MATAWAN-ABERDEEN VOL 2, NO 7
CHAMBER CONNECTION
Welcome to the Season of Gifts and Giving! As we approach the holiday season, I would like to take a moment to thank all of Jeff Pantelas our members President old and new Chamber of for their unCommerce wavering support throughout this year as we continue to grow and serve our community. Here we Grow! Welcome to our newest members: 3 BR Distillery: Maksim Zhdanov, Archangel Raphael Academy Childcare and Summer Camp: Ereen Tawflik, Citizen’s Bank: Vincent Davis, GRANTvest: Joseph Cammayo, Ponemon Sweet Spot: Brian and Valerie Ponemon and Sal Lopez Boxing Academy: Craig Haussman. As you do your holiday shopping, please consider shopping local as it helps everyone in our community thrive and grow stronger. Also we encourage you to donate to the Chamber Food Drive for our local food pantries in December. Donations can be dropped off at 201 Broad Street, Matawan or call 732-290-1125 for pickup. For Further information please visit MACOCNJ.com. Have a happy and blessed holiday and New Year! Jeff Pantelas,President Matawan Aberdeen C hamb er of C ommerce.
A Publication for the community of Matawan & Aberdeen
LAST FEW WEEKS TO DONATE TO TOYS FOR TOTS Now, we are in our Holiday season again, All Around Old Bridge, Old Bridge Chamber of Commerce and Old Bridge Business Alliance wants to give back to our most prized community members, our children, this season with a goal of 2,500 toys to donate, we can reach that goal this year with your help. Just think the smiles we will bring to the children this year. Each year, the residents and businesses of Old Bridge support those in need around the holidays
by participating in our Annual Giving Event “Toys for Tots”, we will begin collecting donations through December 14h to help provide the much-needed joy the children deserve for the holidays. Over the last few years, we have collected 7,000 toys and watched as residents both from and outside Old Bridge lent a helping- hand. With a donation from each of our businesses and residents, we can help provide toys for many children this holiday season, together we can make a difference.
To make your donation, you can drop off a toy at any drop off locations, page 7, or you can scan the QR code to donate and a toy will be purchased.
LOCAL FARMER, MIDGER HAUSER HONORED
Midge and John Hauser
Midge with Chair of Womens committee Danielle Wainwright (R) and 1st vice Rachel Sickler(L)
Carolyn “Midge” Hauser of Hauser Hill Farm in Middlesex County is our 2023 New Jersey Farm Bureau Woman of the Year. Midge graduated from Susquehanna University in 1990 with a BA in Spanish and lived and studied in Segovia, Spain. After graduation, she worked for the Manhattan DA’s office in the Witness Aid Services Unit and the Special Projects Bureau, where she used her knowledge of Spanish to translate for victims of crimes. When she left the DA’s office, she decided to teach. She finished her degree in education and later earned a master’s degree from Marygrove College. She has been teaching for 26 years and presently teaches Spanish at Old Bridge High School to 9th grade students. “Teaching has afford-
ed me the opportunity to have summers off to focus on the farm and all the work that needs to b e d on e ,” M i d ge s ay s . Midge and her husband, John, met on a blind date in 2000 and married later that same year. She says, “everything moved very quickly because it didn’t take long for me to figure out that John was one of the absolute best human beings I’d ever met.” This union was her introduction to farm life, which she has taken with incredible stride. Midge has served as President and Secretary of the Middlesex County Board of Agriculture and was named the 2019 Middlesex County Farmer of the Year. Midge has been described as a woman who will do a lot of the behind the scenes work Continue on page 15
DECEMBER 2023
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ABERDEEN VETERANS DAY CAR SHOW GREAT SUCCESS
Aberdeen Township didn’t have great luck with the weather this year. Mother Nature forced the Township to cancel many of their summer concerts and their Aberdeen Day activities not once, but twice. Still wanting to have the car show, the Aberdeen Township Administration decided to roll the dice and schedule an outdoor car show in November on Veterans Day weekend, and it sure did pay off. Over 75 classic and custom cars shut down Atlantic Avenue right outside Matawan Regional High School. Years ago, Aberdeen began its “Hometown Heroes” program, which hung banners all over the town of local veterans. Each “Hometown Hero” and members of their family were
invited to be honored during the car show, and each of the banners honoring each veteran were transformed into lawn signs by local printer Panther Press and proudly displayed on the High School lawn. “There was no greater honor in my life than to serve in our military,” said Councilman Robert Swindle, while attending the ceremony. I’m thankful to our administration, our recreation department, and all of our sponsors, especially Panther Press and G Wiz Auto Entertainment for this wonderful event. With bounce castles, marvel characters dressed up and a wonderful ceremony honoring our bravest, it w a s a g re at d ay i n Ab e rd e e n .
