All Around Matawan Aberdeen- June 2026

MATAWAN-ABERDEEN VOL 6, NO 5

CHAMBER CONNECT

A Publication for the community of Matawan & Aberdeen

JUNE 2026

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR AN EVENT-PACKED SUMMER As we move into summer, the IN MATAWAN BOROUGH Matawan-Aber- by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan

Engine Co. #1, and the Shark 5K hosted by Main St. Donuts and the Economic Development Commission. On June 27, Matawan’s special 250th celebration will feature a colonial encampment, Burrowes Mansion tours, a self-guided walking tour, and an evening of fun and fireworks at Lake Lefferts.

ABERDEEN KICKS OFF SUMMER WITH WORLD CUP WATCH PARTY AND AMERICA 250 FIREWORKS CELEBRATION

Aberdeen Township is preparing for a summer filled with community events as residents are invited to come together for two of the Township’s biggest celebrations of the season a World Cup Watch Party at Cambridge Park and the annual Aberdeen

America 250 Independence Day Fireworks Celebration at Veterans Memorial Park.

The summer festivities begin on Friday, June 19, when Aberdeen hosts a community World Cup Watch Party as Team USA takes on Australia in a FIFA World Cup matchup that will be streamed live on an outdoor screen at Cambridge Park. The event will start at 2:00 PM with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM. With the World Cup Final taking place in New Jersey

later this summer, Township officials said the event is a way to bring some of that international excitement directly to Aberdeen while creating another opportunity for residents to gather together as a community.

“We wanted to find a way to bring some of the excitement surrounding the World Cup right here to Aberdeen,” said Mayor Greg Cannon. “These events are about bringing people together, supporting local businesses, Continue on page 14

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The Borough Recreation Commission has worked with and prepared a summer lineup of events designed to bring residents of all ages together while highlighting the support of our local businesses and community partners.

June begins with two annual favorites: the Kids Fishing Derby and Cookout with Washington

July opens with a dinner theater at Lake Lefferts on the 9th featuring a musical parody of Jaws, called JAWS: The Musical while dining at the lake. The month continues with a series of outdoor movies, all beginning at 7 p.m.

Highlights include the July 10 adult “date night” screening of Song Sung Blue, partially filmed in Matawan, the July 17 family movie night featuring Zootopia 2, and the July 31 teen movie night with School of Rock.

In August, the popular Family Night Under the Stars Thursday Concert Series returns to Terhune Park. Performers include the Continue on page 11

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deen Chamber of Commerce cont inues to grow with new businesses, exciting events, and Michael a strong sense V. Grandi of community President, partnership that Matawan keeps our local Aberdeen business enviChamber of ronment thrivCommerce ing.

We are proud to welcome several new members to the chamber family: About You Chiropractic led by Peter Jeremich, Castle of Dreams Animal Rescue with Jackie Hastings, Excel Urgent Care of NJ represented

by Adelis Rosario, OEO Energy Solutions with Lesley Grant, and Mane Attraction by Ms. Rob, owned by Robin Davis. We thank these businesses for investing in our community and look forward to supporting their continued success.

Our networking luncheon at El Rinconcito de Mama, sponsored

by Jersey Medical Care, focused on Mental Health Awareness Month with an important discussion titled “Carrying It All: The Cost of Doing Too Much.”

The conversation highlighted the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal wellness — something many business owners and professionals can relate to.

One of the most anticipated Continue on page 14

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MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE As the school year draws to a close, our buildings begin to look a little different.

Empty classrooms and quieter hallways signal the start of summer, but also an important period of transition and preparation. This year, that work is especially meaningful as we manage changes related to redistricting, with some of our educators moving into new classrooms, grade levels, or even new buildings.

We want to sincerely thank our teachers and staff for approaching these changes with flexibility and professionalism. In many cases, staff members are enthusiastic about new opportunities. Their commitment ensures that our students will continue to thrive, no matter the setting.

