👋It’s Wednesday, Monmouth — and this week’s Scoop has your local need-to-knows. Let’s dive in!

🍦 Local Flavor: Scoop N Scootery opens in Red Bank, and Little Gem brings brunch to Avon-by-the-Sea
🌳 In the Parks: Spring strolls, native plants, puzzle swaps, Walnford Day and horseshoe crabs
🎉 Weekend Plans: Seafood in Belmar, yard sales, porch music, vegan eats, craft shows and more
🗞️ Prime Time News: Dementia, prescriptions, HSAs and scam-safe financial planning
🍳 In the Kitchen: Beefy brunch ideas that go well beyond muffins
✈️ Wanderlust Weekly: Disney adds new guided trips for 2027
🩺 Health News: Medicare access to Wegovy is set to expand
📺 TV Time: Ranch drama, Stanley Tucci in Italy, Jeopardy and weekend streaming picks

Up first…

Red Bank has a new reason to save room for dessert! Scoop N Scootery is now open at 21 E. Front Street, marking the viral ice cream franchise’s first New Jersey location. The shop started as a Boston food truck and has since expanded into storefronts in Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, Florida and Virginia.

The big draw? Over-the-top sundaes and serious customization. Scoop N Scootery offers 75 different ice cream sundaes, plus a Customization Station where customers can build their own dream dessert — because sometimes one topping simply isn’t enough!

Flavors include favorites like Campfire S’mores, Peanut Butter Oreo, Fluffernutter, Strawberry Cheesecake and Salty Caramel. Toppings range from classic to “why not?” with options like cannoli shell, waffle cone bits, Nutella sauce, brownie, gummy bears, cereal pieces and pie crumbles. Looks like we’ll have to come up with an excuse to swing by Red Bank this week! 🍨

Avon-by-the-Sea has a new breakfast, brunch and lunch spot!

Little Gem is now open at 300 Main Street, serving a brunch-friendly menu with house-made pastries, smoked salmon benedict, steak and eggs, pancakes with berry compote, French toast with rhubarb jam, and classic omelets.

Lunch leans cozy and a little indulgent, with options like a fried chicken sandwich with pepper relish, coleslaw and arugula, plus the Norwood smash, made with American cheese, an onion ring and Russian dressing on an English muffin. Homemade cauliflower soup and chicory salad are also on the menu for those looking to keep things a little lighter.

The team has serious local-and-culinary cred. Front-of-house operations are led by Stephen Skribner, a longtime Avon-by-the-Sea resident who spent more than two decades behind the bar at nearby Darcy’s Tavern. His brother, Justin Skribner, is the chef, with experience at acclaimed restaurants including The French Laundry, Per Se and Bâtard. He was also named a 2018 Star Chefs Rising Star Award winner.

Little Gem is currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Brunch plans, anyone? 🍳This delicious news is making a strong case!

See what’s happening for free this week in Monmouth County Parks!

Splendid Spring Stroll
Wednesday, May 13, 10–11:30 a.m. | Manasquan Reservoir, Howell
Take a peaceful midweek breather with a Park System Naturalist during this spring trail walk at Manasquan Reservoir. Meet in the Environmental Center parking lot, wear sturdy shoes, and enjoy fresh air and pretty views. Free.

Native Plant Exchange
Saturday, May 16 | Plant intake: 8:30–10:15 a.m. | Lecture: 9:15–10:15 a.m. | Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown
Gardeners, assemble. Bring established native plants in four-inch, one-quart, or 1- to 2-gallon containers and swap them for like-sized plants at Deep Cut Gardens. Plants must be native to the Mid-Atlantic region and should be labeled — because mystery plants are fun in theory, less fun when they take over the flower bed. Free.

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap
Saturday, May 16, 10–11 a.m. | Thompson Park Theater Barn, Lincroft
Finished that 1,000-piece lighthouse puzzle and ready for a new tabletop obsession? Bring complete puzzles in good condition to Thompson Park Theater Barn and trade them in for something new-to-you. For every puzzle you bring, you’ll receive one token to take another puzzle home. Free.