DECEMBER 2023
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MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE I am filled with gratitude and joy as I express my deepest thanks to each and every one of you for re-electing me to be your Mayor. I appreciate your confidence in my leadership and I am excited Matawan Mayor about the conJoseph Altomonte tinued progress and prosperity that lies ahead in Matawan. I’ll be sure to continue to share our upcoming plans for our town. As we head into December, let us also remember the spirit of the upcoming holidays. May this festive season bring warmth, joy, and unity to each and every household in Matawan. In the midst of our celebrations, let’s take a moment to think of those who may be less fortunate. This year, I encourage you to consider making a difference in the lives of others by supporting local food banks and the Matawan Food Pantry. Your generosity can truly make a significant impact on families in need, ensuring that everyone in our community can experience the joy of the holidays. Our bins are
located in front of Borough Hall, feel free to contribute what you can at any time. Once again, thank you, Matawan, for choosing me to lead us into the future. Let us continue working together to make our town a better place for all, and may the spirit of the holidays inspire us to spread kindness, compassion, and goodwill. Wishing you and your loved on e s a j oy f u l h o l i d ay s e a s on .
DECEMBER 2023
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HEROES IN OUR MIDST By Steven Russell Matawan Councilman This past Veterans Day, November 11, 2023, at 11 AM, the time of the armistice marking the end of the fighting of World War One, I attended a ceremony in Matawan’s beautiful Rose Hill Cemetery. I had been there before, not only during the Shark Tour put on by the Matawan Historical Society, but on other occasions, often to take in the beauty of the place. I later learned that buried in that cemetery is a local hero named Levi S. Emmons. He’s buried near another Levi S. Emmons, a Civil War veteran, who I can only assume is his father. In 1901 in Matawan an arsonist set a fire that burned a number of businesses and homes in the
downtown area. According to a 2012 Patch article, Levi the younger, then 22 and a volunteer firefighter, ran into a burning laundry business and carried out owner Sam Lee, and then continued to fight the blaze despite his own burns. The elder Emmons was a Union soldier in Company A of the 38th Regiment of the New Jersey Infantry during the Civil War. They are but two of the notable people interred there. All of the cemeteries in Matawan are fascinating places, steeped in history and memories. But Rose Hill is exceptionally striking in its beauty and significance. Take a walk through it. You can wander among heroes and celebrities of all kinds.
DECEMBER 2023
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DECEMBER 2023
KP EDGESTONE REALTY FOOD & TOY DRIVE 2023
By Jeffrey Kagan The season of giving has begun neighbors come together to help others really makes us feel great!” says Pascua. This year the brokerage is collecting food and toys at both or their locations: 76 Main Street in Matawan and 70 West Railroad Avenue in Jamesburg. Donors are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items to either location and leave in the box on the porch. If its easier to have items shipped, they can be sent to either office. The drive goes until December 15th. Pet food donations are also accepted. All food donations will be donated to the Matawan Food Pantry and the Jamesburg Presbyterian Church Food The time of year when we think a little Pantry. Toys will be donated to Toys For bit less about ourselves and a little bit Tots, and any pet related donations will more about others. The nights come a be given to the Old Bridge Twp. Animal little sooner, the weather gets cooler but Shelter. The Old Bridge Business Alliance hearts are warmer. One “distributor of will be hosting their Annual Toys for Tots warmth” behind the annual KP Edge- Drive at the Hampton Inn of Old Bridge stone Realty Food and Toy Drive is Joel (300 Spring Valley Road) on Thursday, Pascua, Broker-Owner of the brokerage December 7th from 6pm to 9pm. This which has hosted this drive for the past event is open to the business owners and 5 years. “There is no better feeling than leaders across the tri-state area. RSVP helping someone who needs help. I’ve at obedo@oldbridge.com. And please always been taught to give back to those bring an unwrapped toy for the drive. who are in need. Seeing our friends and Last year, over 7,000 toys were collected.