While summer offers a well-deserved break, it is also a critical time for District and Board of Education planning. In the months ahead, we will be focused on longer-range initiatives, including refining Board goals and updating policies. One notable change is the state-mandated cell phone policy, which will prohibit phone use from the first bell to the last bell of the school day. Because our district took

early steps in this direction, the transition should be manageable; however, high school students should be aware that phone use during lunch and passing time will no longer be permitted under state law.

We are also closely monitoring financial pressures, particularly the continued rise in healthcare costs, which show no signs of slowing. Work is already underway to balance future budgets through both revenue planning and cost-saving measures. Additionally, the state has introduced discussions around potential state-wide school district consolidation. While still in exploratory stages, we are beginning to review what this could mean for our District.

For now, we wish all of our families, staff, and students a safe, healthy, and enjoyable summer.

JUNE 2026

IT’S FIRE PIT SEASON, LEARN HOW TO USE THEM SAFELY

by Deputy Chief Ed Lee, Matawan Fire Dept.

Hello, neighbors, fire pit season has arrived!

This is the time when we start to enjoy our backyard fire pits which have become a staple in the evening hours on chilly spring and summer nights.

Please make sure that when using a fire pit, it is used safely. Place your fire pit at least fifteen to twenty-five feet from the house. They should be no larger than three feet in diameter, and usually two feet in height from the ground. It is also always a good idea to have a cover to stop burning embers from flying in the air onto your roof or adjacent properties.

When children are involved, especially in the process of making s’mores, please make sure the articles of clothing they’re wearing are not hanging loose or unzippered. Leaning in near the fire pit can cause catastrophic results. The last thing that we all want is our child to be injured during a nice night out in the backyard. Please treat your fire pit as a campfire. A good practice is to start with kindling and add larger pieces of wood as you go along. Gasoline or other accelerants should never be added to a fire pit. So please, this spring season and early summer nights, enjoy your fire pits with friends and family but do it safely. This safety announcement is from the Matawan Fire Department, and the Matawan Fire Prevention Bureau.

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JUNE 2026

MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE This year, our nation marks an extraordinary milestone — 250 years of independence, resilience, and the enduring promise of freedom. What better way to honor that legacy than by Matawan Mayor coming together Joseph Altomonte as a community to celebrate the spirit that has always made this country great?

I am thrilled to invite everyone to the lakefront for our annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration on Saturday, June 27th (rain date: Sunday, June 28th). This year’s event promises to be bigger and more memorable than ever, befitting a 250th anniversary worthy of the history we carry.

The day will be packed with something for everyone. Start your morning at the Farmers Market, where our incredible local vendors will have fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and so much more.

Head over to Borough Hall for a truly

special historical encampment that will bring our nation’s founding era to life— a wonderful, hands-on way to connect with the past we’re celebrating.

Then, as evening falls, make your way to the lakefront for the main event. There will be spectacular fireworks, live music, plenty of food, vendors, and activities for the kids. It will be a night our community will not soon forget.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, ordinary people did extraordinary things. This June 27th, let’s honor them the best way we know how — together.

We’ll see you at the lake.

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JUNE 2026

MATAWAN COUNCILMAN DAN DE ZAIO In early May the Shade Tree Commission celebrated another year of dedication and community spirit in Matawan with a memorable 8th Arbor Day celebraDan De Zaio tion where free trees Matawan were given out.

This year’s highCouncilman lights included the heartfelt planting of a maple tree in loving memory of David C. Pike, a meaningful tribute that brought the community together in honor of his legacy. The event also celebrated Matawan Borough’s 8th consecutive year holding the prestigious Tree City USA designation, a testament to the Borough’s unwavering commitment to tree management.

Adding to the excitement, Shade Tree was thrilled to announce the receipt of a $15,000 grant for the Shade Tree Inventory program, along with an additional $5,000 award for the Certified Forestry Management Program. These funds will go a long

way in supporting the continued growth and care of Matawan’s urban tree canopy.

