MATAWAN-ABERDEEN VOL 6, NO 8
CHAMBER CONNECT
As we move toward the end of summer, the Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce cont inues to grow, connect, and create opMichael portunities for V. Grandi our local business President, community. Our Matawan recent events Aberdeen have brought toChamber of gether members Commerce from across the area, and we are excited about the many opportunities still ahead this fall. Please join us in welcoming our newest Chamber members, Wings-Dom – Xin Chen, Mindful Matters LLC – Nikki Gangemi, New York Life – Jack Schilder. We are grateful that these businesses have chosen to become part of the Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to helping them connect with fellow members and become active participants in our business community. August was another busy and successful month for the Chamber, Our August 4 networking luncheon at Crunch Fitness of Aberdeen provided members with a delicious lunch, swag bags, and an opportunity to tour the facility. We also enjoyed an informative presentation from Michael Jeffery on Fitness Myths and Trends, giving attendees some valuable insight into health and wellness. On August 10, Chamber members had the Continue on page 12
A Publication for the community of Matawan & Aberdeen
MATAWAN’S SUMMER DRAWS TO A CLOSE WITH LAKESIDE DINING by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
Lakeside Dining returns for two nights this September, marking the sixth year of this popular Economic Development program. The event transforms
Lake Lefferts Park into an outdoor dining room, where local restaurants serve guests against the beautiful backdrop of the lake. Tables are arranged for each
party, and best of all, your table is yours for the entire evening. Diners make reservations and place their orders directly with the host restaurant in advance. On Lakeside Dining nights, BYOB is permitted, so guests may bring their favorite beverages and glassware. Tables, chairs, linens and lighting are provided, while the Matawan-Aberdeen Public Library sponsors live music performed throughout the evening. On September 10th, A Salute will host, offering a special limited menu for the evening. Continue on page 15
ABERDEEN DAY RETURNS SEPTEMBER 27 WITH FAMILY FUN AND NEW SURPRISES
One of Aberdeen’s biggest annual traditions returns on Sunday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Matawan Regional High School, bringing another full day of entertainment, food, activities and family fun. The Family Fun Zone will be back with rides, inflatables and activities for all ages, while the Vendor Showcase will give visitors
plenty to explore throughout the afternoon. The popular BMX stunt show also returns, bringing high-flying tricks and performances throughout the day. Come hungry! Not only will local vendors be serving up delicious food throughout the day, but residents will also have a chance to compete for bragging rights in chicken wing and
pie-eating contests. The contests have become a fun part of Aberdeen Day, drawing competitors ready to dig in and plenty of spectators to cheer them on. Sports fans can once again look forward to Aberdeen Day’s annual celebrity autograph signing, with a new lineup of special guests planned for 2026. The names are still under wraps, so residents will want to follow Aberdeen Township on social media for the upcoming announcements. And there’s something new for football fans this year. Aberdeen Day will feature a Football Tailgate beginning with the 1 p.m. kickoffs, as the Jets take on the Lions and the Giants face Continue on page 6
SEPTEMBER 2026
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MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE While the new school year is in full swing, the Board continues to monitor developments in Trenton as New Jersey advances a renewed focus on school funding and long-term sustainability. The Sherrill administration has launched a statewide school funding outreach effort designed to gather input from communities, educators, and stakeholders. Feedback collected through this process will help inform recommendations to the Legislature and potential updates to the state’s funding formula in the coming years. The state’s 2026–2027 budget provided a record $12.4 billion in K-12 formula aid, representing a 3.1% increase over the prior year. Much of this funding continues to be concentrated in New Jersey’s largest urban districts, including Newark, Paterson, and Trenton. Suburban districts across the state, including ours, continue to navigate rising costs, evolving student needs, and ongoing uncertainty around future funding levels. The state’s School Funding Reform Act (SFRA) remains the foundation for aid distribution, but leaders have acknowl-
edged the need to revisit and modernize the formula. Districts are also confronting a major financial challenge as health insurance premiums continue to rise. To manage the increases, districts will have to consider significant cuts. In the meantime, MARSD is evaluating long-term financial and facilities needs. As part of this process, the district is considering a potential voter referendum and has distributed a community survey for stakeholder input. We encourage residents to weigh in on prioritizing facilities improvements, educational programming, and student support services. Community engagement will play a critical role in shaping the district’s path forward. If you are a resident of Matawan or Aberdeen, have not completed the survey and would like to participate, please contact the district’s Central Office at www.marsd.org.
