CHAMBER CONNECT ABERDEEN’S
Michael V. Grandi
President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
As we turn the page on a busy September, we kicked off the fall season with the Main Street Blues and Cruise on September 5th, hosted by Hot Rod Mike. Best of all, proceeds supported two worthy causes, the Matawan Historical Society and Matawan Lodge #192 F & AM. On August 26th, members gathered at Pickleball HQ for an engaging After-Hours Event. Attendees enjoyed lessons from expert trainers, great networking, and a tasty spread from Rosa’s Kitchen Food Truck., Our September 9th Luncheon at Aby’s, sponsored by CMIT Northern Monmouth County, offered valuable insights into PCI compliance while everyone enjoyed a delicious meal. Later in the month, we raised a glass at the 3BR Distillery After-Hours Event on September 18th, where our first drink sponsor, 3BR, set the tone for an evening of lively networking with food from Lenora’s Café and sweet treats from Waffle Cabin. September wrapped up with Aberdeen Day on September 20th—a beautiful day full of family fun, rides, vendors, food, and even autographs from well-known sports figures. We also celebrated several
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YOUTH
PROGRAMS BUILD PRIDE AND COMMUNITY
This summer, Aberdeen Township demonstrated its commitment to community by engaging young residents in programs that fostered responsibility, civic pride, and connection. Through the Clean Communities Initiative and the Police Cadets Program, students played a direct role in improving their hometown while gaining experiences that will last a lifetime.
The Clean Communities Initiative provided local high school students with paid summer jobs, giving them the opportunity to work alongside township staff and make a visible difference across Aberdeen. Students painted curbs, picked up litter in parks, playgrounds, and at the train station, and spread new
mulch at township playgrounds. Their work touched nearly every corner of town, helping to keep public spaces safe and inviting for residents of all ages. For many participants, it was a first job and with it came lessons in teamwork, responsibility, and pride in serving their own community.
The Police Cadets Program
offered another avenue for students to contribute. Working with the Aberdeen Police Department, cadets gained insight into public service and assisted at township events. Whether helping with traffic or lending support during large gatherings such as our Independence Day
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MATAWAN RESIDENTS TO ENJOY A WICKEDLY GOOD TIME THIS OCTOBER
By Cathy
October will be filled with community spirit, family fun, and seasonal festivities as the Matawan Borough Recreation Commission, and the Matawan Borough PBA 179 host their signature fall events. The celebration begins with the PBA’s annual Oktoberfest, set for Saturday, October 18, from 1 to
6 p.m. on Jackson Street by the Washington Engine Company #1 Fire House. The afternoon promises food, music, beer, and plenty of camaraderie. The event is the PBA’s largest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds supporting their programs and initiatives, and also a wide range of local organizations they support, in-
cluding youth sports, scouts, and recreational programs. Residents are invited to come together to enjoy the day while helping to strengthen their initiatives. Later in the month, families will have the chance to enjoy some Halloween magic at the annual Halloween Boo-tacular, hosted by the Matawan Recreation Commission. The event will take place on Friday, October 24, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Terhune Park, which will be transformed into a spooky
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Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
10TH ANNUAL PET-A-PALOOZA EVENT
October is Subaru Loves Pets Month, and All American Subaru is thrilled to celebrate the 10th Annual Pet-A-Palooza adoption event! Partnering with Sammy’s Hope Animal Welfare and Adoption Center of Sayreville, this special day has helped hundreds of pets find loving forever homes over the past decade. Join us on Saturday, October 18th from 11AM – 3PM in the All American Subaru showroom for our milestone celebra-
tion, filled with fun for the whole family. The event will feature adoptable pets making their grand entrance on the red carpet, complete with announcements of their age, breed, and fun details. Nikki’s Dawgs food truck will be on-site serving food, and local vendors and adoption agencies will be out in full support of animal rescue and raising awareness for these incredible organizations. The day will end with the fan-favorite Cutest Pet Costume Contest, hosted by NJ101.5, where furry friends show off their most adorable outfits.
For 10 incredible years, Pet-A-Palooza at All American Subaru has been more than just an adoption event—it’s been a community tradition. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on October 18th!
MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE
As the crisp autumn air settles in, our schools are buzzing with activity. The Board remains focused on ensuring that every student thrives. In case you haven’t heard, our district is growing! Increasing enrollment is already causing capacity challenges in our elementary schools. The District plans to rezone schools to balance enrollment. The growth, coupled with aging facilities, highlights the need for modernization. We will seek community feedback to shape a potential bond referendum for November 2026 to fund necessary school improvements. Academically, we are proud of the progress, but are committed to strengthening all programs. The District has adjusted the middle school math and science sequences and Honors program criteria to better align with high school expectations and prepare students for future success. Also at MAMS, the science curriculum will expose students earlier to project-based collaboration and experiences that will support 21st-century skills. We are also making strides with student attendance. After being placed on a Corrective Action Plan by the state for chronic absenteeism rates that exceeded 10%, we’ve implemented targeted strategies
at all school levels. You may have already seen the District’s “I am Here” campaign. You will also start to see attendance incentives as well as detailed health information about when you should keep your child home. Challenges to school funding are always top of mind, and the district is already looking ahead to the 26-27 School Budget. The Board supports the District’s continuous efforts to keep costs down while serving all students, as well as efforts to find creative ways to bring in new revenue without a local tax impact. As always, we value the partnership of our families! It is vital as we navigate these challenges and build strong connections together.
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE
Matawan Mayor
Joseph Altomonte
This month, I had the solemn privilege of attending our annual 9/11 Memorial Service. Twenty-four years later, we continue to honor the lives tragically lost on that day and reflect on the bravery of the first responders who rushed into danger. It is a time to remember the unity and kindness that carried us forward after such a tragedy, and to recommit ourselves to extending compassion to one another. I am deeply grateful to all our first responders—the men and women of the Matawan Police Department, our Fire Department, and First Aid—for their service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our Borough. On a more personal note, I was saddened by the passing of former Councilwoman Lillian Burry. Her leadership began here in Matawan before she went on to serve as a Monmouth County Commissioner. We were fortunate to have her join us
not long ago for the 300th anniversary celebration of the Burrowes Mansion. Lillian’s contributions and dedication will be remembered with pride and gratitude by our entire community. As summer ends and the school year begins, I want to wish all our students, parents, and educators a wonderful year ahead. The first days of school always brings excitement, new opportunities, and fresh routines. I remind all motorists to please slow down, pay extra attention near schools, obey speed limits and watch for pedestri-
IS THE SAT CALCULATOR FAIR?
By Paul Pscolka
When the digital SAT was released, it came with an embedded Desmos calculator. Some educators welcome the tool— after all, in the age of technology, today’s students who will be most successful in their careers will know how to take best advantage of technology. Others disagree, though, citing the plethora of Desmos’ capabilities that enable students to solve problems without a conceptual understanding. What specifically do I mean? Students learn how to do systems of equations in algebra 2, which involves either eliminating one of 2 variables in two equations or isolating one and substituting in for the other to solve. With Desmos, students could just type each equation and hover over the intersection point. Desmos displays the solution. If students must find the y-intercept given 2 coordinates, a by-hand solution would require (y2-y1)/(x2-x1) , then plugging the newfound slope, along with one of the coordinates into y=mx+b to solve. This is time-consuming and allows much
room for error. In Desmos, clicking the +, choosing the table, plugging in coordinates, and clicking on the / will allow students to solve without doing any math. There are many other uses for Desmos: If students are solving for a single variable, they need only to use the ~ instead of = to solve. Desmos will find the mean or median by just typing mean(1,8,3) or median(7,3,8), for example. In a single equation, the x intercept(s) is(are) the solution. Students can type percents directly into Desmos without knowing the conversion to decimals. Solving for coordinates given an equation only requires students to type in the equation, to click on the gear, and to choose the table. Students can solve for equivalent equations simply by graphing to see which answer choice overlaps. These are not all the uses for Desmos. Whatever your view on Desmos, to maximize your score, it is important to know how to use it to best advantage. Wanna learn? Join me for our student workshop: https://www.ivymasters.com/services/free-student-workshops/
MATAWAN RESIDENTS TO ENJOY A WICKEDLY GOOD TIME THIS OCTOBER
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and whimsical wonderland. Ghosts, witches, and themed decorations will line the park’s pathways as the Recreation Commission brings goody bags, crafts, and seasonal games to the annual event. Local organizations and businesses will add to the fun by providing additional special treat stations with goodies and giveaways. Highlights of the evening include a giant Halloween-themed obstacle course, a “spooky” 3-in-1 game booth, and a costume parade and contest featuring prizes for the scariest, most clever,
and best costumed family/group. Music and entertainment will be provided by a DJ to keep the festive atmosphere alive. As the sun sets, the celebration will conclude with an outdoor showing of the hit musical film Wicked at 6 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the movie under the stars. Borough officials say the events are designed to celebrate community, create great memories, and support local businesses and programs that benefit Matawan residents year-round.