A standout of the celebration was the “Plant a Seed, Grow a Future” poster contest, where talented young artists from Ravine Drive School showcased their creativity and passion for the environment.

Students from each grade level submitted entries inspired by the theme, and one winner was selected per grade, with each recipient receiving a gift card in recognition of their outstanding artistic achievement.

With eight years of success and a thriving future ahead, Shade Tree continues to root itself deeply in the heart of Matawan Borough and I want to thank the Shade Tree volunteers for their dedication to the Commission and our community.

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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR At our final Township Council meeting in May, we had the privilege of recognizing the members of Aberdeen’s Public Safety Cadets Program alongside their Aberdeen Mayor families during a very special ceremony at Greg Cannon Town Hall.

This program, launched by the Aberdeen Township Police Department in 2025, gives young residents the opportunity to explore careers in public safety while gaining hands-on experience and leadership skills. Throughout the year, cadets trained in CPR, first aid, traffic control, and community event support while working alongside members of our Police Department, Fire Department, and First Aid Squad.

The Mayor and Council proudly presented Citations of Recognition to all ten cadets for their dedication, professionalism, and service during the program’s inaugural year. These young men and women have represented Aberdeen with

pride and have shown a real commitment to helping others and serving their community.

We also had the honor of presenting a special proclamation to founding cadet Patrick Asseng, who has been part of the program for the past two years and will soon begin his next chapter serving our country in the United States Navy following graduation. Patrick’s dedication, discipline, and passion for public service have made him an outstanding role model for the program and for our community.

Programs like the Public Safety Cadets are important because they help build the next generation of leaders while strengthening the connection between young people and public service. I want to thank our Police Department, the instructors, the families, and especially the cadets themselves for making this first year such a success.

Congratulations again to all of our cadets. Aberdeen is proud of each and every one of you.

Mayor Greg Cannon Aberdeen Township

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JUNE 2026

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JUNE 2026

DEPUTY MAYOR HIRSCH MESSAGE

One of the best signs of a strong c om mu n it y is seeing new businesses choose to invest and grow h e re i n Ab e rdeen. So far in 2026, we’ve had the opportunity to welcome several new businesses to Aberdeen Deputy town, each bringMayor ing new services, Arthur Hirsch jobs, and energy to our community.

From locally owned small businesses to larger regional brands, these openings continue to show that Aberdeen remains a great place to live, work, and do business.

This year, we welcomed Bluemelle Flower Boutique, a resident owned business that has added a beautiful new storefront and creative touch to Route 34.

We also welcomed JAG Physical Therapy and Crunch Fitness, expanding health and wellness options for residents right here in town.

Last month, NJ Leaf officially opened in Cliffwood, bringing new investment

and more than 30 jobs to the Township. In addition, two cents from every dollar spent goes directly back to Aberdeen through local cannabis revenue, helping support Township services and initiatives. They also made an immediate impact in the community with a donation supporting Aberdeen Recreation programs.

Attending these ribbon cuttings and meeting the business owners behind them has been exciting to see firsthand. Each new opening represents new jobs, new opportunities for residents, and continued investment in Aberdeen. It’s great to see vacant spaces being filled and new businesses choosing to make Aberdeen part of their future.

We look forward to continuing that momentum throughout the rest of 2026 and welcoming even more businesses to Aberdeen.

Arthur Hirsch Deputy Mayor, Aberdeen Township

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THE SAT BRINGS HAPPINESS

By Paul Pscolka

Contrary to popular belief, the happiest teens are not those who are most popular on social media.

While this may lead to temporary dopamine spikes, seeking validation ultimately leads to anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, and emotional volatility. Neither are they those who are the most comfortable or “always having fun;” in the long run, they will lack appreciation and become bored. Those with endless free time feel aimless and unsatisfied. Even a great SAT score will only bring a temporary emotional high. So, what in the world will bring your teen true long-term happiness?

Regarding SAT prep, how prep is done is most important. Students should not seek perfection. Instead, they should normalize their own mistakes by keeping an error log. Celebrate questions and pacing mastered through consistent practice.