WE WILL NEVER FORGET
9/11 memorial services will be held at Memorial Park, at 6:00pm Organized by the Matawan Borough Fire Department Memorial Committee and Department Volunteers.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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SEPTEMBER 2026
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE As summer draws to a close, we hope every student and teacher has a chance to rest, recharge, and make some wonderful memories. Whether you spent your days Matawan Mayor Joseph at the beach, traveling, Altomonte fishing at Lake Lefferts, attending our recreation camp, or simply enjoying lazy afternoons at home, we hope this summer filled you with energy and excitement for the year ahead. To our teachers and staff: thank you for the dedication, creativity, and heart you bring to our classrooms every single day. Your hard work shapes not just minds, but futures, and we’re so grateful for everything you do. To our students: get ready for a year full of learning, growth, new friendships, and
exciting adventures! We can’t wait to see what you’ll discover and accomplish. As we settle back into our daily routines, please keep safety at the top of your mind. With students walking, biking, and being dropped off at school, we ask all drivers to obey posted speed limits and always stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Please also be mindful of the new e-bike laws; a little extra caution goes a long way in keeping our community safe. And mark your calendars! We still have Matawan Day to look forward to on October 3rd, with a rain date of October 4th. It’s always a wonderful community celebration, and we can’t wait to see everyone there. Here’s to a fantastic, safe, and successful school year ahead!
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SEPTEMBER 2026
MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT Many residents have reached out about tax bills, and we hear you. Affordability matters to us, and we want to share what’s driving many of the increases and what we’re doing about it. Deana Gunn A major factor is Matawan the state-mandated Council President Annual Demonstration Program (ADP), which requires Matawan to reassess properties every year. Monmouth County elected to participate, and the county in turn ordered the Borough to comply. We believe this creates real volatility for homeowners, especially in the housing market we are currently experiencing. In June, we began the process to challenge our required participation, and we are taking legal action to do so. Residents also have the right to appeal their property assessment through the Monmouth County Tax Board if they believe it doesn’t reflect fair market value, and those instructions are located on the
back of your tax bill. It’s also important to know where your tax dollar goes: although we collect the entire amount, only about 30.2% funds the Borough, while 58% goes to the School District, 9.6% to the County, and 1.5% to the Library. We don’t set individual assessments or control county or school budgets. Still, within our share, we’ve worked hard to hold the line — restructuring health and liability insurance, creating new revenue like a local cannabis transfer tax, expanding shared services with Aberdeen, and securing over $8 million in grant funding for capital projects since 2016. We’ve also kept investing in the town: paving over 40 roads, upgrading parks, expanding green space, and improving community events; making sure our police, fire, and first responders have what they need; and expanding our senior services because we believe that’s what you deserve. We remain committed to fighting for a fair, predictable, and affordable Matawan.
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WE WILL NEVER FORGET
In honor of the Aberdeen and Matawan residents who lost their lives during the attacks of September 11, 2001.
