Ocean County News & Fun for Seniors: Crafts, Cruises & Cape May Charm

👋Hey Ocean County

February’s here and we’re kicking off the month with big wins for local hospitals, a budget boost for senior services, and some sweet Valentine projects to make with the grandkids. Plus: jazzy concerts, local mysteries, a dreamy Cape May getaway, and a heads-up about your water bill. Bundle up, scroll down, and get that calendar ready — this week’s Ocean Senior Scoop is stacked!

🧓 Big Boost for Seniors: $8M+ Committed for Ocean County Programs
🚱 Water Rate Hike? Commissioners Say “Not So Fast”
🎥 What to Watch: Puppybowl, Suburban Suspense & a Queen of Chess
🏥 Local Hospitals Make the National “Best Of” List
🐴 Celebrate Lunar New Year at P.F. Chang’s
❄️ Winter Weekend in Cape May: Eat, Shop, Sip & Soak It All In
📚 Beyond the Books: Free Health Screenings, Speed Friending & Craft Clubs
🍬 Grandkid Corner: Make Candy Heart Bark (No Oven Needed!)

Up first…

Ocean County just made a major move to support its growing senior population — and it’s all about keeping older adults safe, connected, and thriving at home.

At its Jan. 21 meeting, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners approved 24 contracts totaling more than $8 million to fund 51 essential programs for seniors and their caregivers in 2026. The initiative, called the Area Plan, will provide an impressive 560,000+ units of service to over 30,000 older adults and caregivers across the county.

“We’re committed to making sure our seniors are supported, respected, and able to age with dignity,” said Commissioner Robert Arace, liaison to the Ocean County Office of Senior Services.

💡 What’s included?

“These programs are about independence, health, and quality of life,” Arace added. “Whether it’s a wellness check, a hot meal, or help maintaining a safe home, we’re focused on giving our seniors the tools they need to age confidently in their communities.”

💬 To learn more or connect with services, visit:
🌐 Ocean County Office of Senior Services

Heads up, Ocean County residents: your water bill could be going up — and local officials aren’t happy about it.

New Jersey American Water is asking the state for permission to raise household water and wastewater rates by an average of $18 per month, citing $1.4 billion in system upgrades across the state. But Ocean County Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen says the plan unfairly burdens seniors, veterans, and working-class families already dealing with rising costs.

“Even modest increases can create real financial strain,” Ellenbogen said. “Residents on fixed incomes shouldn’t be treated like a blank check.”

While county officials agree that maintaining safe water infrastructure is important, they’re calling for greater transparency and accountability — and urging state regulators to consider the impact on vulnerable populations before approving any hikes.

Ocean County’s Board of Commissioners is officially opposing the proposal and plans to advocate for residents throughout the review process.

🗣️ “We support responsible investment,” Ellenbogen said, “but not at the expense of those who can least afford it.”

Stay tuned — we’ll keep you updated as this unfolds.

Feeling couch-bound? We've got your weekly binge guide—no remote battles necessary.

🎢 “Splitsville” (Hulu, Thurs)
Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona headline this screwball-ish comedy from the creators of The Climb. It’s divorce, open relationships, and emotional chaos—with elaborately choreographed roller coaster scenes and a throwback flair. Critics loved it. You might too.

🏛️ “Ella McCay” (Hulu, Thurs)
Emma Mackey (Sex Education) plays a rising political star who unexpectedly takes the reins from her boss. Reviews were...not kind (“disjointed” was the word), but Mackey’s performance may save the day.

♟️ “Queen of Chess” (Netflix, Thurs)
Fresh from Sundance, this new doc from Rory Kennedy tells the real-life story of Judit Polgár—the Hungarian chess prodigy who dared to challenge Garry Kasparov. Smart, fierce, inspiring.

⚖️ “The Lincoln Lawyer” Season 4 (Netflix, Thurs)
Defense attorney Mickey Haller is used to defending others—until he’s the one on trial. This season promises even more legal drama, slick L.A. style, and moral gray areas.

