Monmouth Senior Scoop: News and events for Monmouth County seniors

👋Hey, Monmouth friends!

This week’s Scoop has a little bit of everything: tulips showing off, a weekend full of fairs, markets, music and food, and library events for history fans, puzzlers, crafters and card sharks alike!

👀What’s on tap:
🌷 Out & About — tulips, markets, music, street fairs and more
🌳 In the Parks — birding, rug hooking, and rug braiding
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Take the Grandkids — woolly fun at Historic Longstreet Farm
🗓️ Mark Your Calendar — Made in Monmouth and Weekend in Old Monmouth
🚎 Day Trippin’ — a Revolutionary road trip to Philadelphia
🚢 Cruise News — Norwegian Cruise Line is back in Philly
📚 Beyond the Books — library talks, crafts, support groups, games and more

Up first…

Let’s be honest: making a will is one of those adult tasks that’s easy to keep pushing down the list. Monmouth County Surrogate Maureen T. Raisch is trying to make that a little easier with a new initiative called “I’m Just a Will.”

The campaign includes an interactive activity book featuring Will N. Testament — yes, really — to help explain wills, probate, and planning ahead in a way that feels a lot less intimidating. It also includes weekly tips on Facebook, X, and Instagram at @MonmouthGovNJ, plus “lunch and learn” presentations for libraries, schools, businesses, and community groups.

For more information, contact the Monmouth County Surrogate’s Office at 732-431-7330 or email [email protected].

Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi and a long list of music heavyweights are coming to Monmouth University for a two-night concert celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music announced that “Music America: The Songs That Shaped Us” will take place June 4 and 5 at the OceanFirst Bank Center in West Long Branch, just days before the center officially opens on June 7. The lineup also includes Kenny Chesney, Mavis Staples, Public Enemy, Jackson Browne, Rosanne Cash, Gary Clark Jr., Stevie Van Zandt and more, with each artist performing landmark songs from American music history. Organizers say the concerts will span blues, bluegrass, rock, hip-hop, folk, jazz, country and gospel, with narration before each performance to add context. Tickets are now on sale at springsteencenter.org.

A new 299-unit luxury rental building in Long Branch is now accepting applications for 30 affordable apartments, with rents ranging from $489 to $1,705 a month depending on unit size and income category. Livana Long Branch, a $130 million development at 118 Broadway, is just a block from the boardwalk and beach. Apartments include modern finishes, a dishwasher, and an in-unit washer and dryer, while building amenities include a fitness center, pool, roof deck, theater room, pet spa, teen game room, coworking lounge, and coffee lounge. Applications are due online by July 31, with a lottery set for Aug. 1, 2026. The project is part of Long Branch’s Lower Broadway redevelopment zone and is expected to include a Superfresh grocery store and café.

Free events happening this week in Monmouth County parks!

Rug Hooking Demonstration
Saturday, April 25 | 1–3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See the 19th-century craft of rug hooking in action during this free demonstration. Free

Rug Braiding Demonstration
Sunday, April 26 | 1–3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Crafters will demonstrate the traditional art of rug braiding. Free.

Casual Birder
Tuesday, April 28 | 9 a.m.
Clayton Park, Upper Freehold
Meet in the Emley’s Hill Road parking lot for a relaxed morning bird walk with a Park System naturalist. The walk lasts about 90 minutes, no birding expertise is needed, and a limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow. Free.

For more information, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com.

See what’s happening around Monmouth County this week.

🌷 Tulip Experience at Arrowhead Farmstead, Manalapan
April 21, 22, 28 and 29 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
More than one million tulips across 150 acres. Info

🥕 Bell Works Fresh Farmers & Makers Market, Holmdel
Wednesdays starting April 22 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Fresh produce, handmade goods. Info

🎻 Old Time Jam at Oakley Farm Museum, Freehold
Thursday, April 23 | 6:30–9 p.m.
Listeners and players of all levels are welcome. Acoustic instruments encouraged. Info

