As the Summer of 2024 ends and we look forward to a busy season ahead with back-toschool, back-to-networking and community events, we thank our community leaders for the summer activities. The Chamber is also grateful for the continued member support of events at Hyderabad Spice (sponsored by Anchor Care Rehab), the luau at Peaceful Pines, happy hour at MJs, KP Edgestone hosting the Grand Reveal of the Matawan sign at A Salute and the Blues & Cruise car show. A big welcome to new MACOC membersBellazio Collective, Matawan Woodworks LLC, Mikey’s Meats & Tina LoBosco RE agent at KP Edgestone. Watch for the new printed Chamber directory brochure available in Sept. Lastly, sponsor and vendor applications are still being accepted for Aberdeen Day on Sept. 21 (call the Township for an application) and Matawan Day on Oct. 5 (visit the chamber website at macocnj.com or email matawanday@gmail. com). Hope to see everyone at both of these exciting events.
MATAWAN DAY FALL FESTIVAL 2024 ARRIVES OCTOBER 5TH IN A NEW LOCATION
By Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
Day Fall Festival. Regardless of the location and tweaking of its name, the day will be the same wonderful event we have all grown accustomed to experiencing.
Before moving to Main Street’s downtown area, Matawan Day began as a food festival in Terhune Park in the 1980s through the 1990s. Since then, the festival
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ABERDEEN TOWNSHIP SEEKS CRAFT VENDORS FOR ANNUAL ABERDEEN DAY, THE LARGEST ONE YET
Aberdeen Township is gearing up for its highly anticipated “Aberdeen Day” on Saturday, September 21st, at Matawan Regional High School. This year’s event is set to be the largest yet, and the township is actively seeking vendors to participate in this community celebration, which promises to draw thousands of attendees.Vendors will
have a prime opportunity to showcase their goods and services to a diverse crowd eager to explore local offerings. Whether you specialize in crafts, food, or unique services, there’s a place for you at Aberdeen Day.
“This is the biggest day of the year here in Aberdeen. It’s a day we all come together as a community and I am truly honored to play a part in it,” stated Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone.
One of the day’s highlights is the celebrity autograph signings. Each year, attendees will have the opportunity to get photos or an item of their choosing (limit of 2) signed by star athletes, and this year is no different. This exciting portion of Aberdeen Day attracts over 1000 residents to the gym in Matawan High School. This year we have Giants
Super Bowl Champion Running Back Ahmad Bradshaw, Rangers Stanley Cup Champion Stephane Matteau and three peat Yankee’s World Champion, Shane Spencer.
For families, the Kids Zone will be a major draw, featuring an array of food trucks, bounce castles, climbing walls, food eating contests and a variety of games to keep children entertained throughout the day. New this year, there will be a BMX bike show by Dialed In Action Sports. The expanded Kids Zone ensures that there’s something for everyone, making Aberdeen Day a perfect outing for the whole family.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of Aberdeen’s biggest community event of the year. Vendors are encouraged to apply at www. aberdeennj.org to secure their spot in this fantastic celebration.
After over a decade on Main Street, the Matawan Day Street Festival will move to a new loca-
tion at Terhune Park to Hourihan Field. With its new location comes a change to its name – Matawan
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE
We’re excited to share some wonderful news about our parks! We’ve officially been awarded the FY24 Monmouth County CDBG Grant for ADA accessibility improvements at Clinton Street Park, totaling $134,747.00, supplemented by an additional Local Recreation Improvement Grant from the State of NJ for $74,000. These grants will allow us to install new sidewalks, including a ramp leading up to the Youth Center and throughout the park. We also were awarded a 2023 Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant: $192,000 for resurfacing the basketball courts and adding a Pickleball court. As we continue to make our parks more enjoyable, we remind everyone to keep them clean, including our cherished Lake Lefferts and the new docks. Please remember to pick up your trash, clean up, and encourage others to do the same. If you see something that needs attention, remember that your voice matters—let’s all work together to maintain the beauty of our community
spaces. Your proactive approach to reporting issues is crucial in keeping our parks clean and welcoming for everyone.
We’ve already made parking improvements at Clinton St. Park and are thrilled about this next phase. We remain committed to enhancing our parks every year, and with your help, we can keep them safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone. Thank you for doing your part! You can still enjoy our parks and all they offer as we move toward fall. As a reminder, Matawan Day will take place on October 5th. Anyone wishing to get involved can reach out at deana.gunn@matawanborough.com .
A MESSAGE FROM THE MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOARD OF EDUCATION
We are back to school, and we hope the Board’s hard work is making its way to our students and their families.
