ALL AROUND MATAWAN ABERDEEN- February-2023

MATAWAN-ABERDEEN

MACOC KICKS OFF 2023 WITH SUCCESSFUL EVENTS

As we delve into winter 2023, The Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce is off to a running start this New Year!

Many thanks to Strathmore Lanes for hosting a fun Meet and Greet bowling outing for our members and friends. With portions of the proceeds going towards our Matawan Aberdeen Chamber Scholarship fund, the evening was a tremendous success.

Thanks to Jason Peist for an informative Chamber Luncheon Presentation at Just Love Cafe. He provided valuable information regarding the changes to ADA building code regulations beginning this March.

A warm welcome to our newest Chamber members: ShopA-Holic: Greg Linder, Doug Ringel and Arnie Schwartzman as well as Mark Csordos of Washing Well Laundromat.

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, show your love for your community by shopping with and supporting our local businesses!

Visit www.macocnj.com for upcoming events and news.--Jeff Pantelas, President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce

DEMARCO’S: A HALF CENTURY OF QUALITY ITALIAN SPECIALTIES

On December 9, 1975 opened its doors in Aberdeen. Under the leadership of Louis DeMarco, along with his sons Eugene and Robert, they have been dedicatedly serving the community with

the finest Italian specialty foods, fresh baked breads, deli delights, fresh meats, and mouthwatering meals ever since.! One of the things that sets DeMarco’s apart from other food shops is the wide range of imported Italian products offered. They are dedicated to bring the authentic taste of Italy to the local community. The daily hot and cold prepared food specials are a popular feature, giving customers a new taste to try every day. The reputation of the delicious homemade breads often results in them selling out within a few hours. Catering and party plan -

2023 MFAF HALL OF FAME DINNER AND PIN CEREMONY

The Matawan Football Alumni Foundation would like to invite all past alumni and community members to join us for our annual dinner and Hall of Fame induction ceremony that will be held on Friday March 24, 2023, from 7 – 11pm at MJs (formerly Buttonwood Manor) located at 845 Rt.34 Matawan, NJ.

Congratulations to this year’s Matawan Football Alumni Hall of Fame honorees: Mark Jones – Class of 1981 (Rutgers)

James Tumulty – Class of 1981 (Temple) Undefeated

1966 All County Team: Bill Bond, John Caliendo, Randy Davis, Charles “Chic” Geran, Mike Grimaldi, Jim Lauro

This year all previously inducted Hall of Fame members

will receive an exclusive MFAF Hall of Fame pin, designed by our MFAF selection committee. There will be a pin ceremony at the dinner presenting all past inductees with this special honor. Tickets may be purchased via our website below or by contacting Scott Bellone at (732) 241-4580 or sbellone@hesofnj. com. We are also seeking sponsors for ad space in our banquet program. -Matawan Football Alumni Foundation Organizing Committee Joe Martucci ‘68, Rick Derechailo ’76, Scott Bellone ’78, James Byrd 79’ Glen Dwyer ‘80, Jeff Shaw ‘80, Bruce Derechailo ’81, Joe Vaccarella’93, John Lazar ‘07, Chris Shea ‘93, Christian Dapolito ‘00, Ricky Butler ‘76 Bruce Monro 08’

ning services are a specialty. They are well-known for their delicious holiday meals, homemade breads, and baked pies. They offer a wide range of catering options, from small intimate gatherings such as birthdays and milestones to large corporate events and formal black-tie affairs like weddings DeMarco’s butcher shop is a premier feature, offering customers fresh meats and poultry. They are carefully selected and prepared to ensure that customers get the best taste and value. You will also find fresh mozzarella made daily on premises.