Accordion Melodies of the 1890s
Saturday, May 16, 1–3 p.m. | Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Spend Saturday afternoon with a little old-time charm at Historic Longstreet Farm, where accordion music from the 1890s will set the mood. Free.

19th Century Woodworking Demonstration
Saturday, May 16, 1–3 p.m. | Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Also happening at Longstreet Farm: a 19th-century woodworking demonstration, where you can watch a woodworker study materials, use traditional tools, and create beautiful, functional pieces the old-fashioned way. Free.

Walnford Day
Sunday, May 17, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Historic Walnford is throwing itself a very charming birthday party, celebrating 200 years of Waln family history with demonstrations, displays, wagon rides, and plenty of old-time atmosphere. The Magnolia Street String Band performs from 2–4 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly if you like your history with a soundtrack. Free.

Nature Lecture: Horseshoe Crabs in Monmouth County
Wednesday, May 20, 7–8 p.m. | Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, Port Monmouth
Meet one of the Shore’s most fascinating ancient residents: the horseshoe crab. This nature lecture covers the local species and what can be done to help restore its population — a little science, a little Shore ecology, and a living fossil that has been around way longer than all of us. Free.

Park note: Details can change, so it’s always smart to check with the Monmouth County Park System before heading out.

This is a busy Monmouth County weekend: seafood in Belmar, plants in Freehold, porch concerts, dogs in Red Bank, and plenty of yard-sale browsing.

Spring Garden Days Plant Sale
8 a.m.–5 p.m. | Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 4000 Kozloski Road, Freehold
This rain-or-shine plant sale features annuals, hanging baskets, trees and shrubs, perennials, vegetables, herbs, home and garden décor, free garden tours, horticultural presentations, composting demonstrations, and plants donated by Rutgers Master Gardeners.
Good to know: Cash or checks only — no credit cards. Info

Manasquan Spring Sidewalk Sale
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Main Street, Manasquan
Main Street goes bargain-hunting mode as local shops bring merchandise outside for an open-air shopping stroll. Expect clothing, accessories, gifts, and home items.

New Jersey Seafood Festival
4–8 p.m. | Silver Lake Park, Fifth & Ocean Avenues, Belmar
Belmar’s big seafood weekend kicks off with top New Jersey seafood restaurants, craft vendors, live music, craft beer and plenty of Shore flavor. Admission is free.

Candlelight: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More
6–7 p.m. | Pollak Theatre, 400 Cedar Ave., West Long Branch
A one-hour candlelight concert featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and more at Monmouth University’s Pollak Theatre. A classy Friday night option — no lawn chair required. Info

Start Making Sense & The Ocean Avenue Stompers Horns
7:30–11 p.m. | Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank
Talking Heads fans, this one’s got your name on it. Start Making Sense brings the music of Talking Heads, David Byrne and more — with The Ocean Avenue Stompers Horns joining for the full show. Two sets, no opener, all horns. Info

Spring Garden Days Plant Sale
9 a.m.–3 p.m. | Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Freehold
Day two of the plant sale, with annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, shrubs, garden décor, tours and demonstrations. Shop early for the best selection — gardeners do not play around. Info

Manasquan Spring Sidewalk Sale
10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Main Street, Manasquan
A second day to stroll, shop and support local businesses in Manasquan. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a bargain with a side of fresh air.

New Jersey Seafood Festival
11 a.m.–8 p.m. | Silver Lake Park, Belmar
The seafood celebration continues with restaurants, vendors, music and craft beer. Come hungry!

Shrewsbury Borough Centennial Celebration
8 a.m.–5 p.m. | 419 Sycamore Ave., Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury is turning 100, and the borough is celebrating with a full day of food, fun, live entertainment, local showcases and community pride. A big hometown birthday party — and everyone’s invited. Info

Middletown Township Town-Wide Garage Sale
8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. | Throughout Middletown Township
Garage sale season is here! Shop around town for rare finds, useful bargains and the occasional “why did I buy this?” treasure.

