Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

How to Choose a Financial Institution if You’re Growing a Family

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If you have a growing family, you’re probably used to making big decisions – some of which might be related to family finances. The financial institution you choose to bank with might not always be top of mind, but it is an important aspect of your family’s financial well-being. Ultimately, where you choose to bank is the place you’ll trust with handling both day-to-day financial needs and future milestones. Consider the following criteria when choosing a financial institution that will grow with and support your family both now and in the future.

Your Short, Medium, and Long-Term Needs & Goals

Financial institutions are not one-size-fits-all. Similarly, your financial needs and goals aren’t either. Your co-worker might swear by a particular online-only bank, but you might prefer a local bank or credit union with a nearby branch. It’s important to consider the day-to-day ways your family currently uses money, as well as how they plan to use money in the future when deciding if a financial institution is a good fit. Identify some of your family’s financial needs and goals so you can consider them as you read through this article.

Here are some financial goals that first-time parents or those with changing family dynamics might consider:

  • Purchasing a family vehicle.
  • Saving for a down payment on a home, or preparing to purchase a home.
  • Establishing or adjusting an emergency fund and budget.
  • Introducing children to saving from a young age.

Product and Service Offerings

Your needs might be limited to certain accounts or services now, but they may change as your family evolves.

Let’s say you need a checking and savings account now, but you and your partner would like to become homeowners in the next 5 years. Does your financial institution have a special offer for first-time homebuyers? Would you like a dedicated representative who can assist you through the mortgage process from application to closing? Or, let’s say you would like to introduce your child to saving at a young age. Does your financial institution have accounts for children? If so, do the accounts have the capabilities and protections you would like in place?

Determining now if a particular financial institution has the offerings needed to support your financial goals, can save you time and effort down the road and also help you develop a long-term relationship with your institution.

Convenience and Accessibility

Convenience and accessibility look different for everyone based on preferences, but make sure your financial institution meets your definition of the two. Your financial institution should make your money management easier, not more stressful. Is your family busy managing hectic schedules, making it difficult to make trips to a branch? Would you prefer a financial institution with local branches to make transactions in person? Would you like a financial institution that has easy-to-use online and mobile banking? Can you view and manage all your accounts online or in the mobile app? Consider what convenience and accessibility mean for you and your family.

The Differences Between Financial Institutions

There are a few broad types of financial institutions you can pick from, and figuring out which might be best for you and your family can help narrow down your search.

  • National Banks: Typically offer a broad range of financial products and services suited for various life stages. They may have many branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility, but potentially less personalized customer service. At a bank there are typically higher account fees and borrowing rates, and lower interest rates on deposits.
  • Community or Regional Banks: Typically have a higher-level of personalized service and local expertise due to their presence in the community in which they operate. They might however, have limited financial products and services, branches, and ATMs compared to larger, national banks.
  • Credit Unions: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states, or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees and loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically will participate in an ATM network so their members can access services in various locations. Credit unions are known for delivering personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.
  • Online-Only Banks: These banks operate exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without any physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can typically minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

If the search for a financial institution for you and your family leads you to First Financial – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or check out our website to find out how you can become a member today.*

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

Five Valentine’s Date Ideas Under $25

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Valentine’s Day is often associated with fancy flower bouquets, pricey dinners, and big price tags – but when it comes to love, it’s really the thought that counts. A little creativity can make any budget go a long way in making your Valentine’s Day feel special, thoughtful, and romantic. Check out these five Valentine’s date ideas that celebrate love without spending more than $25.

1. Heart-Shaped Pancake or Waffle Bar

Make heart-shaped pancakes or waffles for breakfast or breakfast-for-dinner. Whether you’re making pancakes or waffles, all you’ll need is pancake mix or basic pantry staples to whip up a quick and delicious batter. If you want to take it a step further, pick up extra fixings – such as whipped cream, chocolate chips, or fruit.

To form the heart shapes for pancakes, use a pastry bag with a tip or a resealable plastic bag. Stand the pastry or resealable plastic bag up in a glass (folding the ends over the top) and fill it with the batter.

When you’re ready to cook, draw an outline of a heart on a heated, greased griddle and then fill in the center. If you’re using a resealable plastic bag, fill it with batter and then snip off one of the bottom corners (about 1/4”).