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About us: The Matawan Football Alumni Foundation is a non-profit organization that proudly supports our local youth through yearly scholarships, awards and team assistance. James C. Dwyer Huskie Alumni Park and the Matawan Football Hall of Fame located at Matawan High School are both maintained by the MFAF. Please follow our Facebook page for more information and updates.

www.matawanfootballalumni.com

Eugene, Louis & Robert DeMarco

MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE

Looking back at 2022, it was a planning year for Matawan. Plans for redevelopment, restoration, and community events have been our main focus this past year. This planning will result in many things in store for Matawan in 2023. One exciting and anticipated project is the raising of Aberdeen Road. The County Engineer was here in 2022 and spoke during one of our sessions. While in the meeting, they detailed the reconstruction and raising of the Aberdeen Road project. The County will bid on the project next week, which takes about one month. After the bid closes, the contract will be awarded. The forecast is to have a shovel in the ground by approximately July 2023. There will be a notice to the community when the approximate date starts. Please look for signs that will be posted, and we will keep you updated. As we head into 2023, I look forward to a productive year with the Council.

The 300-yr anniversary of the Burrowes Mansion will be celebrated June 2nd-4th. My administration is incredibly proud of the restoration of this Revolutionary War landmark that is a huge part of our history. It will be an event filled weekend so save the date now as more information will be coming soon. My administration remains committed to redevelopment, bringing new businesses to town, improving our parks, paving our roads, and providing our departments and first responders with the equipment and tools they need to perform their jobs properly, enhancing our events and recreation programs for our residents and continuing to make Matawan a desired community for people to live. It’s an honor to be your Mayor, and I thank you for the opportunity to serve the residents of Matawan.

Matawan Mayor Joseph Altomonte

MATAWAN HISTORIC GEM TURNS 300

By Cathy Zavorskas

Every year, we look forward to fresh starts, new beginnings, possibilities, and adventures. This year, we have the opportunity to commemorate a rare and exceptional event: the 300th birthday of the iconic building known as the Burrowes Mansion. In honor of this historic structure, the Matawan Historical Society will host several talks, activities, and programs with assistance from several municipal departments in celebration of this grand milestone. The Burrowes Mansion (94 Main Street) has stood for three centuries and has absorbed the sights and sounds of previous eras, turning it into a repository of our history. Its artifacts and stories expertly capture the bravery and valor, conflict and peace, economic prosperity and hardship, and innovation and change found in our history Although its structure, function, and usage have evolved over the years—from being a home to one of New Jersey’s earliest settlers to a gathering place for Sons of Liberty members to an inn, a tearoom, and finally a museum—it continues to be a historic gem worthy of our attention.

We invite you to the events with great interest and enthusiasm for the tales they contain and the lessons they may impart about our past. The kickoff event begins on June 2nd–4th and will focus on its years during the American Revolutionary War, giving us a peek into colonial life. Plans include a live reenactment with professional reenactors of the 1778 British raid on the Burrowes Mansion, an encampment of soldiers, crafters’ booths, activities, and tours. Upcoming events related to the 300th Anniversary will be listed on the Matawan Historical Society and Matawan Borough websites.

MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE

coming months we will have committee Chairs update you with their reports.

The 2023 Town Budget process , under the guidance of Town Manager Bryan Russell, started in January and should be near completed when you read this.

We look forward to another productive year bringing more new Roads and Parks to Aberdeen and the Services you expect. We are even planning on building the ever popular Pickle Ball Courts in 2023.

I always welcome your comments and thoughts on any subject.

My email is Fred.Tagliarini@Aberdeennj.org

The Council is proud and honored to serve.

The Aberdeen Council held their reorganization meeting on January 4th 2023. During this meeting the Council appointed our professional staff for 2023. We also had Committee Reports from the Roads, Parks, Recreation , Library and the New exciting Shared project with the BOE to reconstruct Giusti Field. More details to follow. In the

Mayor Fred Tagliarini –Aberdeen Mayor

DEMARCO’S: A HALF CENTURY OF QUALITY ITALIAN SPECIALTIES

Continued from page 1

DeMarco’s is not just about the food, but also about the community. They have a strong commitment to giving back, and have been regularly donating meals to local organizations. They believe that it is important to support the community that has supported them for so many years.