All Around Old Bridge, Old Bridge Business Alliance and The Chamber of Commerce.
OVER 7,500 TOYS DONATED Help support the children
All Donations Are Appreciate
Holiday Event 2023 Online Giving & Drop off begins 11/10/2023 – 12/14/2023 DROP OFF
- All American Ford – 3698 Route 9 - Café Luna – 3679 Rt 9 - Chick-fil-A – 770 Texas Rd. - Columbia Bank – 2988 Rt 516 - Doughlicious – 2591 Rt 516 - Giusseppe’s Pizza – 2581 Route 516 - Kearny Bank – 510 Rt 34, Matawan - La Rosa Chicken – 3885 RT 516 - Old Bridge Public Library – 1 Old Bridge Plaza
To Donate online scan QR CODE
20 LOCATIONS 23
- Parlin Dupont – 389 Washington Road, office 2 , Sayreville - Pet Center – 2833 Rt 9N - ProFysio Physical Therapy – 2665 Route 516, Old Bridge - ProFysio Physical Therapy –1077 NJ-34 Suite M, Aberdeen Township - ProFysio Physical Therapy –510 NJ-18 East Brunswick - Quality Chevy – 1292 RT 9N
- Retro fitness – 419 NJ-34 - Old Bridge School of Dance 419 Rt 34 - South Old Bridge Fire Station14 Throckmorton lane 6am-6pm Mon-Fri - The Max – 3879 Rt 516 - YMCA- 1 Mannino Park
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MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE
Mayor Fred Tagliarini – Aberdeen Mayor Hello Aberdeen residents, The election is over and I am so pleased the my team of Greg Cannon, Artie Hirsch,Connie Kelley and Robert Swindle will be returning to the Aberdeen Council. I thank Aberdeen voters for these results. What this means is, the Road Program, Park Program, Quality of Life initiatives such as sanitation pick ups,
recycling, police protection and recreation programs and events for seniors, adults and children will continue. Speaking of events, on Nov. 30th the annual Christmas Tree lighting was held.On December 12 we will light the Town Menorah.All are welcomed to these family events. In closing, let me wish you a Happy Holiday Season and a Happy and Healthy New Year from the Aberdeen Council and everyone at Town Hall. Let’s stop and give thanks for family, friends, police, Fire, CERT and EMS personnel and members of the Armed Forces and this great country we live in. My best wishes , Fred Tagliarini Mayor, Aberdeen Fred.Tagliarini@aberdeennj.org
DECEMBER 2023
MAYOR TAGLIARINI ACCEPTS A “CIGAR BOX GUITAR” AFTER HELPING LOCAL RESIDENT
Last month, at Aberdeen’s NJMVC Mobile Unit event at Town Hall, the township was able to assist a woman who needed a new state issued ID. After hearing her story, it was clear that she was under the care of her brother and they were finding it difficult to get a new ID now that she had moved to Aberdeen. The excellent services at the NJMVC allowed her to get
a new ID finally, and her brother, Mr. Peter Bellew returned to the township days later to show his thanks to the employees that went out of their way to help his sister. Peter owns “CIGAR BOX GUITARS FOR VETERANS.” He handcrafts these guitars from cigar boxes and then gives them away to veterans or helps raise money for them in the process. They are truly amazing works of art. Aberdeen Township Mayor Tagliarini stopped into Town Hall to accept this beautiful piece and was so taken back by Pete’s kindness. The Township plans to hang it inside Town Hall for all to see. In speaking about Pete’s “Cigar Box Guitar”, Mayor Tagliarini said, “I was quite taken back by Peter’s kindness when I received the call he was at Town Hall. The NJMVC has a great program and we just simply utilize it to better serve our Aberdeen Residents. This beautiful work of art will be cherished in these halls for a long time to come.” For more information about the Cigar Box Guitar’s, contact our Aberdeen Public Information Office at (732)583-4200 x130
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YMCA PROVIDES SUPPORT DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON Each year, the YMCA Greater Monmouth County provides support during the costly holiday season to families participating in our Counseling & Social Services programs. YMCA GMC is one of 10 YMCAs in the US that provide counseling & social services. This distinct offering makes the YMCA GMC an important asset to our community. The CSS outpatient division provides counseling to children ages 3-18 and their families, substance use services, and mental health programs for adults in our outpatient offices. In addition, the Y has contracted with over 100 schools in Monmouth County to provide counseling for children in their familiar school environment, thereby reducing stigma, and the barrier to transportation. Our Outreach services include behavioral assistance, mentoring, parent coaching, in-community support, and Division of Child Protection and Permanency programs. The “Holiday Support Drive” is an effort to provide parents/caregivers with a gift card with which to buy a present from their child’s wish list. Additionally, they are given a family game for children ages 0-12 years or