Bradley Beach Town-Wide Yard Sale
9 a.m.–3 p.m. | Throughout Bradley Beach
Grab a map and go treasure hunting through Bradley Beach. Maps will be available at Borough Hall, Main Street and the library on Thursday and Friday, and at the Fire House, 815 Rear Main Street, over the weekend. Also available online at bradleybeachnj.gov.

Spring Craft & Vendor Show at Allaire
10 a.m.–4 p.m. | The Historic Village at Allaire, 4263 Atlantic Ave., Wall
More than 130 crafters take over Allaire for a spring craft show featuring local artists, handmade goods, historic demonstrations, village exhibits and demonstrations at the Carpenter, Blacksmith and Tinsmith shops. Rain date is Sunday, May 17. Info

Dog Walk on BroadWalk
Noon–4 p.m. | Red Bank BroadWalk, 46 English Plaza, Red Bank
BroadWalk is going to the dogs — in the best possible way. Leashed pups are welcome for pet activities, yappy hour specials, live music and adoption opportunities. Info

Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
Noon–7 p.m. | Bradley Park, Asbury Park
A two-day plant-based feast across from Convention Hall, featuring vegan food vendors, local chefs, food trucks, desserts, lifestyle gear, cruelty-free fashion, live music and an outdoor bar with vegan cocktails and mocktails. Vegans, non-vegans and the vegan-curious are all welcome. Info

Asbury Park Vintage Market
Noon–5 p.m. | Stone Pony Summer Stage, 909 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park
Shop vintage clothing from the 1930s through the 1990s, Y2K finds, vinyl records, jewelry, antiques, bags and more from 30-plus vendors. Bonus: it’s at the Stone Pony, so the setting already has cool built in. Info

Lunar Faire Night Market
5–10 p.m. | East Freehold Showgrounds, 1500 Kozloski Road, Freehold
Shopping, food, fairies, potions, attractions and a night market with full moon-meets-fairytale energy. There’s a fairy float parade, fairy hut contest, story hour with a live storyteller and more. Glitter optional, but probably encouraged. Info

Dark City Strings
7–10 p.m. | Navesink Library, 149 Monmouth Ave., Atlantic Highlands
Settle in for an evening of bluegrass, folk and Americana music with Dark City Strings. A cozy Saturday night pick for music lovers. Info

Middletown Township Town-Wide Garage Sale
8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. | Throughout Middletown Township
Round two of Middletown’s town-wide garage sale.

Bradley Beach Town-Wide Yard Sale
9 a.m.–3 p.m. | Throughout Bradley Beach
The bargain hunt continues in Bradley Beach.

Howell Farmers Market
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Echo Lake Park Pavilion, 1205 Maxim Southard Road, Howell
The Howell Farmers Market opens for the season with local farmers, food vendors and handmade makers. Shop fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, artisan products and gifts in a relaxed park setting. The market runs Sundays through Oct. 25.

Ocean Fun Day
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | NJ Sea Grant Consortium Building, 22 Magruder Road, Sandy Hook/Highlands
A family-friendly day of marine science, environmental programs, demonstrations, animal touch tanks, crafts, workshops and Sandy Hook lighthouse tours. Info

New Jersey Seafood Festival
11 a.m.–6 p.m. | Silver Lake Park, Belmar
Last call for Belmar’s seafood weekend. Swing by for seafood, vendors, music and one final excuse to eat something delicious near the ocean.

Asbury Park Vegan Food Festival
Noon–7 p.m. | Bradley Park, Asbury Park
Day two of the vegan food fest brings more plant-based bites, desserts, drinks, music and vendors. Come for the jackfruit tacos, stay for the people-watching. Info

Freehold Borough Arts Council Porch Fest
Noon–5 p.m. | Freehold Borough
Freehold turns its porches into mini music venues for a day of local bands, community spirit and downtown strolling. Pick up a map, wander from porch to porch, and vote for your favorite band to perform in one of next year’s concert series shows. Info

The latest news on aging from trusted media sources.

