Monmouth Senior Scoop: This Week’s Events, News & Mother’s Day Picks

👋Hey, Monmouth friends!

Mother’s Day is almost here — and if you’re still figuring out the plan, you’re not alone. Whether it’s brunch, a day out, or something a little different, we’ve rounded up plenty of ways to make Mom feel celebrated (without the last-minute scramble).

👀What’s on tap this week:

🏡 Vonage Campus Gets a Senior Living Glow-Up
🎨 Creative Arts Festival at Thompson Park
🎉 Weekend Events Roundup
🍰 Tasty Treats: Paris Baguette Celebrations
📖 Beyond the Books: Mother’s Day at the Library
🌿 In the Parks
🌸 Mother’s Day Brunch Guide
🚗 Day Trippin’: Morven Exhibit
🚢 Cruise News: Four Queens
📺 TV Time
🎂 Birthdays

Up first…

The old Vonage headquarters in Holmdel is getting a second act — this time for the 55-and-up crowd. CHA Partners plans to turn the former corporate campus at 23 Main Street into a 299-unit senior living community, with demolition and construction expected to begin this spring.

The plan includes 104 condos and a senior center inside the former Vonage building, plus 65 age-restricted townhomes, a 90-unit skilled nursing facility and 40 senior rentals. Amenities are expected to include tennis, pickleball, bocce and a fitness center.

The project also includes affordable housing requirements, with 20% of for-sale units and 15% of rentals set aside for low- and moderate-income households. About five acres will also go to Holmdel Township for a new fire and emergency medical services facility. Stay tuned for updates!

Here’s a lovely way to spend a spring Saturday: browse local art, hear live music, watch artists at work — and maybe leave with a new piece for the mantel.

The Monmouth County Park System’s annual Creative Arts Festival returns Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft.

This juried arts festival features 50+ booths with pottery, paintings, jewelry and other handmade finds, with artists set up both inside the historic barns and outdoors under tents. There will also be live music sponsored by Musicians on a Mission, art demonstrations, children’s crafts, a community mural, food trucks and a new Creative Arts Center Pottery Challenge, where students will show off their skills.

Admission and parking are free.

Thinking about downsizing — or just ditching the lawn mower for good? Here’s a low-key way to check out a new option.

Heritage Village at Elton Corner, an affordable 55+ rental community by Community Investment Strategies, is hosting weekly Open Houses every Tuesday from 12 to 4 p.m. at 895 Elton Adelphia Road, Freehold.

Stop by to tour one- and two-bedroom apartments, peek at the amenities, grab some light refreshments, and get a feel for the lifestyle. Apartments are available now, with rents starting in the $1,400s (income and credit qualifications apply).

Located in Freehold Township, the community offers modern, sun-filled apartments, shared spaces, and easy access to shopping, dining, and local favorites — all without the upkeep of homeownership.

👉 Curious? Learn more here: https://www.cis-hveltoncorner.com/

Three new tenants are headed to The Grove at Shrewsbury in the coming months: Solidcore, a boutique fitness studio offering 50-minute, high-intensity, low-impact resistance training classes; Numa Modern Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar, a new restaurant with a dining room, bar and patio seating; and Kendra Scott, the popular jewelry retailer. Specific opening dates have not been announced yet, so stay tuned before planning your workout-brunch-earring-buying itinerary.

Got old bank statements, medical records, legal papers or utility bills taking up drawer space? Monmouth County is hosting a free paper shredding event on Saturday, May 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Eatontown Borough Hall parking lot, 47 Broad St.

The event is open to residents of all 53 Monmouth County municipalities. Each resident may shred up to 100 pounds of paper — about four office paper boxes or four large trash bags. Documents will be shredded on-site in mobile trucks, and the event ends when the trucks are full or at 1 p.m.

Good to know: Remove large binder clips. Staples and paper clips can stay.

Upcoming shredding dates include May 30 in Matawan, June 13 in Shrewsbury Borough and June 27 in Union Beach.

More info: visitmonmouth.com or 732-683-8686, ext. 8967.

