MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2026

What’s happening, changing, and worth knowing in our corner of the world.

Good Morning, Monmouth County! ☀️

Welcome! Each morning, you’ll get a free, daily newsletter that provides a complete and easy-to-scan news summary designed to keep you informed about everything happening in our county. First thing you’ll read each morning is a New Jersey history item or fact about Monmouth County, followed by a curated mix of stories in a streamlined news briefing format, including top headlines and breaking county news, business and economic developments, technology and science stories, culture, lifestyle, and events coverage, along with occasional feel-good features. Each day will end with our daily Poll. Thanks for taking this journey with us.

On this day in 1986, Amnesty International’s Conspiracy of Hope tour concluded with a mega-concert at Giants Stadium in Rutherford. Participants included U2, Sting, Joni Mitchell, The Police, and Bryan Adams. Were you there? Reply to this email to let us know.

365> Holmdel: Oak Hill Farm abruptly closed Wednesday amid a legal dispute with the township. (More)

365> Asbury Park: Wonder Bar’s legendary Yappy Hour won’t return this summer for the first time in 21 years due to construction at The Lido. (More)

365> Monmouth County: Officials launched a new economic development initiative designed to attract and support businesses countywide. The announcement was made at Bell Works in Holmdel. (More)

365> America 250: County officials unveiled a monument during a ceremony at Swimming River Park in Middletown last week. The monument was designed by county sculptor Brian Hanlon to commemorate America’s upcoming 250th birthday. (More)

365> Middletown: A rabid groundhog was confirmed near Raritan Avenue and Erie Road after being retrieved by Animal Control. (More)

365> Howell: A 12-year-old faces charges after allegedly fleeing police on an electric dirt bike near a school. (More)

365> County officials say the Shore is gearing up for one of the busiest summer tourism seasons in years. (More)

365> Holmdel Police officially transitioned dispatch operations to the Monmouth County Sheriff’s regional communications system, which officials say should improve emergency response coordination and public safety. (More)

365> Asbury Park was chosen as one of New Jersey’s official FIFA World Cup public art locations as excitement around the 2026 tournament ramps up statewide. (More)

365> The Monmouth County Vocational School District announced that five of its schools ranked in New Jersey’s top 25 for SAT scores. (More)

365> Ocean Grove: Nagle’s Apothecary, one of the Shore’s most nostalgic ice cream spots, has officially reopened after six years. Nagle’s is now owned by Kelly Ryan, who you may know as the owner of The Boondocks Fishery in Red Bank, and features a counter with nine seats and tables. (More)

365> Asbury Park: Java & Gelato, at the corner of Main Street and Fourth Avenue Park, a long-time Staten Island company has expanded into our county. Owner Sal Russo remodeled the former pizza shop location himself in 20 days. Let us know your reviews. (More)

365> Allenhurst: Farmers Market Fridays, 10 am - 2 pm through Sept. 11, at 201 Main Street. (More)

365> Red Bank: $9 Lunch Specials at Fratelli’s available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 am - 2 pm. Closed on Tuesdays. (More)

365> Long Branch: Max’s Bar and Grill is hosting R&B Karaoke on Thursday, June 19, 7-10 pm. (More)

365> Sea Bright: Music Bingo at EvenTide Grille. Wednesday, June 24, 7-9 pm at the inside bar. (More)

365> Colts Neck: Paint & Pizza Evening, Tuesday, June 30, from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Colts Neck Rec Center to benefit Autism Harmony nonprofit. $10 per person. (Register Here)