🎷Jazz, Judy & July Fun — Monmouth Seniors, This Week’s for You!

It’s Wednesday, New Jersey!

🎷 Tap Those Toes, Jersey Friends!
The rhythm of summer is in full swing—and so is the forecast! With sunny skies and warm breezes on deck this week, it’s the perfect time to dance your way through all the fun Monmouth County has to offer. From jazz in Bradley Beach to a trip down the Yellow Brick Road in Manasquan, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the beat.

🎭 Featured Event: The Wizard of Oz hits the stage at Algonquin Arts Theatre this weekend! Grab the grandkids—or your inner child—and enjoy a great show!

💬 Quote of the Week:
"Life is a lot like jazz… it’s best when you improvise." – George Gershwin

Scroll down for this week’s lineup of events, and don’t forget your lawn chair (or ruby slippers)!

👀What’s on tap today

• What’s in your beach bag? Check out some local eats worth packing.

• Maybe it’s not just aging. Maybe it’s anemia.

• 5 easy ways to use AI (artificial intelligence).

Up first…

🎡 50 Years of Fun! Monmouth County Fair Returns Today

The scent of cotton candy, the thrill of the rides, the cheers of the crowd—it’s time for the 50th Annual Monmouth County Fair, happening July 23–27 at the East Freehold Showgrounds. This beloved summer tradition brings 5 full days of family fun:

🎆 Don’t miss opening night fireworks (weather permitting)!
🤼‍♂️ New this year: DAWG Pro Wrestling, plus Andrew’s Big Show, Wacky Quacky Duck Derbies, and Fam Jam Dance Parties.
🎪 Fan favorites return: Bwana Jim’s Wildlife Show, Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy, Mutts Gone Nuts & Tommie Turvey’s stunt animals.
🎶 Live music every night! Yasgur’s Farm (Wed), Mission Dance (Thurs), Nicole Atkins (Fri), Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John (Sat), and more.
🎢 Rides galore for the grandkids: classics like the Ferris wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl meet high-flyers like the Super Himalaya and Zero Gravity.

🌻 Step into the Home & Garden Tent for baked goods, flowers, crafts & demos.
🐴 Visit the Living History Tent for plowing demos and historic farm life.
🔬 Explore butterflies, stargazing & microscopes in the Naturalists’ Tent.

🕒 Hours:

• Wed–Fri: 4–11 p.m.

• Sat: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

• Sun: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

🎟️ Admission: $10 adults, FREE for kids 12 & under.
🚨 Discounts: Half-price first two hours each day.
🎖️ Free entry for veterans & active military (with ID).
👵 Sunday only: Free for seniors 65+ and students with ID.

📲 Follow the Monmouth County Park System on social for ticket giveaways and updates! More info: www.MonmouthCountyFair.com or call 732-842-4000.

And while you’re at the fair…

🎆 Monmouth County is kicking off the one-year countdown to America’s 250th birthday with a patriotic celebration tonight, Wednesday, July 23 at 7 p.m. at the Monmouth County Fair in Freehold! Expect Color Guards, reenactors, music by the Washington Crossing Fifes and Drums, fireworks at 9 p.m., and even tethered balloon rides (weather permitting).

🎪 Stop by the MonmouthNJ 250 Truck & Tent all week for Revolutionary War exhibits, fun giveaways, and interactive displays. It’s a grand salute to the past—with plenty of fun for today’s families. Don’t miss it!

Prime Time News

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

4 Ways Trump’s New Tax Law Will Affect Older Americans: The bill may have tax sweeteners, but it will also limit healthcare affordability and access to long-term care. Morningstar, July 16.

Maybe It’s Not Just Aging. Maybe It’s Anemia: Significant numbers of older people have the condition. Many find relief with an effective treatment that is being more widely prescribed. KFF Health News, July 17.

More Elderly Americans Are Choking to Death. Are These Devices the Answer? Each year, choking claims the lives of more than 4,100 Americans who are 65 or older. Associated Press, July 14.

What is Chronic Venous Insufficiency, the Condition Trump was Diagnosed With? It is a common condition, but chronic cases can lead to complications. The Washington Post, July 17.

Loneliness Of Widowhood Isn't Diminished by Presence of Adult Children: Adult children aren’t likely to fill the void left by the loss of a spouse, a new study says. HealthDay News, July 16.

2026 Social Security COLA: The Little Known Data Shift That Could Impact Millions of Retirees' Benefits: The Bureau of Labor Statistics has changed how it measures the inflationary data that determines whether Social Security benefits will get a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Will it hurt your benefits? Kiplinger, July 14.

