Monmouth Senior Scoop: Your Weekly Dose of Local Fun, News & Need-to-Know

👋Hey Monmouth County!

January may be chilly, but this week’s lineup is bringing serious heat—from candlelit concerts and frozen art to sweet-and-salty treats worth bundling up for. We’ve got your go-to list of where to go, what to eat, and how to make winter feel a little less... January-ish. Let’s dive in!

🧊 Frozen Art at the Shore – Ice carving returns to Long Branch
🎻 Bridgerton by Candlelight – Swoon-worthy strings in West Long Branch
🎭 Albee, Romance & Shakespeare – Three very different stage shows to catch
✊ MLK Day in Red Bank – Celebrate legacy, reflection & community
🧁 Tasty Treats – Salted caramel pretzel everything at Paris Baguette
🥚 Eggs Are Officially a Superfood (Again) – The latest science + healthy recipes

Up first…

Let’s talk savings and smarts. On Thursday, Jan.15 at 10 a.m., head to Room 2 & 3 at the Monmouth County Library Headquarters in Manalapan for an in-person info session that could help you put more money back in your pocket—and pick up a few new skills while you’re at it.

🎤 Presenter Neil Borenstein, from the NJ Division of Aging Services, will walk you through NJSave (for help with prescriptions, Medicare premiums, and more) and GetSetUp, a free platform offering online classes on everything from tech to travel tips.

It’s one hour, free, and filled with resources to help you live smarter—and maybe even have a little fun doing it.

🧓 Questions? Just show up or contact the library.

Got a stash of zinnia seeds from last summer? Or maybe you're dreaming of a tomato takeover in your backyard garden? Swap your extras and score something new at National Seed Swap Day, happening Saturday, Jan. 31 from 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center in Aberdeen.

🫘 Bring your veggie, flower, or native plant seeds (just no invasives, please), pop them in a labeled envelope or bag, and get ready to swap and mingle with fellow green thumbs. Photos of your plants = bonus points, but not required.

🎁 Plus, everyone goes home with native wildflower seeds—because even January deserves a little bloom energy.

More info: MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-872-2670. Happy planting! 🌻

Is it real? Is it AI? Is it secretly trying to sell you a toothbrush? If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually going on behind all that online content, this one’s for you.

Join Olga Polites of Media Literacy Now for a Media & Information Literacy Crash Course on Thursday, Jan. 15 from 1:30–2:30 p.m. at the Eastern Branch Library in Shrewsbury.

She’ll break down how digital info is created, shared, and monetized—and give you some sharp tools to spot the good, the bad, and the clickbaity. It’s fast-paced, engaging, and super relevant for anyone who spends even five minutes online.

📍 Adult Meeting Room, Eastern Branch – Shrewsbury
🖊️ Registration appreciated—but walk-ins welcome.

Stay savvy, Jersey.

Needles up, hearts open. Join Debbie Trainor, founder of Each Stitch Counts, for a feel-good afternoon of crafting for a cause on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 1:00–2:30 p.m. at the Marlboro Library.

You’ll be knitting dishtowels to donate to Freehold Area Open Door, a local food pantry—and every stitch helps. 🧼 Bonus kindness: they’re also collecting bottles of dish soap, if you’d like to bring one along!

What to know:

🧵 Registration is required — call 732-536-9406 to reserve your spot.

Come for the community, stay for the cozy vibes—and do some good while you're at it.

Need a reason to get out of the house and do some good? SCAN’s Winterlude is bringing the fun on Thursday, Jan. 15, 5–8 PM at the Church of the Precious Blood Parish Center in Monmouth Beach.

Expect:
🎶 Live Texas swing from Jet Weston & His Cocktail Cowboys
🍕 Catering by Tramonto’s (yup—the 2025 Jersey Shore Pizza Wars champ)
🍷 Beer, wine & soft drinks
💬 Good vibes, community networking & support for a great cause

It’s a casual night to connect, sip, and support SCAN’s mission to keep older adults active and connected across Monmouth & Ocean Counties.

🎟️ $25 gets you everything.
Tickets & info: scannj.org/winterlude or call 732‑542‑1326

New Year, new… what is that melted Santa candle doing here?

If your home is still cluttered by broken snow globes, unwanted gifts, and platters you only touch when you're moving them to get to the good stuff, it’s time for a winter cleanse. Here’s what to send packing this January:

🎄 Broken Holiday Décor
If it’s held together by hope, glitter glue, and a pine-scented prayer—it’s time. Chuck the cracked ornaments and the string lights that only blink when Mercury's in retrograde.

🎁 Unwanted Gifts
Yes, that singing fish wall plaque is technically new, but if it didn’t spark joy on Christmas morning, it’s not going to suddenly grow on you in March. Regift, donate, or let it swim away.

🍪 Leftover Holiday Food
That fruitcake isn't aging like wine. Say goodbye to mystery cookies in the tin and anything that’s been wrapped in foil since December 26. Your fridge deserves a fresh start too.