But it’s not just about the community, the family also prides itself on the quality of its products. Only the highest quality ingredients are used.

Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff are always willing to cater to their individual needs. The family atmosphere is what makes DeMarco’s a one-of-a-kind business.

Customers will find a wide variety of fresh baked breads, from crusty to stuffed, to homemade pies, daily hot and cold specials along with hard to find pastas imported from Italy. The store offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal.

As the family celebrates its 47th anniversary, they would like to thank the community for their continued support. They invite everyone to come in and see what they have to offer. They are proud of their outstanding quality, love

of the community, and authenticity.

DeMarco’s is more than a store, it’s a family and community tradition. Their commitment to quality, community and authenticity is what sets them apart and makes them a true legend in the area.

DeMarco’s Catering & Gourmet Deli is located at 1121 NJ-34, Aberdeen Township, NJ . You can reach them at (732) 566-2112 or visit online at demarcoscatering.com.

About Us:

NikkiSnips Hair Salon is a full service, family friendly salon. Our staff is on the cutting edge of the latest styles and trends. Our stylists are certi ed in Magic Sleek anti zz treatments, Cali-Curl texture treatment, and Rezo cuts just to name a few. We only use the highest quality products on our guests. All of our color is ammonia free to keep your hair healthy and looking great. Our full time Make-up artists are available for your special occasions and work closely with our stylists for all on and off site bridal services. In addition, NikkiSnips offers facials, body contouring, and more by our licensed Esthetician. Call for your appointment today.

A legacy of baking; Louis DeMarco circa 1956

ABERDEEN TOWNSHIP CUTS

ABERDEEN TOWN

MANGER UPDATES ON WATER MAIN BREAK

Dear Strathmore Residents, We would like to shed some light on the recent water main breaks in the I-Section and the surrounding area. We understand the inconvenience this causes to many of you and we appreciate your patience as we work with New Jersey American Water to resolve the issue with the water main breaks.

the Town Council and myself will be meeting (again) with management from New Jersey American Water to further discuss options as to how to put this issue behind us for good.

at 1071 NJ Route 34, the salon offers a variety of hair and beauty services. The grand opening of the salon was attended by Mayor Fred Tagliarini, Town Council and members of the Aberdeen Business Council. “We are thrilled to welcome Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar to our community. Local businesses are the backbone of our economy and we are proud to support them. This new salon is sure to be a great addition

few blocks away. “Moxie is more than just a salon, it’s a community. We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best service and experience. We can’t wait to meet our new clients and become part of the Aberdeen Township family.”

The Moxie Salon and Beauty Bar is open 7 days a week from 8:00AM to 8:00 PM. Appointments are available by calling (732) 812-5000. Moxie also offers online booking and gift cards for purchase.

Please be advised that the water pipes in question are owned and maintained by New Jersey American Water, not the Township of Aberdeen. Regardless, we work for you and rest assure we are working diligently to resolve this issue for you. We are on site at every single event speaking with the residents and our team is in close communication with the water company to ensure that the repair work is being carried out as quickly and efficiently as possible.

With that being said, there are now several water main breaks in or near the I-Section over the last three weeks and we have asked NJ American Water to devise a plan to rectify this as soon as possible. The Mayor, members of

Over the last month, we have spoken to many of you regarding these water main breaks. However, we want you to know that you can call us at any time to discuss this or any issue you are having. We pride ourselves on being available, and being there for you when you need us. Please feel free to call my office at any time at (732)583-4200 x130.

Thank you for your understanding, your patience and your cooperation.

