth County libraries, offering FREE help with most federal and NJ tax returns—courtesy of trained volunteers who actually know what they’re doing.

📍 Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
🗓️ Feb. 7 – April 11
⏰ Tues & Thurs: 9 AM–5 PM | Sat: 9 AM–1 PM
👉 Appointment preferred
📞 888-227-7669 (AARP Foundation)
Some walk-ins may be available

📍 Marlboro Library
🗓️ Ongoing through tax season
⏰ Feb. 26 (10 AM–2:30 PM) | Feb. 28 (10 AM–12:30 PM)
👉 Appointment preferred
Limited walk-ins before noon

📍 Hazlet Library
🗓️ Feb. 27 (1–4 PM), March 2 (1–5 PM) + more dates
👉 Walk-ins only (first come, first served)

📍 Wall Library
🗓️ Feb. 27 (1–4 PM), March 2–3 (1–4 PM) + more dates
👉 Walk-ins only (first come, first served)

💡 Good to know:
• Bring all your documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.)
• If filing jointly, both people must be there
• More complex returns may not qualify

Translation: free help, less stress, and no guessing if you did it right.

Hosting a party? Or just want Tuesday to taste like Tuscany?

The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand is spotlighting Italian-inspired recipes that are big on flavor but easy on effort.

🥩 Beef Tagliata — seared strip steak or rib-eye sliced over arugula, finished with balsamic and shaved Parmesan. Fast, fresh, restaurant-style at home.

🍅 Quick Beef Ragu — ground beef simmered in classic red sauce flavors in just 30 minutes. Perfect over pasta or polenta.

Both are protein-packed, simple to share, and weeknight-friendly.

Italy called. Dinner’s ready. 🇮🇹

From crafts to concerts to life skills—your library card is working overtime this week. Find event more events at Monmouth County Libraries.

🇺🇸 George Washington… Live (Sort Of!)
A living historian brings George Washington to life—stories, Q&A, and all the Revolutionary vibes.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Thurs, Feb. 26 | 2–5 PM

🧶 Knit Wits Craft Night
Bring your knitting, crochet, or any craft and settle in with a creative crowd.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Thurs, Feb. 26 | 6:30–8:30 PM

📄 Origami Club (For the Pros!)
Already into paper folding? Swap tips and create with fellow origami fans.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Sat, Feb. 28 | 1–4:30 PM

🎻 Free String Quartet Concert
A relaxing afternoon of classical favorites—no ticket needed, just show up early.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Sun, March 1 | 2–3 PM

🧘 Chair Yoga = Stretch Without the Floor
Gentle, feel-good movement with breathwork and relaxation—perfect for all levels.
📍 Holmdel Library
📅 Mon, March 2 | 9:30–10:30 AM (ongoing series)

💙 Healthy Aging Series (60+)
Six-week program covering everything from aging changes to staying well.
📍 West Long Branch Library
📅 Starts Mon, March 2 | 10:30 AM–12:30 PM (registration required)

💬 Medicare Help (Free & One-on-One)
Confused about Medicare? Sit down with a certified SHIP counselor for unbiased guidance.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Mon, March 2 | 2:30–4 PM (walk-ins welcome)

🧘 Another Chair Yoga Option
Same benefits—flexibility, balance, and stress relief—with options to sit or stand.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Tues, March 3 | 10–10:45 AM

🧾 Need Help with Benefits?
Get assistance with SNAP, Medicaid, NJ Family Care, and more.
📍 Allentown Library
📅 Tues, March 3 | 10 AM–1 PM

🎨 Watercolor Mandalas (Very Relaxing, Very Pretty)
Create colorful mandala art with guided instruction—materials included.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Tues, March 3 | 11 AM–1 PM or 6:30–8:30 PM (registration required)

🧩 Puzzle Night (Drop-In, No Pressure)
Stop by, grab a seat, and help solve the latest community puzzle.
📍 Allentown Library
📅 Tues, March 3 | 6–8:45 PM

🖼️ Founding Fathers, But Make It Art
A fascinating look at Gilbert Stuart—the artist behind those iconic portraits (yes, the $1 bill).
📍 Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
📅 Wed, March 4 | 1:30–3 PM (register to save a seat)

🥋 Women’s Self-Defense Class
Learn practical, real-world techniques from a highly experienced instructor.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Wed, March 4 | 6–7 PM (registration required)

🎶 Hamilton Fans, This One’s for You (Online)
Love letters, drama, and songs from Hamilton—a deep dive into the Schuyler sisters.
💻 Online
📅 Wed, March 4 | 6:30–7:30 PM (registration required)

🧠 Learn to Play Bridge (Beginners Welcome!)
New to bridge? This is your spot—learn as you play with guidance from volunteers and fellow players.
📍 Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
📅 Thurs, Feb. 26 | 9:30 AM – 12 PM