DEANA GUNN, MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT
September was a busy and exciting month around the Borough, filled with events that brought our community together. After weeks of unpredictable weather, the skies finally cleared, and we were able to host our annual Blues and Cruise Night on Main Street. The event was a huge success, with over 90 cars lining the street, multiple vendors showcasing their work, and a fantastic band setting the perfect backdrop. The weather couldn’t have been better, and thanks to the generosity of those who attended, the Economic Business Development Commission proudly presented two $500 checks, one to the Matawan Historical Society and one to the Masonic Lodge on Main Street. We are grateful to these organizations for all they do to preserve our history and serve our community. Another highlight of the month was the unveiling of the Minisink Trail
Marker, located on Mill Rd., which honors the historic Lenape Path. This special moment not only celebrated our past but also marked the beginning of a series of events leading up to the 250th anniversary of our nation in 2026. Next year, we’ll also recognize another import ant milestone—the 100th anniversary of the Matawan Police Department—with commemorations you won’t want to miss. Please keep an eye out for details. In addition, many residents enjoyed the continuation of Lakeside Dining at Lake Lefferts. What began as a way to gather during COVID safely has now become a cherished tradition. Partnering with local businesses, this unique experience offers a chance to enjoy our beautiful water front while connecting with neighbors.
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Deana Gunn
BUILDING A STRONGER ABERDEEN FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW
Aberdeen Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone
As I near the end of this term, I’ve taken time to reflect on what we’ve accomplished and where I believe we can go next.
Serving as Deputy Mayor of Aberdeen has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated Mayor and Council, township staff, and a community that truly cares. Together, we’ve laid the groundwork for a stronger, more connected Aberdeen.
We didn’t just talk about improving our infrastructure, we did it. From physically repaving miles of neighborhood roads to modernizing drainage systems, playgrounds, and public buildings, we’ve invested in the backbone of our town. And while those upgrades may not always make headlines, they make a difference in people’s everyday lives. But building a better town also means
building community. From large-scale events like Aberdeen Day to vital services like our Property Tax Relief Filing Event, which helped over 80 residents just last month. We’ve brought resources directly to residents’ doorsteps. One woman shared with me how overwhelmed she felt trying to file on her own, with no one to help, until this event. It meant so much to know we were able to make that kind of difference.
We also prioritized protection and empowerment, especially for our seniors. At our Stop the Scam workshop, we helped residents recognize fraud and gave them tools to stay safe. We’re not just offering programs, we’re offering peace of mind. Looking ahead, I believe in moving Aberdeen forward by preserving our farmlands and open spaces, investing in our parks and public spaces, and ensuring our neighborhoods remain strong, safe, and vibrant. By diversifying housing, revitalizing empty properties, and growing our commercial tax base, we can keep Aberdeen both beautiful and affordable for all.Let’s keep building on what we’ve started together for the generations to come.
ABERDEEN’S YOUTH PROGRAMS BUILD PRIDE AND COMMUNITY
Continue from page 1 Celebration, cadets became a visible reminder of the value of youth involvement. Together, these programs showed that investing in young people means investing in the future of Aberdeen. These efforts took place against the backdrop of a township calendar filled with events such as concerts in the park and National Night Out. September’s Aberdeen Day proved to be a signature success, drawing crowds for food, live music, contests, BMX stunt shows, and a family fun zone that delighted children. Students in the Cadets programs played a role in preparing for and supporting these events, demonstrating that community spirit grows stronger when everyone contributes. And the year is far from over. On
October 11th, residents can enjoy Jazz in the Park, followed by the Bonfire Bash on October 18th. On November 8th, the Veterans Day Car Show will combine classic cars and community pride with heartfelt recognition of those who served our nation. Together, the Clean Communities Initiative, the Cadets Program, and the township’s calendar of events reflect the shared vision of a stronger, more connected Aberdeen. By giving students opportunities to work, volunteer, and serve, and by offering families events that unite them throughout the year, Aberdeen continues to prove that it is more than just a township, it is a true community.
