Good morning, Monmouth County. While you’re juggling morning coffee and figuring out what’s for dinner, know this: we’re producing some serious talent — from a guy swinging clubs across the pond in Scotland to another hitting dingers on the diamond. If you ever thought your backyard barbecue league was impressive, just remember: somewhere in Little Silver and Wall Township, future pros are busy making us proud.

On the docket:

• Country Doubleheader: Little Big Town & Dierks Bentley Saddle Up for PNC

• Wall Township’s Andrew Fischer: 20th Overall Pick by Brewers

• Monmouth County Fair Opening Night: Family Fun & Fireworks

• Monmouth County Golfer: Chris Gotterup Wins Scottish Open

• Live Music Lowdown

Country Doubleheader: Little Big Town & Dierks Bentley Saddle Up for PNC

PNC Bank Arts Center is going full country this August, and yes, boots are optional but encouraged.

On Friday, August 8, Little Big Town brings the harmonies, the heartbreak, and the hits. Expect to belt out “Boondocks” with 17,000 of your closest friends. Carly Pearce and Carter Faith kick things off, so don’t linger too long in the parking lot tailgate.

Then on Friday, August 15, Dierks Bentley rides in with his “Broken Branches Tour,” serving up a mix of classics, new tunes, and just enough southern charm to make you consider buying a cowboy hat. Zach Top and The Band Loula open the show and keep the vibes strong.

Both shows start at 7 PM. Lawn seats are still available, just don’t wait until the last minute unless you like sitting behind a tree.

Make sure to grab tickets before they are gone here!

Wall Township’s Andrew Fischer: 20th Overall Pick by Brewers

Big news from the Jersey Shore: Wall Township native Andrew Fischer was selected 20th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft.

Fischer, a Wall High School grad, made a name for himself with standout college seasons at Duke, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. Known for his energy and leadership on and off the field, he’s earned praise not just for his bat, but for the spark he brings to every team.

The Monmouth County Board of Commissioners congratulated Fischer on the milestone, calling it a “remarkable achievement” and wishing him the best in his pro career. From Wall Township to the big leagues, Fischer is just getting started.

Monmouth County Fair Opening Night: Family Fun & Fireworks

Looking for a night that’ll keep the kids wide-eyed and the adults smiling? The Monmouth County Fair’s 50th anniversary kicks off on Wednesday, July 23rd at the East Freehold Showgrounds — packed with enough fun to tire out even the most energetic little ones (and maybe you, too). Here’s the lineup for opening night:

• Hot Air Balloon Display: Two colorful balloons floating from 6:00 to 9:00 PM — basically magic you can see without needing a wand.

• Ceremonial Kickoff: The fair officially starts at 7:00 PM with all the pomp and circumstance you’d expect from a party this big.

• Live Music: Yasgur’s Farm takes the Main Stage at 8:15 PM and 9:30 PM, giving everyone a soundtrack for the night.

• Fireworks Show: At 9:15 PM, the sky lights up with fireworks — the perfect grand finale to impress kids and adults alike.

So grab the crew, lace up those comfy shoes, and get ready to make some memories (or at least collect some good stories to survive bedtime)

Check out Monmouth County Park for more details!

Monmouth County Golfer: Chris Gotterup Wins Scottish Open

Little Silver’s own Chris Gotterup took home the win at the 2025 Scottish Open, finishing 15-under and outpacing a star-studded field, including final-round partner Rory McIlroy.

The CBA alum and Rutgers standout led from the second round and sealed the deal with a final-round 66. His victory earns him a career-defining title and a spot in next week’s British Open.

From Monmouth County to the majors, Gotterup’s rise is in full swing!

Live Music Lowdown

Wednesday, July 23
Thom White Trio, The Proving Ground | 5:30 PM
Chuck Lambert, The Sandbox | 6-9 PM

Thursday, July 24
Kickin Wing, The Proving Ground | 5:30 PM
Pam McCoy Trio, The Sandbox | 6-9 PM
Brian Kirk & the Jirks, Marina Grill | 8 PM
Bandits on the Run, Wonder Bar | 7 PM

Friday, July 25
Guns 4 Hire, The Proving Ground | 6 PM
John Rafferty, The Sandbox | 4-7 PM
The Haven, The Sandbox | 7-10PM
So WATT Band, Asbury Baronet Rooftop | 6-10 PM
Flipturn & Joe P, Stone Pony | 7-10:30 PM
The Cliffs, Martelli’s Tiki Bar | 9 PM

Saturday, July 26
Carl Jentry Band, The Proving Ground | 6 PM
Madison Ave Band, Monmouth Park Racetrack | 12–4 PM
Guns 4 Hire, The Sandbox | 7-10 PM
Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Stone Pony | 6-10:30 PM
Ron Artis II, Wonder Bar | 8 PM

Sunday, July 27
Meg Cannon, The Sandbox | 1-4 PM
Captain Mike & The Shipwrecks, The Sandbox | 5-8 PM
Last Call, The Proving Ground | 5 PM
Phantom Planet, Wonder Bar | 7 PM