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MATAWAN-ABERDEEN

CHAMBER CONNECT MATAWAN’S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Michael V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce

I hope you’re all enjoying a safe and sunny summer! As we move through these warmer months, the Chamber continues to offer valuable opportunities for local businesses to connect, grow, and have a little fun along the way.

Please join me in welcoming our newest member from July: the Kiwanis Club of Keyport, represented by President David Scarpa. We’re excited to have you as part of our growing Chamber family and look forward to collaborating on community-focused initiatives. We had two fantastic events recently that captured the summer spirit. On June 24, we hosted a lively networking luncheon at The Burger Shop, where attendees enjoyed a visit from an Elvis impersonator. Thanks to our friends at Mic Squared Events for sponsoring such a fun twist! Then, on July 15, members let off some steam and got competitive at our axe-throwing after-hours event at Bury the Hatchet, generously sponsored by Vigor Dispensary. Both events were not only great for networking but also brought a lot of laughs and energy to our membership. Looking ahead, we’ve got more engaging events lined up. Our Networking Luncheon & Tour at

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by Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan

Matawan’s Family Night Under the Stars Summer Concert Series returns with an exciting 2025 lineup set to bring music lovers together under the summer sky. From nationally acclaimed headliners to hometown favorites, this year’s program offers something for every musical taste.

Kicking things off on Thursday, August 7, is Nicole Atkins, a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her rich, genre-blending sound and captivating stage presence. A Neptune native with national fame, Atkins promises a dynamic evening filled with soulful ballads, retro rock flair, and emotionally charged performances. The series continues on August 14 with Saltwater Country, a homegrown band bringing a

Southern rock and modern country vibe to the stage. They are known for their high-energy performances and blend of new and classic country-pop. Known for tight harmonies, crowd-pleasing covers, and originals that capture the coastal spirit, Saltwater Country delivers the perfect soundtrack

for a warm August evening.

On August 21, get ready to dance as Mission Dance takes over with a high-energy performance spanning the hits of the ‘70s through today. Whether you love disco grooves, pop favorites, or modern dance anthems, Mission Dance’s show-stopping setlist

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ABERDEEN ANNOUNCES $9 MILLION ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FOR 2025

Ongoing infrastructure upgrades continue with major road reconstruction across town Aberdeen Township is moving forward with its 2025 Roads Project, a $9 million initiative that will repave and reconstruct over a mile of local roads as part of the Township’s long-stand-

ing, multi-year commitment to infrastructure improvement.

“This is a critical next step in our long-term infrastructure strategy,” said Councilman Greg Cannon, Chairman of the Roads Committee. “We’re not just fixing potholes, we’re building a stronger, safer Aberdeen.”

The Township undertakes road improvements annually, completing work in different neighborhoods each year. For over a decade, the Township Council has made consistent road upgrades a top priority, investing millions to improve roadways, drainage, and safety throughout Aberdeen.

This year’s planned work includes full reconstruction and repaving of several key streets:

Darwin Way – 275 linear feet

Deerfield Lane – 1,250 linear feet

Inner Way – 250 linear feet

Irongate Lane – 875 linear feet

Shore Concourse – 2,900 linear feet

Justice Lane - 530 linear feet

Design work for these roads is already underway, with construction expected to begin before the fall. Residents whose streets are slated for work will receive advance notification, including a letter outlining project details and timelines.

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SHADE TREE COMMISSION HOSTS ARBOR DAY EVENT

On May 3, 2025 the Matawan Shade Tree Commission held their annual Arbor Day Event. The weather turned out to be great this year and a large crowd came out for the free saplings and the tree dedications. This year the commission distributed free saplings of Red Oak, Yellowwood, and white Cedar. The Commission also celebrated its seventh year as Tree City USA. The Shade Tree Commission also planted a Magnolia Tree on the front Lawn of Borough Hall. This tree was dedicated to the winners of the Commission’s annual poster contest held at Ravine Drive School. Entrants create posters on “Why Trees

Matter”. The Commission judges and chooses winners from each grade. Winners receive their names on the tree dedication plaque and receive a $25 gift card. This year winners were Dawsyn Zambito, Alejandra Viela, Sadie Richards, and Penelope Lee. A White Oak tree was also dedicated to the late Council Joseph Patrick Mullaney for all of his service to Matawan. The event ended with Mayor Altomonte reading the Borough’s Arbor Proclamation and a Proclamation for Councilman Mullaney. Tree saplings are still available and can be picked up in the Borough Hall lobby.

MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE

As the community enjoys summer, the Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District staff have been hard at work preparing for the 2025–2026 school year - and beyond. With continued growth across our communities, the District is exploring longterm solutions. Two key options under consideration include redrawing elementary school boundaries and adjusting which grade levels are housed in each building. There are updates to administrative roles at our schools. The Board approved these revisions to administration staffing levels that are both fiscally responsible and also help directly impact more students. The new, consolidated roles provide on-site support to school leadership teams with curriculum, programs, and some day-to-day operations. Summer means our Facilities and Operations team has been especially busy. From relocating offices and moving classroom furniture to prepping buildings for the fall, their efforts have been essential. Our schools have remained active, hosting a variety of programs such as the YMCA Summer Program, Summer Theater, Extended School Year services, summer school for credit recovery, and athletic

practices gearing up for the fall season.

That being said, major facility improvements are needed that exceed our anticipated budget. The Board unanimously voted down a state-incentivized tax increase last spring. Instead, the district will seek funds by referendum - putting the decision in the hands of every voting member of our community. The goal for that ballot question is November 2026. Details will be provided over the next year.

District administrators and the full Administrative Council—including principals, assistant principals, supervisors, and directors—have also been planning for the 2025–2026 school year, ensuring we continue to meet the needs of every student.

We appreciate the support of our community as we grow and evolve. Enjoy the last few days of summer—we look forward to welcoming everyone back on September 4th!

MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE

I was thrilled to recently spend time with our senior community at their Paint and Sip event, led by none other than local artist and instructor Maria Milazzo. It was a fantastic time filled with creativity, laughter, and connection, and I have to say, we have some incredibly talented artists in our group! Watching our seniors engage in something joyful and artistic was a reminder of how vibrant and active our community is.

Maria did an excellent job guiding the event, just as she always brings heart and spirit to everything she does. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of presenting Maria with the “Spirit of Matawan” Award at the Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner. Events like this one show exactly why she was so deserving of that recognition. I also had the chance to stop by our new Farmer’s Market in July, and I was genuinely impressed. From fresh produce to handcrafted goods, many of the vendors live in or near Matawan, and it’s great to

see our residents supporting one another. If you missed it, be sure to mark your calendars—the next markets are scheduled for August 16 and September 20! My administration remains committed to building a Matawan that serves everyone. Whether it’s through new programs for our seniors, exciting additions like the Farmer’s Market, expanded community events, or improvements to our parks and public spaces. We’re always working to create opportunities for connection, growth, and local pride. And as always, my door is open. If you have feedback, ideas, or need anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to listen and work with you to keep moving Matawan forward, together.

Warm Regards, Mayor Altomonte

Matawan Mayor Joseph Altomonte

THE SAT & THE ACT ARE CHEATING

By Paul Pscolka

We teach our children kindness and honesty. Part of being honest is not to cheat others and not to cheat on tests, especially a high-stakes test like the SAT and ACT. What would happen if a student is caught cheating on one of these tests? Consequences can be severe, including a cancellation of scores, a ban from future tests, and potential notification to the student’s parents, high school, and colleges they applied to. In some cases, cheating can lead to more serious consequences, particularly if it involves fraud or forgery. Besides this, being caught cheating is stressful and emotionally challenging. These consequences are justifiable. Cheating is wrong. So why are the test prep companies cheating? You may be wondering how they are cheating. This is best explained with an anecdote. The SAT and ACT have always been very competitive. They have changed their tests and their test dates in the past to win more market share. This is especially high-stakes when these companies try to win a state

like Arizona which, according to College Raptor, has about 50% of test-takers taking the SAT and about 50% taking the ACT.