🐶 “Puppy Bowl XXII” + “Great American Rescue Bowl” (Sun, Feb. 8)
Clear the schedule: it's fluffball football time. Puppy Bowl airs everywhere (Animal Planet, HBO Max, etc.). Want more tail-wagging goodness? Tune into Great American Rescue Bowl for a dog and cat adoption fest.

🏡 “The ’Burbs” (2026 reboot) (Peacock, Sun)
Keke Palmer reimagines the 1989 Tom Hanks dark comedy with an eight-episode binge-drop. Moving to suburbia should’ve been peaceful... until one neighbor starts acting way too suspicious.

Big kudos to several of our local hospitals — they’ve just made the prestigious Healthgrades 2026 America’s Best Hospitals list, placing them among the top-performing medical centers in the nation for overall clinical excellence.

🌟 Ocean University Medical Center (Brick)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025)
Also recognized for excellence in gastrointestinal care and more.

🌟 Jersey Shore University Medical Center (Neptune)
🏅 America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025)
Plus accolades for cardiac surgery and a range of specialties.

🌟 Riverview Medical Center (Red Bank)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026, 2025, 2024)
Honored for critical care and additional high-performing departments.

🌟 Bayshore Medical Center (Holmdel)
🏅 America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2026)

👏 Congrats to the dedicated teams behind these honors — and a heartfelt thanks for keeping our community in such capable hands. Curious about the full rankings or want to check out more award winners? Visit healthgrades.com.

Welcome the Year of the Horse in delicious style! Now through Feb. 24, P.F. Chang’s is serving up a limited-time Lunar New Year menu packed with symbolic dishes and festive cocktails to honor the holiday.

🥢 Highlights include:

🎁 Every guest also receives a Red Envelope during the celebration — with surprise offers like free apps, desserts, sushi rolls, or BOGO entrées for a future visit.

🧧 Reserve your table and join in the flavor-packed festivities at pfchangs.com.

Skip the crowds, score the views, and fall in love with this seaside stunner all over again—because Cape May in winter is pure magic (and bonus: parking is free!).

🏨 Where to Stay
Want to feel like you’re in your own little snow globe by the sea? Congress Hall has all the charm. Dubbed America’s First Seaside Resort, it offers sweeping Atlantic views and an elegant, historic vibe. Book during its Winter Wonderland celebration (Nov. 24 through the new year) for twinkly lights, festive events, and fireside coziness.

For something more intimate, try Rhythm of the Sea, Cape May’s only oceanfront B&B. Housed in a romantic 1912 Craftsman-style home, it's perfect for honeymoons or low-key Valentine’s escapes. Don’t miss their special Valentine’s Weekend Package.

More cozy options? The Mainstay Inn offers regally decorated rooms and a beachside suite with a fireplace. Or curl up with a good book at The Mason Cottage, a charming downtown inn blending 1871 Victorian elegance with modern comfort. Pro tip: the parlor fireplace is the ultimate reading nook.

🍳 Where to Eat
Start your day at The Mad Batter, the granddaddy of Cape May dining, located on historic Jackson Street. Whether you're team chorizo and eggs or Mad Batter Benedict, it’s the kind of spot you'll want to hit for every meal (they do lunch and dinner too—plus live music!).

Next, warm up by the fire at The Blue Pig Tavern, tucked into the corner of Congress Hall. Their cozy ambiance and farm-to-table dishes—featuring produce and eggs from their own farm—make it a can’t-miss. Award-winning and always welcoming.

Seafood lovers, say hello to The Lobster House with five harbor-view dining rooms and a top-tier menu. Looking for something totally different? Pull into Exit Zero Filling Station, a quirky, converted gas station serving up global flavors (Indian, Thai, burgers galore!) and plenty of photo-worthy fun. Yes, you can eat in a restored Chevy truck.