Thomas A. Damaskinos Matawan resident
Edward Felt Matawan resident
Stephen J. Fiorelli Aberdeen resident
Virginia M. Jablonski Matawan resident
George McLaughlin, Jr. Matawan resident
Richard Rodriguez Aberdeen resident
Kenneth F. Tietjen Matawan resident
Christopher Traina Aberdeen resident
Lance Richard Tumulty Aberdeen resident
Michael A. Uliano Aberdeen resident
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SEPTEMBER 2026
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR It’s hard to believe summer is already coming to an end. It feels like we were just kicking things off with our FIFA World Cup Watch Party, which was definitely one of my favorite events of Aberdeen Mayor the summer. Seeing so Greg Cannon many families come out, watching the kids enjoy themselves, and getting the chance to officially open our newly improved ball field made it a really special day for me. We had a busy summer in Aberdeen. We celebrated America’s 250th birthday together at our Independence Day Celebration, enjoyed Wednesday nights of live music during our Summer Concert Series, and had plenty of other activities happening throughout town. Thank you to everyone who came out and made these events so much fun. As we head into September, I especially want to wish all of our students in the Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District the best of luck this school year. To our youngest students heading into a
classroom for the first time, our seniors beginning their final year, and everyone in between, I hope you have a great year, work hard, make some good memories, and enjoy it because it goes by quickly. I also want to wish our teachers, staff, and parents a great start to the year. And while summer is winding down, we’re not done having fun in Aberdeen. Aberdeen Day returns Sunday, September 27, and we have a great day planned with entertainment, food, activities, and plenty for the kids. This year, we’re also bringing some football fun to Aberdeen Day with a tailgate experience for fans to enjoy as part of the festivities. Then on Saturday, October 10, we’ll be back at Cambridge Park for our Bonfire Bash from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Thank you for a great summer, Aberdeen. Good luck to everyone heading back to school, and I look forward to seeing you around town this fall. Mayor Greg Cannon Aberdeen Township
Meet Cathy Zavorskas • Lifelong Aberdeen Resident • Aberdeen Homeowner since 1992 • With husband, Peter, raised five children in Aberdeen • Director of Community Engagement, Matawan Boro • Patient/Family Advisory Council, Bayshore Med. Ctr. • Past Pres., Matawan-Aberdeen Board of Education • Past Pres., Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Comm. • Past Pres., Matawan-Aberdeen Historical Society • Past Parish Council, St. Benedict Catholic Church
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SEPTEMBER 2026
DEPUTY MAYOR HIRSCH MESSAGE ABERDEEN DAY RETURNS This summer, Aberdeen once again gave local high school students the opportunity to earn a paycheck, gain valuable work experience, and make a difference right here in their own comAberdeen Deputy munity through our Mayor Clean Communities Arthur Hirsch Program. Councilman Pedro Mirabal and I had the chance to meet up with the participants on their final day and see some of their work firsthand. It was great to talk with them, thank them for the work they put in throughout the summer, and see the pride they took in what they accomplished. Over the course of the program, students worked throughout Aberdeen painting curbs, picking up litter, spreading mulch, and helping maintain our parks, playgrounds, and other public spaces. On their final day, they showed us some of the curb painting they completed around our schools, as well as the work they did at Andover Park. One of the things I like most about this program is that these students are also
Aberdeen residents. They can walk past a freshly painted curb, visit one of our parks, or drive through town with their family and be able to say, “I did that.” It gives them a sense of pride and ownership in their community while also teaching the responsibility that comes with a summer job. These projects also make a noticeable difference in how our neighborhoods and public spaces look and feel. It is work that residents see and benefit from every day. Councilman Mirabal and I want to thank all of our Clean Communities participants for their hard work this summer, as well as the Township employees who worked alongside them and helped make the program possible. It was great seeing everything they accomplished, and I hope they carry that sense of pride in Aberdeen with them long after the summer is over. Deputy Mayor Arthur Hirsch
SEPTEMBER 27 WITH FAMILY FUN AND NEW SURPRISES Continued from page 1 the Titans. Residents can grab a hot dog and soda and watch the games alongside Mayor Greg Cannon and members of the Township Council. The event will mark Cannon’s first Aberdeen Day as mayor. “Jets or Giants, we’ll have you covered,” Cannon said. “Grab a hot dog, watch the game with us and enjoy everything else happening at Aberdeen Day. I’m looking forward to spending the day with our residents for my first Aberdeen Day as mayor.” Councilwoman Catherine Zavorskas said she’s looking forward to seeing another big turnout this September. “There’s always so much happening at Aberdeen Day, and I’m excited to see everyone come out and enjoy it,” Zavorskas said. “It’s one of those days where there’s really something for everyone, whether you’re coming with the kids, meeting one of our special guests or just spending the afternoon with friends and neighbors.” Last year’s Aberdeen Day featured everything from professional athletes signing
autographs to a wildlife show and petting zoo, mechanical bull, rock climbing and a rolling video game truck. Organizers are once again planning a packed afternoon for 2026, with additional attractions and entertainment still to be announced. The celebrity autograph lineup is traditionally one of the most anticipated announcements leading up to Aberdeen Day, and this year’s guests will be revealed in the weeks ahead. Whether you’re coming to catch the BMX riders, compete in an eating contest, bring the kids to the Family Fun Zone, meet a special guest or cheer on the Jets or Giants at the Football Tailgate, there will be plenty happening throughout the afternoon. Aberdeen Day is Sunday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Matawan Regional High School, 450 Atlantic Avenue. Admission is free. Keep an eye on Aberdeen Township’s social media pages for celebrity autograph announcements and more Aberdeen Day details coming soon.