🎶🌟 This Week’s Can’t-Miss Events in Monmouth

🎷 Wednesday Summer Jazz Series – Bradley Beach
Wednesdays through August | 6:30 PM
Let the smooth sounds of jazz carry you away each week at this beachside series! Bring a chair, tap your toes, and enjoy top-tier talent like Marel Hidalgo, the Ocean Ave Stompers, and the Jersey Swamp Cats.
📍 Riley Park, Bradley Beach

🚗 Cruise Downtown – Manasquan Car Show
Thursdays, July 24 & August 28 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Love classic cars and good conversation? Take a stroll along the Pedestrian Walkway in Downtown Manasquan and admire a lineup of vintage beauties and muscle cars with fellow enthusiasts.
📍 Downtown Manasquan Pedestrian Walkway

🎭 How My Grandparents Fell in Love – Long Branch
Now through August 10 | Various Showtimes
A heartfelt story set in 1930s Europe, this moving play follows Charlie and Chava as they navigate love, tradition, and the rising tides of history. Based on true events, it's a beautiful tribute to love and resilience.
📍 New Jersey Repertory Company, 179 Broadway, Long Branch
🕒 Showtimes: Thursdays–Sundays

👠 The Wizard of Oz – Algonquin Arts Theatre
July 25–27 | Manasquan
Lions and tigers and tunes—oh my! Relive the magic of Dorothy’s journey in this vibrant stage production of the beloved film. Perfect for sharing with grandchildren or just soaking up some childhood nostalgia.
📍 Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Voorhees Dr., Manasquan
🕒 Showtimes: Friday, July 25: 7:30 PM; Saturday, July 26: 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM, and Sunday, July 27: 3:00 PM

🥪 What’s in Your Beach Bag?
Jersey Shore Eats Worth Packing!

We all know someone who rolls up to the beach with a cooler packed like a mini-fridge — and someone else who survives on sand-dusted chips and boardwalk fries. So tell us… what’s YOUR go-to beach snack or meal? Do you pack it at home? Pick it up on the way? Here are some local Monmouth County favorites to inspire your next shore lunch.

🍗 Buttermilk Fried Chicken from The Speakeatery in Asbury Park – crispy, portable, and pairs well with ocean breezes.
🥯 Bagel Sandwiches from Bagel Masters in Shrewsbury – breakfast at the beach never goes out of style.
🥒 Homemade Pickles & Sandwiches from Fred & Murry’s Kosher Deli  in Freehold – a classic deli fix before hitting the sand.
🌮 Taco Box from Surf Taco in Belmar – easy to grab, even easier to devour.
🧺 Summer Beach Boxes from Over Easy Kitchen with locations in Marlboro, Holmdel and Fair Haven, that come packed with a delicious BLT kitchen club in a wrap, a Demetri sandwich, and a chicken Capri baguette. (no prep, no mess).
🦐 Shrimp Cocktail or Lobster Rolls from The Boondocks Fishery in Red Bank – grab a seaside classic to-go and feel like you’re dining dockside, even if you’re parked on a beach chair.

Now it’s your turn: What’s your beach day must-have? Email [email protected]

🎵 In the Parks This Week:
Birds, Ballads & Backwoods Walks

🎹 Turn-of-the-Century Piano Ballads
Saturday, July 26 | 1–3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Step back in time as the farmhouse fills with the sweet sounds of 19th-century piano tunes. FREE!

🪵 Nature Talk: Woodpeckers of Monmouth County
Sunday, July 27 | 3–4 p.m.
Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center, Aberdeen
Tap into a fascinating lecture about local woodpeckers with a Park System Naturalist. FREE!

🐦 Casual Birder Walk
Tuesday, July 29 | 9 a.m.
Freneau Woods Park, Aberdeen (Meet at Visitor Center lot)
Bring your curiosity and comfy shoes for a gentle 2–4 mile birding stroll. No bird knowledge required—and yes, it's FREE! Binoculars available to borrow.

🤖 Seniors & AI:
5 Easy Ways AI Can Help Right Now

Let’s face it—nobody wants to “learn a whole new thing” just to get a little help. The good news? You don’t have to. AI tools like ChatGPT are here to make life easier, not harder—and you can start using them today, even if you’ve never touched a smartphone beyond making calls. Here are five simple ways AI can lend a hand.

📅 Plan Your Day Like a Pro
Ask things like: “What’s the weather this weekend in Freehold?” or “Any events happening near me?” Boom—answers in seconds.