When the digital SAT was first administered domestically, students complained that the practice released by the College Board was easier and that they scored higher on those practice tests than they did on test day. Now that the ACT is also changing, we are finding the same thing— students are scoring about 3 points higher (which is equal to about 105 SAT points) in their practice than they are on test day.

I can’t ignore this correlation. It seems both the SAT and ACT are giving the appearance of ease in the practice before each new test is administered to win more market share. While my advice is usually to take a mock test of each, my advice (until the first real new ACT results are released) is to stick with the SAT.

Book a free 15-minute consultation with me here: www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation

Check out our parent and student testimonials: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVMZIzipINg www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGkCPwp1iv0 And our about video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=YlE6Kmk9TFI

DEANA GUNN, MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT

The weather didn’t cooperate with our original May date, but we’re excited to announce that Matawan’s 4th Annual Blues & Cruise Night has been rescheduled for Friday, September 5th, just in time to kick off your weekend in style!

This fun-filled night brings the community together to celebrate local pride, music, and classic American cars. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, music lover, or just looking for a great night out with neighbors and friends, there’s something for everyone.

Hosted by the one and only Hot Rod Mike, the evening will feature live music from Blues People, whose smooth, soulful sound will set the perfect vibe as you stroll down Main Street. Classic cars will line the street, allowing enthusiasts to show off their rides and connect with others who share their passion. Car owners can register their vehicles on the night of the event—no pre-registration required!

Local vendors will also participate, offering food and a variety of goods to explore as you enjoy the sights and sounds of downtown Matawan.

As tradition goes, the event’s net proceeds will benefit two local nonprofits, chosen each year by the organizing commission. This year, we’re proud to support the Matawan Historical Society and the Local Matawan Lodge #192 F&AM, two organizations deeply rooted in the fabric of our community.

So grab your friends, bring the family, and join us for a great night on Main Street! We’ll see you there!

Deana Gunn Matawan Council President

BridgeLife Thrift is a wholly owned, single member LLC of Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, NJ with all proceeds supporting Bridge Women’s Center, and Calvary Christian School.

DEPUTY MAYOR MONTONE MESSAGE

Putting Safety First for Our Young Athletes

At the July Township Council meeting, we were proud to present Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to several of our local youth sports organizations. These life-saving devices are now in the hands of the volunteers and coaches who work directly with hundreds of children across Aberdeen and Matawan.

This initiative reflects a shared commitment by the Aberdeen Recreation Department, our Township Manager, and the entire Council to prioritize safety in every corner of our community, especially where our kids play.

As a council, we’ve all seen the importance of investing in public safety. For families with children in sports, knowing that coaches have the equipment they need in case of an emergency provides peace of mind. These AEDs are a small but vital step in making sure that Aberdeen continues

Become

to be a community that puts people first.

Councilman Greg Cannon, who volunteers as a coach for Matawan Aberdeen Youth Basketball (MAYB), Aberdeen Matawan Soccer Club (AMSC), and Matawan Aberdeen Babe Ruth League (MABRL), offered meaningful perspective during this process. All three of these organizations received AEDs, and having someone so closely connected to the youth sports community on Council was a tremendous asset.

The full list of AED recipients includes: Matawan Aberdeen Youth Basketball (MAYB), AMYAA Aberdeen Matawan Youth Softball, Matawan Aberdeen Babe Ruth League (MABRL), Aberdeen Matawan Soccer Club (AMSC), Matawan-Aberdeen Huskies Youth Football and Cheer, Matawan Aberdeen Junior Wrestling Club

We are grateful to all the volunteers who run these leagues and to the families who support them. This was a true community effort, and a big win for the kids who call Aberdeen home.

a member of the YMCA OF THE JERSEY SHORE

FORMALLY YMCA OF GREATER MONMOUTH COUNTY

We look forward to realizing our vision for a healthy, unified community where all people reach their fullest potential, as the new YMCA of the Jersey Shore!