an insulated water bottle for teens ages 13+. “Our staff identify 500-600 youth who participate in our CSS programs whose families would greatly benefit from a little extra support. All gifts are hand delivered to our families. The ask is minimal, but the impact is extraordinarily helpful and appreciated,” says LeeAnn Wagner, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Vice President Counseling & Social Services. The Holiday Support initiative ends 12/8 To participate with a tax-deductible donation, scan the QR code below with your smartphone and click when prompted to visit Y registries to purchase gift cards in denominations of $25 or $50. Games and water bottles can be dropped off at our Old Bridge, Freehold, and Red Bank Family YMCA’s. For more infor mat ion, v isit https://ymcanj.org/GiftDrive
DECEMBER 2023
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DECEMBER 2023
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that arise. As the ancient saying wisely said, “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Remember, grief is a journey, and healing takes time. Have faith that brighter days will come, and the holiday season will once again be filled with joy. As Emily Dickinson beautifully expressed, “Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all.” As we navigate through grief and loss during the holidays, let us hold onto hope, love, and the strength that comes from coming together as a family. The holiday season may be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to find solace, cherish memories, and create new traditions that honor the ones we have lost. In the words of Albert Schweitzer, “At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who
DECEMBER 2023
have lighted the flame within us.” May the flame of hope and love burn brightly in your hearts this holiday season and always.
By: David L. Hernandez, Jr. Owner & Funeral Director Old Bridge Funeral Home Reach David via david@jerseymemorial.com
We invite you to honor and remember your loved one.
HOLIDAY SERVICE OF
December 12
7:00pm Service
At Waitt Funeral Home 501 Highway 79 Morganville, NJ
Light Refreshments will be served at 6:00pm
F U N E R A L &
C R E M AT ION
H O M E S E RV ICE
(732) 566-5300 Michael V. Grandi, Manager NJ Lic. No. 4427
F U N E R A L &
CREMATION
SEATING IS LIMITED RSVP Today at
Receive a FREE Remembrance Ornament
OldBridgefh.com/rsvp
H O M E SERVICE
(732) 566-1962 Family Owned & Operated
All are welcome, even if we did not serve your family.
Scan to RSVP
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ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL MATAWAN DAY IS IN THE BOOKS!
By Deann Gunn, Matawan Council President
First and foremost, I express my gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the Borough for the next three years—an honor I deeply cherish. My commitment to hard work for you and our community remains unwavering. Reflecting on the past year, immense appreciation goes to the dedicated volunteers and departments pivotal to realizing our ongoing vision. Heartfelt thanks extend to those whose tireless efforts and dedication propelled
the Borough forward. Special acknowledgment goes to our commission volunteers, committed employees, professionals, and collaborative departments instrumental in advancing Matawan. As the year draws to a close, anticipate engaging events like the annual tree and menorah lightings, ushering in the holiday spirit. I extend warm wishes for a joyous and safe holiday season to you and your families. Looking ahead to 2024, stay tuned for updates on our plans for the upcoming term. Your input is invaluable, so please reach out with any needs, ideas, or concerns at deana.gunn@ matawanborough.com. Together, let’s continue moving Matawan forward.
