Monmouth Beach, a small town on the Jersey Shore, has taken America's 250th-anniversary celebrations to an extraordinary level. Officials partnered with the local historical committee to organize a series of patriotic events, culminating in the painting of the town's main intersection with the stars and stripes.
The town's July 4 celebration planning began months in advance, evolving into an ambitious four-day event held from June 11-14. The festivities included a parade, a community barbecue, a beach day, family activities, historical presentations, and a fireworks display. The crosswalk, now a vibrant red, white, and blue, has become a focal point, drawing significant attention.
Mayor Tim Somers, 63, stated that the event's success was due to the extensive hours put in by a dedicated committee and the generous contributions of townspeople. Residents of Monmouth Beach, which has a year-round population of 3,200, collectively donated $120,000 to fund the celebration. "We had so many people working hard for this," Somers said. "We had a committee that put in extensive hours every week for months, and then we took up a volunteer collection from the townspeople, who were more than generous."
The celebration also highlighted the town's history, including its ties to the Native Lenape tribe. Attendees learned about the area's indigenous past, heard a presentation by local historian Greg Kelley, and witnessed a reading of the Declaration of Independence by an individual in 1700s colonial attire. "I look at it or drive over it every day and you realize how unique it really is," Somers remarked about the painted crosswalk. "It’s really spectacular."
Regarding any potential objections to painting the flag on the street, Mayor Somers defended the action, stating, "It’s a symbol, not an actual flag, and perfectly within the bounds of respectability."
The extensive preparations and community involvement fostered a strong sense of patriotism and community spirit. "I love this town," Somers added. "I can’t say enough about how hard the committee worked to put our celebration together. There was no trouble at all, everyone had a blast, and I’m very, very proud to be an American."
The painted crosswalk has garnered interest from city leaders nationwide, with many reportedly contacting Somers for plans to replicate the idea in their own communities next year.