🎤 Back to the 80s, Spring Lake Community House & Theatre
Thursday, April 23 | 7–11 p.m.
A benefit concert with the Pat Roddy Band and Spring Lake Theatre stars. Expect big hair energy, even if your hair gave that up years ago. Info

🎣 Kids Fishing Derby, Middletown
Saturday, April 25 | 9–11 a.m.
Take the grandkids! At Garvey’s Pond, kids compete for the longest fish, with prizes by age group. Bring your own gear and bait. Adults 16+ must stay on the sidelines and try not to micromanage. Info

🎨 Spring Art in the Garden, Calgo Gardens
Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Local artists, live music, flowers, patio lounging, and snacks from The Tulip Tree Cafe. Info

🚒 Touch-A-Truck, Wall Township
Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Police cars, fire trucks, dump trucks, food, and a DJ. For kids, this is basically the Oscars. Info

🛍️ Allentown Spring Stroll
Saturday, April 25 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
A Main Street day out with local businesses, crafters, and artisans. Info

🌼 Ryser’s Spring Market, Little Silver
Saturday, April 25 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
A family fun shopping day with local vendors at 145 White Rd. Rain date: April 26. Info

🐶 Dog Walk & Pet Fair, Eatontown
Saturday, April 25 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Hosted by the Monmouth County SPCA at Leon Smock 80 Acre Park. Includes a guided walk, vendors, K-9 demos, raffles, kids crafts, dog snacks, and yes, a puppy kissing booth. Info

👗 Afternoon of Tea and Fashion, Keyport
Saturday, April 25 | 1–4 p.m.
The Keyport Historical Society hosts a Revolutionary-era-inspired afternoon with tea, scones, sandwiches, sweet treats, a fashion show, silent auction, and tricky tray. Info

🕺 Glen Burtnik’s Summer of Love, Red Bank
Saturday, April 25 | 7:30 p.m.
A full-on Woodstock-era concert celebration at the Count Basie. Think Beatles, Joplin, Hendrix and Santana. Info

🎸 80’s New Wave featuring The Pinch, Manasquan
Saturday, April 25 | 8–10 p.m.
Talking Heads, The Clash, The Ramones, Joe Jackson and more at Algonquin Arts Theatre. Info

🦴 Guided Fossil Hunt, Middletown
Sunday, April 26 | 11 a.m.–noon
At Poricy Brook Fossil Beds, the grandkids can dig for marine fossils from 65 to 72 million years ago. Wear boots. Info

🎪 Red Bank Street Fair & Craft Show
Sunday, April 26 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Artists, crafters, live music, food, games, and family fun — with free admission for spectators. Info

🌮 Food Truck Festival, Downtown Freehold
Sunday, April 26 | noon–4 p.m.
Live music, family fun, and plenty of reasons to arrive hungry and leave needing a nap. Info

🍴 Asbury Park Restaurant Tour
Sunday, April 26 | noon–4 p.m.
A one-day tasting tour through Asbury’s restaurants, lounges, cafes, and more. Info

🏓 Pickleball Social, Manasquan
Sunday, April 26 | noon–3 p.m.
Open play, a friendly tournament, raffle, light lunch and refreshments at The Atlantic Club. Competitive spirit optional. Fun is not. Info

🌎 Earth Day Festival & Greenway Walk, Holmdel
Sunday, April 26 | noon–5 p.m.
At Bayonet Farm, expect a two-mile greenway walk, animal presentations, drum circle, tours, and family activities. Info

Ready for a weekend that’s a little woolly?

From 12 to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, the Monmouth County Park System is hosting Wool Days/Sheep Shearing at Historic Longstreet Farm in Holmdel.

If you’ve never seen sheep get their spring haircut the old-fashioned way, here’s your chance. Farm staff will use traditional blade shearing techniques to remove fleece from the sheep, all in keeping with the farm’s 1890s living history setting. Also on the schedule: Gene Sheninger and his collies, who’ll be stopping by for herding demonstrations.

And while you’re there, swing by the Historic Holmes-Hendrickson House at 62 Longstreet Road, Holmdel. Built in 1754, the house is furnished to reflect the life of a successful farming family around 1775. It’s open from noon to 3 p.m. on weekends, April 25 through Oct. 18.