DECEMBER 2023
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DECEMBER 2023
ARCADIAN CHORALE LIVE HOLIDAY CONCERT
The Arcadian Chorale led by Music Director Marina Alexander will perform its holiday program, “Infinite Majesty!” on Sunday, December 17 at 4:00 PM at St. Rose of Lima Church, 16 McLean St., Freehold, NJ. The program will feature two settings of the celebratory “Te Deum” text: a beautiful traditional setting by Johann Albrechstberger, Beethoven’s teacher; and a rollicking contemporary version by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins. Contemporary works like Awake, My Soul by Elaine Hagenberg and the mysterious Song of Praise by Henryk Gorecki will be framed by familiar classics, including Mendelssohn’s He Watching Over Israel and Handel’s “Hallelujah” Chorus. Virtuoso keyboard accompaniments will be provided by Ruslan Odintsov. The Matawan Regional HS Vocal Academy directed by Andre Baldasserini will also be featured, continuing a long-standing collaboration between those students and the Chorale. They will join their voices in Dan Forest’s inspiring Festival First Noel, and mark Hannu kah with a beautiful setting of Osem Shalom by John Leavitt.
The audience will also join in a community carol sing, accompanied by the Arcadian Brass Quintet. As it has for many years, the Freehold Borough Arts Council will be a sponsor of this concert, with introductions offered by its President Jeffry Friedman. A member organization of the NJ Choral Consortium and Monmouth Arts, Arcadian Chorale has presented its exciting classical music performances at many sites in the greater Monmouth area. The ensemble celebrated its 30th anniversary in June 2023, under the inspiring direction of its Founder and Conductor, Marina Alexander. The group is regularly invited to perform throughout New York and New Jersey, including numerous appearances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the NJPAC. Please visit Arcadian Chorale’s website for more information: www. arcadianchorale.org Ticket prices are as follows: General admission = $22 – Seniors = $20 – Students = $10 Group discounts are available. Tickets can be purchased online at https:// www.arcadianchorale.org/tickets.html Happy Holidays!
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UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF YOUR CHILD’S DIGITAL PSAT Students took the Digital PSAT on in October, ushering in a new era of standardized testing. How does the test break down? The PSAT 8/9, PSAT/ NMSQT, and SAT span 2 hours and 14 minutes—a little longer than most students are able to naturally focus. While the paper and pencil SAT had a different number of questions and different timing for these 3 tests, it is the same for this new digital test: PSAT 8/9, PSAT/NMSQT, SAT Breakdown: Module 1 reading and writing: 32 minutes, 27 questions Module 1 math: 22 minutes, 35 questions Module 2 reading and writing: 32 minutes, 27 questions Module 2 math: 22 minutes, 35 questions However, the total score for each test is different: PSAT 8/9 Total Score Scale: 240 to 1440 Section Score Scale: 120 to 720 Cross-Test Score Range: 6 to 36 PSAT/ NMSQT Total Score Scale: 320 to 1520 Section Score Scale: 160 to 760 CrossTest Score Range: 8 to 38 National Merit
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Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT): T h e N M S Q T p a r t o f P S AT / N M S Q T s t a n d s f o r “ Nat i o n a l Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.” Approximately 1,490,000 high school juniors took the PSAT/NMSQT in October. 50,000 of those who take the test qualify for a National Merit Scholarship, with only 15% of qualifiers receiving the scholarship. T h e s c h o l a r s h ip pro c e s s i n volves considering extracurriculars, GPA, and SAT improvement. Last year, NJ was tied for the highest qualifying score—a selection index of 223, roughly equivalent to a 1490. PSAT Results: Results were released on November 6th and 16th. For more information on the PSAT/NMSQT, contact Paul Pscolka at 833-728-7228. Have suggestions for a topic? Drop us a line at ivymasters.com/contact.