Maschio’s is our new food service provider, receiving the highest score overall that included quality, cost efficiency, and MARSD’s unique needs. Separately, the students at the high school will have a redesigned kitchen with a new layout for faster service and upgraded kitchen materials that are built to last.
The Board is supporting a full enforcement of our district-wide phone policies banning cell-phone usage during instructional time. Smart phone access hinders both academics and social development. Policy reminders and consequences will be shared with students and families.
Please make sure to go into Genesis to fill out important documentation. First update your contact information and complete all necessary yearly forms. Next, submit the free/reduced lunch form no matter your income. This information plays very significantly into our federal funding which will help us maximize support for our programs and services if every family participates.
The Board has worked consistently with
administration to alleviate the impact of the subscription busing cuts. As a result, the high school now will have open, supervised breakfast before school, allowing students to arrive early. and open for an extended time after school for students while awaiting pick up. Both the middle school and high school will bus students to sports practices held at other district locations as well as offer late buses for students attending after-school activities. For MAMS, the YMCA is offering fee-based before-school supervision and also a fee-based after-school enrichment program in addition to school-sponsored extracurricular activities so that parents have a safe option for a later pick-up.
The Board wishes everyone a successful school year!
DEANA GUNN, MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT
We’re excited to share some wonderful news about our parks! We’ve officially been awarded the FY24 Monmouth County CDBG Grant for ADA accessibility improvements at Clinton Street Park, totaling $134,747.00, supplemented by an additional Local Recreation Improvement Grant from the State of NJ for $74,000. These grants will allow us to install new sidewalks, including a ramp leading up to the Youth Center and throughout the park. We also were awarded a 2023 Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant: $192,000 for resurfacing the basketball courts and adding a Pickleball court. As we continue to make our parks more enjoyable, we remind everyone to keep them clean, including our cherished Lake Lefferts and the new docks. Please remember to pick up your trash, clean up, and encourage others to do the same. If you see something that needs attention, remember that your voice matters—let’s all work together to maintain the beauty of our community spaces. Your proactive approach to reporting issues is crucial in keeping our
parks clean and welcoming for everyone. We’ve already made parking improvements at Clinton St. Park and are thrilled about this next phase. We remain committed to enhancing our parks every year, and with your help, we can keep them safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone. Thank you for doing your part! You can still enjoy our parks and all they offer as we move toward fall. As a reminder, Matawan Day will take place on October 5th. Anyone wishing to get involved can reach out at deana.gunn@matawanborough.com .
THE OLD HOSPITAL
By Councilman and Liasson to the Historical Sites Commission, Steven Russell
One of the newly refurbished historical markers just reinstalled in town is at “The Old Hospital,” also known as “The Forman House.” It’s one of the oldest homes in Matawan, built sometime between 1730 and 1755. You can find it, and the sign out front, on the corner of Ravine Drive and Wycoff Street, just up the hill from Lake Lefferts. Wounded
soldiers from the 1779 skirmish, which took place near the house, were brought there. This is why it is called “The Old Hospital.” You can find more information about it at the Matawan Historical Society website. While you’re there, click on the “Join or Donate” button. I look forward to meeting you at a Historical Society event or on a tour of Burrowes Mansion on the first and third Sunday of each month between 2 and 4 PM. We have much rich history here in Matawan to celebrate.
MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE
Dear Residents, I am thrilled to present the key highlights from the Township of Aberdeen’s 2023 Annual Report. Throughout 2023, our focus remained on enhancing the quality of life in our community through significant investments in infrastructure, parks, and public safety, all while fostering a sense of community through our diverse recreation programs. In 2023, we allocated over $4 million to road improvements, making our streets safer and more accessible for everyone. Our commitment to upgrading our parks also continued, with new playgrounds at Deerfield Park, Ross Field, and Cambridge Park. The complete renovation of Northland Park was a major highlight, featuring state-of-the-art Pickleball courts that have quickly become a favorite among residents of all ages. Our Recreation Department truly outdid itself, offering 173 programs that engaged 5,359 participants. These
programs, designed for all ages, have something for everyone—from youth sports, dances, fitness classes and special events. We also took pride in the inclusivity of our offerings, ensuring that children, seniors, and residents with special needs all had access to enriching activities.
The Sigismondi Community Center was busier than ever, with 45 rentals throughout the year, hosting a variety of community events and private gatherings. This space continues to be a vital resource for bringing our community together.
Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Aberdeen—a place we are all proud to call home. For more information on our 2023 Annual Report, our recreation programs or if you are interested in renting our community center, please visit the township website at www.aberdeennj.org. You can also find physical copies of the Annual Report at Aberdeen Town Hall.
Hors D’oeuvres - AppetizersSalads - Party Subs - Cold & Hot Buffests - Sandwich Trays - SidesDesserts
Prepared Foods - Gourmet PlattersItalian Specialties - Fresh BreadHand Rolled and Baked On PremisesButcher On Premises - Homemade Soups & Sauces Order
Choice of Chicken Cacciatore, Sausage Peppers & Onions, Eggplant Rollatini, Stuffed Shells, Chicken Francaise, Chicken Marsala, Shrimp Scampi, Sliced Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy, Barbeque Ribs, Pepper Steak, Tortellini with SunDried Tomato Cream Sauce & Much More!
Choice of Homemade Italian Bread or Rolls, Green Tossed Salad with Balsmic Vinaigrette. Package Includes: Stemo, Chafing Dishes and Free Cookie Tray.
COLD BUFFET
$1200 per person (min. 20 People)
Beautifully arranged trays of the finest Cold Cuts and Cheeses. Choice of four Meats & one Cheese. Plus Fresh Baked Rolls, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, & Macaroni Salad, Pickles & Olives, Mustard & Mayonnaise.
Mayor Fred Tagliarini –Aberdeen Mayor
PREPARING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL
As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s important to recognize that this transition can bring excitement and anxiety for both students and parents. Shifting from the relaxed pace of summer to the structure of a new school year can be challenging, making mental and emotional preparation just as important as gathering school supplies. Here are some strategies to ease the transition and support mental health:
1. Establish a Routine Early: Start adjusting sleep schedules a couple of weeks before school begins. Gradually shift bedtime and wake-up times to match the school schedule. This helps the body and mind adapt, making the first days of school less jarring.
2. Open Conversations: Encourage open dialogue about any fears or concerns related to returning to school. Whether it’s worries about new teachers, friendships, or academic pressures, talking about these feelings can reduce anxiety and create a supportive environment.
3. Set Realistic Expectations: Remind children (and yourself) that it’s okay to feel nervous. Setting realistic expectations for the first few weeks can help manage stress. It’s normal
for the transition to take time.
4. Plan Ahead: Organizing school supplies, clothes, and daily schedules in advance can alleviate last-minute stress. Knowing what to expect each day provides a sense of control and stability.
5. Prioritize Self-Care: Encourage regular physical activity, healthy eating, and downtime to recharge. A balanced approach to wellness can improve mood and energy levels.
At Ellie Mental Health Old Bridge, we’re here to support you through these transitions. We’re now open and welcoming clients both virtually and in person at our Old Bridge location on Rt 18 South. We accept all major insurances, have no waitlist, and offer specialized services, including EMDR. Let’s work together to make this school year a successful and healthy one.
OLD BRIDGE, NJ
732-344-4583
WHY ARE UNIVERSITIES STILL TEST-OPTIONAL?
By Paul Pscolka
Pre-covid, 93% of universities required SAT scores. When covid hit, colleges were forced to “go test optional” because so many students had no access to testing. If 93% of schools found value in the test, why, 4 years later, are so many universities still test-optional? Did the tests become a worse predictor of success in college?
The short answer to the latter question is no. When a university no longer requires SAT or ACT scores for admissions, that school receives more applications. When a school receives more applications, but still has the same number of seats, that university appears to be more competitive. Would you rather go to a university that admits 25% of its applicants or to one that admits 75% of its applicants? Test-optional helps school maintain the image of exclusivity.
Test-optional policies also lend universities an air of prestige because students who have the bottom 50% of the average SAT and ACT scores do not submit their scores. This drives up the average SAT and ACT scores, further advancing the semblance of competitiveness. It is no
secret that the most competitive schools in the country also have the biggest endowments. It seems that universities maintain test-optional status for business interests.
This is a bold statement. Might universities be test-optional in the interest of their students? To answer this question, we’ll look at UC Austin, a (rare) school that was forthcoming with their data that lead them to once again require SAT or ACT scores.
UC Austin found that those who submitted SAT scores were 55% less likely to be on academic probation. Submitters also had an average GPA .86 higher than those who did not submit scores. That’s the difference between a 2.4 (not far off from academic probation) and a 3.26 (a mix of As and Bs). It seems that testing is in the best interest of the university academically. You can book a free 15-minute consultation at https://www.ivymasters.com/ free-consultation/ Suggestion for a topic? You can reach us at info@ivymasters. com 833-728-7228 www.ivymasters.com
CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!