Admission and parking are free at both sites. For more information, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the TTY/TDD number is 711.

The latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

The Boomers Are Turning 80. Now They Want to Change Old Age: The number of octogenarians is growing and they have big ideas for spending, healthcare and housing. WSJ, April 13.

Small Ships, Big Luxury: 5 Boutique Yacht Cruises Retirees Should Book in 2026: The new way to sail: Why boutique yacht cruises are the ultimate retirement reward. Kiplinger, April 18.

Should Retirees Sell Now? High Prices and Mortgage Rates Can Complicate Downsizing: You may be sitting on a lot of home equity – but deciding to sell isn’t so simple. U.S. News & World Report, April 13.

4 Financial Scams Targeting Seniors to Watch For: Swindlers have stepped up their game with artificial intelligence and deepfakes to steal older Americans’ money and personal information. WSJ, April 19.

Upcoming events you won’t want to miss!

Looking for a fun local outing—and maybe a few great gifts while you’re at it? Circle Saturday, May 2 on your calendar.

The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners will host the 2026 Spring Made in Monmouth expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Robert J. Collins Arena and Recreation Events Center at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft.

The free event will feature more than 200 vendors selling products made right here in Monmouth County. Shoppers can browse a wide mix of locally made goods, including art, jewelry, accessories, food and drink, home décor, and more.

County officials are encouraging residents to shop local—especially with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season right around the corner. Admission is free. For more information, visit madeinmonmouth.com.

History buffs, this one’s for you! Monmouth County is bringing back its beloved “A Weekend in Old Monmouth” tour on Saturday, May 2 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sunday, May 3 (noon–5 p.m.), with 59 historic sites open to the public—completely free.

This year’s event has a little extra sparkle, as it ties into the nation’s 250th anniversary. Many of the featured sites date back to the Revolutionary War era, offering a rare chance to walk through the places where history actually happened—right here in Monmouth County.

Some locations are even offering special exhibits and programs tied to the anniversary, so it’s not just a look back—it’s a full experience. Even better? It’s a self-guided tour, so you can pick your favorites, go at your own pace, and maybe even discover a hidden gem you’ve driven past for years.

📍 A tour booklet will be available at each stop, and there’s also a mobile-friendly virtual guide with maps and site details to help you plan your route. Start mapping out your weekend at visitmonmouth.com

Cruising is back in Philly. Norwegian Cruise Line has returned to the city for the first time in 15 years, with Norwegian Jewel now sailing a season of voyages to Bermuda and Canada & New England from Philadelphia through Oct. 7, 2026. Seven-day Bermuda cruises include an overnight at Royal Naval Dockyard plus a stop in either Charleston or Halifax, while longer fall sailings feature scenic Canada and New England ports that are perfect for leaf-peeping season. Starting in late 2026, Norwegian Pearl will take over and continue sailing from Philadelphia through April 2028, with additional itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas. It’s a big win for Mid-Atlantic travelers who’d rather skip the flight and sail closer to home.

The Monmouth County Park System is hosting a bus trip to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia on Saturday, May 16, for a full day of exhibits, artifacts, and city exploring.

The trip offers a chance to dive into the story of how the thirteen colonies became a nation, with time to explore the museum’s hands-on exhibits and historic displays. Afterward, participants will have time for lunch on their own and a chance to look around Philadelphia before heading home.

The bus leaves from Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, at 8 a.m. and is expected to return at about 5 p.m. The cost is $95 per person and includes transportation, museum admission and a volunteer trip leader. Pre-registration is required.

For more information or to register, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000, ext. 1.

See what’s happening at Monmouth County libraries this week.

📍 Healthy Homes — Wednesday, April 22 | 10–11:30 a.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
A smart, practical talk on the “8 Principles of Healthy Homes,” with tips on making your home safer and healthier. Presented by lead and healthy homes specialist Matthew Manthey in partnership with the Monmouth County Health Department.

