👋Hey, Ocean friends!

November is picking up speed, but there’s still time to enjoy it. Glad you’re here—let’s catch up on what’s happening around Ocean County!

In this issue:

📰 Prime Time News — Health headlines and retirement reads
🎟️ Weekend Plans — Mulled wine, craft fairs and a musical salute
📚 Beyond the Books — Library programs worth checking out
📺 TV Time — Christmas comes calling on Hallmark

Up first…

A little extra thanks this Veterans Day. From a meal on the house to a free haircut, businesses are finding ways to thank those who served. If you’re a veteran or have one in the family, take a peek at News 12 New Jersey’s roundup of Veterans Day deals and discounts before heading out.

A warm mug, a little holiday shopping and music with a heartfelt thank-you—there’s plenty worth leaving the house for this week.

🍷 Something warm for your holiday hosting repertoire: Learn to make mulled wine at LBI National Golf & Resort in Little Egg Harbor Friday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. The guided class includes a three-course dinner at The Wickie Room, plus a take-home mulled wine kit and recipe card. Your next gathering could smell very festive. Space is limited; check the link for pricing and reservations.

🐦 An early start with the locals: Join a Bird Walk at Cloverdale Farm County Park, Barnegat, Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9–10:30 a.m. Birders of all levels are welcome for a roughly one-mile walk exploring the park’s changing bird population. Bring binoculars, wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Free; canceled in inclement weather. Park information →

🛍️ Eighty-plus chances to find something good: The Saint Peter School PTA’s 48th Annual Craft Fair returns to Point Pleasant Beach Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Browse more than 80 crafters, plus food, music, raffles and a cash 50/50. Admission and parking are free. A useful stop for anyone whose gift list still consists mostly of names.

🎁 Small-town shopping, handmade finds: The Lakehurst Borough Historical Society Craft Fair runs Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in Lakehurst. Browse homemade crafts and gifts, with food available to buy. Wheelchair accessible. More information →

🍂 Thankful, merry and ahead of the shopping rush: The Thankful and Merry Market brings local vendors and gift finds to East Dover Baptist Church, Toms River, Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Shop small and perhaps cross a few names off before Thanksgiving.

🇺🇸 Shopping that gives back: Browse local vendors and handmade items at Lakeshore Club House, Whiting, Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Refreshments will be available, with proceeds from table fees and refreshments donated to veterans.

🎨 Holiday shopping with an artsy streak: The LBIF Holiday Market Festival opens Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences, Long Beach Township. The market continues through Dec. 13—check the schedule before making a later visit.

🚜 A little farm time before the holiday hustle: Head to Silverton Farms, Toms River, Saturday, Nov. 14, from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. for food, music, local vendors, a name-your-price flea market and antique farm equipment, plus apple cider and ice cream making. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in; the grandkids should find plenty to investigate. Entry is a $10 donation per person; food is sold separately. More information from Save Barnegat Bay →

🎶 A Saturday-night salute: Albert Music Hall in Waretown honors veterans Saturday, Nov. 14, with a 6:30 p.m. ceremony featuring the National Anthem, a color guard and Taps. Music begins at 7 p.m., with folk, country, old-time favorites and patriotic songs from Pine Barren Ramblers, Granny & The Boys, Easy As Pie, and Captain Dave & High Tide. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; admission is $6 for adults and $1 for children under 12. Cash only. Food is available to buy, parking is free and the hall is wheelchair accessible.

A good story, a little company and help with life’s practical matters—your Ocean County library card keeps good company this week.

One woman, a radio and a lifeline for worried families: Meet Waves of Hope author Ronald Edward Negra at the Brick Branch Saturday, Nov. 14, at 11 a.m. His mother, Agnes, monitored wartime broadcasts from her Nutley home and wrote to families of captured American service members—sometimes delivering their first news that a loved one was alive. Signed books will be available to buy. Free; registration required. Register →

The Christmas everyone had waited for: Author Matthew R. Litt visits the LBI Branch, Surf City, Saturday, Nov. 14, at 2 p.m. to share stories from Christmas 1945: The Story of the Greatest Celebration in American History. After years of war, Americans finally had something extraordinary to celebrate. Free; registration required. Details →

Four paws and a fresh start: The documentary To Be of Service follows veterans with PTSD paired with service dogs. Catch it at the Little Egg Harbor Branch Saturday, Nov. 14, from 2–3:30 p.m. Registration required.

