👋 Hey Monmouth! March is coming in hot—parades and Guinness runs, magic shows and short films, parks programming with woodstoves and blacksmiths, plus free AARP Tax-Aide help if your paperwork pile is giving you side-eye. We’ve also got a few standout reads in Prime Time News, some library events worth leaving the house for, and a good deed you can do with a sandwich. Let’s get into it. ☘️
👀What’s on tap this week:
🗞️ Prime Time News (caregiving, geriatric care, medical misinformation, brain health, safety)
🌲 In the Parks (cookstove + blacksmith demos, half-marathon, spring strolls)
🐦 Did You Know? (Cape May spring migration + a tasty stop)
☘️ St. Patrick’s Week (Guinness Run, parades, shows, music + after party)
🍀 St. Patrick’s Dinner, Solved (stew recipe)
🎉 Out & About (magic, short films, markets, restaurant tour, Winterfest, Gregorian)
💸 Tax Time (AARP Tax-Aide: Marlboro, Shrewsbury, Wall)
🎲 Game On (bridge + mahjongg at the libraries)
📚 Beyond the Books (concerts + stroke awareness talk)
💚 One Last Thing (Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving)
Up first….
🎸🎆 Big summer show alert
MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert
Monmouth County’s America 250 celebration is getting a serious soundtrack. MonmouthNJ 250: The Concert lands Friday, July 3 at ParkStage at the East Freehold Fairgrounds — and the lineup is stacked.
Who’s on stage:
Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul
Jake Clemons Band
Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers with Gary U.S. Bonds
Low Cut Connie
The Weeklings
🎟️ Tickets go on sale Friday, March 6 at 10 a.m.
Buy at parkstage.org or Ticketmaster.
County leaders are calling this one of the marquee events in the local MonmouthNJ 250 lineup (with more details and more summer shows expected to be announced soon). And yes — they’re already suggesting buy early, because this one could go fast.
👉 Tickets + updates: parkstage.org
🗞️Prime Time News
Links to the latest news on aging from trusted media sources.
Family Caregiving in an Aging America: Lower-income adults with an aging parent, spouse or partner are more likely to be caregivers than those in higher income tiers. Pew Research Center, Feb. 26.
There Aren’t Enough Geriatricians – Here’s How Older Adults Can Still Get the Right Care: With longer lives often comes more complicated health needs: multiple chronic conditions, long lists of medications, balance problems that can increase the risk of falls, and changes in memory. The Conversation, Feb. 27.
Seniors More Likely to Browse Bad Medical Info on the Web: Seniors are more likely to surf web sites containing quack medical information, potentially putting their health at risk, a new study says. HealthDay News, Feb. 23.
Scientists Discover a Key to Staying Mentally Sharp in Old Age: People who have razor-sharp minds in their 80s and 90s — known as “SuperAgers” — produce twice the number of young neurons as cognitively healthy adults and 2.5 times as many as people with Alzheimer’s disease, a new study found. CNN, Feb. 25.
Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance: Keeping Older Adults Safe: Families can support the independence of their aging loved ones while reducing risk through practical steps, including creating check-in protocols, protecting against financial scams, and maintaining open conversations about safety. Elder Law Answers, Feb. 23.
🌲 In the Parks
See what’s happening in Monmouth County Parks this week!
🔥 Cookstove Demonstration (FREE!)
Saturdays, March 7 & 21 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Step back to the 1890s and see what’s really cooking on the woodstove. Learn how recipes, kitchen tools, and cooking tricks have changed over the decades. (Spoiler: no air fryer in sight.)
🏃 E. Murray Todd Half-Marathon
Sunday, March 8 | 8:30 a.m. start
Brookdale Community College, Lincroft
Not a “quick loop around the block” situation—this 13.1-mile course cruises through Lincroft, Holmdel, and Colts Neck. Run it, cheer it on, or just come for the energetic race-day vibe. Race-day registration opens at 7 a.m. and is $70 (cash or check only).
⚒️ Blacksmith Demonstration (FREE!)
Sunday, March 8 | 1–3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Clang, spark, repeat. Watch the blacksmith heat iron and hammer it into real, useful tools and hardware—the old-school kind of craftsmanship that never gets old to watch.
🚶 Splendid Spring Strolls (FREE!)
Say goodbye to winter and hit the trails with a Park System Naturalist—easygoing, peaceful, and very good for the soul. Sturdy footwear recommended (some inclines + roots).