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YOUR SAT SCORE WENT DOWN. SHOULD YOU WORRY? By Paul Pscolka
Usually, no. Every SAT is a little different. From 2005 to 2016, the SAT had 171 questions. From 2016 to 2023, it had 154. Since March 2024, the Digital SAT has had just 98 questions. With fewer questions, normal variation in the topics tested can have a greater impact on your score. One SAT might include more subject-verb agreement questions, while another might include more apostrophe questions. A typical student is stronger on one of these topics than another. I saw this firsthand with a student last year. He took nine lessons before the August SAT and only three lessons between the August and September tests. He improved before August but improved a bit more— another 140 points— before September. I'd love to take credit for that 140-point jump, but I wasn't saving any secret test-day advice for those final three lessons. Some
of his improvement was likely due to the natural variability of the SAT. Of course, the pendulum can swing the other way. A lower score does not necessarily mean your skills decreased. So, what should you do? If you haven't worked with a test-prep professional, consider doing so. More importantly, take multiple practice tests and keep an error log. You should know exactly why you missed each question and, crucially, what you will do differently next time. The better you understand your weaknesses, the less you'll be at the mercy of test-to-test variation. You should also understand how colleges use SAT scores. Generally, colleges fall into three categories: 1. Superscore: 80% of colleges consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math scores across multiple tests. 2. Highest single test: Most of the remaining colleges consider your best overall SAT score from one sitting. Continue on page 14
SEPTEMBER 2026
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David Lee Hernandez Jr., Executive Director, NJ Lic No. 4626
SEPTEMBER 2026
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SEPTEMBER 2026
LEUKEMIA PATIENT SIGNS ONE DAY CONTRACT WITH RED BULL NEW YORK On Monday, August 10th, seven-year- physiotherapy spaces promoting best in old David Arias (Old Bridge) a leukemia class preventative health, rehabilitation, patient from RWJBarnabas Health, signed and recovery. a one-day contract with Red Bull New York The David Arias story: and enjoyed an immersive experience Seven-year-old David Arias (Old Bridge) which included - meeting the players, was diagnosed with leukemia 2 years ago receiving a custom uniform, participating and has been receiving treatment at RWin practice, private facility tour and eating JBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Inlunch with team at the RWJBarnabas stitute, New Jersey's only National Cancer Health Red Bulls Performance Center in Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Morris Township. Cancer Center and The Bristol Myers Julian de Guzman, Head of Sport for Red Squibb Children’s Hospital at RWJUH. Bull New York, met with Arias and had him Recently, David reached a major milesign on the dotted line prior to the special stone: his port for chemotherapy infusions day at the most innovative soccer training was removed, and he has been cleared to facility in North America, which opened participate in all activities. While David in April 2026. continues to take daily oral chemotherapy The RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls and receives infusions every three months, Performance Center was built on 80+ his prognosis is very positive, and the soon acres of land featuring an 88,400-square- to be 3rd grader, is thrilled to be back on foot Main Building and eight grass fields the field doing what he loves. (includes five heated and one turf field). David was joined by his mom (CathThe custom-designed facility, is fully erine), brother (Samuel) and uncle (Jhan equipped with multiple gyms for both the Paul). professional and Academy teams, a dining hall that includes dedicated nutrition spaces Article by Mastro Communications and a professional chef, academic spaces for youth education and a comprehensive medical suite and innovation lab with
David Arias signs contract with Red Bull New York- courtesy Red Bull New York
MATTHEW
BRAITHWAITE for Aberdeen Council
Paid for by Aberdeen Together Theresa Mondella, Treasurer
HOLD THE LINE ON TAXES
Aberdeen has seen the highest tax, water, and sewer rate increases in the area with nothing to show for it.
STOP RECKLESS OVERDEVELOPMENT
Growth that overloads our roads, schools, and services is not progress. Matt is fighting for responsible development that keeps our neighborhoods livable.