What Is Lewy Body Dementia? Ted Turner's Diagnosis, Explained: Lewy body dementia's similarities to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's pose a challenge for doctors. USA Today, May 6.

How to Save Money on Prescriptions 2026: Prescription meds can be pricey, but these 13 strategies can help you get the medications you need for less. U.S. News & World Report, May 8.

Dying With a Health Savings Account Can Leave a Tax Bomb for Heirs: The account is immediately taxable as income for non-spouse beneficiaries within the year of death, according to financial planners. But there are some potential workarounds. CNBC, May 9.

My Beloved Husband Has Early-Stage Dementia. He Is 'Doing Well,' but How Do I Protect Our $1.6 Million Savings Right Now? I'm so worried about scams. And how should I structure our finances, estate and his long-term care? Kiplinger, May 10.

Brunch does not have to stop at muffins and fruit salad. The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand is serving up a few savory ideas that can turn an ordinary weekend morning into something a little more memorable — and definitely more filling.

Start with a Beef & Veggie Quiche, a fresh twist on the brunch classic with seasoned ground beef, colorful spring vegetables and a flaky, buttery crust. It’s make-ahead friendly, pretty enough for company and hearty enough to keep everyone from asking, “Is there anything else?”

For something with a little bakery-window drama, try the Beefy Breakfast Strudel with Gravy. This golden braided pastry is filled with hash browns, eggs and tender corned beef brisket, then finished with homemade gravy.

And for the crowd that likes to pick, pull and nibble, Beef Sausage & Cheddar Monkey Bread brings the fun. Mexican-style beef sausage is baked into cheesy pull-apart bread for a warm, shareable centerpiece that works for brunch, game day or any morning when cereal just isn’t going to cut it.

For more brunch ideas and beef-forward recipes, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.

Disney is giving travelers a few new reasons to dust off the passport.

Beginning in 2027, Adventures by Disney is expanding its guided land vacations with brand-new itineraries to Thailand and Croatia & Slovenia, plus a reimagined Italy: Sicily & Amalfi Coast trip with new hands-on activities and cultural stops. Public bookings open May 15, 2026.

The trips are designed for travelers who want the fun of a big international adventure without having to manage every hotel transfer, tour time and “wait, which train are we taking?” moment. Each trip is led by Disney Adventure Guides, who help handle the details while guests focus on the good stuff: food, scenery, history and memory-making.

The new 10-day Thailand itinerary includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and more. Highlights include the Grand Palace in Bangkok, the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, a private boat ride through Bangkok’s historic canals, cooking and tea garden experiences in Chiang Mai, a cruise through Phang Nga Bay, and a visit to an elephant sanctuary in Phuket.

The new eight-day Croatia & Slovenia trip leans into storybook scenery, with stops at Ljubljana Castle, a traditional boat ride across Lake Bled, a hike to the alpine settlement of Velika Planina, a cruise to the Elaphiti Islands, and kayaking near the ancient walls of Dubrovnik.

The updated eight-day Italy itinerary adds even more flavor — literally. Travelers can explore Mount Etna, visit the ancient Teatro Greco, see a private Sicilian puppet show, tour the preserved Roman town of Herculaneum, make pasta in Gragnano, and try a ceramics workshop in Vietri sul Mare.

Adventures by Disney will offer both family departures and adult-exclusive departures for all three itineraries in 2027. So whether you’re planning a multigenerational getaway or a grown-ups-only “we deserve this” trip, Disney is putting some serious magic on the map. For details, visit AdventuresbyDisney.com or contact a travel agent.

A major change is coming for some Medicare beneficiaries living with obesity.