» Unlimited aqua & land group fitness classes

» Extensive cardio & weight training equipment

» Lap & family swim time

» Full-court basketball gymnasiums with open gym time & pickleball

» Access to three branches in Freehold, Old Bridge & Red Bank, including Freehold Outdoor Swim Club

Aberdeen Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone

MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE

Mayor Fred Tagliarini Township of Aberdeen

ABERDEEN ANNOUNCES $9 MILLION ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FOR 2025

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“These upgrades are about quality of life,” Councilman Cannon added. “We want residents to feel the difference every time they leave their driveway.”

Earlier phases of the Roads 2025 initiative have already brought improvements to streets like Gordon Street and Bayview Street, which were completed ahead of this year’s construction. These upgrades have not only improved driving conditions but have also increased curb appeal and property values in the surrounding areas.

The Township uses a combination of community feedback, engineering assessments, and maintenance history to determine which roads are selected each year. Funding comes from municipal capital investment, state and county grants, and responsible budgeting, all with the goal of making meaningful improvements without overburdening taxpayers.

In addition to resurfacing, many road projects include curb ramp installations, drainage enhancements, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). High-performance paving

materials are also used to ensure durability and long-term performance.

“This is a long-term commitment we’ve made to our residents,” said Township Manager Bryan Russell. “We’ve worked hard to make steady progress year after year, and 2025 will be no different.”

More information about project timelines and traffic impacts will be shared through the Township’s website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to follow along and report any road concerns to the Department of Public Works.

Aberdeen Township remains committed to delivering safe, well-maintained streets and looks forward to continuing its infrastructure improvement program in 2026 and beyond.

Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini

CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!

Happy August! It’s not too late to sign up for our summer reading program for kids, teens, and adults – we’ll be accepting reading logs and raffle tickets until 8/16. Here is a sampling of events coming up this month: For adults, we are having a special summer evening showing of Moulin Rouge on Thursday, 8/14 at 6:30pm. On Wednesday, 8/20 at 7pm, Mixed Media Collage with Megan will be a mix of print making and collage techniques to create your own unique, colorful, frameable print. On Thursday, 8/28 at 7pm, relax and unwind with Flow + Spritz: a calming gentle yoga class, perfect for all levels. Move, breathe, and then make something beautiful (customized essential oil spray)! For teens, we’re having a Teen Lock-in: Paint and Sip on Friday, 8/8 from 6:309pm. Come to the library after hours for a night of art and delicious refreshers. We will start with pizza, then we will paint our canvases together. While we paint, we will design our own lemonade refreshers with lots of fruity and delicious

add-ins. No Lock-in is complete without a yummy dessert to end the night! Open to patrons entering grades 6-12. Registration and signed permission slip required. For kids, there are just too many fun events and activities to list! Our End Party will mark the end of Summer Reading on 8/16. Our young patrons have made the Color Our World theme come to life, and we have had so much fun counting the thousands of books you have read this summer! We will say goodbye to summer reading with an array of multimedia art stations. We hope you go home inspired to keep making art, and to keep reading! No registration is required for the party and kids of all ages are welcome. See our events calendar on our website for our full August calendar: www.mapl.org. Have a question? Give us a call at 732-583-9100, stop by, visit our website, or drop us an email at info@mapl.org. The library is open 7 days a week and our friendly staff is happy to assist you! Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library

Dear Matawan,

Charlie and I have yielded many calls to our residences from concerned residents, as well as messages and social media posts and comments. We want you all to understand one very important aspect: We HEAR you!

We understand your frustrations with the tax bill that hit mailboxes this week, as well as your continued frustration with the water and sewer bills. Both Charlie and I, feel these frustrations more than you know. We are residents ﬁrst, elected ofﬁcials second, which allows us to hear you, and stand with you. We ask through these coming months that you stand with us and our Matawan’s Future Team Candidates, Patricia ROINESTAD and Ray STUETZ.

Our team believes Matawan deserves beautiﬁcation and equipment necessary, with the allowances for fun, family and community events, however we all plan on accomplishing this with SMART SPENDING and FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY in mind with your money at work.