Steady progress will keep students motivated and happy.

Inevitably, through this process, students will be challenged. Students will perform better and be less stressed when they believe that improvement comes through effort and strategy rather than

sheer intelligence. Instead of thinking “I’m bad at math,” a student should see specifically what error they made on that particular question and fix it. Know the fix well enough not to make the mistake again. Missteps are data, telling a student what to work on. They are not the student’s identity.

Students who prepare with purpose are happier. Connecting prep to future independence—going to their top choice 4-year university and setting themselves up for their future career goals is motivation.

Students can also prep keeping in mind merit aid which is usually tied to SAT scores. Their increased score can help the entire family. Connecting scores to something meaningful reduces burnout.

Students who focus on progress, maintain a growth mindset, and tie their score to a higher purpose will prepare more happily…and happiness is good for the student, the parents, the teacher, and the world.

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JUNE 2026

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JUNE 2026

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FATHERS, FAMILIES & THE GIFT OF SUMMER MOMENTS

By David Boles, Marketing Director

June is a meaningful time at Reformed Church Home as we celebrate Father’s Day and honor the many fathers, grandfathers, husbands, brothers, uncles, and lifelong friends who have helped shape our families and communities through love, guidance, humor, and support.

Summer also reminds us how important it is to enjoy time together. Whether it’s sitting outside sharing iced tea, talking with grandchildren by phone or video, or simply enjoying a warm afternoon visit, these moments matter deeply.

For many families, June can also be an ideal time to explore supportive services that help loved ones remain safe, active, and connected. Respite Care can provide families and caregivers with short-term support and peace of mind while their loved one enjoys compassionate care, activities, companionship, and social engagement. Rehabilitation services can also help individuals regain strength and confidence following surgery, illness, or hospitalization — helping them return to enjoying summer activities and everyday life as fully as possible.

At Reformed Church Home, we believe every season of life deserves connection, dignity, encouragement, and moments worth sharing together. Please visit our blogs by scanning the QR code and if you have any questions, please feel free to call me – or stop for a ‘coffee, lemonade, or iced tea’ chat.

JUNE 2026

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JUNE 2026

YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR

By Senator Owen Henry AN EVENT-PACKED SUMMER As we welcome the Father’s Day. Your love, guidance, and sunshine and renewed unwavering support shape the lives of your IN MATAWAN BOROUGH energy that summer brings, I want to pause and shine a well‑deserved spotlight on the outstanding accomplishments of our high school and college graduates. This moment represents years of dedication, perseverance, and personal growth, and you should be immensely proud of all you’ve achieved. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. Step forward with confidence, embrace the opportunities ahead, and continue shaping a future that reflects your talents, values, and dreams.

To all the fathers across our community, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a Happy

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children and strengthen the foundation of our families. May you enjoy a day filled with appreciation and joy.

As summer unfolds, I encourage everyone to embrace the season safely, with good health and plenty of fun. Exercise caution when swimming and be mindful while participating in activities on the water. Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen. Whether you’re traveling, spending time outdoors, or simply relaxing with loved ones, let’s make this summer one to remember.

Wishing you all a joyous, safe, and fulfilling summer.

Sincerely, Senator Owen Henry

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by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan Continued from page 1 talented country duo Williams Honor on August 6, crowd favorite Mission Dance on August 13, acclaimed singer-songwriter Willie Nile on August 20, and a Matawan favorite cover band, Falling Walls closing the series with a reunion performance on August 27.

August also features another special 250th celebration event on the 29th: the Whaleboat Races at Lake Lefferts. It’s based on a Matawan Revolutionary War plot to capture the NYC mayor. A lot of fun is in store for the day, promising a memorable community celebration.

The summer concludes with Economic Development’s Lakeside Dining at Lake Lefferts on September 10 and 19, featuring music, trivia, and outdoor dining.

The Recreation Commission and partnering organizations have worked hard to create events that appeal to a wide range of interests and ages. We hope the Matawan Borough Summer of 2026 will be enjoyable and engaging for all.