Veterans, bring your questions: A VA Benefits Information & Resource Table comes to the Lacey Branch, Forked River, Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m.–noon. A state veterans service officer will help veterans and families learn about benefits, programs and available assistance. Free; no registration needed. Details →

Stitches of gratitude: Stop by the Quilts of Valor artist reception at the Little Egg Harbor Branch Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 6–8 p.m. to see November’s gallery display and meet the artists.

Your budget could use a little backup: AARP presents Public Benefits for Older Adults at the Jackson Branch Monday, Nov. 16, at 6:30 p.m. Learn about New Jersey programs that may help with groceries, housing, utilities and medical expenses—including eligibility and how to apply. Free; registration required. Details →

County services, closer to home: The County Connections Mobile Unit visits the Lacey Branch Thursday, Nov. 12, from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., offering onsite county clerk services for county residents.

Grocery help starts with a conversation: Visit the NJ SNAP Navigator Information Table at the Brick Branch Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 1–3 p.m. to ask questions about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

When a suspicious message becomes a real problem: Spams, Scams & Fraud: Let’s Not Be a Victim, Part 2 offers a step-by-step look at what to do if your information is compromised. Jackson Branch, Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2:30–4:30 p.m. Registration required.

Make peace with your technology: Bring questions to Drop-In Tech Hour at the Lakewood Branch Thursday, Nov. 12, from 6–7 p.m., with no appointment needed. Or reserve a time for Tech Help Tuesday at the Stafford Branch Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 2–4 p.m. by calling its reference desk.

A little heart-to-heart: The Ocean County Health Department presents Diabetes and Heart Health at the Waretown Branch Friday, Nov. 13, from 3–4:30 p.m. Learn about risk factors, prevention and healthy habits. Free; registration required.

A quieter hour—or a gentle stretch: Try Mindfulness Meditation at the Jackson Branch Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Chair yoga with Linda Higley meets at the Point Pleasant Borough Branch Saturday, Nov. 14, from 11 a.m.–noon, and the Lacey Branch Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 2–3 p.m. Register; yoga participants must sign a waiver.

Health homework before the holiday rush: On Tuesday, Nov. 17, the Jackson Branch hosts Healthy Aging, covering typical memory changes, dementia and Alzheimer’s, 10–11 a.m.; the Little Egg Harbor Branch offers Sweet Success: Navigating Diabetes During the Holidays, 11 a.m.–noon. Register for either program. Flu vaccinations are also offered at the Point Pleasant Borough Branch 10 a.m.–noon; check the listing for requirements.

Caregivers deserve care, too: On Monday, Nov. 16, The Recharge meets at the Manchester Branch, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m., for caregivers and loved ones experiencing memory loss. A Caregiver Support Group meets at the Stafford Branch, noon–2 p.m.; register at 609-978-4728. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, Self-Care for the Caregiver comes to Brick, 2:30–3:30 p.m., and Manchester, 6–7 p.m.. Register for either self-care session.

More support, close by: A Parkinson’s Speech Therapy Group meets at the Stafford Branch Thursday, Nov. 12, from 1–2 p.m., helping people with Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders improve communication. Stafford also hosts a drop-in Huntington’s Support Group Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 6:30–8 p.m., welcoming patients, caregivers, family and friends.

Winter will be here soon enough: Pick up practical cold-weather safety and wellness tips at Weathering Winter, Manchester Branch, Tuesday, Nov. 17, from 2–3 p.m. Registration required.