🎲 Holmdel Game Day: Mahjong + Bridge
Five tables, plenty of action—jump into casual, player-led games every Thursday morning.
📍 Holmdel Library
📅 Thurs, Feb. 26 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM

🀄 Holmdel Mahjong Club
Already know the game? Grab a seat and play (no instruction, just good games and good company).
📍 Holmdel Library
📅 Thurs, Feb. 26 | 1–4 PM (continues Thursdays in March)

♠️ Bridge Night (Experienced Players)
Evening bridge for those who know their way around the table—come ready to play.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Mon, March 2 | 6–8:30 PM

🀄 Mahjong in West Long Branch
Weekly play with provided tiles—bring your card and jump in. Beginners welcome (some knowledge helps!).
📍 West Long Branch Library
📅 Tues, March 3 | 1–4 PM

♣️ Midday Bridge (Intermediate Level)
A steady weekly game for experienced players—no seat saving, just solid card play.
📍 West Long Branch Library
📅 Wed, March 4 | 11 AM – 1 PM

🃏 Learn Duplicate Bridge
Ready to level up? Try duplicate bridge and sharpen your strategy skills.
📍 Manalapan Library (HQ)
📅 Wed, March 4 | 12–4:45 PM

A little drama, a little nostalgia and a little reality chaos this week—take your pick.

🎬 Movie Night Pick
In the Blink of an Eye (Hulu, Feb. 27)
From the director of WALL-E, this one jumps through different moments in history with a stacked cast. Reviews are mixed—but it’s a solid “try it and see” night.

🎸 Music Pick
Paul McCartney: Man on the Run (Prime Video, Feb. 27)
A behind-the-scenes look at McCartney’s post-Beatles years—Wings, reinvention, and 70s music magic. Great if you love a little nostalgia.

🏆 Sunday Night Watch
SAG Awards (March 1, Netflix – Live)
One of the best Oscar previews—plus the speeches are usually more fun than the Oscars themselves.

📡 Series to Queue Up

🔍 Paradise S2 (Hulu, Feb. 24)
Sterling K. Brown returns in this twisty drama set in an underground bunker after an apocalypse. Now he’s searching for his missing wife—expect suspense.

🏝️ Survivor 50 (Paramount+, Feb. 26)
All returning players, including Mike White (White Lotus). The premiere is three hours, so settle in.

🏥 Scrubs (Hulu, Feb. 27)
The hospital comedy is back 16 years later with the original cast—same humor, same heart, a little older and wiser.

No local birthdays this week (we’re still waiting 👀)… but these stars are adding another candle:

Feb. 24
🎭 Dominic Chianese (The Sopranos) – 95
→ Uncle Junior himself—one of TV’s most unforgettable mob bosses

🎭 Barry Bostwick – 81
→ Brad Majors in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (and yes, still a cult favorite)

Feb. 25
🎭 Ann McCrea (The Donna Reed Show) – 95
→ Classic TV regular from one of America’s most beloved family sitcoms

🎭 Tom Courtenay (Dr. Zhivago) – 89
→ Oscar-nominated star of the sweeping film classic

🎤 Sally Jessy Raphael – 84
→ Red glasses, real talk—daytime TV pioneer

Feb. 27
🎭 Joanne Woodward – 96
→ Oscar winner and Hollywood legend (The Three Faces of Eve)

Feb. 28
🎭 Tommy Tune – 87
→ Broadway icon—dancer, director, and nine-time Tony Award winner

🎭 Bernadette Peters – 78
→ Broadway royalty (Into the Woods, Annie Get Your Gun)

🎶 Cindy Wilson (The B-52’s) – 69
→ Voice behind “Love Shack” and one of new wave’s most iconic bands

The Boss is back — and he’s bringing a powerful message with him.

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band announced their “Land of Hope and Dreams” U.S. tour, kicking off March 31 in Minneapolis and wrapping May 27 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

This marks their first North American run since 2024, after drawing more than 700,000 fans across Europe last year.

Springsteen says the shows will center on democracy, freedom, and what he calls the defense of the American ideal — blending arena rock with pointed commentary. Expect passion. Expect speeches. Expect 3+ hours if history tells us anything.

The full E Street lineup returns, including Roy Bittan, Patti Scialfa, Stevie Van Zandt and Max Weinberg, along with the E-Street Horns and Choir.

Bottom line: It’s not just a tour. It’s the Boss doing what he’s always done — turning the volume up when it matters. Visit Ticketmaster for tickets.

⁉️Questions, comments or news to share? Just hit reply to this email!

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😎Stay warm, stay safe, and remember: your job this week is to be cozy.

— The Monmouth Senior Scoop Team

💌 Just a Little Note…
We do our best to keep everything accurate and up to date, but especially this week—following the Blizzard of 2026—times, events, and details may change. It’s always a good idea to double-check before heading out.