Bryan A. Russell

CHALLENGING THE NEW DIGITAL SAT

In June I had the opportunity to present at the National Test Prep Association, alongside such esteemed colleagues as Mike Bergin of Chariot Learning in Rochester, NY, Amy Seeley of Seeley Test Pros in Cleveland, Ohio, and Janet Godwin, CEO of ACT, Inc. At the conference, Angela DelBrocco, Executive Director of SAT Program Management and Strategy, also presented about the New SAT. In this article, I will challenge some of what was reported about the test. The College Board reported that students prefer the embedded (computer) calculator provided to their own calculator. (Students are permitted to use either.) I always advise my students to use the calculator they are used to on test day. After having used the embedded calculator, I find it to have more capability and be more user friendly than even the best graphing calculator, but students must practice to become more familiar with it. Only if students practice will this make the test more accessible to everyone

who takes it, and thus, more equitable. The test was also praised because students could start the test at different times. However, studies show that a 2.8 second break in concentration doubles the chance a student will make an error on a difficult question. Although starting the test at different times may be convenient for students, it will inevitably impact their scores by breaking their concentration. This is especially concerning for students with learning differences such as ADD and ADHD. Regardless of the perceived flaws of the test, it is still good that we will have a standardized national assessment that will cut through the fluff of inflated GPAs and padded college applications. Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at Paul.Pscolka@ivymasters.com 732-485-6480 www.ivymasters.com

MESSAGE FROM DEANA GUNN

Hello Matawan! I hope 2023 is treating you well so far. In January, the Mayor and Council held its annual reorganization meeting to organize for the new year.

In bigger cities, councils serve wards or districts. In smaller boroughs, like Matawan, Councilmembers chair and act as liaisons to departments instead. We thought it would be helpful to share with the community the following council liaisons for each department should you have questions, suggestions, or challenges: 2023 Council Department Assignments:

Councilwoman Deana Gunn: Council President: Police, Economic Business Development Commission, Planning & Zoning

Councilwoman Stephanie Buckel: Recreation, Sanitation, and Recycling

Councilman Brian Livesey: Department of Public Works, Fire, Shade Tree Commission

Councilman Charles Ross: Finance, Construction, Environmental Commission Councilman Steven Russell:

Personnel and Historic Sites

Councilwoman Melanie Wang: Animal Welfare, ADA, Property Maintenance

Many commissions and departments have regular meetings open to the public, such as Economic Business Development, Planning and Zoning, Recreation, Shade Tree and Environmental Commissions, and Animal Advisory and ADA. Meeting dates and times can be found on the calendar on the borough website, or you can reach out to the Council liaison for information regarding the meeting schedule or address any concerns. Our email addresses and way to contact us can be found on the borough website at www.matawanborough.com under ‘Your Government’ and then by clicking on the ‘Mayor and Council’ tab. As always, we are here to serve the community in big and small ways. We will keep you informed as the year progresses; however, feel free to reach out anytime.

PETS CANNOT KEEP WARM WITH FUR ALONE

By Anita Greenberg, DVM

Dr. Anita Greenberg and her husband, Dr. Daniel Belli, are the owners and operators of the East Brunswick Animal Hospital for more than 30 years. Dr. Greenberg has been a member of the Old Bridge Township Council since 2016

Cold tolerance can vary from petto-pet based on their coat, breed, body fat stores, age and health. Fur is not enough to protect pets from the elements. They are susceptible to hypothermia, which lowers body temperature, and frostbite. The normal function of the central nervous system – the brain -- is affected as well as the pet’s ability to effectively circulate blood and breath. Hypothermia can be fatal. Frostbite causes a great deal of pain and possibly loss of the affected body parts, most often the ears and paws. Sweaters and jackets are helpful for short hair dogs, and properly fitted

booties may be appropriate. Short legged dogs are more susceptible to the cold as they come in contact with the snow and are more likely to get soaked. Arthritis may worsen when it is cold outside as joints stiffen. The pavement may be icy and slippery, causing falls and injuries to joints and ligaments.

The cold also impacts pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. Pets with hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease, have a harder time regulating body temperature.

Snow packed between toes and pads, as well as road salts adhering to the fur, should be removed.

