THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026

Good Morning, Monmouth County! ☀️

🏖️ Jersey Shore Throwback: In July, 1958, the U.S. Treasury Department placed Vito Genovese under arrest at his home in Atlantic Highlands along with his longtime associates Vincent “The Chin” Gigante and Carmine Galante. Genovese was one of the most powerful Mafia bosses during the 1930s to 1950s.

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TOP STORY: DARUMA Returns for One Night Benefit
Kevin Smith's Smodcastle Cinemas in Atlantic Highlands is bringing an acclaimed independent film back to the big screen for one night only. On Friday, July 17, at 7:30 pm, DARUMA returns as part of a nationwide Disability Pride Month celebration, giving Monmouth County moviegoers a chance to enjoy an inspiring story while supporting a meaningful cause. (Read Full Article)

365> Belmar: On Wednesday, Belmar hosted the 39th annual Sandcastle contest at 18th Avenue Beach, one of the Shore’s favorite summer traditions. (See Photos)

365> Long Branch: The Board of Education announced retirements and resignations, including Middle School teacher Ronnie Bennett who retired after 31 years of service. (More)

365> Colts Neck: The School Board announced the retirement of two long-serving teachers from Cedar Drive and Conover Road schools as of July 1: Susan Mason who served 37 years, and Marjorie Maguire who served almost 27 years. (More)

365> Monmouth County: Triggerfish in the Manasquan Inlet are now being caught with a rod and reel, signaling their abundance. Bluefish are providing plenty of light tackle fun for anglers, with a big body of fish within a short distance from the Shark River and Manasquan inlets right around 50 feet of water. (More)

365> Highlands: Beach Game Pop-Up, Noon until close at The Sandbox at Seastreak. Live music 6-9 pm by the Bayshore Sandpipers. (More)

365> Keyport: Classic Car Show on West Front Street, today from 4-8 pm featuring music, dining, and the awarding of 10 trophies. (More)

365> Long Branch: The Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music and Asbury Audio are hosting Thursday night concerts that are free and open to the public, starting tonight through August 20, at the Klose Amphitheater. BYO chair or blanket. (More)

365> Manalapan: The Lavender Festival is now in full bloom at Happy Day Farm. Admission is $16 per person. (More)

365> Wall Township: The library is hosting a special guest lecture on the “mysterious” Amity shipwreck that sits 330 yards off Manasquan Inlet. Presented by Diver Dan Lieb on July 21 at 2 pm. (More)

365> Beluga Cams are now live! Two livestreams from Polar Bears International, attached to a boat in Canada’s Hudson Bay, launch each July 15 to celebrate Arctic Sea Ice Day, which the nonprofit hosts to raise awareness about preserving arctic habitats. (Watch)

365> FIFA has planned the first World Cup Halftime Show that will air during the final match on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The show stars Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, BTS, and Sesame Street and Muppets characters. (More)

365> The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its fall forecast, calling for warmer-than-usual weather for the interior of the U.S. The majority of the eastern U.S. is expected to experience weather that is cooler than average. (More)

365> New York City Restaurant Week will take place July 20 through Aug. 16, offering prix-fixe menus at $30, $45, and $60. Reservations are now open. (More)

Founding Sponsor
Dr. Peter Farrugia
Advanced Heart & Vascular of Central New Jersey in Colts Neck

Email your best guess to [email protected] to be entered to win dinner at this month’s Restaurant of the Month!

Wednesday’s Only in Monmouth: Inside the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, one of the world’s best known music venues. The Pony opened its doors on Feb. 8, 1974 in a building that formerly housed a restaurant called Mrs. Jay’s. Founders John P. “Jack” Roig and Robert “Butch” Pielka first met while working in a club on the boardwalk in Seaside Heights.

Have you ever dined at a Michelin-starred restaurant

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Yesterday’s Poll Results

Have you ever had a Jersey Shore staycation?

No: 63%
Yes: 21%
I live on the beach: 16%

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Have information you’d like us to add to an upcoming edition? You can always email us at: [email protected]. See ya out there!