LOCAL RESIDENT WINS ON THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

By Rich Bruno

My experience as a winning contestant on the Wheel of Fortune brought so much excitement and joy! It was 15 months in the making from application to taping the show.

The “full circle” moment for me was that I watched this show regularly with my grandfather 30 years ago, and it reminded me of the fun we had watching it together. I just knew I needed to be on this game show!

So many people I know, from all aspects of my personal and professional life, were sharing in my excitement and were all rooting for me. This was evident before the taping, all the way up to and after the air date. All the messages and reactions that I received after the show aired filled my heart.

What were the most amazing parts of this experience?

Sharing it firsthand with my wife from start to finish. During the application process, I remember I didn’t want to do the video portion, and she convinced me it was essential! She supported me all through the audition process and played a major role in helping me to prepare for the show.

Sharing it with so many people at a watch party – no one knew the outcome, not even my kids! It was wonderful to share in the excitement with everyone when we all watched me win! We kept this secret for six weeks!!!

Having a full circle moment of sharing it with my grandfather, who passed over 25 years ago.

Why do you believe you were successful?

My mindset – I was confident that my preparation would pay off – I practiced 2 hours per day, every day, for 3 weeks. The preparation kept me focused and calm.

I was able to overcome FOUR BANKRUPTS and still win the bonus round!

I set goals and wrote them in my journal the day before taping: - My goals are: o Do my best o Have fun! o Win lots of money o Make it to the bonus round - My “Stretch goal”: Win the bonus round and exceed $50K in winnings!

I included three key phrases in my journal that I said to myself repeatedly while playing: “I’m prepared” …” I have the tools” …”

I expect to win” It’s SO ironic that the final solved phrase, “GO FOR BROKE”, is all me. I believe in seizing every moment, living your best life, and pursuing opportunities with confidence and conviction.

Want to catch the episode? It’s Wheel of Fortune Season 43 Episode 177.

Remember, never doubt yourself and always “GO FOR BROKE”!

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JUNE 2026

CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS! We’ve made it to JUNE! Of course, that means that MAPL’s Summer R e ading Program is about to begin! This year’s theme is “Unearth A Story!” and we will be celebrating all things dinosaur (and reading, of course) all summer long.

Join us on Saturday, June 27th for our Summer Reading Kick-Off! This summer is all about dinosaurs! Stop by the library to sign up, play some games, do some crafts, and grab your first raffle tickets. It’s going to be Rawr-some!

Saturday, July 25th is the half-way point in Summer Reading and it’s time to celebrate with some fantastic fossils! Get a close-up look at some real fossils, make a dinosaur bone craft, and find your way through a scavenger hunt. No bones about it, it’s going to be colossal fun!

On Saturday, August 22nd, we’re saying goodbye to Summer Reading with Jurassic art. Join us at the library to paint, color, and draw. It will be the most colorful and creative dinosaur activity in town!

Check the online events calendar for details about the above and all of the

other fabulous programs for children this summer!

Summer reading isn’t just for kids, though! Teens and adults can also sign-up to log books, get raffle tickets, and win prizes.

For adults, this summer will feature programs on many topics including the American Revolution, travel photography, reading journals, and more! There will be two Teen Lock-ins this summer. There will also be Arrayscape Gaming, a drawing program, and Teens Cooking with Nick for students in grades 6-12.

(Some programs will require registration – check out our online events calendar for details.)

Need more information about any of the above? Give us a call at 732-583-9100, stop by, visit our website at www.mapl. org, 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!

Happy summer and happy reading!

Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library

IN MEMORIAM Antoinette F. Aziz September 2, 1944 - May 21, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Anthony Tiniakos November 6, 1951 - May 10, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT BEDLE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

Thomas David Rodriguez April 5, 1941 - May 7, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Jose Guardado Hernandez September 21, 1958- May 21, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT BEDLE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE

Mary L. Culmone June 30, 1930 - May 9, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

Fred DeNardo January 25, 1936- May 6, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

Patti L. Focarino March 23, 1949 - May 15, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Michael Gerald Winston January 23, 1951- May 8, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

Elizabeth J. Walsh October 14, 1958 - May 2, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

George H. Penny June 10, 1941 - May 12, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME

Patricia Martucci October 25, 1950 - May 8, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

Margaret Engelhardt November 14, 1942 - May 1, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE

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JUNE 2026

2026 NICOLE’S HEART 5K On Sunday, June 14, 2026, Nicole’s Heart Foundation will sponsor its 8th annual 5K Walk/Run at Thompson Park (Preston Grove area), 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ. This fundraising event supports the foundation’s mission to emphasize the importance of cardiac screening for high school students and student-athletes.

Established more than a decade ago, Nicole’s Heart, a 501(c)(3) organization, facilitates free cardiac screenings for high school students, administers a scholarship program for graduating high school seniors, donates defibrillators to various organizations, and periodically holds free CPR Training courses.

The foundation honors the memory of Nicole Trott of Old Bridge, who passed away shortly after graduating from St. John Vianney High School in 2011, following a cardiac arrest brought on by a rare, undiagnosed congenital heart defect known as Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA).

Nicole’s athletic background included varsity track, gymnastics, and cheerleading. In addition to her academic and extracurricular activities, the 18-year-old also volunteered at the Old Bridge Animal Shelter and expected to start a pre-vet-

erinarian college program the following Fall at Rutgers University. Nicole’s Heart frequently donates to the Animal Shelter in memory of Nicole.

Nicole’s Heart has awarded over $42,000 in scholarships to high school seniors who most resemble Nicole’s characteristics.

The Foundation has also donated 9 AEDs and facilitated free cardiac screenings for over 2,500 students. The most recent heart screening event took place at Holmdel High School performed by our doctors at Hackensack Meridian Pediatric Cardiology Group.

Nicole’s Heart Foundation is fortunate to have many local businesses that support the 5K including Provident Bank and Ponte Vecchio Italian Seafood Grille. Alliance Orthopedics will once again set up a recovery zone which provides stretching services before and after the event for the runners and walkers.

Anyone interested in participating in this year’s 5K Walk/Run on June 14 may register at the Race Forum website (https:// my.raceresult.com/382477/). Registration fee is $35.00.

For more information or to donate to Nicole’s Heart Foundation, please visit www.nicolesheart.com.

SEASONS OF HONOR By Emily Hutchinson The warmth of the sun rays Blooming flowers of vibrant hues Lush green vegetation New life and new beginnings The warmth of the sun rays

Blooming flowers of vibrant hues Lush green vegetation

New life and new beginnings

I come to the porch again Reflecting and sobbing at midnight I want to thank you for your sacrifice You spend your days at the edge of danger For the freedom of people like me I come to the porch again

Reflecting and sobbing at midnight

I want to thank you for your sacrifice

You spend your days at the edge of danger For the freedom of people like me

Sitting on the back porch Inhaling the spring air Thinking to myself About how this peace wouldn’t exist without you Sitting on the back porch Inhaling the spring air Thinking to myself

About how this peace wouldn’t exist

Frost forms on the grass The sidewalk freezes into a skating rink Snowfall crashes down on every corner of the yard Frost forms on the grass

The sidewalk free&es into a skating rink

Snowfall crashes down on ever y corner of the yard

without you

Here I am again on the same porch Still praying for your life I give you my honor You are a hero Who fights with all their heart every day Here I am again on the same porch

Yard of lively emerald and lime Fireflies and mosquitos soar in the summer sky Firework displays that shine like starlight Yard of lively emerald and lime

Fireflies and mosquitos soar in the summer sky

Firework displays that shine like starlight

Still sitting in the porchlight With a lightbulb that requires replacing Still sitting in the porchlight

