Hi Everyone -  here's what we got this week in Monmouth County!

On the docket:

• Shop Local and Stroll the Bell Works Fresh Market

• Middletown Approves 10.1% School Tax Increase: What Families Need to Know

• Hop on Over to the Easter Parade at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Shop Local and Stroll the Bell Works Fresh Market!

If you’re looking for fresh finds and a midweek pick-me-up, the Bell Works Fresh Market in Holmdel is the place to be. Swing by on Wednesday, April 16th, from 11 AM to 4 PM to browse local produce, fresh-baked treats, handmade goods, and more — all from amazing local vendors. It’s a great way to support small businesses and bring home something way better than your usual grocery store strawberries.

Whether you’re into fresh flowers, sourdough bread, or just there for the vibes and free samples (we won’t judge), the market has something for everyone. Plus, live music will be playing from 12–3 PM, so you can shop to a soundtrack instead of your usual podcast that you pretend to understand.

Middletown Approves 10.1% School Tax Increase: What Families Need to Know

The Middletown Board of Education just voted 7–2 to approve a 10.1% increase in school property taxes for the upcoming year. They turned down a lower option of 5.88%, choosing instead to go with the full hike to support the district’s budget needs. The increase is expected to help fund ongoing school programs, staffing, and other operational costs—but we know, it’s a number that’s making eyebrows raise across town.

Whether you’re a parent with kids in the district or just a concerned neighbor, this is definitely something to keep on your radar. The board said the decision came down to sustaining the quality of education, but let’s be real—10.1% isn’t exactly small change. Time to dust off that calculator and maybe cut back on those extra iced lattes (just for a week… or two). 😉

Hop on Over to the Easter Parade at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk 

The Easter Parade at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is hopping back into town on Sunday, April 20th at 1 PM! Hosted by the Point Pleasant Beach Chamber of Commerce, this beloved annual event is the perfect way to celebrate spring with the whole family. Registration is from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in front of Joey Tomato’s (bonus points if you grab a slice after). The parade kicks off at 1 PM with fun categories like floats, bonnets, multiples, and age groups for kids from 0 to 10 years old.

Winners will snag prizes from both the boardwalk and local businesses — so if you’ve been dying to dress your toddler like a peep or build a bunny float out of pool noodles, this is your moment. Whether you're participating or just there to cheer on the cutest parade you’ll see all year, it's a sweet Sunday event for the whole county to enjoy.