V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
As we continue through another exciting summer, it has been wonderful to see so many familiar faces at our recent events, while also welcoming many new members into our Chamber family. Please join me in welcoming our newest Chamber members: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach – Martin Slezak, Rampulla & Newstad, LLP – William Newstad, Tiffani’s Vintage Closet – Paula Agneta Holt. July was another busy month filled with networking and educational opportunities. Our networking luncheon at Hyderabad Spice featured returning sponsor and presenter Paul Ireifej of Should Call Paul, who delivered an engaging presentation on improving networking skills and developing an effective elevator pitch. We also hosted our New Member Breakfast at Lenora’s Café in Keyport, where our newest members learned how to maximize their Chamber membership. Representatives from our Marketing, Membership, and Events Committees shared valuable insights into getting involved, taking advantage of member benefits, and building lasting business relationships within our organization. Our
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MATAWAN DAY RETURNS TO MAIN STREET
by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
The Borough of Matawan Economic Development, Business and Redevelopment Commission is excited to announce that the annual Matawan Day Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, October 3 (rain date: October 4), from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce is once again working with the Borough
to help make this year’s festival the best yet.
This year’s event is being dubbed “The Throwback Year” as Matawan Day returns to historic Main Street while Terhune Park undergoes playground construction and other improvements. For one year only, Main Street will once again come alive with colorful vendor tents, local busi-
Aberdeen stayed busy throughout July as residents turned out for a full lineup of community events, from the Township’s America 250 Independence Day
Celebration to the return of the Summer Concert Series. Together, the events brought thousands of people to Veterans Memorial Park and highlighted another
nesses, crafters, community organizations, and plenty of shopping and giveaways.
The festival footprint has been expanded to provide more room for visitors to explore everything Matawan Day has to offer. The Main Stage will feature live music throughout the day, while food trucks and Matawan restaurants will offer a variety of dining options. Families can enjoy inflatables, contests, entertainers, and special attractions, while the popular Kidz Corral returns to Little Street with activities for children. MJ’s Restaurant will once again host the Beer and Wine Garden, and a giant LED screen will stream live festival highlights along with the post-
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SUMMER EVENTS DRAW CROWDS ACROSS ABERDEEN
active season of recreation, entertainment, and local businesses.
The summer’s largest gathering came on July 1 during Aberdeen’s America 250 Independence Day Celebration. Despite record-breaking temperatures, residents filled Veterans Memorial Park for an evening of live music, family activities, food vendors, and a fireworks display commemorating the nation’s 250th birthday.
The celebration featured music from Naked Jake and DJ Sway J, inflatables, face painting, and the park’s Spray Park before
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MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE
August means it’s almost back-to-school time. This is a BIG, new school year as the District embarks on new building grades, new transportation routes, and new start times. We ask that we all work together to have a successful launch of our new initiatives, and ask that parents, students, and staff remain patient as we work out any kinks and learn about additional ways to make any adjustments as needed. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your student’s teacher or building principal with any outstanding concerns after routines begin to settle.
In September, MARSD is rolling out a new, centralized mobile app for parent communication. This is the first step of improved information sharing overall, as we will next look to update our District website.
Safety is always top of mind, and this year we will be taking some extra steps to make sure everyone is safe. The unfortunate swatting incident last spring gave us a really good look at our security and communication protocols, areas of strength, and room for adjustments. We want to again thank
our local and county law enforcement, as well as our municipal leadership, for their support. We will be leaning on those same partners as we roll out new policies for bicycling safety.
We also want to remind families about transportation. Those eligible will receive bus route information and may be asked to complete a Transportation Waiver Form. This step is critical in helping us create efficient routes, reduce unnecessary costs, and ensure resources are allocated appropriately. Just one example: last year, approximately 125 students were eligible for transportation at one school, but only about 50 regularly used it. An accurate count will save time and money.
See you soon, Huskies!
AJ HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES, LLC
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE
Fellow Matawaners, mark your calendars: August 29th, Lake Lefferts from 5:307:30pm. This is not just a boat race; this is 250 years of destiny paddling toward us at whatever speed a whaleboat can manage.
Let me remind you: it was Matawan that launched Captain William Marriner’s legendary 1778 raid, rowing across the water to snatch Loyalist Mayor David Mathews right out of New York City. Bold. Daring. Slightly insane. Very on-brand for us. Now history repeats itself, except this time, I’m the one who might get “captured,” and I’m told I don’t get a vote in the matter. Which, frankly, tracks — under our form of government, the Mayor doesn’t get a vote on much of anything, so why should
this be different?
To Aberdeen and Keyport: enjoy your confidence while it lasts. To my fellow Matawan rowers: I am counting on you to get to that dock first, rescue your mayor with dignity, and bring home the Golden Oar. It will look spectacular on a shelf in Borough Hall, right next to my “World’s Okayest Rower” mug, which I plan to acquire regardless of outcome. This whole day is bigger than bragging rights, though there’ll be live music, food, kids’ activities, and a whole lot of hometown pride on the water, all in honor of the spirit that makes Matawan and this part of New Jersey so special.