Together, we can get Matawan back on track. Let Matawan’s Future Team take back Matawan and bring our Historically Beautiful Hometown to the lucrative future that’s possible!

Please reach out to us with any questions, concerns or ideas. We’re here for YOU!

Thank you for your continued support! — Councilwoman Suzanne Reynolds & Councilman Charlie Ross

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MATAWAN’S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AT THE 2025 MATAWAN DAY FALL FESTIVAL

guarantees something for every generation. With their dynamic vocalists and expert musicianship, they’re a staple of the tri-state music scene and a highlight of the series. The series wraps up in timeless style on August 28 with singer-songwriter Steve Forbert, best known for his 1980 hit “Romeo’s Tune.” A respected veteran of the American folk-rock scene, Forbert brings decades of heartfelt songwriting and authentic storytelling to the stage.

His performance offers the perfect close to a vibrant month of music. All concerts are free to the public and begin at 7:00 PM in Terhune Park. Bring your own lawn chairs, blankets, friends and summer enthusiasm. MJ’s Restaurant will be hosting a beer and wine garden each week, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find a good spot and relax before the music begins.

Mark your calendars! The 2025 Matawan Day Fall Festival returns Saturday, October 4th (rain date Sunday, Oct. 5th) for a day filled with food, fun, and community spirit. Held between Terhune Park and Hourihan Field, this beloved annual event draws thousands of attendees from across the area. Festival-goers will enjoy browsing a wide variety of vendor tables featuring handmade crafts and local goods while grabbing a bite from one of the many food trucks or snack vendors on site. Unwind in the beer and wine garden hosted by MJ’s Restaurant while you enjoy live music or a performance in the entertainment area by a local martial arts studios, student musicians, the MRHS cheer team, and more. Families will love the Kidz Corral, complete with carnival games, inflatable attractions, and make-and-take crafts. Our unique live broadcast – a feature not seen at other local festivals – includes on-site interviews with sponsors, business owners, and community leaders, giving the public an inside look at the

people and stories behind our town. Presented by the Matawan Borough Economic Development, Business & Redevelopment Commission and the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce, Matawan Day is a celebration of all that makes our town special. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it! Vendor spots and sponsorships are available but moving fast! Give your business the chance to connect directly with a diverse audience. Visit www.macocnj.com and click on Matawan Day 2025 to learn more.

EVERY LIFE IS A PRECIOUS STORY

At Reformed Church Home, we believe that every life is a precious story, deserving of love, remembrance, and celebration.

To honor the residents who left us, our community recently gathered for heartfelt memorial service, a touching tribute to the lives that have touched our hearts and enriched our community. The memorial service provided a comfort for residents, staff, and friends to come together in shared mourning and gratitude.

The service was filled with moments of prayers, music, and storytelling. During the service, we displayed photographs and memorabilia allowing attendees to recall joyful moments and milestones.

A candle lighting ceremony symbolized the enduring light of those we remember, offering solace and inspiration to all present. As we bid farewell to our dear residents, we remain committed to honoring their legacy through compassionate care and respectful remembrance. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported a meaningful event. May we carry forward the memories to those we’ve lost, cherishing the lessons of kindness, resilience, and grace they have imparted.

CHAMBER

CONNECT

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Brightview Senior Living in Holmdel will be on August 13 with a delicious lunch and an inside look at one of the area’s premier senior communities. Also our After-Hours Pickleball Event at Pickleball HQ. Don’t miss this multi-chamber event with the Hazlet Business Association, Central NJ Regional Chamber, and Monmouth Regional Chamber. A great way to connect across communities while trying something new!

And let’s not forget, Matawan Day is around the corner and happening on October 4th (rain date: October 5th). Sponsorships and vendor registrations are now open. Visit macocnj. com or call 732-290-1125 for more info. If you’re also interested in Aberdeen Day on September 20th, we encourage you to contact the Aberdeen Township Recreation Department directly for event details. As always, thank you for your continued support and involvement in the Chamber. Let’s keep the momentum going and make the rest of the year one to remember!