Beginning July 1, 2026, eligible Medicare patients may be able to access Wegovy® — the GLP-1 weight-management medication from Novo Nordisk — for a $50 monthly copay through the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program. The Center for Medicare Services says the program is designed to give eligible Medicare Part D beneficiaries more affordable access to certain GLP-1 medications for weight management.

Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, is used along with diet and exercise for adults living with obesity. It is also FDA-approved to help lower the risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular death, in adults with obesity who also have known heart disease, according to Novo Nordisk.

For seniors interested in GLP-1 medications, the next step is talk with your doctor. These medications are not right for everyone, may require prior authorization, and should be considered as part of a broader health plan that includes nutrition, movement and medical guidance.

A little bridge, a little yarn, a little Zeppelin history — see what’s happening for seniors at Monmouth County Libraries this week.

Bridge at West Long Branch Library
Wednesday, May 13, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | West Long Branch Library
Intermediate bridge players can drop in for a friendly game. Seats are first come, first served — no saving spots.

Learn to Play Duplicate Bridge
Wednesday, May 13, noon–4:45 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Want to sharpen your bridge game? Stop by for this fun, interactive afternoon session. Seating is limited and first come, first seated.

Yarn Works: Crochet & Knit Drop-In
Wednesday, May 13, 1–3 p.m. | Allentown Branch
Bring your own yarn project and settle in with fellow crafters. All skill levels welcome, but bring your own supplies.

The Hindenburg Experience Talk
Wednesday, May 13, 2:30–3:30 p.m. | Allentown Branch
Take an armchair trip through the Hindenburg’s final flight and its New Jersey connection.

Short & Sweet: “The Tip-Top Club”
Thursday, May 14, 10:30–11:30 a.m. | Ocean Township Branch
A light, lively discussion of Garrison Keillor’s warm and witty short story.

Holmdel Mah Jongg Club
Thursday, May 14, 1–4 p.m. | Holmdel Branch
Experienced Mah Jongg players can drop in for a casual weekly game.

Knit Wits: Any Craft, Knit & Crochet
Thursday, May 14, 6:30–8:30 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint or other project for a relaxed crafting night. Supplies not provided.

Shipwrecks of New Jersey
Thursday, May 14, 7–8 p.m. | Atlantic Highlands Branch
Dive into nearly 300 years of shipwreck history in New Jersey waters, including stories from both World Wars.

Taking Care of Your Home
Friday, May 15, 10:30–11:30 a.m. | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Learn how your home functions and how to create a safer, healthier living space.

Kelly’s Knit and Crochet Circle
Saturday, May 16, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Howell Branch
Bring your yarn, needles and questions for a friendly knit-and-crochet session with instructor Kelly Cavanaugh. All skill levels welcome.

Introduction to Qigong and Tai Chi
Monday, May 18, 10–11 a.m. | West Long Branch Community Center
A gentle, mindful movement class focused on strength, balance and flexibility.

Howell Book Club: The Honey Bus
Monday, May 18, 2–3 p.m. | Howell Branch
Discuss Meredith May’s memoir about family, beekeeping and finding your way through hard times. Copies are available at the circulation desk.

One-on-One SHIP Q&A
Monday, May 18, 2:30–4 p.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Medicare questions? Meet with a certified SHIP counselor for free, confidential, unbiased guidance. Walk-ins welcome.

De-stress Through Meditation, Yoga and Breathing
Monday, May 18, 7–8:30 p.m. | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
A gentle session designed to help calm the mind and refresh the body. No mat or equipment needed.

Chair Yoga
Tuesday, May 19, 10–10:45 a.m. | Headquarters, Manalapan
Stretch, breathe and build balance with a chair-based yoga class that’s accessible for all levels.

Emergency Preparedness
Tuesday, May 19, 2–3 p.m. | Holmdel Branch
Get ready for hurricane season with tips on emergency plans, go bags, storm surge zones and supplies for people and pets.