Wednesday, March 11 | 10–11:30 a.m. — Huber Woods Park, Middletown (meet in the Environmental Center parking lot)
Wednesday, March 18 | 10–11:30 a.m. — Big Brook Park, Marlboro (meet in the Lower Pond parking lot)
🐦 Did You Know?
Cape May is basically the Super Bowl of birding. National Geographic has recognized Cape May as a World’s Best destination for birdwatching—and March is prime migration season at the Cape May Bird Observatory (The Northwood Center, 701 E. Lake Drive, Cape May Point). Keep your eyes peeled for Piping Plovers, Brown Pelicans, Pine Warblers, and plenty of other feathered passersby.
And when you’re done checking out the spring migration? Reward yourself with the freshest breakfast or lunch at Beach Plum Kitchen—part of an Oprah-approved Best Foodie Hotel pick.
☘️ St. Patrick’s Celebrations: Go Green, Jersey-Style
Saturday, March 7
Highlands Annual Guinness Run (Atlantic Highlands)
12:30–4 p.m. • Off the Hook, 1 Navesink Ave
The 13th annual “don’t spill the Guinness” dash is back. $50 to register (check-in starts 12:30 p.m.)—and the first 100 runners get a commemorative T-shirt + Guinness pint glass. Post-race party includes free apps, live music, and lots of Guinness. Prizes: $100 (1st) / $50 (2nd). Must be 21+ to race. Spectators welcome—bring your loudest cheer. Info
Shamrocks by the Shore (Long Branch)
1–4 p.m. • Pier Village, 50 Chelsea Ave
A family-friendly, go-green stroll by the ocean with live Irish music, bagpipers, kids’ crafts, and activities, plus plenty of reasons to shop and snack your way through Pier Village. Info
Irish American Comedy & Film Fleadh (Red Bank)
7–9 p.m. • Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth St
A kickoff to St. Paddy’s week with Irish comedians + a “best of” film selection from the Dublin International Comedy Film Festival. Info
Sunday, March 8
Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Asbury Park)
1–4 p.m. • Starts Ocean Ave & 4th Ave → ends Cookman Ave & Main St
A classic Shore parade: bands, floats, bagpipers, scouts, dancers, neighborhood groups, mummers—the whole happy Irish circus—rolling past boardwalk landmarks and into downtown.
Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Rumson)
1 p.m. • Allen St & River Rd
A big, family-friendly Rumson tradition celebrating Irish heritage and supporting local charities.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade After Party: Brian Kirk & The Jirks (Asbury Park)
1:30–4:30 p.m. • Asbury Lanes, 209 4th Ave
Parade → live music + drink specials + bowling. Keep the Irish energy going without even changing your shoes. Info
Sister’s Irish Catechism (Red Bank)
3–5 p.m. • Count Basie Center for the Arts, 99 Monmouth St
A brand-new “class” from Sister on all things Irish—complete with laughs, stories, and the fine art of the Irish Exit. Info
Tuesday, March 10
Rhythm of the Dance: 26th Anniversary Tour (Red Bank)
7–10 p.m. • Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre (Basie), 99 Monmouth St
A full-throttle night of Irish dance + Celtic music with champion dancers, live musicians, and big-stage production—an energetic, two-hour Irish time trip. Info
🍀 St. Patrick’s Dinner, Solved
If you want something cozy, hearty, and very March-appropriate, this one’s for you. This St. Patrick’s Day Stew is a beefy bowl of comfort—loaded with chuck stew meat, potatoes, carrots, onions, and yes… stout beer for that extra “Sláinte” flavor. Get the recipe here.
🎉 Out & About This Week: Magic, Markets & a Little Patsy
🎩 Masters of Illusion
Thu, March 5 | 7:30–10 p.m. • Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre (Count Basie Center), 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank
Big-stage magic, modern illusions, and comedy that’ll have you whispering, “HOW did they do that?” (And then staring suspiciously at the person next to you.) A touring favorite featuring award-winning magicians from around the world. Info
🎬 The World’s Best Short Film Festival
Sat, March 7 | 8–10 p.m. • Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Voorhees Dr, Manasquan
A fast-paced “short film concert” of award-winning comedy, drama, and animation—classic favorites plus new international winners. Perfect for anyone who loves movies. Info
🧺 Winter Fresh Farmers Market (Food-Only, Indoors!)