💬 Send Sweet Notes Without the Stress
Struggling to write a friendly email or a thoughtful text? Let AI help you find the right words for birthdays, check-ins, or even a sweet note to your grandkids.

🛒 Shop Smart (Without the Wild Goose Chase)
Try: “Where can I buy low-sodium soup on sale?” or “Is this Amazon price a good deal?” It's like having a savvy shopper in your pocket.

💪 Boost Your Health Goals
From sleep tips and gentle exercises to easy meal ideas, AI can support your wellness journey—no judgment, no pressure, and definitely no replacing your doctor.

🎬 Never Be Bored Again
Need entertainment? Ask for a trivia quiz, movie picks, or even help writing a family memory book. It’s like a personal cruise director for your day.

🎉 That’s it! No downloads, no stress—just small ways to make life run smoother.

🛡️ Next Week: Is AI Safe? What You Need to Know

🎬 Cool Off with a Movie!
Free Films at the Library This Week & Next

Looking to beat the heat and catch a great flick? Monmouth County Libraries have you covered with free movie matinees—perfect for seniors who love great stories, comfy seats, and air conditioning!

🍿 Hazlet Township Branch
🎭 Novocaine (2025, R)
Wednesday, July 23 | 2–4 PM
A dark comedy about a mild-mannered man who can’t feel pain—until love (and a bank robbery) changes everything. Starring Jack Quaid and Amber Midthunder.
🕰️ Runtime: 1h 50m

👠 Marlboro Branch
💔 House of Gucci (2021, R)
Thursday, July 24 | 1–3:40 PM
Fashion, betrayal, and murder! Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, and Al Pacino bring the real-life Gucci family drama to the screen.
🕰️ Runtime: 2h 37m

🧙‍♀️ Ocean Township Branch
🎶 Wicked (2024, PG)
Thursday, July 24 | 2–4:40 PM
The untold story of Oz’s famous witches. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande dazzle in this magical musical.
🕰️ Runtime: 2h 40m

🕵️‍♂️ Hazlet Township Branch
💥 A Working Man (2025, R)
Wednesday, July 30 | 2–4 PM
When a local girl vanishes, a former counter-terrorism legend (played by Jason Statham) trades his construction gear for action once again.
🕰️ Runtime: 1h 56m

🎟️ Find full details at MonmouthCountyLib.org

🌟 Library Happenings This Week — Perfect for Seniors! 🌟

Looking to stay active, learn something new, or just relax? Your local Monmouth County libraries have you covered with a mix of games, health talks, crafts, and fascinating lectures — all designed with seniors in mind!

🎲 Learn to Play Duplicate Bridge

Wednesday, July 23 | 12:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Manalapan Headquarters
Discover the fun of this classic card game! No experience needed, but seats are limited—first come, first seated.

💡 WISE Program: Substance Abuse & Seniors

Thursday, July 24 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Marlboro Branch
Get informed on addiction awareness and healthy choices with this empowering wellness session by Family & Children’s Service of Monmouth County. Registration preferred.

📚 GIANT Book Sale!

Thursday, July 24 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Ocean Township Branch
Thousands of books for every taste — fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, biographies, and more! Plus DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records. Proceeds support your library programs.

🥗 Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Thursday, July 24 | 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Learn how easy and tasty going plant-based can be, with recipes and Q&A. No registration needed!

🧶 Knit Wits: Any Craft Night

Thursday, July 24 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Bring your knitting, crochet, or other craft projects and enjoy a cozy creative evening. All skill levels welcome.

🧘 Chair Yoga

Monday, July 28 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Holmdel Branch
Gentle seated yoga for calm and clarity. Perfect for all fitness levels. Registration appreciated but not required.

💔 Lost and Found: Bereavement Support Group

Monday, July 28 | 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Marlboro Branch
A compassionate space to share and heal after loss, led by a trained support facilitator.

🧘‍♂️ De-stress with Meditation, Yoga & Breathing

Monday, July 28 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Relax and refresh your mind and body with gentle guided practice. Registration required to guarantee a seat.

🀄 Mahjongg Club

Tuesday, July 29 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
West Long Branch Branch
Tiles provided—bring your Mahjongg cards and join a friendly game! Beginners welcome.

🐚 What the Shell? Mollusks of the Jersey Shore

Tuesday, July 29 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Wall Township Branch
Discover the fascinating world of shells and their ocean inhabitants in this fun, educational talk.