🍽️ Platters You Never Use
You know the one—giant reindeer-shaped dish that only fits three deviled eggs? If it’s just collecting dust (or guilt), donate it to someone who’ll actually put food on it.

Bottom line: if it’s chipped, weird, or “just in case,” set it free. Decluttering now makes space for more important things—like breathing room, or honestly, just knowing where your socks are.

👉 Get this done now, so you’re ready for our February decluttering tips. (Spoiler: That hall closet’s days are numbered.)

Whether you’re a seasoned partner or still fumbling through finesses, there’s a seat at the table for you somewhere in Monmouth County this week. Here's where to shuffle up and deal:

Wednesday, Jan. 14 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 West Long Branch Library
Intermediate-level bridge players, this one’s for you. It’s strictly first come, first dealt—so arrive early, grab your seat, and enjoy a friendly game in a relaxed setting.

Wednesday, Jan. 14 | 12:00 PM – 4:45 PM
📍 Monmouth County Library Headquarters, Manalapan
Thinking about learning bridge? Come by for an open-door learning session. Newbies welcome, no registration needed—just show up and let the cards fall where they may.

Thursday, Jan. 15 | 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury – Adult Meeting Room
Not quite ready for the big leagues? This cozy morning session is designed for beginners and intermediate players, with rotating tables, a collaborative vibe, and volunteers ready to help you learn the ropes. First come, first seated.

Thursday, Jan. 15 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Holmdel Branch
Bridge and Mahjongg fans unite! Join this player-led casual game day—no frills, no fuss, just cards on tables and friendly company. No registration, just show up and play. Limited seats, so get there early!

Want to double down with some Mahjongg too?
🀄 Holmdel hosts a separate Mah Jongg Club Thursday from 1–4 PM, and West Long Branch gets in the game on Tuesdays from 1–4 PM. Tiles provided—just bring your Mahjongg card and a little competitive spirit.

Paris Baguette is heating up winter with a limited-time lineup of Salted Caramel Pretzel goodies—and yes, they’re as dreamy as they sound. Think croissants, donuts, and tarts, all drizzled with salted caramel and sprinkled with crunchy pretzels.

🥐 Try the Salted Caramel Pretzel Croissant Crisp, King Cream Donut, or warm up with a Salted Caramel Pretzel Latte or Cold Brew (yes, they put pretzels on top). Available now through March 3—because winter cravings deserve a little flair.

📍 Find your nearest bakery at parisbaguette.com

Need a midweek pick-me-up? These library happenings offer a little something for the hands, the heart, and the creative spirit:

Wednesday, Jan. 14 | 1:00–3:00 PM
📍 Allentown Branch
Grab your needles or hook and join this casual drop-in session with fellow yarn lovers. Bring your own project and supplies—there’s no instruction, just good company, cozy vibes, and maybe a new crochet buddy or two.
☎️ Questions? Call 609-259-7565

Wednesday, Jan. 14 | 6:45–8:00 PM
📍 Online
If you’re navigating life after loss, join this monthly online support session led by facilitator Beth Stamp. It’s a safe space to share stories, emotions, and ideas for healing, from the comfort of home. No registration required.

Wednesday, Jan. 21 | 6:30–8:00 PM
📍 Howell Branch
Color us relaxed! Join this calm and creative evening of adult coloring, light refreshments, and chill vibes. Materials (including beautiful book-themed pages) will be provided—but feel free to bring your own projects too. Sponsored by the Friends of Howell Library.

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

Eight Strategies for Deciding When to File For Social Security: Applying at age 70 maximizes your monthly payout, but claiming early could provide advantages that can’t be quantified on a spreadsheet. Kiplinger, Jan. 10.

Some Older Adults May Qualify for a New $6,000 Tax Break: A new, temporary federal tax deduction of up to $6,000 is available annually for taxpayers age 65 and older from 2025 through 2028. Elder Law Answers, Jan. 5

The 10 Best Splurge Destinations for Retirees in 2026: Come for the luxury vacation. Retire for the lifestyle (if the vacay goes well). Kiplinger, Jan. 10

8 Things to do This Year to Lower Dementia Risk and Protect Your Brain: Here are a few steps to take that may help keep your memory and cognitive abilities in good shape as you age. The Washington Post, Jan. 7.

Mobility Exercises Are an Important Part of Fitness as we Age. Here Are Some Tips: For anyone who wants to stay active later in life, there has to be a deliberate process of maintaining that level of activity by doing mobility exercises. Associated Press, Jan. 7

Eggs have officially cracked the top of the charts again—thanks to the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which highlight eggs as a high-quality, nutrient-packed protein for every stage of life.

Whether you're feeding the grandkids, supporting healthy aging, or just trying to eat smarter in 2026, eggs deliver the goods: complete protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like choline (a brain booster especially important during aging).

💬 As NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya put it: "Eggs are a superfood."