🎶 CSNY Fans, This One’s for You
Relive the music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young during CSNY and Beyond at Bell Theater at Bell Works on Friday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 9 at 8 p.m. Expect classic harmonies, Neil Young favorites, and a lineup of seasoned musicians bringing the soundtrack of the ’60s and ’70s back to life.

🎭 Magic, Music & Meaning in Manasquan
The Tony Award-winning musical Pippin takes the stage at Algonquin Arts Theatre through May 17. Performances run throughout Mother’s Day weekend with afternoon and evening shows.

🛍️ Treasure Hunting at Allaire
The monthly flea market returns to The Historic Village at Allaire on Saturday, May 9 from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Browse antiques, collectibles, crafts, vintage finds, and the kind of things you didn’t know you needed until you spotted them.

🪑 One Person’s Junk…
The 3rd Annual Rummage Sale & Fundraiser happens Saturday, May 9 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at Burrowes Mansion Museum. Expect bargain tables, vintage surprises, and plenty of “I can’t believe this was only a dollar” moments.

💐 Shop Shore Style for Mom
The Mother’s Day Makers & Artisan Market pops up at Pier Village on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Handmade jewelry, art, home décor, and beachside strolling included.

🍷 Sip Into Mother’s Day Weekend
Celebrate at Fox Hollow Vineyards on May 9–10 from 11 a.m.–7:30 p.m. with wine-and-chocolate pairings, live music, and a complimentary potted geranium for Mom.

🌸 Asbury’s Spring Bazaar Returns
The Asbury Park Spring Bazaar takes over the Grand Arcade at Convention Hall on May 9–10 from noon–5 p.m. Expect shopping, food, live music, and a lively Mother’s Day weekend crowd — plus it’s family- and pet-friendly.

🍇 Picnic Among the Vines
Skip the restaurant rush and head to 4JG's Vineyard for Blooms & Vines for Mom on May 9–10 from noon–5 p.m. Pack a picnic, enjoy live music, and sip a Mom’osa in the vineyard.

🐴 Racing Season Is Back
Opening Day returns to Monmouth Park on Saturday, May 9 from noon–5 p.m. Live racing, spring energy, and the unofficial kickoff to another season at the track. And celebrate Mom on Sunday, May 10 from noon–5 p.m. with live racing, brunch, flowers, giveaways, and family activities. Ladies get free admission.

🌿 Family Fun Meets Conservation
Spring for Conservation takes place Saturday, May 9 from 2–5 p.m. at Bayonet Farm. Expect pony rides, hayrides, live music, petting zoo fun, food, crafts, and nature activities for all ages.

🚢 Brunch on the Water
Treat Mom to a scenic Mother’s Day Spring Brunch Cruise departing from Seastreak Ferry Terminal on Sunday, May 10 from 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Brunch buffet, cocktails, skyline views, and zero dishes to wash afterward.

Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation season — basically, it’s cake’s time to shine.

Paris Baguette is rolling out a limited-time lineup of celebration cakes and macarons, including Mother’s Day treats available through May 10. The mom-friendly menu includes a Lemon Citrus Fresh Roll Cake, Triple Chocolate Strawberry Fraisier, I Love Mom Strawberry Soft Cream Cake, and raspberry-filled macarons.

Father’s Day desserts arrive June 3–21, with options like Lemon Blueberry Chiffon Cake, S’mores Cake, and Summer Berry Trifle Cake.

And for graduates? The Graduation Cake, available April 29–June 28, features six layers of vanilla sponge cake, chocolate mousse soft cream, chocolate curls, a graduation cap, and a diploma. In Monmouth County, check out their locations in Holmdel and Red Bank, and coming to Manalapan soon!

Forget crowded brunch reservations — local libraries are offering a calmer way to celebrate Mother’s Day, complete with poetry, relaxation, coloring, and a little well-earned quiet time.

At the Monmouth County Library System Headquarters Branch in Manalapan, moms can drop in for an Adult Coloring Mother’s Day event on Sunday, May 10 from 1:30–4 p.m. in Rooms 4 and 5. Think soft music, high-quality markers, zen coloring pages, and permission to sit still for once. Stay for 10 minutes or linger longer — no pressure, no cleanup.