A BETTER PLACE

By Rabbi Malinger

Dear Friends,

As a religious leader in our community these past 24 years, I am grateful for both business and community leaders for we work together in partnership to strengthen all of our lives.

I appreciate those who touch our lives. I appreciate those who teach by the way they live.

I appreciate the blessings we

enjoy including health when we have it and people who pay attention to us when we do not. I appreciate the gift of life itself.

The prophet Zachariah declares that humanity will actively draw together when the messianic era begins. The Sages of Jewish Tradition teach that though religious heritages will continue to connect to each other and to God in their own way, all will come

together to offer expressions of thanksgiving and appreciation. It is the human thing to do. Whether we are at an inter-faith gathering or involved in an intra-faith activity, we understand the Divine priorities of respecting and appreciating the best in each other. We have a phrase in Hebrew from Psalms 133, HEENAY MA TOV U-MA NA’EEM, SHE’VET

AHEEM GAM YACHADHow wonderful it is when the children of God work together.

God’s lesson to all of us is not to leave these words on your lips, but rather to take the words to heart and in your hands. Do something to make the world a better place, and begin by openly showing respect and expressing appreciation to others, counting your blessings in the process.

SNOW REMOVAL

By Councilman Brian Livesey

The Matawan DPW has been hard at work prepping snow removal equipment for any weather that Mother Nature might throw at us. Fortunately we have had mild weather, but winter is far from over. Below are a few items to help keep everyone safe and ensure town workers can do an effective job this winter.

Residents can help the DPW by following these simple guidelines before, during, and after a storm. Please make sure all of your vehicles have been removed from borough streets before the storm. Plowing does not typically begin until there is about 4 inches of accumulated snow, but salting operations will start once the snow begins to fall. After the snow has stopped, the plows will open the roads curb-to-curb. Residents should wait for the department to completely clear the streets, before clearing snow from the head of

driveways, or sidewalks. Please refrain from throwing or blowing snow back into the streets as this creates a safety hazard and adds to the cleanup time.

It is also important to keep make our personal safety a top priority when removing snow from personal property. When shoveling, know your limitations especially when moving wet and heavy snow. Push the snow instead of lifting it, use your legs instead of your back. Take frequent breaks to rest. Dress in layers, remove layers when you are heating up and add when you start to cool down. If using a snow blower, read the owner’s manual before use. Operate the snow blower at walking speed and know the where the chute is pointing at all times. Make sure the machine is shut off when fueling or the chute is jammed with ice and snow.

Here is wishing everyone a safe and healthy winter!

Correction from last month’s article, I inadvertently called Bayshore EMS Bayshore Search and Rescue. I apologize and would like to thank Bayshore EMS for their ongoing service to our community.

CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!

This February, we are celebrating… TWEENS and TEENS! We love our young people, and this month we have a bunch of special programs just for them.

On Monday the 6th at 4pm, we’re introducing Middle School Lego Lounge – kids in grades 6-8 can take some time after school to relax, build, watch something on our big screen, and hang out with friends!

This February, our Teen Blind Date with a Book will celebrate black authors and characters!

From 2/13-18, to celebrate both Valentine’s Day and Black History Month, we will have a selection of teen books wrapped to hide their identity, but showing a brief summary so you can choose your favorite. All books will contain a prize, which will range from stickers to gift cards.

On Friday the 17th at 6:30pm, we will host a Teen After-Hours

Movie Night. Teens will vote on the movie and then enjoy some pizza and snacks while watching the winning selection.

Our monthly Tween Time will be on Tuesday the 21st at 4:20pm. The group will pick a Spotlight Book, play a game, and make a craft using Model Magic.