🛍️ What to Do
Cape May = shopping heaven. Don’t miss the award-winning West End Garage, filled with fashion finds, vintage gems, local art, and home decor. Over at Washington Street Mall, you’ve got three blocks of boutiques, cafes, fine dining, and more.

🍷 Sip & Stroll
Raise a glass at Cape May Brewing Co., home to one of the state’s largest tasting rooms. Take a self-guided tour and stock up on beer-to-go at the Brewtique. Or unwind at Cape May Winery & Vineyard, where daily tapas and educational wine tastings pair perfectly with coastal views.

🕯️ Explore the History
Two must-visits: the 18-room Emlen Physick Estate, a perfectly preserved Victorian mansion, and the Harriet Tubman Museum, which honors Tubman’s life and legacy—especially her time in Cape May aiding the Underground Railroad. Be sure to book ahead.

🦆 Relax & Reconnect
Make time for a spa afternoon at Cape May Day Spa, or bundle up for some peaceful winter birdwatching at South Cape May Meadows. Keep an eye out for northern pintails, teal, shovelers, and majestic harriers soaring the marshes.

❄️ Whether you're rekindling romance, toasting with friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy weekend escape, Cape May inn winter still brings the charm—no beach umbrellas required.

Lots happening at the Ocean County Library this week — even with the Point Pleasant Borough Branch temporarily closed (more details below). There’s history, wellness, social fun, and even free health screenings!

The Point Pleasant Borough Branch is closed for building maintenance after water damage was found.
📌 Your holds will be transferred to the Point Pleasant Beach Branch (710 McLean Ave.) starting Wed., Jan. 28 — or call 732‑349‑6200 to send them to a different branch.
📚 The book drop is still open for returns, and due dates for Chromebooks/hotspots/Launchpads will be adjusted. All digital resources remain available 24/7 at theoceancountylibrary.org.

📅 Fri., Feb. 13 · 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Get free checks on blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, BMI, and stroke risk with a registered nurse — no fasting or registration needed.
📍 Brick Branch • 732‑477‑4513

AARP Tax‑Aide Program
📅 Thu., Feb. 5 · 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Free tax help at the Jackson Branch (appointments required). Bring prior returns, ID, SSN/ITIN & docs.
📍 Jackson • 732‑440‑9356

Shore Memory Café
📅 Thu., Feb. 5 · 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Supportive social time for those with early memory loss and caregivers.
📍 Manchester Branch (Walk‑ins welcome; call 800‑272‑3900)

Caregiver Support Group
📅 Thu., Feb. 5 · 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Barnegat Branch • Tips, tools & support

Speed Friending for Seniors
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Jackson Branch • Quick chats & light refreshments

Coloring for Adults
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Barnegat Branch • Calm coloring with friends

Winter Olympics Puzzle Packs
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Long Beach Island Branch • Brain teasers while supplies last

Are You Feeling Blue?
📅 Wed., Feb. 11 · 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Upper Shores Branch • Stress, coping skills & relaxation

Holocaust History Guest Speaker
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 1:00–3:00 p.m.
Lakewood Branch • Stories of women who rescued children during WWII

Love Songs with Dale & Amy
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Little Egg Harbor Branch • Valentine‑ready melodies

The Underground Railroad in NJ
📅 Fri., Feb. 6 · 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Plumsted Branch • Local Black history presentation

Community Crafters
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Jackson Makerspace • Bring your own projects or craft for charity

Mahjongg Mondays
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Upper Shores Branch • Cards and conversation

Support Group for Caregivers
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 12:00–2:00 p.m.
Stafford Branch • Partnering with Hackensack Meridian Health

Friends of the Waretown Library Meeting
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 1:30–3:00 p.m.
Library support & volunteer opportunities

Computer Mouse Basics
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Toms River Branch • Perfect for beginners

Cookbook Club: Trejo’s Tacos
📅 Mon., Feb. 9 · 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Island Heights Branch • Bring a dish from the featured cookbook

Drop‑In Tech Hour
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Lakewood Branch • Bring your device questions