GROW OUR LOCAL ECONOMY
Restore the Economic Development Council, strengthen and protect our current businesses, attract new businesses, widen the tax base, and give us more places to shop, eat, and enjoy our town.
VOTE NOVEMBER 3rd
Working to make Aberdeen better, together aberdeentogether.com
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SEPTEMBER 2026
SEPTEMBER CELEBRATES ASSISTED LIVING
FAITH, HOPE, AND WHAT THE RESEARCH REVEALS
Reformed Church Home proudly celebrates National Assisted Living Week, September 13–19, and its inspiring 2026 theme, “Shining Through the Years.” This special observance honors the people who make Assisted Living a true community—residents, families, caregivers, volunteers, and staff. Most importantly, it celebrates residents for the lives they have led, the wisdom they continue to share, and the light they bring to others. Every resident arrives at RCH with a story. Those stories hold cherished memories of family traditions, childhood adventures, enduring friendships, meaningful careers, community service, and quiet acts of kindness. Some achievements appear in photographs and awards; others are known only through the lives they have touched. Assisted Living provides opportunities for these stories to be shared—and for new chapters to be written. Residents continue to form friendships, discover interests, enjoy activities
In a time when anxiety, depression, and loneliness affect so many lives, it is encouraging to see researchers continue exploring what contributes to genuine human flourishing. A recent review published by Oxford University Press in the Handbook of Religion and Health analyzed decades of high-quality research examining the relationship between religious involvement and health. The findings consistently showed that regular participation in a faith community is associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, stress, and suicide, along with greater hope, life satisfaction, and overall well-being. These findings shouldn’t surprise those who have experienced the strength that comes from belonging to a caring community, living with purpose, and finding hope beyond themselves. Healthy churches provide friendship, encouragement, practical support, and opportunities to serve others—all of which contribute to
and spiritual fellowship, and contribute their ideas and talents to community life. Meaningful connections grow around dining tables, during activities, along hallways, and through everyday conversations with neighbors and team members. “Shining Through the Years” also recognizes the caregivers and staff whose compassion helps each resident’s light remain visible. By listening carefully, learning personal preferences, and providing individualized assistance, they create a culture where residents feel known, respected, and valued. National Assisted Living Week is more than a seven-day celebration. It reflects what RCH strives to practice throughout the year—honoring the whole person, strengthening relationships, and helping every resident experience Inspired Living. The years do not diminish a person’s light. They add depth, warmth, and meaning to its glow. At Reformed Church Home, we are privileged to help that light continue to shine.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge healthier lives. At the same time, no research study can answer life’s deepest questions. Statistics may reveal that faith is associated with better mental health, but they cannot explain the peace that millions of believers have found through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The Bible reminds us that we were created for more than simply surviving each day. We were created to know God. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Whether you attend church regularly or have never stepped inside one, consider exploring the claims of Christ for yourself. You may discover that the greatest gift faith offers is not simply better mental health, but lasting hope, forgiveness, and the assurance that God knows you, loves you, and invites you into a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ.