Sun, March 8 & Sun, March 22 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. • 66 S Main St, Ocean Grove
Stay warm and snack your way through an indoor market featuring Asbury FRESH food vendors. Note: food-only—so yes, you can leave with pastries and pickles, but not a new houseplant. Info
🍽️ Belmar Dine & Discover Restaurant Tour
Sun, March 8 | 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. • Belmar
A roaming tasting party featuring chef-crafted bites from Belmar’s best restaurants—plus free trolley rides so you can sample, stroll, repeat. Come hungry. Leave happy. Info
🎤 Walking After Midnight: A Patsy Cline Tribute
Sun, March 8 | 3–6 p.m. • Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan
Broadway star Carter Calvert brings Patsy’s greatest hits—“Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Walkin’ After Midnight”—to life with big vocals and witty storytelling. Bring a friend who “doesn’t even like country” and watch them change their mind. Info
🍴 Winterfest 2026 (A Very Delicious Fundraiser)
Mon, March 9 | 6–9 p.m. • Freehold High School, 2 Robertsville Rd, Freehold
The Jersey Shore Chefs Association hosts its annual fundraiser featuring culinary, baking & pastry, and food service students from high schools across NJ serving up student-prepared hors d’oeuvres. Translation: you get to eat well and cheer on the next generation of chefs. Info
🎶 GREGORIAN: Pure Chants World Tour
Thu, March 12 | 7:30–10:30 p.m. • Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre (Basie), 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank
A dramatic, peaceful, goosebump-y night of chorales that glide from classical chants into pop/rock—all with big production and a surprisingly soothing vibe. (Think: candlelit energy… without the candles.) Info
📺 TV Time: What to Stream This Week
🎬 New movies
“It Was Just an Accident” (Hulu) — An Oscar-buzzy, darkly funny revenge thriller from Jafar Panahi that’ll have you saying, “I’m stressed”… and clicking play anyway.
“The Secret Agent” (Hulu) — A tense, slow-burn thriller set in 1977 Brazil, starring Wagner Moura. Great for anyone who likes suspense with brains.
“War Machine” (Netflix — Fri, March 6) — Alan Ritchson + Army Ranger training + a relentless otherworldly killing machine. Basically: cardio, but make it sci-fi.
“Fackham Hall” (HBO Max — Fri, March 6) — A slapstick “Downton Abbey meets Monty Python” spoof with a side of murder mystery.
“Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” (Netflix — Sat, March 7) — Tea, drama, and a proper final bow for the Crawleys.
📺 New series
“R.J. Decker” (ABC, streams next day on Hulu) — Scott Speedman plays a former newspaper photographer/ex-con turned private investigator in South Florida, where the cases are… very Florida.
“Young Sherlock” (Prime Video — Wed) — Sherlock at Oxford, directed/executive produced by Guy Ritchie, with all the fast pace, action, and smart dialogue you’d expect. All 8 episodes drop at once.
“Rooster” (HBO Max — Sun, March 8) — Steve Carell stars in a feel-good comedy from “Ted Lasso” co-creator Bill Lawrence—college setting, family stuff, and lots of heart.
💸 Tax Time: Free Help, Fewer Headaches (AARP Tax-Aide)
AARP Tax-Aide is back for Tax Year 2025—with trained AARP Foundation volunteers helping with most Federal and NJ returns (note: very complex returns may be turned away, and space is limited each session). Also: you must be there in person—and if you’re filing jointly, both spouses must attend.
📍 Marlboro Library (Appointments Preferred)
Marlboro Branch • Appointments recommended (limited walk-ins before noon, if available)
Book online: https://tinyurl.com/TaxAideMarlboroBranch
Upcoming sessions:
Wed, March 4 | 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Thu, March 5 | 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Sat, March 7 | 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Wed, March 11 | 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
📍 Eastern Branch Library, Shrewsbury (Appointment Only)
Monmouth County Library – Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury • Feb. 7–Apr. 11, 2026
Tuesdays & Thursdays | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturdays | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
By appointment only (register online): https://tinyurl.com/TaxAideEasternBranch
Prefer the phone? Call AARP Foundation Tax-Aide: 888-227-7669
(Walk-ins may be available, but don’t count on it—this one books up fast.)