aberdeennj.org
MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE
As I reflect on my final Aberdeen Day as mayor, I am struck most by the power of community and the joy of seeing our residents come together. This year’s festival was one of the most memorable yet, highlighted by a star-studded autograph signing that brought national sports heroes right into the heart of Aberdeen. For the first time, Aberdeen welcomed a current Major League Baseball player, Oswaldo Cabrera of the New York Yankees, to our event. Cabrera’s energy and graciousness with fans of all ages was remarkable. Alongside him, we were honored to host Howard Johnson, a two-time World Series champion with the New York Mets, and Ron Greschner, a beloved New York Rangers defenseman. To see children light up as they met their idols and left with signed baseballs, hockey sticks, and jerseys was truly unforgettable. Moments like these are what make Aberdeen Day so special. But just as inspiring as our guests, were
the scenes throughout the day: neighbors catching up over food, families laughing together in the Fun Zone, and crowds cheering as the BMX stunt team soared through the air. Everywhere I looked, I saw pride in our township and gratitude for the chance to share a day of fun together. This being my last Aberdeen Day before retirement, I could not have asked for a better send-off. My deepest thanks go to my colleagues on the Township Council, our staff, volunteers, and the many busi nesses and organizations who made the event possible. Most of all, thank you to the people of Aberdeen, you turned this year’s celebration into a reminder of what community is all about.
Packages starting at 199.99 plus tax
All orders come with fresh cranberries, turkey, gravy, loaves of our famous bread and fresh baked pies. Place your orders by November 16th!
Mayor Fred Tagliarini
Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini
CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!
We have so many fun and interesting programs scheduled this month. Here’s a sampling: For kids:
Pumpkin Painting - Saturday, October 25th, 10am and 12pm
Join us in the meeting room for a Halloween story and some painting fun. Open to children of all ages. Registration required. Please register for only one session.
Trick-or-Treat in the Library - Friday, October 31st, 10am-12pm
We invite our tiniest patrons to drop by the library to trick or treat all around the building. This is a drop-in event open to children of all ages and their caregivers. No registration required.
For teens:
Teen Poetry Pumpkins - Wednesday, October 15th at 7pm
We will listen to some spooky music and eat some candy while we make our own literary masterpieces… on a pumpkin! Open to patrons in grades 6-12. Registration is required.
For adults:
Estate Planning 101 - Saturday, October 18th at 2pm
Everything you need to know about this very important subject. Registration is required.
Grants, Scholarships, and Loans (Zoom) – Wednesday, October 22nd at 7pm
Learn insider information on scholarships, grants, and loans to help make your college planning more affordable. Registration is required.
For teachers:
Teacher Book Giveaway – Sunday, October 12th from 1-4pm
Local teachers are invited to visit us to help themselves to books for their classroom libraries! No registration is required, but school ID or pay stub is needed for entry.
Our full calendar of events can be found on our website: 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.
Happy Autumn and Happy Halloween!
Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
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.
Megan Taraszkiewicz for Council
Dan De Zaio for Council
Megan Taraszkiewicz & Dan De Zaio
Stabilizing Taxes Builds Stronger Communities
Megan and Dan understand Matawan’s affordability crisis and support Mayor Altomonte’s smart, multi-pronged approach to stabilizing taxes and securing over $7 million in grants, restructuring health plans, taxing cannabis, and more.These efforts are key to stabilizing taxes while investing in our future.
Restoring Our Downtown
With popular restaurants and cozy coffee spots already drawing crowds, Megan and Dan will take action to make the old police station a destination green space, with art installations and native pollinator gardens. It'll be our next step in restoring Matawan's downtown business district.
November 4th VOTE on or before
We support Mayor Altomonte’s balanced approach, revitalizing our train station while preserving lakefront woodlands.
Matawan ended decades of affordable housing litigation with a solution that meets obligations without sacrificing open space, proof that future-forward, sustainable planning works with thoughtful and community-first leadership.
