THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2026

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

Good Morning, Monmouth County! ☀️

On this day in 2011, saxophonist Clarence Clemons, known as The Big Man in The E-Street Band, died of complications from a stroke. He was born in 1942. Clemons’ solos were a defining element of the E Street Band's sound for 39 years. His most iconic work is highlighted on tracks like Born to Run and the sweeping, nine-minute Jungleland.

Tomorrow morning, you’ll find our WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND edition in your email inbox. We hope you have fun planning what to do in our beautiful county. In the meantime, today we offer a sneak peek at a new documentary film about Monmouth in the Revolutionary War.

New Monmouth Documentary at Jersey Shore Film Fest

As the nation approaches its 250th birthday, the untold story of Monmouth County during the American Revolution debuted on the big screen on Tuesday at the Basie Center Cinema House in Red Bank as part of the Jersey Shore Film Festival. You can see the preview here.

Monmouth County at War: Rebels, Raiders, and Revolution is a powerful new documentary that reveals how Monmouth County became one of the most divided and violent regions of the American Revolution.

The film is produced by the MonmouthNJ250 Committee and directed by local Emmy-winning filmmaker Adam Worth.

Soul Foundation Honored by James Beard Awards

The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation was named an Impact Award Honoree in the James Beard Awards, which were announced this week at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Often dubbed the Oscars of the food world, the awards—now in their 36th year—honor the best of the best in the restaurant industry. The Impact Awards recognize organizations that are actively working to push for standards that create a more equitable, sustainable, and economically viable restaurant industry.

Now in its 20th year, The JBJ Soul Foundation has supported almost 1,000 units of affordable and supportive housing in 12 states, benefiting thousands of people, including youth and veterans. The foundation also founded the JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank.

365> Holmdel: Police Officer Matthew Menosky was recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), a national nonprofit leading the movement to end impaired driving, for his dedication and commitment to the cause. (More)

365> Red Bank: Terry Haupt Jr., a 16-year-old student-athlete at Red Bank Regional High School who was fatally struck by a New Jersey Transit train while crossing the tracks near Chestnut Street in May, has spurred a petition for state officials to prioritize public safety at all New Jersey railway intersections. (More)

365> Lincroft: Funeral services were held on Wednesday in Middletown for Gustavo Rocha, 15, who was killed last week in an e-bike accident. (See Obituary)

365> Red Bank: The borough is working to revitalize Johnny Jazz Park and seeks public input at a council meeting on Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 pm. Improvements include a new stage platform, walkways, lighting, and landscaping. (More)

365> Colts Neck: Former resident Queen Latifah, who was born in Newark, will host a historic July 4th America’s Block Party concert at the LA Coliseum. (More)

365> Eleven former professional baseball players, who played for the Yankees and the Mets and earned a combined 19 World Series championship rings, were part of an aquatic fantasy camp. (More)

365> Holmdel: Lunch and learn at Be Well at Bell this afternoon from 12:30-1:30 pm under the string lights at Bar Bella at Bell Works. The topic is Hormones & Mental Health, hosted in partnership with NuGen Medical. (More)

365> Colts Neck: The Alt, an 80s alternative rock band, is playing tonight at 7 pm as part of the Sounds of Summer Concert Series at Town Hall. (More)

365> Belmar: The Arts Center launches Jazz Jam tonight from 7 to 9:30 pm, hosted by veteran guitarist Jeff Pecca. There is a $5 donation. (More)

365> Red Bank: The Cliffs play at Red Rock tonight. Starting at 6 pm, you can purchase a t-shirt and get free admission. There is also a raffle for a Knicks jersey. (See Video)

365> Asbury Park: Eddie 9V will perform at the Wonder Bar tonight. On Friday, June 19, the Weeklings will perform Beatles hits. (See Video)

365> Bradley Beach: The library is hosting a free art workshop for kids ages 6-12 called Bugs, Bugs, I Love Bugs! on Tuesday, June 23, at 4 pm. (More)

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Yesterday’s Poll Results

Which beach is Monmouth’s best?

Ocean Grove: 20%
Manasquan: 16%
Asbury Park: 16%
Other: 13%
Long Branch: 10%
Manasquan: 9%
Sandy Hook: 9%
Sea Girt: 7%

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