Need something even more relaxing? The library is also hosting a Crystal Sound Bowl Bath with Reiki Healing led by holistic wellness practitioner Lauren Kranich. Sessions take place at 2–2:45 p.m. and 3–3:45 p.m. in the Lower Gallery at the Manalapan headquarters. Expect guided meditation, soothing sound vibrations, essential oils, and a peaceful reset for mind and body. Bring a yoga mat or blanket if you’d rather stretch out and fully lean into the relaxation.

Meanwhile, at the Monmouth County Library System Eastern Branch in Shrewsbury, poetry takes center stage with A Poetic Celebration of Motherhood from 2–3:30 p.m. Local poets Evelyn Hampton and Flora Higgins will lead an afternoon honoring motherhood through readings, reflection, and an open mic where guests can share favorite poems or personal verses.

♠️ Bridge Buddies Welcome
Intermediate players can join Bridge at the West Long Branch Library every Wednesday from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at Monmouth County Library System West Long Branch Branch. First come, first served — and no saving seats for your favorite card shark.

🃏 Learn Duplicate Bridge
Always wanted to understand duplicate bridge? Head to Monmouth County Library System Headquarters on Wednesday, May 6 from noon–4:45 p.m. for a drop-in lesson and game time.

🌳 Dig Into Your Family Tree
The Genealogy Club meets Wednesday, May 6 from 2–3 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Eastern Branch. Beginners and seasoned researchers are welcome to swap tips, solve family mysteries, and maybe discover a few surprising relatives.

🎤 Paul Anka Comes to the Library (Sort Of)
Singer and music historian Phil Bruschi brings the story of Paul Anka to life on Thursday, May 7 from 1–3 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Wall Township Branch — complete with live performances of classics like Diana and My Way.

🎬 Movie Matinee in Marlboro
Catch Hamnet on Thursday, May 7 from 1–3:15 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Marlboro Branch. The drama follows Agnes Shakespeare as she navigates grief after the loss of her son.

🔎 Monmouth’s Darker History
Historian Greg Caggiano dives into local true crime during Murdered in Monmouth County on Thursday, May 7 from 7–8 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Eastern Branch. Expect murders, mysteries, and stories that may change how you see the county.

⚔️ Revolutionary War, But Make It Local
History gets personal during The Deadly Divide: New Jersey’s Revolutionary War at Home on Saturday, May 9 from 2–3 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Atlantic Highlands Branch. Learn how neighbors, families, and towns were divided during the Revolution.

💊 Medicare Questions? Ask an Expert
Free one-on-one SHIP Medicare counseling happens Monday, May 11 from 2:30–4 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Headquarters. Walk-ins welcome.

🎨 Mother-Daughter Craft Night
Celebrate connection and creativity during a Mother–Daughter Vision Boarding Workshop on Monday, May 11 from 6–8 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Holmdel Branch.

🧘 Stretch It Out
Beginner-friendly Yoga for Adults takes place Monday, May 11 from 6:30–8 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Headquarters. Bring a mat or towel and leave the stress at the door.

🀄 Mahjongg Has Entered the Chat
Mahjongg players can gather every Tuesday from 1–4 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System West Long Branch Branch. Tiles provided — just bring your card and game face.

🌿 Gardening With Drama
Learn how black-hued plants can steal the show during Drama Queens: Dark Beauties on Tuesday, May 12 from 1:30–2:30 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Eastern Branch.

🧘 Gentle Yoga Night
Unwind with Gentle Yoga for Adults on Tuesday, May 12 from 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Monmouth County Library System Colts Neck Branch. Slow stretches, mindfulness, and a calmer nervous system included.

Pull Up a Chair — Literally
Step back in time during a Traditional Chair Caning Demonstration on Saturday, May 9 from 1–3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm. Watch how natural plant fibers are woven into classic chair seats using old-school techniques that have definitely outlasted most modern furniture. Free.