Continuing Investments in Matawan’s Future Protecting The Borough From Overdevelopment
Megan and Dan supported efforts to raise Aberdeen Road and now Lake Lefferts Dam is next for both safety and traffic flow. They won’t back down from big challenges—they’ll join the Restore Matawan team to meet them.
FAMILY MATTERS
As the calendar turns to fall, we reflect on the moments that made summer so special—family barbecues, beach trips, and those cherished visits with loved ones. For many of our residents here at Reformed Church Home, summer brought the joy of seeing relatives in person—whether it was sharing a meal in our dining room, attending a community event together, or simply sitting and talking in the garden. These visits fill our hearts and our halls with warmth, laughter, and connection. But once the last guests head home and daily routines return, it’s important to find ways to keep that closeness alive all year long.
1. Keep the Conversation Going
2. Share Updates and Photos
3. Take Advantage of Our Newsletters
4. Write It Down
5. Plan the Next Visit
Even if it’s months away, having the next visit on the calendar gives everyone something to look forward to. It also helps keep communication flowing in the meantime. At Reformed Church Home, we believe family connection is the heart of well-being. Staying in sync after summer visits isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistent, thoughtful moments that keep relationships strong.
CHAMBER CONNECT
Continue from page 1 important Ribbon Cuttings in September: Meadowbrook Respiratory & Nursing Care Grand Re-Opening (9/17), Red Bank Center for Rehabilitation & Healing Grand Re-Opening (9/18), Lyons Mane Hair Co. on Main Street (9/27), And most recently, congratulations to Vigor Dispensary on their Grand Opening October 4th, official Ribbon Cutting will be announced. October promises to be just as exciting. By the time you read this, Matawan Day
(October 4th) will already have taken place, and I’m confident it was another successful community celebration. Coming up, join us for: Tailgating Party After-Hours Event at Stewart’s of Matawan , October 15th, Networking Luncheon sponsored by PuroClean – October 28th. Thank you to all our members for your continued participation and enthusiasm.
SAVE YOUR VACATION
We all have a story.
We were a young family with two children. We each had 2 weeks of vacation and sick days from our jobs. Each year, we would split the days the kids were off from school. We would ask friends, family, and neighbors for coverage. Summer
camp, winter and spring break helped, but nearly every month
we had to juggle who was going to watch them on those random days off. If 10 days went to childcare, what was left afterwards?
The time with their grandparents was priceless. Family vacations were memorable, but the rest of the days, being shuffled around or home watching TV were…eh.
That’s when the concept started to formulate. A TRIP-A-DAY, an ADVENTURE, a MOMENT of CHILDHOOD to be remembered.
We needed childcare, but couldn’t keep taking days off. We couldn’t keep asking favors from family and friends. We needed childcare, but wanted to use our time for VACATION.
EPIC DAYZ is childcare- with a twist. Our staff are CPR certified, insured caregivers who are from a community of people that work with kids and love watching them discover things.
We created EPIC DAYZ as a program that has a TRIP for every day. We have a 1:6 ratio of Adventure Guides to children, with Adventure Coordinators that oversee all. Our goal is to make these days count for your child.
Our program is not for everyone, yet everyone is welcome. It is not by town nor district, it is by volume. We have limited spaces of 200 children per location.
Visit us at www.epicdayz.com.
EPIC DAYZ, it is Epic for the children and E-Z for the parents.
NEW RESCUE DIVISION FORMS
by Deputy Fire Chief Ed Lee
Citizens of Matawan, I want you to know about a new special rescue division established between the Office of Emergency Management, Matawan Borough Fire Department and Police Department. It is a new technical rescue team that consists of six fire department members and 5 police department members who are trained to carry out rope rescues and extractions in ravines and other low angle areas, and buildings in town. The rescue concept involves speed, setup, and assessment of patients. The police department will be first on the scene and begin to set up ropes,
hauling systems and check patients’ overall conditions. The fire department will arrive next to assist the police, recheck the system for safety, and expedite the rescue.
Time is always of the essence in any type of rescue. By utilizing both departments and having them work in conjunction with one another, we create the opportunity for a smooth and efficient rescue and the safe removal of any victims. We would like to commend these dedicated team members for their service, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting our community.