With a lightbulb that requires replacing

Still praying for your life I give you my honor You are a hero

Who fights with all their hear t ever y day

Spring blooms once again A brand new chapter begins But this time a lot emptier Spring blooms once again

A brand new chapter begins But this time a lot emptier

I wish you luck through the gory warfare I hope with all my heart that you’ll survive You were lost in battle You’re nothing like a lightbulb And drifted off to eternal sleep You’re rainbow-colored party lights After watching the world change so rapidly Leaf colors begin to change Your service holds much more value to me Harvest season is celebrated Wind grows harsher Your legacy will last forever Nights become longer In the hearts of the whole community I wish you luck through the gor y war fare

I hope with all my hear t that you’ll sur vive

You were lost in battle

You’re nothing like a lightbulb

And drifted off to eternal sleep

You’re rainbow(colored par ty lights

After watching the world change so rapidly

Leaf colors begin to change

Your ser vice holds much more value to me

Har vest season is celebrated Wind grows harsher

Your legacy will last forever

Nights become longer

In the hear ts of the whole community

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JUNE 2026

ABERDEEN KICKS OFF SUMMER events of the season, our Annual Blues the businesses, leaders, and community WITH WORLD CUP WATCH & Cruise Car Show on Main Street in members who continue to make Matawan Matawan, once again brought the com- and Aberdeen such special places to live PARTY AND AMERICA 250 munity together for a wonderful evening and work. Tickets and sponsorship opFIREWORKS CELEBRATION of classic cars, live entertainment, local portunities are available on our website.

CHAMBER CONNECT Continued from page 1 shopping, and family fun. Mother nature had other plans for the 67th Annual Memorial Day Parade, which we were hoping to participate in.

In addition, we celebrated two exciting ribbon-cutting ceremonies in May — Mane Attraction by Ms. Rob Hair and Wellness Salon and Key Foods — both of which represent continued growth and investment in our local business community.

Looking ahead, we invite everyone to join us for the 2026 MAC Awards & Board Installation Dinner: A Red, White, and Blue Celebration of Community and Legacy on Monday, June 15 at MJ’s Buttonwood Manor from 6–9:30 p.m. This patriotic-themed evening will celebrate

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We will also host our next networking luncheon at The Burger Shop on Tuesday, June 23 from 12–1:30 p.m. These luncheons continue to provide excellent opportunities for local professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow together.

As always, thank you to our members, volunteers, sponsors, and local residents for your continued support of the chamber and our business community. Together, we continue to build strong relationships and a vibrant future for Matawan and Aberdeen.

Michael V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce

REACH 47,000 HOMES Call: 888-523-4331 Email: editor@allaroundob.com New customers only, call for more details.

Continued from page 1

and creating opportunities for families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy time together right here in our community.”

Residents are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy an afternoon of soccer, food trucks, local vendors, face painting, and family activities. Adult attendees will also be able to enjoy a beer tent hosted by Alternate Ending Beer Co. The summer celebration continues Wednesday, July 1, with the Aberdeen America 250 Independence Day Fireworks Celebration at Veterans Memorial Park, located at Ocean Boulevard and Lakeshore Drive. Festivities will take place from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with fireworks scheduled for approximately 9:15 PM. A rain date has been set for July 10.

The annual event, one of the Township’s largest community gatherings each year, will feature food trucks, inflatables, live music, a DJ, face painting, character meet-and-greets, and additional family

entertainment throughout the evening.

The splash pad at Veterans Memorial Park will remain open until 8:00 PM to help residents stay cool before the fireworks light up the bayfront.

Township officials noted that both events are part of Aberdeen’s continued focus on creating family-friendly programming while supporting local businesses and encouraging community engagement throughout the summer months.

The Aberdeen World Cup Watch Party is sponsored by FLORHAM REALTY MANAGEMENT LLC, FAIRVIEW INSURANCE AGENCY ASSOCIATES, RD PARISI, ARH ASSOCIATES, Alternate Ending Beer Co., and NJ Leaf.