Forge Ahead in Holmdel
The sparks will fly during a Blacksmith Demonstration on Sunday, May 10 from 1–3 p.m. at Historic Longstreet Farm. See the blacksmith at work and learn about the history behind one of the farm’s most fascinating trades. Free.

A Spring Walk Worth Slowing Down For
Take in the season during the Splendid Spring Stroll on Wednesday, May 13 from 10–11:30 a.m. at Manasquan Reservoir. Meet at the Environmental Center parking lot and join a Park System Naturalist for a peaceful guided walk. Expect fresh air, blooming scenery, and a few uneven trails — sturdy shoes are a smart move. Free.

The Mill Is Still Turning
History comes to life at Historic Walnford during Milling Demonstrations happening weekends throughout May. Catch the 19th-century gristmill in action on May 9–10, 16–17, 23–24, and 30–31 at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 p.m. Each demo lasts about 15 minutes and shows how corn was once ground into meal the old-fashioned way. Free.

If Mom had her way, there’d be mimosas, pancakes and zero dishes to wash — good news: we found the places that deliver!

Monmouth County has plenty of brunch-worthy spots this Mother’s Day, from oceanfront dining in Long Branch to cozy cafés, family-friendly favorites and menus with a little extra flair. Here are some of our favorites!

For a classic shore-view celebration, McLoone’s Pier House and Avenue in Long Branch both bring the oceanfront wow factor. McLoone’s offers a family-style brunch with favorites like stuffed French toast, an omelet station and raw oyster bar, plus complimentary mimosas or Bloody Marys. Avenue leans more French and fancy, with dishes like ham-and-gruyere omelets, lemon blueberry pancakes and steak frites.

Looking for something relaxed but still special? Nicholas Barrel & Roost in Red Bank is known for its polished-but-comfy vibe, while Tatum’s Table in Lincroft goes big with brunch fun — think Fried Oreo Pancakes, Crème Brûlée French Toast and a Rise & Shine Breakfast Burger.

For bolder flavors, Emilio’s Kitchen in Atlantic Highlands serves a Mexican-inspired brunch with Chilaquiles, Huevos Rancheros and Flamed Banana French Toast. Prefer something easygoing? The Buttered Biscuit Café in Bradley Beach is a cozy choice for French toast, breakfast sandwiches and casual comfort food. First Watch on Route 35 in Eatontown is a daytime café chain known for fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch with a healthy, modern twist.

And for convenience, Turning Point has multiple Monmouth-area locations, including Ocean Township, Holmdel, Little Silver, Manalapan and Sea Girt, with all-day brunch staples, seasonal specials and plenty of crowd-pleasers.

Worth-a-field-trip alert: Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton has opened Five Independent Souls: The Signers from New Jersey, a new exhibit on the Garden State’s five Declaration of Independence signers — Abraham Clark, John Hart, Francis Hopkinson, Richard Stockton and John Witherspoon.

More than 100 rare artifacts are on display, including a lock of John Hart’s hair, a George Washington letter, Witherspoon’s 1760 tall-case clock and one of the first American Bibles dedicated to readers instead of royalty.

The exhibit also looks beyond the patriotic polish, exploring the signers’ contradictions, including slavery, and the impact of independence on New Jersey’s Indigenous Lenni-Lenape communities. Morven is a fitting spot for it all: the museum was built for signer Richard Stockton and later occupied by British troops.

The exhibit runs Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., through Jan. 17, 2027.

Here’s a Jersey Shore stay with a little history baked in: the historic Officers Row homes at Fort Hancock on Sandy Hook are available as vacation rentals.

The bayfront duplex, once part of the former U.S. Army coastal defense post, has been renovated for overnight stays through Sandy Hook Rentals. Each side sleeps eight comfortably, or up to 10 with a pullout bed — with beaches, nature trails, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse and Manhattan skyline views nearby. Casual flex.

Fort Hancock helped protect the entrance to New York Harbor beginning in the late 1800s, stayed active through World War II, and became part of Gateway National Recreation Area after it was decommissioned in 1974.

Today, visitors can tour the historic site, explore the museum, check out preserved gun batteries and grab a bite at Mule Barn Tavern, a former mule barn turned popular restaurant.