DECEMBER 2023
MATAWAN TO RECEIVE OVER $183K IN GRANTS FOR BURROWES MANSION
By Ryan Michelson, Matawan Business Administrator The Borough of Matawan has been went on to say that the grant for “the approved for two grants totaling $183,341 Preservation Plan allows us to go multiple by The New Jersey Historic Trust from steps beyond where we are today and better the Preserve New Jersey Historic Pres- assess the most pressing issues of the propervation Fund to make critical electrical erty and phase in improvements as needed.” upgrades in the amount of $149,377 as Maintaining the historical integrity of well as $33,964 For a Preservation Plan the Mansion has been and always will be to guide long-term improvements to important as showcased this year during the Burrowes Mansion in Matawan. the Matawan community celebrations honToday, the Burrowes Mansion op- oring the Burrowes Mansion’s important erates as a local history museum under milestone of its 300th year. Borough Histhe Matawan Historical Society and torian and Chair of the Matawan Historical provides a window into yesteryear for Sites Commission Kurtis Roinestad spoke the residents and all those who visit the of his gratitude for all involved and how “as Borough. The Mansion contains period a treasured institution in our Borough, the rooms, antiques — including eighteenth Mansion has substantial historical signifiand nineteenth-century furniture — and cance in Matawan, mostly centered around local memorabilia that help embrace the the Burrowes family during the American essence of the Mansion and breathe life Revolution. This plan and upgrades are into the building. Mayor Joseph Altomon- essential to the historic landmark’s integrity te shared, “by securing these grants, we can and its continuing function as an educamake critical upgrades to the electrical tional venue and one cherished by so many.” infrastructure to ensure the long-term Cathy Zavorskas, President of Matawan safety and sustainability of the property. Historical Society, shared that “all the Councilman Steven Russell, Liaison to elements of the Mansion, like the special Matawan Historical Sites Commission, Continue on page 16
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DECEMBER 2023
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NJ FARM BUREAU WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP OF THE YEAR, MIDGE HAUSER to be by his side and help keep the legacy. Continued from page 1 to get things done. Her ability to balance both her career off of the farm and the inner workings of their busy farm prove her dedication and passion for agriculture. Midge’s advice to the future generations of women in agriculture is to get involved. We play a crucial role in agriculture. Not only supporting our partners, but important roles in the businesses we help run, the families we raise and support, and many agricultures related boards we volunteer with. It is important that we lend our voices to keep agriculture viable in New Jersey. Legislators need to know that this industry is one of the most vital in the world, not just our country and our state. When asked: What brings you the most joy about being a woman in agriculture? Midge responded: “One of the things that brings me much joy about being a woman involved in agriculture is being a part of something bigger than myself. Farming is a legacy, something that is passed down through generations. I’m proud of my husband and the work he does. I’m equally proud
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going by supporting him and being a voice for agriculture. It isn’t always easy, but it’s always rewarding.” What an excellent example you have set for New Jersey women in agriculture. We congratulate you on this achievement, and appreciate your passion for agriculture, and what you represent as a member of New Jersey Farm Bureau. (Reprinted with permission and photo credit from NJ Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee)
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CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!
Once again, MAPL will be celebrating The Festival of Giving – we collect items throughout the month of December to then give to individuals in need. This year, along with our ongoing collection of nonperishable items for the Matawan Food Pantry, we are again requesting donations of new mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves for our Mitten Tree. We are continuing our partnership with the Woman’s Club of Matawan and their lovely Giving Tree, where those who donate books for children and teens in need may take a handcrafted ornament. Our December programs are a seasonal gift to our patrons of all ages! We are featuring our special holiday craft-on-the-go for kids, as well as many other opportunities to make, learn, relax, and have fun! On December 6th, we’re having a special Teen Bingo program at 7pm. On December 9th, Family Cookie Baking on Zoom is at 10:30am. Also on the 9th at 10:30am, adults can come in to make holiday gift coasters. On December 10th, there’s a drop-in Holiday Scavenger Hunt for kids – with
prizes! Also on the 10th, adults can attend What’s it Worth? An Antiques Road Show-style program at 1pm. On December 11th at 7pm, adults can come in to make a holiday bracelet for a gift, or to treat yourself ! On December 16th, the snowman party is all day long, featuring two stuffed animal workshops at 10am and 1pm. We have something fun going on in the children’s room every day we’re open between Christmas and New Year’s (December 27-30) and the 30th is the pick-up day for the New Year’s Eve Fun Packs! Registration is required for many of our programs due to space limitations. For more details about our December events and to register, make sure to visit our website at www. matawanaberdeenlibrary.com, stop by, or give us a call at 732-583-9100. Wish i ng you and you rs a ver y happy holiday season! Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
DECEMBER 2023
MATAWAN TO RECEIVE OVER $183K IN GRANTS FOR BURROWES MANSION
By Ryan Michelson, Matawan Business Administrator Continued from page 13 mini-displays and exhibits highlight- community’s hearts and minds and will ing a collection of historical events, continue to be so for future generations help transform the space into a home with the support of these two grants.” as it was years ago for the Burrowes Family, but today, it is a home for our
HAPPY HOLIDAY SAESON FROM HAUSER HILL FARMS! Happy Holiday Season from Hauser Hill Farms! We are grateful to all our customers for a successful season, and we appreciate your support of our family’s farm. The work isn’t always easy, but it is always rewarding, and we have you to thank for that. We still have some produce to sell and luckily, our chickens don’t stop laying in the winter, so once again our
farm stand will be open in the winter months for self-service. We’ll have winter squash, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, eggs, and firewood for sale. If you are interested in having firewood delivered, by the cord or half cord, call our office at 732-591-1966 to set up delivery. Thank you again for all your support, we wish you all the best for 2024. See you in May!!