To make heart-shaped waffles, consider purchasing a heart-shaped waffle maker. Buying this waffle maker will still keep your budget under $25!

2. Shopping Challenge

Turn Valentine’s gift giving into a date itself with a shopping challenge. Set a spending limit you are both comfortable with, we’ll say $25 to keep within the parameters of this article – and head to a local dollar store, discount store, or department store together. The challenge is that you will set a time limit to shop separately and pick out items you think your partner will love, keeping within your budget. Think a book by their favorite author, an item they can put together (like a puzzle or LEGOS), or an assortment of their favorite snacks. After you’re done shopping, head home to do a gift exchange of the items you picked out. To make it even more thoughtful, you can take turns explaining why you picked out each item and why you thought your partner would love it.

If you have room left in your budget, consider stopping at a local coffee shop or bakery to pick up a coffee or sweet treat to enjoy together while you exchange gifts.

3. Make Candles Together 

Light the mood with homemade candles this Valentine’s Day. We found a step-by-step tutorial from Joys of Homemaking for how to make homemade candles, and some of the materials can even be found at home. We included a basic guide below, but be sure to visit the tutorial for full instructions.

Materials Needed: Wax melts or flakes (soy wax flakes are recommended and can be found at Hobby Lobby for $10.99) | Essential oils | Candle wicks (traditional or natural) | Disposable wooden stick or spoon, for stirring | Mason jars | Wick anchor (like a clothespin or chopsticks)

Steps:

  • Place the wax in a pot and set the pot on low to medium heat. Stir gently to ensure even melting. If you’re cautious about damaging your pot, a double boiler is the way to go. Simply fill the bottom pot with water and place the wax in the top pot.
  • Once the wax has fully melted, add in the essential oil(s) you selected. The number of drops will depend on the type of oil you are using and its potency – so be sure to do some research.
  • Secure your wick in place. One easy method is to use a small amount of melted wax, or you can choose pre-made wick stickers or anchors available at most craft stores. Once your wick is anchored, it’s time to stabilize it. Lay a chopstick (or a pencil) across the rim of the jar and tape the upright wick to it.
  • Let the wax cool down and then pour it into the jars. As you fill each jar, remember to leave a bit of space at the top.Once you have filled your jars, wait about an hour or so – until the wax solidifies. After the wax has completely hardened, it’s time for the final touch – cutting the wick to your desired length.

4. Game Night for Two

A game night is the perfect way to spend quality time together, have some friendly competition, and create an affordable date right at home. Take inventory of the board games you have, or card games you know how to play – and make a line-up for the evening. If you don’t have any games or cards at home, stick to the $25 budget and purchase one within the spending parameter. To make your game night even more Valentine’s themed, consider buying a couple’s game that tests your knowledge of each other or two-person board games that require you to put your heads together! If video games are more your thing, you can create a game night for those too.

5. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

If you and your partner have been together for some time, you might have a box stashed under the bed or in a closet – stuffed with mementos and tokens throughout your relationship. Consider pulling this box out to take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing on the good old days. This gives you a chance to connect with your partner and remember exactly what you love about your relationship, which is what the true spirit of the holiday is all about!  If you don’t have a box like this, consider making one together and add photos, love letters, or tickets from events you’ve been to.

If you’re local to Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and in search of other affordable ways to get out of the house this Valentine’s Day, or throughout the year – check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts. These blog posts are an easy way to stay updated on local, budget-friendly happenings all year round.

We hope you have an enjoyable (and affordable) Valentine’s Day!

How to Choose the Right Financial Institution for Your Small Business

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There are thousands of financial institutions offering business banking products and services, which can make choosing the right one time consuming for busy small business owners. Here’s a guide on how to decide on the institution that’s best for your business banking needs.

1. Consider Current and Future Needs of Your Business

Identify the needs of your business before deciding on a financial institution to avoid facing surprises down the road, such as not being able to perform a transaction that’s essential – or running into limitations when growing. Understanding your current needs, as well as how those needs will evolve with your business – will also help identify account types and features fit to your current and future operations.

Here are some questions to consider:

  • What day-to-day transactions do you conduct the most?
  • Is your business cash intensive or does it conduct mostly digital operations?
  • Do you need online and mobile banking access to manage your business finances on-the-go?
  • Does your business have multiple owners or signers needing account access?
  • What products, services, and support will your business need as it grows?