💛 Lost and Found: Bereavement Support Group — Wednesday, April 22 | 6:45–8 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
A welcoming monthly support group for anyone navigating the loss of a loved one. Led by facilitator Beth Stamp. No registration required, just bring yourself.

🏛️ All History Is Local: The Saga of Molly Pitcher — Thursday, April 23 | 1–3 p.m. | Marlboro Branch
Yes, that Molly Pitcher. Historian Dr. David Martin takes a closer look at the woman, the legend, and what really happened at the Battle of Monmouth. Registration required.

🧶 Knit Wits: Any Craft, Knit, and Crochet — Thursday, April 23 | 6:30–8:30 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, or whatever crafty project is currently taking over your dining room table. All skill levels welcome — just bring your own supplies.

💻 Historically Speaking: Storm of Revolution — Thursday, April 23 | 7–8:30 p.m. | Online
Get a preview of the upcoming Monmouth County Historical Association exhibition on the American Revolution in Monmouth County, including Battle of Monmouth relics, archival documents, and one of the nation’s earliest flags. History buffs, this one has your name on it. Registration required.

🔮 It’s in the Cards — Thursday, April 23 | 7–8:30 p.m. | Atlantic Highlands Branch
Learn tarot basics with bestselling author and deck creator Amanda Lovelace in this four-part learning series. A library night with a little mystery? We support that.

🛡️ Fraud Watch: Vigilance Against Cybercrime — Friday, April 24 | 10–11 a.m. | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
AARP NJ’s Todd Smircina breaks down scams, cybercrime, and how to stay safer online, whether you’re banking, shopping or scrolling.

📰 Media and Information Literacy Crash Course — Friday, April 24 | 2–3 p.m. | Allentown Branch
A timely session on spotting misleading information online and understanding how media is created, shared, and monetized. Presented by Olga Polites of Media Literacy Now. Basically: how not to get fooled by the internet.

📚 Hazlet Spring Book Sale — Saturday, April 25 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m. | Hazlet Township Branch
Books starting at 50 cents, plus puzzles and games, and you can fill a tote with books for $10. Cash only.

🚶 Historic Walking Tour: Allentown Architecture — Saturday, April 25 | 10:30–11 a.m. | Allentown Branch
Start with a live intro at the library, then head out on a self-guided one-mile walk through town to explore Allentown’s Colonial, Victorian, and Revival-style architecture.

🎤 Poets Live! — Saturday, April 25 | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
A National Poetry Month celebration with featured poets Cord Moreski and Joseph Reuben Fuller, plus readings by the Jersey Shore Poets and an open mic.

📄 Circle of Origami Paperfolders — Saturday, April 25 | 1–4:30 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Experienced paper folders are invited to this monthly meetup to swap techniques and fold something impressive out of a flat piece of paper.

💛 Lost and Found: Bereavement Support Group — Monday, April 27 | 12:30–1:30 p.m. | Marlboro Branch
Another in-person session of this supportive monthly group for adults dealing with grief and loss.

🩺 One-on-One SHIP Q&A — Monday, April 27 | 2:30–4 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Free, confidential help for Medicare beneficiaries, families, and caregivers from a certified SHIP counselor. Walk-ins welcome, first come first served.

🧽 Spring Cleaning Series: 7 Things You Forget to Clean & Organize This Spring — Monday, April 27 | 4–5 p.m. | Online
Author and organizing humorist Jamie Novak shares the most-overlooked spring cleaning tasks and offers a live guided decluttering exercise. A little motivation, minus the judgment.

♠️ Learn to Play Bridge — Monday, April 27 | 6–8:30 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
This evening session is for experienced players who already know the game and want to play together. First come, first seated.

🧘 Yoga for Beginners — Monday, April 27 | 6:30–8 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
A relaxing beginner-friendly class with instructor Steven Russell of Becoming Sound Yoga. Bring a yoga mat or thick towel.

🌬️ De-stress Through Meditation, Yoga, and Breathing — Monday, April 27 | 7–8:30 p.m. | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
A calming session focused on relaxation, breathwork, and gentle movement. No mat needed — just show up and exhale.