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YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON By Senator Owen Henry
Announcing Our Second PAS-1 Property Tax Relief Filing Event — September 15 at Silver Linings Senior Center As your State Senator, one of my highest priorities is ensuring that our seniors receive the support, respect, and financial relief they deserve. That commitment is why I, along with Assemblymembers Rob Clifton and Alex Sauickie are proud to announce that on September 15, we will be hosting our second PAS‑1 Property Tax Relief Filing Event at the Silver Linings Senior Center at Old Bridge. Our first event was an overwhelming success. In just one day, 82 residents received hands‑on assistance filing their
PAS‑1 (Property Tax Relief Application for Seniors and Disabled Residents) — many of whom told me they would not have been able to complete the process without personalized guidance. That experience reaffirmed what I hear from seniors across our district: navigating state programs can be confusing, and too many residents miss out on benefits simply because the process feels overwhelming. Trained staff will be on-site to help residents complete and submit their forms, answer questions, and ensure no one leaves without the support they came for. If you or someone you know may qualify for PAS‑1 relief, I encourage you to attend. I look forward to seeing you on September 15. With deepest respect and gratitude, Senator Owen Henry
SEPTEMBER 2026
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CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS! By Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library It’s September, and we have so much coming up this month! It’s L i br ar y C ard Sign-Up Month, so 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! We are celebrating a year of Social Work services at MAPL! As a reminder, our social worker, James, is here to assist with things like food or housing instability, mental health referrals, and much more. Please visit our website for more details about the service, walk-in hours and appointments, and important links to resources. www. mapl.org/socialwork This year, National Good Neighbor Day is on Monday, September 28th. We want to welcome all of our community members – new in town and existing! From 5-8pm, we will host tours of the building, and provide information sharing/Q&A. There
will also be snacks, giveaways, and a chance to spin the prize wheel! 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! We have many programs, clubs, and activities to offer. Please visit our online events calendar for more information. Just a sampling, for kids: Jumpin’ Jamie is on 9/27 @1pm. Open to children of all ages. Registration is required. For teens: Teen Back to School Crafts is on 9/14 @7pm. Open to patrons in grades 6-12. Registration is required. For adults: How to Eat Healthier on a Budget is on 9/10 @5pm. After Hours Music: Rave On Duo is on 9/25 @7pm. How to Find a Literary Agent with Jamie Novak (Zoom) is on 9/30 @7pm. We also look forward to seeing you at all the district’s Back to School Nights. Stop by our table to say hi! 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 our teachers, school staff, and students a fantastic school year!
SEPTEMBER 2026
CHAMBER CONNECT Continued from page 1
opportunity to network with the Monmouth Monday Connections Group at Sofia’s Taqueria. Events like these are a great way to expand your professional network beyond our immediate community while building relationships with other local business owners. We also held our August 18 networking luncheon at New Jersey Sports Chiropractic & Physical Therapy. Members enjoyed food from DiBari’s Main St. Pizza while touring the new facility and learning more about one of our valued Chamber members. September brings even more opportunities to connect. Our September 1 networking luncheon will be held at Aby’s Mexican Restaurant. We encourage members to join us for lunch, conversation, and the opportunity to make new business connections. On Tuesday, September 22, we’ll be holding our Annual Tailgate After-Hours Event at Stewart’s Root Beer of Matawan. This is always a fun, relaxed opportunity to step away from the office, meet fellow Chamber members, and enjoy some great conversation. And, of course, September brings one of our area’s great community traditions. Join us on Sunday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Matawan Regional High School in Aberdeen for Aberdeen Day. The Chamber
will be there, and we encourage everyone to stop by our table and say hello. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are still available. For more information, call 732-566-4200, extension 129. Mark your calendars for the Matawan Day Fall Festival, returning to Main Street in Matawan on Saturday, October 3, from noon to 5 p.m., with a rain date of October 4. Matawan Day is one of the area’s premier community events, bringing residents, families, businesses, organizations, vendors, and visitors together for a day of celebration on Main Street. Applications for sponsors and vendors are now being accepted. If your business would like to participate, please contact matawanday@gmail.com or call 732290-1125. As we head into the fall season, I encourage all of our members to take advantage of everything the Chamber has to offer. Membership is more than a logo on a directory—it is about relationships, visibility, advocacy, and being part of a community that supports local business. I look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events! Michael V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
IN MEMORIAM Larry Royce November 10, 1947 - August 23, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Virginia R. Sanchez November 27, 1940 - August 15, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Angela Jeandron June 22, 1950 - August 19, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Rosalie "Lee" Corodemus February 10, 1931 - August 8, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Joseph C. Regina November 4, 1952 - August 14, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Mikhail Averbakh June 22, 1950 - August 19, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
John T. Schultz May 16, 1961 - August 14, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Julius Cheatum June 8, 1959 - August 19, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT BEDLE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE Bradley J. Watson September 26, 1957- August 18, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Wilfred "Beals" Mitchell November 16, 1933 - August 10, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Susan S. Gomez February 25, 1966 - August 13, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
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William J. Phillips March 28, 1946 - August 5, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME Mary K. Keelin April 4, 1941 - August 2, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE Robert Coiro March 17, 1943 - August 2, 2026 SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
501 Highway 79 Morganville, NJ 07751 (732) 566-5300 Waittfh.com
VISIT WWW.OLDBRIDGEFH.COM FOR ADDITIONAL OBITUARIES
212 Main Street Matawan, NJ 07747 (732) 566-1962 BedleFuneralhome.com David Lee Hernandez Jr., Executive Director, NJ Lic No. 4626
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YOUR SAT SCORE WENT DOWN. SHOULD YOU WORRY?