2. Identify Important Business Banking Features

It’s time to identify features that will support your needs and help effectively carry out day-to-day operations. This is important because features can widely vary not only between financial institutions, but between account types at the same institution.

To match needs to features – look at the needs you identified above and think about how the account features a financial institution offers can support them.

Some more questions to consider:

  • Is it easier to manage your finances digitally without visiting a branch?
  • What transactions do you complete through online or mobile banking?
  • Is full-service banking (keeping all your banking transactions at one financial institution) important to you?
  • Would you value your institution to provide personalized service and advice tailored to your business, even if it’s a smaller institution?

3. Common Types of Business Bank Accounts

There are many business accounts to choose from, made to support different business needs and functions.

Business Checking Account: An account where you will conduct and manage your day-to-day finances. You can accept payments, pay bills, and do your daily spending with this account. It’s foundational and essential for recordkeeping and tax filing.

Business Savings Account: An account that serves as a financial buffer, giving you quick access to funds in the event of an unexpected expense. It can also be used as a goal-oriented account to set funds aside for a specific financial goal. These accounts can be interest-bearing, allowing you to earn interest on funds while they aren’t being used.

Business Loan: Allows a business to borrow a set amount of funds, gaining access to capital for various purposes such as expanding operations or purchasing equipment.

Business Credit Card: Allows a business to manage cash flow by providing quick access to funds for supplies or other necessary expenses.

For small business owners in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, First Financial offers all of these account types to support your business through every stage.

4. Understand the Differences Between Financial Institutions

Banks: Owned by shareholders and operate for profit to drive returns to investors. They are typically open to anyone without specific eligibility criteria. Banks can have more branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility.

Credit Union: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees, lower loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically participates in an ATM network so members can access services in various locations. Credit unions deliver personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.

Online-Only Bank: Operates exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

5. Open Your Business Bank Account

Now that you’ve identified your business needs, as well as what account types and features will support those needs – you are ready to open an account at the institution that makes the most financial sense for you.

If you’re a small business owner in Monmouth or Ocean Counties and that leads you to First Financial as part of your search – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or visit our website to find out how you can become a business member today.*

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this February 2026

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Love is in the air – and so are free or inexpensive local events to celebrate it! Check out these budget-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this month that say “Happy Valentine’s Day” without a hefty price tag.

February 6

Back to the 80s Dance Party (New Egypt) – Break out your legwarmers and neon for a night of reliving the iconic music and dance moves of the 80s at Laurita Winery, beginning at 7pm. This dance party will be filled with your favorite throwback hits, retro vibes, and nonstop fun. Admission is $11 per person in advance and $12 per person at the door. There will be alcoholic beverages available for purchase for those ages 21 and over. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets online.

February 7

Tap the Sugar Maples (Howell) – Head over to the Howell Living History Farm from 10am-4pm for a lesson in how the sap from maple trees becomes pancake-ready! Expert tree-tappers will demonstrate the maple syrup production process from start to finish – beginning with how to tap a backyard maple tree to making syrup at home. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Valentine’s Sweet Stroll (Red Bank) – Enjoy a sweet afternoon of delicious treats and experiences in Downtown Red Bank from 11am-2pm. Your stroll begins at 6 Monmouth Street, where you will pick up your complimentary map and tote bag. Then you’ll continue exploring the small businesses and local eateries offering sweet deals, special treats, and unique experiences. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

February 8

Seals of Monmouth County (Port Monmouth) – You might have to seal it to believe it – but Monmouth County is the place many seals call “home” for the winter. Head over to the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center from 12pm-1pm to learn about our local seal population, how to identify the different species of seals, and what threats they may face along the Jersey Shore. There is no entry fee to attend and registration is not required. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Seals of Monmouth County.”

February 10

Healthy Eating: Mindful Choices for a Better You (Holmdel) – If one of your new year’s resolutions was to make healthier choices, check out this presentation at the Holmdel Branch of the Monmouth County Library System – beginning at 1:30pm. A Hackensack Meridian Registered Nurse will be presenting on how to simplify your health journey, how to elevate your overall wellbeing, and how to navigate advice when it can seem overwhelming. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

February 11

Valentine’s Day Pop-Up (Holmdel) – You can explore the Valentine’s Day Pop-Up at Bell Works from 11am-4pm – or again on February 14th from 11am-4pm if you miss it! Browse handcrafted items that make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, such as unique jewelry, clothing, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

February 14

Historical Valentines (Allentown) – Roses are red, violets are blue, and handwritten valentines are still a timeless tradition, too! Celebrate Valentine’s Day the old-fashioned way at Historic Walnford from 1pm-3pm. You’ll learn how love letters and valentines have changed since the 18th and 19th centuries, then take inspiration from what you’ve seen to create a love letter or valentine of your own with historically inspired materials. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Historical Valentines.”