Books and bling—two perfectly respectable reasons to browse: The Toms River Branch holds its Book & Bling Sale Friday, Nov. 13, 1:15–4:30 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Find books, DVDs, CDs, jewelry and accessories. The Lacey Branch hosts its jewelry and accessory sale Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Both sales are cash only and support their libraries. For another bargain, the LBI book sale offers four books for $1 Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2–4 p.m.

Your next move: Play Mah Jongg at Stafford Friday, Nov. 13, 1:30–4 p.m.—bring current-year cards and game sets—or Upper Shores Monday, Nov. 16, noon–3 p.m.. Waretown welcomes beginners Wednesday, Nov. 18, noon–4 p.m.

Bring the project you keep meaning to finish: Join EWE Knit and Crochet in Barnegat Thursday, Nov. 12, 1–3 p.m., or Hooked on Yarn in Manchester 2–4 p.m. Beginners can try Knitting 101 in Toms River Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6:30–7:30 p.m.; registration required. Prefer pencils to yarn? Drop into Coffee and Coloring in Tuckerton Thursday, Nov. 12, 3–4:30 p.m. The coffee comes with fewer instructions.

Make Monday a movie day: Catch The Sheep Detectives at the Barnegat Branch Monday, Nov. 16, from 1–3 p.m., or One for the Money at the LBI Branch from 1:30–3:30 p.m. Register for the LBI screening.

Links to the latest news on aging.

Shorter Days and Dark Afternoons Can Trigger Depression. Here’s How to Fight Back: As winter approaches and daylight hours grow shorter, people prone to seasonal depression can feel it in their bodies and brains. Associated Press, Nov. 4.

Inpatient Rehab, Nursing Facility or Home? How To Choose the Right Rehab After A Hospital Stay: A broken hip, a stroke or major surgery can leave you or someone you love needing weeks of therapy to walk, dress or speak again. HealthDay News, Nov. 3.

5 Reasons You Should Take Social Security At 62 (and 5 Reasons You Should Wait): There are valid reasons to take Social Security early at age 62, though many experts say it's best to wait until your full retirement age. Kiplinger, Nov. 3.

A new arrival in the sunscreen aisle: For the first time in more than 25 years, Americans have a new sunscreen ingredient to choose from. The FDA approved bemotrizinol, also called BEMT, in June, and the first products containing it are reaching U.S. shelves, including formulas from Neutrogena. The ingredient has long been used in Europe and elsewhere. Associated Press.

🌙 It’s a wonderful bite: Jimmy Stewart famously offered to lasso the moon. MoonPie is making it a little easier to bring home. The nostalgic marshmallow-and-graham-cracker treat has released a limited-edition “Lasso the Moon” box of 12 chocolate MoonPies tied to Jimmy, the new biopic about the actor and World War II veteran. A portion of sales benefits the USO, which has sent MoonPies to service members since World War II. Find them at lassothemoonpie.com while supplies last. A sweet gift for the classic-movie fan on your list—assuming all 12 survive the trip.

🍰 Assigned dessert? Consider this your shortcut: Paris Baguette’s Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving cake collection is available through Nov. 29, with Caramel Apple Streusel Trifle, Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake, Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing and Caramel Apple Streusel Cheesecake. Think cinnamon apples, pumpkin spice cream, buttery streusel and caramel drizzle—with no mixing bowls to wash. The carrot cake also comes by the slice, should you feel a little research is in order!

🌊 Princess turns Black Friday blue: Princess Cruises’ Blue Friday sale runs Nov. 6–Dec. 7, advertising up to 50% off cruise fares, up to $400 in instant savings and free cruise fares for third and fourth guests on select voyages. Taxes and fees still apply. Destinations include Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean and beyond. Among the featured sailings: a seven-day Inside Passage cruise round-trip from Seattle aboard Star Princess, departing May 9, 2027, and a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Rome to Athens aboard Sun Princess, departing Aug. 22, 2027.