By Paul Pscolka Continued from page 7
3. Most recent test: A smaller number consider your most recent score. For example, if you score 500 RW/600 Math, then 490 RW/520 Math, and finally 590 RW/590 Math, a superscoring college could consider you a 590 RW/600 Math while other universities will look at 590/590.
So don't panic over one disappointing SAT score. Look at the bigger picture, identify your mistakes, and keep improving. Need advice? Book a free 15-minute consultation with me: https://www. ivymasters.com/free-consultation/
Matawan Regional High School Class of 1976 Celebrates 50th Reunion
dedicate 40 years to teaching in Matawan, with the enthusiastic support of the reunion committee. The Class of 1976 is especially grateful for the tremendous support extended by Mayor Cannon, Mayor Altomonte, the Matawan Regional Board of Education and High School Principal Mike Wells in helping make this homecoming celebration possible. After five decades, classmates will have the opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the friendships and experiences that began so many years ago in the halls of Matawan Regional High School. Please join us in welcoming the Class of 1976 back “home” to Matawan!
Matawan Regional High School’s Class of 1976 will return “home” October 9–10, 2026, to celebrate its 50th reunion with a weekend filled with memories, friendship and Matawan pride. The festivities will begin with the home football game on Friday, October 9, followed by a special reception at Buttonwood Manor. The weekend will continue with breakfast at a local diner, a private tour of Matawan Regional High School and a Saturday evening farewell dinner. The reunion has been spearheaded by Nadine Tantleff Greenspan, a 1976 graduate and class president who went on to
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MATAWAN’S SUMMER DRAWS TO A CLOSE WITH LAKESIDE DINING by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan Continued from page 1
Guests will also enjoy live music from Kobi Reese and Dallas Russo Acoustic Duo and can choose to participate in the fourth annual Geekery Trivia Contest, which has quickly become a Lakeside Dining favorite. Once everyone arrives, parties can decide whether they want to put their knowledge to the test and join the fun. On September 19th, Aby’s Mexican Restaurant returns for its 6th year of hosting dinner at the lake, preparing delicious dishes delivered fresh and hot to your table. Acoustic Madness also returns for their third year, performing wellknown favorites from across the decades.
Lakeside Dining Reservation information for both nights is available on our website at matawawnborough.com and on our social media, Facebook, Borough of Matawan and Instagram, matawanborough. Lakeside Dining is a uniquely Matawan experience, combining the beauty of Lake Lefferts, wonderful local restaurants and talented area musicians. Add great food, good conversation and a relaxing evening by the water, and it’s a memorable way to bring summer to a close.
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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.
SEPTEMBER 2026
ELLEN ROSENBAUM REAL ESTATE: MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
For more than 30 years, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate has proudly helped local families, buyers, sellers, investors, landlords and builders achieve their real estate goals. Founded in 1994 by Ellen Rosenbaum, the company has grown into a trusted local name, helping thousands of people navigate some of their most important real estate decisions. Today, the company has reached an impressive milestone of $1.3 billion in total real estate sales volume—a reflection of decades of hard work, experience, knowledge and commitment to clients. With a local office right here in town, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate combines the personal service of a hometown brokerage with the experience and resources needed to successfully market and sell properties in today’s competitive market. The office is supported by an experienced and dedicated team of Realtors who understand the local market and take pride in serving the community. At the heart of the company are founder Ellen Rosenbaum and her son, David
Rosenbaum, the company’s Sales Manager. Both remain full-time, actively working Realtors, personally involved in helping clients sell, buy and invest in real estate. From first-time homebuyers to longtime homeowners, investors, landlords and builders, Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate continues to provide the knowledge, guidance and personal attention that have defined the company for more than three decades. After thousands of successful transactions, the mission remains the same: helping local people accomplish their real estate goals—one client, one family and one property at a time. Ellen Rosenbaum Real Estate is proud to be family-owned and operated and remains deeply committed to the local community it has served for more than 30 years.