Valentine’s Day Bazaar (Asbury Park) – Stop by Convention Hall to enjoy all things Valentine’s Day, all weekend long from 12pm-5pm. Explore the curated lineup of local makers and small businesses to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your loved ones (or yourself). In addition to love, live music and DJ sets will be in the air too! There will also be food and beverages, a themed photo wall to strike a pose with your sweetheart or besties, a fresh flower bouquet bar, family-friendly activities, and more. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Winter Beach Walk (Manasquan) – If you and your special someone love long walks on the beach, you’ll love this Winter Beach Walk at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area from 11am-12:30pm. A Park System Naturalist will take you on a guided walk, identifying some of the ocean’s treasures and letting you stop to collect some along the way. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring something to carry shells in. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Winter Beach Walk.”

February 21

Black History Month Celebration (Toms River) – Celebrate Black History Month with musical entertainment and great food at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 12pm-3pm. There will be a food tasting prepared by members of the Toms River Area NAACP and a musical performance by veteran singer, producer, and songwriter Dave Revels. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Monmouth Moms Winter Play & Craft Fair (Holmdel) – Head over to Bell Works for a family-friendly indoor Winter Play & Craft Fair from 11am-3pm. This event will feature arts and crafts stations, a kids zone with open play areas, STEM activities, story time, a magic show, character visits, and more. Parents are welcome to explore the offerings of 80+ local vendors while the children are kept busy with countless activities. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Registration is required. Click here to learn more and register.

Winter Beach Blast (Toms River) – Don’t let any snow on the ground fool you, it’s summer inside the Ocean County Mall from 1pm-4pm. There will be a giant Twister game, crafts, and activities the whole family will enjoy. Additionally, Ocean County Parks and Recreation along with Jenkinson’s Aquarium – will be on-site providing activities and information for attendees. Click here to learn how you can experience summer instead of braving the cold for an afternoon.

Winter Warmup (Lakehurst) – Escape the winter blues with an afternoon of free family fun at Proving Ground Church from 1pm-3pm. They’ve got everyone covered with activities for all ages – such as games, crafts, facepainting, a hot cocoa bar, bounce house sanctuary, toddler soft play area, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. You can find additional information here.

February 22

Yoga at the Aquarium (Point Pleasant Beach) – Participate in a relaxing and mindful yoga session surrounded by sea life at Jenkinson’s Aquarium from 9am-10am. This program welcomes those ages 10 and older of all experience levels (minors must be accompanied by a participating adult). Admission is $30 per person and includes admission to the aquarium for the day following the session. You can register for the event and learn more information here.

February 23

Yoga for Beginners (Manalapan) – Stay active this winter by participating in a beginner yoga class at the Manalapan Branch of the Monmouth County Library System at 6:30pm. A yoga instructor will lead the session to help free the mind and body from everyday stress. This program welcomes adults ages 18 and older of all experience levels. A yoga mat or thick towel is required to participate. There is no entry fee to attend, and registration is not required. Click here for additional information and disclosures.

February 28

Puzzle Swap (Brick) – The only feeling better than finishing a puzzle is starting a new one, so head over to the Brick Branch of the Ocean County Library System from 10am-12pm to find your next adventure. Bring in as many gently used puzzles as you’d like to swap with other puzzle enthusiasts. There is no entry fee to attend, but registration is required. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Money-Saving Meals: Recipes to Try in the New Year

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The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reset your budget and find ways to cut costs – and one of the easiest places to start is right in your kitchen. The rising cost of groceries and expensive food delivery services can quietly drain your wallet. Swapping out takeout for low-cost pantry essentials can help you save more money without sacrificing any of the flavor. Check out these simple meals made of typically inexpensive ingredients – you can just taste the savings!