Puzzle Drop-In
Tuesday, May 19, 6–8:45 p.m. | Allentown Branch
Stop by and help solve the community puzzle. Low pressure, high satisfaction when you find the missing piece.

Adult Coloring Night
Wednesday, May 20, 6:30–8 p.m. | Howell Branch
Coloring, snacks and easy conversation — a calm midweek reset. Materials and light refreshments provided.

The History of Zeppelins
Wednesday, May 20, 7–8 p.m. | Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
From wartime airships to the Hindenburg disaster, this talk traces the rise and fall of Zeppelin history.

This week’s streaming lineup has a little something for every couch mood: Ranch drama, Tucci in Italy & pop culture trivia.

Friday, May 15 | Paramount+
Beth and Rip are back — and naturally, peace and quiet are probably not on the menu. The long-awaited “Yellowstone” spinoff picks up one year after the original series finale, with Beth and Rip relocating to Texas and starting over on a new ranch. Of course, in the “Yellowstone” universe, land ownership tends to come with danger, drama and excellent hats. Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser return, with Annette Bening and Ed Harris also starring.

Tuesday, May 12 | Disney+ and Hulu
Stanley Tucci is back to doing what Stanley Tucci does best: wandering through Italy, meeting locals and eating food that makes your own dinner look deeply inadequate. This season takes him to regions including Sicily, Campania and Sardinia for another gorgeous, delicious tour of Italian culture and cuisine.

Monday, May 11 | Netflix
Hosted by Colin Jost, “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” moves to Netflix for its second season, with new episodes dropping every weekday through June 5.

Friday, May 15 | HBO Max
This psychological thriller stars Théodore Pellerin as a man who slides into the inner circle of rising pop musician Oliver, played by Archie Madekwe. Written and directed by Emmy winner Alex Russell of “The Bear” and “Beef,” the film looks at internet fandom, obsession and the unsettling power games around fame.

Friday, May 15 | Netflix
Netflix’s new true-crime documentary examines a 2022 Ohio car crash in which 17-year-old Mackenzie Shirilla drove into a brick building at 100 mph, killing her boyfriend and his friend. The documentary explores the conflicting narratives around what happened that night.

Saturday, May 16 | Netflix
Ethan Hawke’s terrifying character The Grabber returns — despite being killed in the first movie — and is out for revenge against Mason Thames’ character four years later. Horror fans, consider this your weekend jump-scare appointment.

Happy 74th birthday to Howard L. of Hazlet! Wishing you a wonderful birthday filled with good health, good company, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. 🥳 A few other famous faces celebrating birthdays this week with Howard include:

May 13
Buck Taylor of Gunsmoke and Gods and Generals, turns 88; legendary actor Harvey Keitel, 87; music icon Stevie Wonder, 76; Leslie Winston of The Waltons, 70; and late-night host Stephen Colbert, 62.

May 14
Gene Cornish of The Rascals turns 82; Star Wars creator George Lucas, 82; Meg Foster of Cagney & Lacey, 78; director Robert Zemeckis of Forrest Gump and Back to the Future, 75; David Byrne of Talking Heads, 74; and Oscar winner Cate Blanchett, 57.

May 15
Actor-singer Anna Maria Alberghetti, 90; counterculture icon Wavy Gravy, 90; actor Chazz Palminteri of Analyze This and Mulholland Falls, 80; and rapper Melle Mel of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, 65.

May 16
Raise a glass — shaken, not stirred — for Pierce Brosnan, who turns 73. Also celebrating: actor Debra Winger, 71; actor Mare Winningham, 67; and superstar Janet Jackson, 60.

That’s the Scoop for this week. Whether you’re heading to Belmar for seafood, checking out a library program, browsing a yard sale or just enjoying a quiet May weekend close to home, we hope you find something useful, fun or worth sharing.😊

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

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😎 See you next week!

The Monmouth Senior Scoop team

Disclaimer: Plans can change, so give events a quick check before you grab your keys. And our health, money and planning tidbits are friendly info only — not medical, legal or financial advice.