📍 Wall Township Library (No Appointment)
Wall Township Branch • Walk-ins only, first come/first served
Mon, March 9 | 1–4 p.m.
Tue, March 10 | 1–4 p.m.
🎲 Game On: Cards, Tiles & Friendly Competition
♠️ Bridge (Intermediate) — West Long Branch Library
Wednesdays | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (ex: March 4 & March 11)
Monmouth County Library – West Long Branch Branch • 95 Poplar Ave, West Long Branch
Bring your best bids—this is intermediate-level bridge and it’s first come, first served (no saving seats, no “but my friend is parking!”).
Questions? 732-222-5993
🀄 Holmdel: Thursday is Game Day (Mahjongg + Bridge)
Thursdays | 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Holmdel Library Meeting Room
Holmdel asked, the library delivered: Mahjongg or Bridge, player-led and casual. No registration, first come/first seated, and if it fills up, players rotate in so nobody’s stuck spectating forever. Tables + supplies provided.
🀄 Holmdel Mah Jongg Club (Experienced Players)
Thursdays in March | 1–4 p.m. (starting March 5)
Holmdel Branch • Capacity: 20 players
A friendly weekly session with sets + tables provided, following National Mah-jongg League rules. No instructor, so this one’s best if you already know the game (spectators welcome!). Seating is in order of arrival—and yes, no seat saving here either.
📚 Beyond the Books
Senior-friendly events happening at Monmouth County Libraries this week.
🎻 Living History Through Music (Celebrate 250!)
Fri, March 6 | 2–4 p.m. • Monmouth County Library HQ, Manalapan (Lower Gallery)
Travel back to the Revolutionary era with Anne and Ridley Enslow performing “liberty songs,” funny ballads, victory tunes—and even a song written by a signer of the Declaration of Independence. They’ll be in 18th-century dress with period instruments, so yes… it’s basically a time machine with better acoustics.
🎺 RESCHEDULED: “Music That Changed America” (Black History Month Concert)
Sat, March 7 | 2–3 p.m. • Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury (Center of Adult Library)
The John Luckenbill Pops Band brings the soundtrack of American music history—featuring favorites tied to Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, W.C. Handy, Scott Joplin, Count Basie, Michael Jackson and more. From ragtime and blues to swing and pop, it’s a lively, toe-tapping hour—and it’s admission-free.
🧠 Seconds Matter: Understanding Stroke Before It Strikes
Tue, March 10 | 1:30–2:30 p.m. • Holmdel Branch
A smart, practical talk on stroke prevention, warning signs, early detection, and what to do fast—because minutes really do matter. Presented by Hackensack Meridian with Jessica Trimarco, RN, MSN. Registration suggested (not required).
💚One Last Thing
Special Olympics athlete Audrey Presby, at right, stars in Jersey Mike’s new 2026 Month of Giving commercial. Photo courtesy of Jersey Mike’s
🥪Eat a Sub, Do Some Good: Jersey Mike’s Month of Giving
Jersey Mike’s sub shop is kicking off its 16th annual Month of Giving in March, raising money to help athletes get to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games (June 20–26 in Minnesota’s Twin Cities). All month long, you can round up your total or add a donation when you order. The big finale is Wednesday, March 25 — “Day of Giving”—when participating Jersey Mike’s shops will donate 100% of the day’s sales (yes, sales!) to support the Games and the state programs heading there.
🎂Celebrity birthdays
🎉 Happy 70th Birthday, Helen P. of Middletown! Wishing you a wonderful day filled with love and laughs; here’s to a fabulous new decade and all the good times ahead! 💐
A few other notable people celebrating this week include:
March 4: Actor Paula Prentiss (The Stepford Wives) turns 88, and actor Patricia Heaton (The Middle, Everybody Loves Raymond) is 68.
March 5: Magician Penn Jillette (Penn & Teller) is 71.
March 6: TV personality John Stossel is 79, and actor Tom Arnold is 67.
March 7: Guitarist Ernie Isley (The Isley Brothers) turns 74, actor Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) is 70, and comedian Wanda Sykes is 62.
🎬That’s a wrap for this week
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😎See you next week!
The Monmouth Senior Scoop team
Disclaimer: P.S. We do our best to keep dates, times, and details accurate—but plans can change faster than a Jersey weather forecast. Before you head out, double-check with the venue/organizer. And as always: this newsletter is for info + fun, not medical/legal/financial advice. 😊