Mushroom Ramen Noodles

Ramen is already a staple among college students because it is a budget-friendly, convenient option. It’s a great base that can turn into a satisfying meal for you, too – with the help of a few inexpensive additions!

Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients: 1 pack instant ramen noodles (any flavor) | 1 lb. wild mushrooms, sliced | 2 Tbsp vegetable oil | 1 Tbsp butter

  1. Set aside the flavor packet provided with the ramen. Soak the packet of instant ramen noodles in warm water for 5 minutes. Drain the noodles and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, stir fry together the sliced wild mushrooms and the ramen flavor packet with vegetable oil for 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Add the butter and noodles to the skillet and toss for one minute. Add the mushrooms and combine.
  4. Optional: Add any other toppings you would like to the noodles. Common favorites are diced green onions or sriracha sauce.

Check out the full recipe here.

Spicy Penne Pasta

This is an affordable twist on a classic Italian dish, still packed full of flavor.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients: 1 lb. box of penne pasta | 1/4 cup olive oil | 3 cloves garlic, chopped | 28 oz. chopped tomatoes | 1/2 tsp red chili flakes | 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | 6 leaves fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish if desired) | Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, optional (for garnish)

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, for about 9 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and heat until the oil starts to shimmer. Add the garlic and cook, stirring until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes, red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the chopped basil.
  4. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Garnish with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and more basil if desired. Serve warm.

Get the full recipe here.

Black Bean Burgers

Swapping ground beef for black beans is one of the easiest ways to keep a classic burger dish low in cost and high in protein.

Yield: 1 big or 2 small patties

Ingredients: 2 cups of black beans, drained and mashed | 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup grated onions | 1/2 tsp chili powder | 1 egg | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | Canola oil, for oiling grill pan | 1-2 kaiser rolls | Desired toppings, optional

  1. Mix together the beans, breadcrumbs, onions, chili powder, egg, and some salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Form the mixture into 1 big (or 2 smaller) patties.
  2. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add the canola oil. Cook the burger for 4 minutes per side. Serve on a kaiser roll with desired toppings.

Learn how to make these black bean burgers here.

Bistro Egg Sandwiches

These sandwiches can be made at home for just a fraction of the price – and taste just as good as ordering one out.

Yield: 4 sandwiches

Ingredients: 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature | 1-2 tsp Dijon mustard | 1-2 tsp anchovy paste | 1 baguette, cut into 4 pieces and each halved lengthwise | 4 large eggs | Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste | 1/4 lb. country pate or ham, cut into 4 slices | 2 oz. cheese of choice, sliced (gruyere and Comte are favorites) | 1 cup frisee or other greens | Sliced chives, for garnish

  1. Preheat broiler to high. In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter with Dijon mustard and anchovy paste until smooth.
  2. Spread the anchovy butter on the cut sides of the bread. Place the buttered side up on a baking sheet and broil until toasted, 1 to 2 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Crack in the eggs. Season with salt and pepper and let cook until the yolks just begin to firm up and the edges are slightly crisp, about 3 minutes.
  4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing 2 bread halves on each of 4 plates, topping with a slice of pate, an egg, cheese, greens and chives.

Get the full recipe here.

Chicken Teriyaki Dump Dinner

This one-pan chicken teriyaki dinner is both quick to make and clean up – and is bursting with flavor.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients: Non-stick cooking spray | 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth | 3/4 cup teriyaki sauce | 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce | 2 Tbsp sesame oil | 2 tsp grated ginger | 3 cloves garlic, grated | 2 tsp salt | 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced | 1 red onion, sliced | 2 & 1/2 cups broccoli florets | 1 red bell pepper, sliced | 3 scallions, sliced

  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Whisk together the chicken broth, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic and salt in a medium bowl until combined. Add the chicken and stir to coat.
  3. Spread the rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour in the teriyaki mixture, scattering the chicken evenly. Scatter the onion, broccoli and bell pepper evenly over the top.
  4. Cover with foil and bake until the vegetables have softened but are still vibrant, about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the juices have thickened and the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes more. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb more of the moisture.
  5. Top with sliced scallions.

Check out the full recipe here.

By keeping your pantry stocked with staples and keeping these or similar money-saving recipes handy – your kitchen can turn into a new source of savings in the new year.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to see more money-saving hacks like this delivered right to your inbox.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this January 2026

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The new year calls for new adventures! Check out these free or inexpensive events in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that will help you kick off the new year with good times – not high price tags.