September is here – and so is Library Card Sign-up Month!
If you live in Matawan, Aberdeen, or Cliffwood and do not already have a library card (or need to replace a lost card, or renew an expired card) – now is the time! All you need is identification (driver’s license or school ID) and proof of address if you are new in town (rental agreement, deed, utility bill) and we can process a card for you on the spot!
Your library card will give you access to 80,000+ physical items in our library, plus items in our fellow consortial libraries (available via inter-library loan), AND access to tens of thousands of e-resources (ebooks, eaudio, etc.) on our website. As a cardholder, you will also be able to sign up for registration-only events for kids, teens, and adults, and you’ll be able to check out passes to 10 local museums to visit for free!
This year, we will be celebrating National Good Neighbor Day on Saturday, September 28th. We want to welcome all of our community members – existing and new! On the hour, from 10am-4pm, we will host tours of the building and provide information sharing/Q&A.
There will also be snacks, games, raffles, and giveaways! This will be a great opportunity to get a library card and see first-hand all the materials, services, and programs that your neighborhood library has to offer! Hope you can join us!
In September, of course we have many programs, clubs, and activities to offer:
For adults: the Genealogy Club will meet on 9/5 at 7pm and the Crochet Club will meet on 9/23 at 10:30am. Tuesday, September 17th is National Voter Registration Day. MAPL will assist patrons with online voter registration, and have absentee/vote-by-mail forms available.
For kids and teens: Our Painting Contest runs from 9/3-9/23, and Senior Cheer Cards runs from 9/4-9/28. Reading Time returns on Fridays at 10:30am. Have a question? Give us a call at 732583-9100, stop by, visit our website, or drop us an email at info@mapl.org. Check out our full calendar of events: www.mapl.org. Wishing all of our teachers, school staff, and students a fantastic school year! Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
MATAWAN DAY FALL FESTIVAL 2024 ARRIVES OCTOBER 5TH IN A NEW LOCATION
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New Jersey Author’s New Book Available on Amazon July 9, 2024
Dr. Frank Plateroti is releasing the second book in the East Clifton Avenue book series, “La Prossima Generazione – The Next Generation.” Simultaneously, he is launching an expanded 2024 edition of the first book in the series, “East Clifton Avenue, Origins – from Sicily to America,” which features deeper characterization and an enhanced storyline.
The “East Clifton Avenue” series, a fictional saga inspired by true events, traces the journey of the Buonoforte family who immigrated from Sicily to American in the early 20thcentury. Like many Italian immigrants, family patriarch Enzo Buonoforte, and his wife, Anna, sought a better life and a brighter future for their eight children. This series follows the Buono-
fortes as they settle in Clifton, New Jersey, capturing their sacrifices, heartbreaks, and the complex familial dynamics that will shape the family for generations to come.
Dr. Frank Plateroti, a New Jersey native, holds a Doctorate Degree in Education Research with a concentration in psychology and a Master’s Degree in Communication with a concentration in television and film production. For the past two decades, he has been a professor in the communication department at William Paterson University, teaching courses in television production, media studies, and intrapersonal and interpersonal communication. Additionally, Dr. Plateroti is the author of “Speak No Evil: In Search of Out Self-Esteem, Self-Identity, and Self-Worth,” a culmination of his twenty years of teaching experience. For more information, visit www.drfjpesteem.com.
has grown to encompass a quarter mile of Main Street with 220 vendors, including crafters, artisans, businesses, restaurants, amusements, activities, games, and food trucks. With the close of Aberdeen Road and the need to keep Ravine Drive open to Main Street, it made sense to bring it back to Terhune Park. This time, however, with the inclusion of South Street, a section of Broad Street, Matawan Municipal Center property, and Hourihan Field to accommodate all that is included in the event. This year’s location has the benefit of new attractions and activities that we couldn’t have on Main Street. With those additions and the businesses, artisans, crafters, food trucks/stands, beer and wine garden, live broadcast, and plenty of activities and music, Matawan Day Fall Festival 2024 promises to deliver a memorable experience with something for everyone while celebrating our community spirit in a refreshed setting. The event is scheduled for October 5, 2024, from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Matawan Day is an annual community
celebration organized by the Matawan Borough Economic Development Commission with the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce and Matawan Borough Recreation Commission members. For more information and updates, please visit the Borough of Matawan’s Facebook page @BoroughofMatawan, Instagram page @MatawanBorough, and Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce website - MACOCNJ.com.