Rates reportedly start at $435 a night in low season with a three-day minimum, and $575 a night for summer weekly stays. Check Sandy Hook Rentals for current dates, pricing and pet policies before packing the beach bag.

Cruise fans, file this under “worth planning ahead.”

In May 2028, all four Cunard ships — Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne — will gather together for the first time in the company’s history.

The big meet-up happens May 16, 2028, on the River Mersey in Liverpool, Cunard’s longtime spiritual home.

The celebration comes with extra ship-shape drama: Queen Mary 2 will make her first-ever transatlantic crossing directly from New York to Liverpool, Cunard’s first eastbound New York-to-Liverpool arrival in more than 60 years.

Liverpool is planning waterfront festivities, music and maritime events, and Cunard is expected to offer special “Four Queens Celebration” sailings. For ocean-liner lovers, this is the kind of travel moment that practically says: book the balcony. Learn more here.

GLP-1 for Arthritis: Can Weight Loss Drugs Treat Joint Pain? Emerging research suggests popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs – like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro – may ease arthritis and joint pain by triggering weight loss and reducing systemic inflammation. U.S. News & World Report, April 28.

3 Medical Routines That Older People May Not Need: Some screenings and treatments no longer make sense for patients as they age. Researchers have just added a few more to the list. The New York Times, May 2.

What Medicare Covers When You Travel in the US and Abroad: Medical emergencies can happen at any time. Knowing what Medicare coverage you have, anywhere in the world, can help you avoid a massive bill. Kiplinger, April 30.

What Happens to Your Social Security Benefits If You Get Divorced in Retirement?: Your marital status could have a major impact on your monthly payment. The Motley Fool, April 29.

Couch plans? Handled. This week’s lineup has star power, survival chaos, period drama glow-ups and — yes — an emotionally supportive octopus.

“Send Help” (Hulu – Thursday)
From Sam Raimi, this survival thriller strands Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien on a deserted island… and then things get weird. Power dynamics flip, sanity slips — you get the idea.

“Remarkably Bright Creatures” (Netflix – Friday)
Based on the bestselling novel, Sally Field stars as a widow who forms an unlikely bond with a giant Pacific octopus at an aquarium. Quiet, heartfelt, and probably the most charming thing you’ll watch all week.

“The Other Bennet Sister” (BritBox – Wednesday)
A fresh spin on Pride and Prejudice — this time, shy sister Mary (Ella Bruccoleri) gets her moment. Already a hit in the UK, and honestly? It’s about time.

“M.I.A.” (Peacock – Thursday)
From an Ozark co-creator, this crime drama follows a woman trying to escape her family’s drug empire… until revenge pulls her right back in. All nine episodes drop at once.

“The Terror: Devil in Silver” (AMC+ – Thursday)
Dan Stevens leads this creepy new chapter of The Terror — part psychological, part supernatural, all unsettling.

“Amadeus” (Starz – Friday)
A reimagined take on the classic rivalry between Mozart and Salieri, starring Will Sharpe and Paul Bettany. Expect drama, ego and very good wigs.

🎉 Happy 78th Birthday, Helen Y. Wishing you a wonderful week filled with laughter, love, and all your favorite things. Hope your celebration in Middletown is as special as you are — cheers to a fantastic year ahead! 🎉A few other celebrities sharing this May 6th birthday with Helen include: Rock legend Bob Seger, the voice behind classics like “Night Moves” and “Old Time Rock & Roll,” turns 81. Roma Downey, beloved as Monica on Touched by an Angel, is 66. Julianne Phillips, known for her role on Sisters and as Bruce Springsteen’s former wife, is 66. And yes, George Clooney — actor, director and longtime Hollywood charmer — turns 65.

💐We hope your Mother’s Day comes with good company, something delicious, and absolutely no dishes waiting in the sink.

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

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😎See you next week!

The Monmouth Senior Scoop team

Disclaimer: Event details can change faster than Mother’s Day brunch reservations disappear, so double-check details before heading out. And as always, nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice — just ideas to keep you entertained from your friendly local Scoop.😉