🎯 Bottom line? Eggs are affordable, accessible, and officially recommended—again. You can feel good about putting them in your cart and on your plate.

👉 Want to make your eggs heart-smart? Check out these American Heart Association–approved dishes:
🍳 Heart-Healthy Egg Recipes

🧨 At Home at the Zoo
Jan 15–17 | Jersey Shore Arts Center, Ocean Grove
Edward Albee’s intense, razor-sharp two-act play lands in Ocean Grove, starring Emmy winner Christian Jules LeBlanc and Broadway’s Nancy Lemenager. Intimate, explosive, unforgettable.
🎟️ More info

🎻 Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on Strings
Jan 16 | 6 PM | Pollak Theater, West Long Branch
Dearest Reader, Lady Whistledown insists you attend. A swoony, candlelit concert of Bridgerton-inspired music awaits.
🎟️ More info

💘 Same Time, Next Year
Jan 17–25 | Algonquin Arts Theatre, Manasquan
A romantic comedy classic—two lovers, one weekend a year, and 25 years of laughter, change, and charm.
🎫More info

🌊 Winter Sea Glass Art Night
Jan 21 | 6–8 PM | Skinny Flowers Brewing Co., Oceanport
Create your own sea glass masterpiece with shells and local flair. One drink included.
🎨 Details here

🧊 Ice Carving Competition
Jan 17 | The Blue Wave at Pier Village, Long Branch
Watch the chillest artists in town turn massive ice blocks into frozen works of art—right by the ocean.
Details here

✊ Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration
Jan 19 | The Vogel, Red Bank
An uplifting afternoon of community reflection, music, and dialogue honoring Dr. King’s enduring impact.
Details here

New week, new reasons to ignore your to-do list and cue up the good stuff. Here’s what’s streaming from Jan. 12–18:

🎬 Affleck + Damon = Mayhem in Miami
The Rip (Netflix, Friday, Jan. 16)
Boston bros Ben Affleck and Matt Damon reunite in this gritty action flick directed by Joe Carnahan. A Miami PD team stumbles on a fortune in a busted stash house—and the trust starts to unravel. Also starring Steven Yeun and Kyle Chandler. 💰🌴

🎭 Grief Gets Weird
Twinless (Hulu, Friday, Jan. 16)
This Sundance standout stars James Sweeney and Dylan O’Brien as strangers who meet at a bereavement group for twins. What follows is a tender, unexpected take on grief that refuses to follow a straight line.

🍸 Bond, All 26 of Him
Every single 007 movie (yep, all 26) drops on Netflix this Thursday to tide you over while we wait for the next chapter of shaken-not-stirred chaos. Daniel Craig, Sean Connery, Roger Moore — take your pick.

🌍 Pole to Pole with Will Smith
(Disney+ & Hulu, Tuesday)
After five years, Will Smith’s epic Nat Geo docuseries is finally here. Think jungles, glaciers, and one very wind-chapped movie star. Seven episodes, seven continents.

🔥 “Tell Me Lies” – Season 3
(Hulu, Tuesday)
Toxic relationships? Time jumps? Trouble in college and adulthood? Grace Van Patten and Jackson White return for another season of chaotic almost-love in this buzzy Hulu drama.

🚄 “Hijack” Season 2
(Apple TV, Wednesday)
Idris Elba returns—and this time, the hostage situation is on a train. Scarred but still smooth, he's forced into another high-stakes showdown. Buckle up.

🕵️‍♀️ Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials
(Netflix, Thursday)
Helena Bonham Carter, Martin Freeman, and a suspiciously quiet countryside mansion. This three-part mystery adaptation of Christie’s 1929 novel brings high tea and higher tension.

🕶️ “Ponies” – Cold War, Hot Mess
(Peacock, Thursday)
Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson play 1970s Soviet housewives who discover their late husbands were CIA agents—and are suddenly very much not housewives anymore.

🎭 As You Like It at Two River Theater
Jan 17–25 | Red Bank
Shakespeare goes teen-powered in this joyful, high-energy retelling of As You Like It. Performed and supported backstage by local high school students, this Forest of Arden is full of disguises, music, love, and laughs—perfect for young theatergoers and Bard-curious families.
🌲 More info

Let’s kick things off with a big Monmouth County shoutout to Susan R. of Marlboro, turning a fabulous 84 this week! 🎉 Wishing you a year full of joy, good health, and maybe a slice (or two) of birthday cake.A few other notable names celebrating with Susan this week include:

Whether you're cracking eggs for something heart-healthy or sneaking in a pretzel-laced latte, we fully support your culinary decisions. Keep it cozy, keep it local, and we’ll see you next week.

🍰 Stay well-fed and well-read,
—The Monmouth Senior Scoop team

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

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📬 Just so you know...
We’re here to inform and entertain, not to diagnose, treat, or manage your sock drawer. This newsletter is for general information and good vibes only—not medical, legal, or financial advice. Always check with a pro before making big decisions.