🀄 Mahjongg — Tuesday, April 28 | 1–4 p.m. | West Long Branch Library
Weekly Mahjongg is on at West Long Branch. Tiles are provided, but bring your own card. Beginner level with some experience required.

🔐 Fraud Protection — Tuesday, April 28 | 2–3 p.m. | Wall Township Branch
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office covers identity theft, telemarketing fraud, and how to protect yourself online. A worthwhile hour in a world where scam texts now act like they know you personally.

🧩 Puzzle Drop-In — Tuesday, April 28 | 6–8:45 p.m. | Allentown Branch
Work on a community puzzle with fellow library visitors and see if you can find the missing piece before somebody else grabs the glory.

🎶 Celebrating the Stories & Music of Springwood Avenue — Tuesday, April 28 | 6:30–8 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
The Asbury Park African-American Music Project shares the history, music, and cultural legacy of Springwood Avenue, the heart of Asbury Park’s historic African American community. A meaningful local history program with real depth.

♣️ Bridge at West Long Branch Library — Wednesday, April 29 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | West Long Branch
Intermediate players are invited to join this weekly bridge gathering. First come, first served — no saving seats, no funny business.

♦️ Learn to Play Duplicate Bridge — Wednesday, April 29 | 12–4:45 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
An afternoon session for players who want to learn and practice duplicate bridge. Seats are limited and first come, first seated.

🌱 Early Spring Harvest and Planting for Warm Weather — Wednesday, April 29 | 6–7 p.m. | Marlboro Branch
Gardeners, this one’s for you. Learn about harvesting spring crops, preserving cool-weather bounty, and getting your garden ready for summer with Ellen Simonetti and Bob Mellert.

Here’s what’s new on streaming platforms this week.

🍿 “Marty Supreme” (HBO Max, April 24)
Nine Oscar nominations, $179 million at the box office—and now it’s headed to your living room. Timothée Chalamet stars as a scrappy ping-pong hopeful in 1950s New York in this high-energy drama that critics call a “nerve-busting adrenaline jolt.”

🏃‍♀️ “Apex” (Netflix, April 24)
Charlize Theron heads into the wilderness for healing… and finds herself in a full-blown survival nightmare instead. Add a menacing Taron Egerton and you’ve got a tense, edge-of-your-seat thriller.

🏀 “Running Point” Season 2 (Netflix, April 23)
Kate Hudson is back as a pro basketball team president trying to prove she belongs at the top. Think family drama meets front-office chaos—with a courtside view.

😂 “Funny AF with Kevin Hart” (Netflix, April 21)
Kevin Hart hits the road scouting the next big stand-up star—with help from a killer lineup of comedy judges. Even better? The final rounds stream live, and viewers can vote. Your couch just became part of the show.

No local birthdays submitted this week 🥲 but there are a few legends, and a former bionic man, celebrating birthdays this week.

April 22: Actor Jack Nicholson turns 89. Singer Mel Carter is 87. Director John Waters turns 80. Singer Peter Frampton is 76. TV personality Sherri Shepherd (“The View”) is 59.

April 23: Actor Lee Majors (“The Six Million Dollar Man”) turns 87. Actor Joyce DeWitt (“Three’s Company”) is 77. Director Michael Moore is 72. Actor Valerie Bertinelli is 66. Comedian George Lopez is 65.

April 24: Actor Shirley MacLaine turns 92. Actor-singer-director Barbra Streisand is 84. Country singer Richard Sterban of the Oak Ridge Boys is 83.

April 25: Actor Al Pacino turns 86. Bassist Stu Cook of Creedence Clearwater Revival is 81. Actor Talia Shire is 81. Singer Bjorn Ulvaeus of ABBA is 81.

That’s the Scoop for this week — a little history, a little spring, and plenty of reasons to get out of the house.

📨Got a tip, event or local gem we should know about? Just hit reply to this email!

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😎See you next week!

The Monmouth Senior Scoop team

Disclaimer: It’s always smart to double-check event details before heading out. And as always, this newsletter is here to keep you informed and entertained, not to replace medical, legal, or financial advice.