🥚 Pysanky: Ancient Ukrainian Egg Decorating

Wednesday, July 30 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Holmdel Branch
Learn this beautiful, symbolic art form from expert Jenny Santa Maria. Registration required.

Venice: The City That Time Tried to Forget

Wednesday, July 30 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Eastern Branch, Shrewsbury
Join historian Dr. Francesco Bonavita for a multimedia journey through Venice’s rich history, followed by Q&A and book signing.

🌎 Beyond Our Backyard

🍅 Tequila, Tinsel & Threshing: Here’s What’s Happening Across NJ This Week

Here’s your statewide sampler of fun festivals, fairs, and flavorful outings—perfect for a summer day trip, a date with the grandkids, or just a new adventure!

🧂 July 24 – Tequila Festival
Ocean Casino Resort, Atlantic City (Atlantic County)
Sip and savor top tequila brands, cocktails, and beachy vibes at this spirited seaside fest.

🎠 July 24–27 – Gloucester County Fair
Mullica Hill (Gloucester County)
Classic fair fun with rides, 4-H shows, food, and family entertainment—country charm included.

🎄 July 25 – Christmas in July
Cape May (Cape May County)
Santa’s making a seaside stop! Stroll the Victorian shops decked out for a jolly July celebration.

🫐 July 25 – Blueberry Summer Fest
Whitesbog Village, Browns Mills (Burlington County)
Pick berries, enjoy live music, and celebrate NJ’s state fruit at this historic farm village.

🎡 July 25–27 – Morris County Fair
Mt. Olive (Morris County)
From pony rides to pie contests, this longtime favorite brings all the fairground nostalgia.

🍷 July 26 – Cheers in Chester
Chester (Morris County)
Stroll charming downtown while sampling local wines and bites. Grandkid-free grown-up outing!

🚤 July 26 – Night in Venice
Ocean City (Ocean County)
One of the Jersey Shore’s most magical nights—boats decorated in lights and themes cruise the bay.

🎅 July 26 – Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival
Wildwood Crest (Cape May County)
A beachy holiday bash with music, vendors, kids’ fun, and a sunny Santa Claus.

🦀 July 26 – Seafood Festival at Meadowlands Racetrack
East Rutherford (Bergen County)
Lobster rolls, crab cakes, shrimp skewers—plus racing and music. Dig in!

🌾 July 26 & 27 – Mercer County 4-H Fair & Wheat Threshing
Hopewell (Mercer County)
Step back in time with old-fashioned farm fun, threshing demos, animals, and hayrides.

🍝 July 26 & 27 – Italian Festival & Wine Tasting
Oceanport (Monmouth County)
Mangia! Enjoy Italian eats, vino, and music at Monmouth Park Racetrack.

🎨 Calling All Artists!

Entries Now Open for Botanical Musings Exhibit at Thompson Park

Got a green thumb and a creative spark? The Monmouth County Park System is inviting local artists to submit their work for the upcoming Botanical Musings Exhibit, set to run from September 26 through November 14 at the Gallery in the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center in Lincroft.

This special exhibit will showcase artwork inspired by the beauty, mystery, and intricate forms of plant life. From realistic florals to abstract leafy visions, all styles and mediums are welcome!

🖼️ Deadline to enter is Friday, August 22.
To submit your artwork or learn more, visit the Gallery at Thompson Park page at www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000.

Let your creativity blossom!

One Last Thing

🎸Bruce & Bon Jovi Walk Into a Diner…
Nope, it’s not a joke—it actually happened! On July 16, Jersey’s finest, rock legends Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi, popped into Roberto’s Freehold Grill on East Main Street for a bite. No entourage, no red carpet—just bacon, coffee, and Jersey pride. Shoutout to these hometown heroes for showing love where it counts: local businesses.

🎉 And Happy Belated Birthday to …

Anne S. (73) of Howell and Margaret M. (76) of Hazlet who celebrated their birthdays on July 22! We hope your day was filled with love, laughter, and a slice (or two) of your favorite cake. 🎂

You’re in great company—Danny Glover, Alex Trebek, and Oscar de la Renta were all born on July 22, too! And did you know? On this day in 1933, American aviator Wiley Post became the first person to fly solo around the world. Talk about soaring into a new year! Here’s to many more joyful journeys around the sun! 🥳🌟

🎬That’s a wrap for this week!

❓Question, comments or news to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected]

👀First time reading? Join thousands of Monmouth County seniors. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.

😎Have a great week. And remember, life keeps getting better with age, especially in Monmouth County!

The Better With Age New Jersey team