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DECEMBER 2023
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DEAR RESIDENTS OF MATAWAN BOROUGH & ABERDEEN TOWNSHIP As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, we are overwhelmed with gratitude and joy as we reflect upon the generosity and support bestowed upon Bayshore EMS. Your heartfelt contributions have been the lifeblood of our organization, allowing us to continue our mission of providing crucial emergency medical services to our community at no cost to the residents. This year, your donations have played a pivotal role in sustaining our non-profit organization. It is heartening to witness the unwavering commitment of individuals like you who recognize the importance of a well-equipped and efficient emergency medical service. Your financial support has enabled us to maintain our equipment, enhance training programs for our dedicated team, and ensure that we are always prepared to respond swiftly to emergencies. We are acutely aware that these contributions are a reflection of your trust and belief in the work we do. It is this trust that motivates us to continually strive for excellence in our service to the
community. Each donation, regardless of size, resonates deeply with us, reinforcing the bond that unites us in the shared goal of providing access to great emergency services for our community. As we embark on a new year, we extend our heartfelt wishes for continued happiness and good health to each and every one of you. May the spirit of community and compassion that defines Matawan Borough and Aberdeen Township endure, creating a tapestry of resilience that strengthens us all. Once again, thank you for your invaluable support. We look forward to the possibilities that the coming year holds and remain committed to serving you with the utmost dedication and care. Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with prosperity, joy, and good health. Sincerely, Justin J. Fata President, MatawanAberdeen First Aid Squad
DECEMBER 2023
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300TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR ENDS WITH INSTALLATION OF INTERPRETIVE SIGN The Matawan Historical Society has had an incredible year. It has organized, coordinated, and planned events honoring the 300th anniversary of the Burrowes Mansion in collaboration with Matawan Borough administration, departments, mayor, and council. The house has endured a great deal, and it continues to yield incredible stories and experiences worthy of our time and attention. Every event — including the Philip Freneau performance in May, the live June Reenactment of the 1778 British Raid with the Colonial Encampment, the concert in the mansion’s backyard, and the Holiday Musicale — has highlighted a different aspect of the home’s rich history. During this 300th anniversary year, the Society decided it was the perfect time to add something memorable to mark this occasion. Board of Directors member Barry Orr took on the task of applying for a grant from the Society of the Cincinnati organization to create and install an interpretive sign on the Mansion’s front lawn. Much to his credit, the
application was approved. The sign, which includes an original drawing by local artist Henry Charles, will provide onlookers a chance to pause and learn about the historic raid of May 27, 1778. The interpretative sign describes the raid, and highlights the Burrowes family’s extraordinary bravery in supporting the struggle for independence. The goal of the Matawan Historical Society’s 300th anniversary events, activities, and programs was to pique public interest in the Burrowes Mansion and help visitors appreciate its historical significance, as well as the treasures housed within it. In the months following the Reenactment weekend, which drew over 2,000 attendees, several hundred more people have visited the Burrowes Mansion. It is fitting that the year concludes with the installation of the educational sign serving as a reminder of the strength found in bravery, faith, and hope.
DECEMBER 2023