Lastly, if your tween or teen needs volunteer hours, they can contribute to our Operation Gratitude project. Tweens and teens can write letters or create cards for members of our military, veterans, or first responders. Bring the completed letters to the Youth Services Department and we will mail them. Each tween/teen will need to fill out a volunteer application when they submit their letter or card. Participants will earn one hour of volunteer time per letter they deliver to us, with a maximum number of five volunteer hours for the month. Letters

EDITOR’S NOTE

are due by Friday the 24th. Need more information about any of the above? Give us a call at 732-583-9100 (and ask for Youth Services), stop by, visit our website at www.matawanaberdeenlibrary.com, or drop us an email at info@matawanaberdeenlibrary.com to get started. The library is open 7 days a week and our friendly staff is happy to assist you! Happy February! Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library

In Volume 1, Issue 5 of All Around Matawan-Aberdeen a published story titled, “Aberdeen’s Annual Menorah Lighting Brings the Community Together”, omitted the first paragraph of the content submitted by Aberdeen Township. The article should have started with, “On December 20th, Aberdeen

Township in conjunction with Temple Beth Ahm, Temple Shalom” Young Israel celebrated the beginning of the Hanukkah season with the Annual Menorah Lighting in front of Aberdeen Town Hall. Please refer to the social media pages of All Around Matawan-Aberdeen to read the article in its entirety.

MATAWAN-ABERDEEN

IN MEMORIAM

STEPHANIE GOLEY

AUGUST 17, 1955 - JANUARY 26, 2023

67 OF OLD BRIDGE, VISITATION WAS HELD MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2023, 2:00 PM - 5:30 PM, AT THE OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

LEONEL R. AYALA

AUGUST 1, 1974 - JANUARY 21, 2023

48 OF OLD BRIDGE, VISITATION WAS HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

JOSEPH EDWARD BLISS

DECEMBER 24, 1931 - JANUARY 20, 2023

91 OF HOLMDEL, WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

KATHLEEN PERCIBALLI

JULY 1, 1954 - JANUARY 19, 2023

68, OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

MATAWAN HOOK AND LADDER IN 1877

By John Lazar

DOLORES M. HANLEY

MAY 26, 1931 - JANUARY 17, 2023

92, OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

CLARISSA O. MCNAB

JUNE 16, 1944 - JANUARY 16, 2023

78 OF OCEAN TWP. ALL ARRANGEMENTS ARE IN THE CARE OF THE WAITT FUNERAL HOME

IRENE H. ABT

AUGUST 16, 1938 - JANUARY 15, 2023

84 OF MORGANVILLE, FUNERAL SERVICES WAS HELD ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2023, 11:00

AM AT THE WAITT FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

LOUIS DELLA VOLPE, JR.

JUNE 26, 1956 - JANUARY 14, 2023

66 OF MONROE, OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

One of the most disastrous events in Matawan history that you never heard of occurred 122 years ago. This event was such big news that it made the front page of the New York Times. (The second time Matawan made the cover of the world’s most famous newspaper, the other being the Shark Attack of 1916).

In the early morning of January 27, 1901, a horrible fire broke out that destroyed the main business district in Matawan. The west side of Main Street between Spring and Summit Street was completely engulfed by the blaze. The entire block of six buildings was lost. It was later believed to be the work or arsonists, but no arrests were ever made. “Incendiaries were blamed for starting the fire” according the WPA 1936 Matawan Book.

Three separate fires broke out simultaneously around town and the people were thrown into a panicked frenzy. One newspaper wrote “women wept and prayed in the streets while men armed themselves with shotguns and patrolled in front of their properties. ”Matawan’s fire brigade was eventually able to

subdue the blaze with the help from Keyport, who arrived with their truck just as the Matawan apparatus failed. Miraculously no deaths were reported. The loss of property totaled $100,000 ($3.6 million in today’s dollars). 11 businesses, a public hall and 3 family homes were lost. The damage and loss of life would’ve been much worse had it not been for the bravery of the Matawan Firemen. 122 years later, the Matawan Borough Fire Department still watches over our town, forever diligent and ready to respond when they are needed next.

www.matawanhistoricalsociety.com