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Private Pre-School Stands at the

JUNE 2026

TOP OF THEIR CLASS

in Early Childhood Education

H

OME AWAY FROM HOME ACADEMY continues to remain parents’ number one choice, serving the community for over 30 years. Children are benefiting more and more from their curriculum every day, every month and every year. Parents are realizing the difference between daycare vs. private school. Children are not just ‘playing’ all day anymore; they are playing with a purpose. Parents are finding that their young children, by incorporating fun and play into their academic curriculum, are retaining what they learn and have a significant competitive edge. Within every area of early education which includes reading, writing, math, social studies, foreign language, science, music and art, children are also developing socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively and academically. Marketing studies have shown that an astonishing 70% of students who left Home Away From Home Academy after Kindergarten remained in the top ten percent of their classes, while the other 30% continued in Gifted and Talented programs. Lisa McCoy of Aberdeen, a mother of three children in the school says, “I am certain that the superior education my children are receiving at Home Away From Home Academy will provide them with a solid foundation for their future. Every day I know that my children’s best interests are a primary concern with academically qualified and loving teachers.” She couldn’t have said it better since the school firmly believes that a child’s first school experience will be carried with them for a lifetime.

As leaders in early childhood education, Home Away From Home Academy is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools as a private school paving the way in excellence for over 30 years. Carmine and Phyllis Visone, owners, say “given the right tools, balanced with the right kind of play and guidance, delivered during the right stages of development – children would grow into adults who were not only ‘smart’ academically, but smart in a life sense who would lead productive, abundant lives.” The school prides itself on the feedback of so many families who have went through this program, and are now successful in their professional careers after college.

The school exists in the centrally located

Aberdeen/Holmdel area, and under the capable guidance of the owners, the Academy has grown and developed over the years, currently shaping more than 200 young minds from infancy through Kindergarten with 30 praiseworthy teachers on staff, three fourths of whom are certified in addition to a registered nurse on premise. At the top of its class, Home Away From Home Academy is dedicated to ensuring the success of well-rounded children in an environment that is safe, loving and happy. A child’s brain is said to be a sponge and the Visone’s are taking every opportunity to soak it up with the aforementioned academic subjects all while emphasizing the importance of the individual child at each stage of development and keeping the essence of ‘play’ in the core of this curriculum.

The educational values of Phyllis and Carmine Visone have served as a model to other early childhood educators, and their inspiring book entitled: “The Visone Method: A New Philosophy in Early Childhood Education” has been awarded “Publisher’s

Choice”, STAR status within the publishing company and nominated for “Book of the Year” by Foreword Magazine. The Visone Method is a common sense approach to early childhood education that happens to be extraordinary; it considers the whole child at every turn. There is an array of small components to this entire philosophy that developmentally prepares children younger for higher learning. The main purpose of the book is to give parents and teachers a complete and new understanding of how a child’s learning develops in the early years, how a child accumulates 50% of lifelong knowledge ages 0-7.

Both Carmine and Phyllis have enthusiasm, integrity and love for what they teach and practice. They take great pride in their professional, yet nurturing environment as a family owned business. Community involvement is no small feat for this couple as they strive to teach the children lifelong lessons through charitable giving. Phyllis Visone, owner and director, states “that giving is just as important as receiving and this is a lesson for children of all ages to embrace”.

Over the last several years, Home Away From Home Academy has received many accolades including Township Proclamations, a NJ State Senate Resolution, and an award for their collection of over 800 pounds of food for Fulfill: Students Change Hunger. Additionally, owners Carmine and Phyllis Visone were the recipients of the Humanitarian of the Year award in recognition of the school’s annual generous donation of toys to Hope for Children Foundation. In the most recent years, the school has also participated in a Hop-a-Thon fundraiser to benefit the ALS Clinic at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

The school invites you to take the time to schedule a private tour and see for yourself as hundreds of other parents have – what you read is what you see and what you see is what you get; allow your child to be a part of this growing success story.

For tour scheduling, please call 732-290-0033 or visit www.hafha.com.