Speed Friending (Lacey)
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 10:30–11:30 a.m.
Lacey Branch • Refreshments + quick chats

Mind, Body, Healthy New You
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Little Egg Harbor Branch • Health tips & motivation

AI & Disinformation (AARP)
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Plumsted Branch • Know what’s real online

Loom Knit Baby Hats (12+)
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Island Heights • Knit hats for donation (volunteer hours available)

Mary Fields: Trailblazing Stagecoach Driver
📅 Tue., Feb. 10 · 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Jackson Branch • “Stagecoach Mary” brings history to life

Our Revolution (Living Voices)
📅 Wed., Feb. 11 · 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Manchester Branch • Revolutionary War from a Black colonist’s view

Love Songs on the Piano
📅 Wed., Feb. 11 · 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Upper Shores Branch • Sit back & enjoy

A Pinelands Road Trip
📅 Wed., Feb. 11 · 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Berkeley Branch • Virtual tour of historic sites & nature

Adult Crocheting Club
📅 Wed., Feb. 11 · 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Toms River Branch • Bring your project and meet new friends

📌 Tip: Always double‑check times and registration details on theoceancountylibrary.org before heading out.

Heads up, jet-setters! Breeze Airways just dropped exciting news: three new routes are taking off from Atlantic City International Airport this spring — and fares start at just $39 one way.

🌴 New Nonstop Destinations:

Whether you’re craving Southern charm, college town vibes, or Florida sunshine, these new routes offer easy escapes from the Jersey Shore without the hassle of bigger airports.

🛩️ Breeze’s new Airbus A220-300 fleet comes with free family seating, onboard WiFi, no change/cancel fees, and preferred seat options. Plus, group fares make it simple to plan a trip with the whole crew.

🎟️ Book now at flybreeze.com — and let your spring travel plans take flight.

Restrictions apply. But the good news? These fares are real.

A no-bake treat that’s as easy as it is adorable.

You’ll need:

Directions:

💌 Wrap it in little bags with a ribbon for the grandkids to give to teachers, neighbors, or save for snack time.

Let’s kick things off with a hometown shoutout to Peter S. of Bay Head, celebrating a fantastic 88th birthday this week! Wishing you a year full of good health, great memories, and plenty of reasons to smile. 🥳

Now let’s light the celebrity candles…

🎸 Feb. 3: Guitar legend Dave Davies of The Kinks turns 79 — still rocking all day and all of the night. Meanwhile, Morgan Fairchild, queen of glam and drama, celebrates 76 in style.

📺 Feb. 5: It’s a full cast reunion of birthday greats: David Selby (Dark Shadows, Falcon Crest) turns 85, and multitalented funnyman Christopher Guest joins Barbara Hershey at 78. Also on the birthday call sheet: Jennifer Jason Leigh turns 64, and the always-brilliant Laura Linney is 62.

🎤 Feb. 6: Hollywood bombshell Mamie Van Doren is 95 and still stealing the spotlight, while news icon Tom Brokaw turns 86 — that’s a lot of headlines. Also blowing out candles: teen idol Fabian, now 83 and forever cool.

🤠 Feb. 7: It’s a big day for stage and screen — James Spader hits 66, country superstar Garth Brooks celebrates 64, and Bon Jovi’s own David Bryan is also 64. Talk about a legendary lineup.

🎂 Got a local birthday worth cheering? Send it our way — we love spotlighting hometown stars right alongside the Hollywood ones!

Whether you’re crafting valentines, planning your next weekend escape, or popping into the library for history talks and friendship circles, we hope your week is warm, wonderful, and full of heart.

See you next Friday,
💙 The Ocean 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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📝 Newsletter Disclaimer:
We’re here to inform, inspire, and sprinkle a little fun into your day — but nothing in this newsletter should be mistaken for medical, legal, or financial advice (even if it sounds smart). Always check event details before heading out, and consult the pros when it comes to your health, taxes, or anything that might land you in hot water. We’re just the friendly neighbor with the good snacks and better suggestions.