⚓ Norwegian joins the holiday sale fleet: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Black Friday sale advertises 50% off all cruises, plus Free at Sea, with destinations ranging from Alaska and Europe to the Caribbean and Bahamas. The package offers perks such as an open bar, specialty dining, shore-excursion credits and Wi-Fi, subject to its terms. Limited-time bonuses on select sailings and staterooms include free prepaid gratuities or up to $1,000 off. Select sailings also offer kids-sail-free promotions—worth a look if a family vacation is on your wish list.

🏝️ Planning ahead has its sunny side: Royal Caribbean’s summer 2028 lineup covers April–October, with Caribbean and Mexico vacations aboard 11 ships departing from Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the Northeast—worth a look if you’re hoping to skip the flight. Highlights include four Icon Class ships sailing from Florida and Texas and a refreshed Symphony of the Seas sailing from Miami. Depending on the itinerary, stops include Cozumel, Grand Turk, St. Croix and the line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

And for those who prefer to vacation on land…

🌴 A Caribbean escape for the grown-up crowd: Club Med St. Croix is now taking reservations for its planned Nov. 12, 2027, opening on Davis Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The 150-suite, all-inclusive resort welcomes guests ages 12 and older, making it an option for a couples’ getaway or a trip with the older grandchildren. Early booking rates start at $365 per person, per night. Rainforest-covered hills, Caribbean water and someone else handling dinner? That’s a promising forecast.

See what’s new on TV this week.

📸 Behind the famous photographs: Avedon arrives on Netflix Wednesday, Nov. 11. Director Ron Howard explores photographer Richard Avedon’s life and influence through personal archives, behind-the-scenes footage and interviews. A pick for anyone who remembers when a magazine cover could stop you in your tracks.

👑 More trouble at the palace: The Empress, Season 3 premieres on Netflix Thursday, Nov. 12. The German-language period drama returns with Empress Elisabeth facing fresh strains on her marriage and the empire. For viewers who like their royal intrigue with elaborate wardrobes.

🤝 A determined woman changes history: Being Heumann streams on Apple TV Friday, Nov. 13. Ruth Madeley and Mark Ruffalo star in this fact-based drama about disability rights activist Judy Heumann and the 1977 occupation of a San Francisco federal building.

🔐 A heist with three ticking clocks: 12 12 12 debuts on Apple TV Friday, Nov. 13, starring Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan as an FBI agent and a career criminal. The thriller follows the planning, execution and aftermath of a Zurich bank-vault robbery.

🤠 An old crush comes home for Christmas: My Christmas Cowboy premieres on Hallmark Channel Friday, Nov. 13, at 8 p.m. Amy Acker and Luke Macfarlane play former college acquaintances reunited in Texas, where a holiday ranch event gives them another chance. A ranch, an old crush AND Christmas lights? Hallmark knows its audience!

🎄 Christmas Eve, on repeat: The Nights Before Christmas premieres on Hallmark Channel Saturday, Nov. 14, at 8 p.m. Tyler Hynes plays a man reliving Christmas Eve in New York, falling for a journalist played by Laci J Mailey who forgets him with every reset. He’s found the one. Now he just needs her to remember that!

Happy 74th birthday to Linda T. of Whiting, celebrating this week! Wishing you a year filled with happy surprises, favorite people and plans worth looking forward to. A few other celebrities celebrating birthdays this week include:

Nov. 10: Actor-comedian Sinbad turns 70, Mackenzie Phillips of One Day at a Time is 67, and Downton Abbey’s Hugh Bonneville is 63. Nov. 11: Singer Marshall Crenshaw turns 73, actor Stanley Tucci is 66, Demi Moore is 64, Calista Flockhart is 62. Nov. 12: Sportscaster Al Michaels turns 82, and singer-songwriter Neil Young is 81.

Here’s to a good week ahead—and to our veterans, a heartfelt thank-you for your service and sacrifice. We’re grateful for you, this Veterans Day and always. 🇺🇸

See you next week,

😉The Ocean Senior Scoop team

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Disclaimer: We bring the scoop on local events, not medical, legal or financial advice—leave those questions to the pros. Plans change, so double-check details before you go!