January 3

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – If you’re trying to soak up every second of the holiday spirit while you still can, Holland Ridge Farms’ Winter Wonderland is the place to be – coming to an end after January 4th. Although Santa has since made his return to the North Pole, you can still enjoy an array of twinkling lights and holiday displays, interactive family-fun activities, festive food, sweet treats, and handcrafted beverages. Admission is $20 per person all weekend long, with children ages 2 and under free of charge. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

January 10

Under the Winter Stars (Colts Neck) – Bundle up and search for the wonders of the universe at Dorbrook Recreational Area Soccer Field Parking Lot from 7:30pm-8:30pm. You will gaze into the night sky in search of constellations, planets, and satellites – and you might even see a shooting star streak across the sky if you’re lucky. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and a flashlight to light your way in the dark. There is no entry fee to attend. The event will be cancelled in the event of overcast skies or inclement weather. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Under the Winter Stars.”

Winter Beach Walk (Manasquan) – Who says beach days are only for summer? Bundle up and take a walk along the beach at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area in search of the ocean’s treasures from 11am-12:30pm. A Park System Naturalist will take you on a guided walk, identifying some of those treasures and letting you stop to collect some along the way. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring something to carry shells in. There is no entry fee to attend. For more information, click on the Monmouth County Winter 2026 Parks & Programs Guide and search for “Winter Beach Walk.”

January 14

Princess Tea Party with Elsa (Toms River) – Your little ones will feel like they are right out of a Disney story at the Mathis House’s Princess Tea Party beginning at 6:30pm. You and your crew can enjoy an assortment of treats and teas while exploring the beautifully decorated mansion. Plus, Elsa will make a special appearance for a sing-along, story time, and pictures with the children. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. Click here to learn more and visit The Mathis House page on RESY to book your visit.

January 17

Nature Walk: Signs of Animals of Winter (Toms River) – Bundle up and search for signs of the animals that call Cattus Island home for the winter on Saturday or Sunday, beginning at 2:00pm. A Naturalist will teach you about the Cattus Island ecosystem and help you search for the clues animals leave behind. You will meet at the Cooper Environmental Center before beginning your winter walk. There is no entry fee to attend and registration is not required. For more information, search “Signs of Animals of Winter” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

January 18

Sandy Snow Globes (Beachwood) – If the winter weather has you daydreaming of warmer days, head over to Jakes Branch County Park to make sandy snow globes from 10:30am-12pm. You will design a snow globe using only sand and seashells – so every time you peer inside, you can be transported to a summer day. Tickets are $10 per person and include all materials. This activity is intended for those ages 14 and up. A registration form and check must be mailed to the Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administrative Offices prior to attending the event. For more information, as well as registration form instructions, search “Sandy Snow Globes” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

Solving STEM Problems with LEGOs (Barnegat) – Put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test using LEGOs (and your brain) at Cloverdale Farm County Park from 10:30am-11:30am. You will create simple contraptions that solve practical STEM-related problems one LEGO piece at a time. There is no entry fee to attend, however; registration is required. A registration form must be mailed to the Ocean County Parks & Recreation Administrative Offices prior to attending the event. For more information, as well as registration form instructions, search “Solving STEM Problems with LEGOs” in the Ocean County 2026 Winter Program Guide & Newsletter.

January 24

Book Sip N’ Swap (Howell) – If you have any books on your bookshelf that are getting dusty, consider finding them a new home at the Howell Library Book Sip N’ Swap from 2:00pm-3:30pm. You and other fellow booklovers will have the chance to bring five new or gently used books you no longer want, to trade for new ones. Plus, you can enjoy a cup of tea or hot chocolate while you search for your next read – or five. There is no entry fee to attend. Registration is not required. Learn more here.

January 25

Country Line Dancing & Cornhole (Toms River) – Bring the family down to Fun Bags Cornhole Lounge for a night of cornhole and line dancing from 6pm-9pm. If you’re new to line dancing, there will be beginner lessons from 6:00pm-6:30pm that are sure to get you moving on the dance floor. The event is BYOB for anyone ages 21 or older. Tickets are $12 per person in advance of the event and $13 per person at the door. Click here to learn more and purchase your tickets.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and your loved ones continued success and joy as we enter the new year.