See you at the lake!
Matawan Mayor Joseph Altomonte
MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Deana Gunn Matawan Council President
We’re excited to share that we’ve recently closed on the former Bank of America property, a purchase our team has been working toward for some time. This site is contiguous to the old police station, already slated for demolition, creating an ideal opportunity for future public use in our downtown.
In addition, we’ve also recently purchased the adjacent Maghan property, which will likewise be dedicated to public use. Together, these parcels open the door to exciting possibilities, including
expanded green space, public use, and much-needed parking.
Our team remains committed to thoughtful progress while preserving the historic character of our downtown. Importantly, no final decisions have been made about how these properties will be used. There will be ample opportunity for community input before any definitive plans take shape, and we encourage residents to stay engaged as this process moves forward. As always, we will keep you updated. This is public land for public use, and we will be sure to include the public as we move forward.
If you have any questions about this or anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out to me regarding this or anything else at Deana.gunn@matawanborough.com.
OPENING
HOURS 351 MAPLE PLACE • KEYPORT MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, & THURSDAY 10AM-6:30PM-FRIDAY 9AM-6:30PM SATURDAY 8AM-4PM -SUNDAY CLOSED
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
One of the best parts of serving as Mayor is working alongside our neighboring communities. Every now and then, though, it’s fun to add a little friendly competition.
This summer, I’m looking forward to representing Aberdeen in the Great Whaleboat Race of 2026, a one-of-a-kind event inspired by our area’s Revolutionary War history. On race day, Aberdeen’s team of first responders will row across Lake Lefferts to a floating dock where I’ll be waiting. Their mission is to “capture” their mayor and race back to shore before the teams from Matawan and Keyport, all in hopes of bringing home the coveted Golden Oar.
I’ve heard the mayors of Matawan and Keyport have been talking a pretty big game, but I have a feeling Aberdeen’s first responders will have me back on shore before they know what happened. I’m looking forward to seeing the Aberdeen
flag raised first and bringing the Golden Oar home where it belongs.
Every great boat deserves a great name, and I think we’ve come up with one that’s perfect for Team Aberdeen. You’ll have to join us on race day to find out what it is.
The festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. at Lake Lefferts Park in Matawan with live music, food, kids’ games, inflatables, and Colonial reenactors. The whaleboat race will take place midway through the event, so be sure to arrive early and stick around to cheer on Team Aberdeen as we race for the Golden Oar. Whether you’re coming for the history, the family fun, or to root for our first responders, there’s something for everyone.
I hope you’ll join us on Saturday, August 29. With your support, I have a feeling the Golden Oar will be making its way back to Aberdeen.
Mayor Greg Cannon Aberdeen Township
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.
Sigismondi Cliffwood Beach Community Center 551 Prospect Ave, Keyport NJ
Don't miss your chance to file for Property Tax Relief.
Fiorendo
Aberdeen Mayor Greg Cannon
DEPUTY MAYOR HIRSCH MESSAGE
Township Council is always trying to find ways to bring valuable services directly to our residents. That’s exactly what we’re doing again this summer.
On Wednesday, August 26, Aberdeen Township will partner with the New Jersey Division of Taxation to host a Property Tax Relief Filing Event at the Fiorendo Sigismondi Community Center from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Representatives from the State will be available to provide free, one-on-one assistance with filing applications for the Senior Freeze, ANCHOR, and Stay NJ property tax relief programs. Whether you need help completing an application, have questions about eligibility, or simply aren’t sure which programs you qualify for, trained staff will be there to guide you through the process.
Events like this make a real difference. Last year, more than 80 Aberdeen residents received assistance with their applications. I remember speaking with one resident who shared how overwhelming the process had seemed before attending the event. After
sitting down with a State representative, she left knowing her application had been completed correctly and feeling much more at ease.
If you or someone you know may qualify, I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. There is no cost to attend, and receiving assistance in person can make the application process much easier. Before attending, be sure to review the Property Tax Relief Filing Checklist on the New Jersey Division of Taxation website and bring the required documents with you.
I’m grateful to the New Jersey Division of Taxation for partnering with Aberdeen once again. By bringing these resources directly to our community, we’re making it easier for residents to get the assistance they need without having to navigate the process alone.
I hope to see you on August 26.
Deputy Mayor Arthur Hirsch
MATAWAN DAY RETURNS TO
MAIN STREET
by Cathy Zavorskas, Dir. of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
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season baseball game.
“We’re excited to celebrate ‘The Throwback Year’ by bringing Matawan Day back to Main Street,” said Linda Martin, Executive Director of the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce. “This annual festival showcases our local businesses while bringing residents and visitors together for a fun-filled day in the heart of our community.”
For general festival information, contact the Director of Community Engagement at 732-566-3898 ext. 130 or matawanborough.com. For vendor and sponsorship information, contact the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce at 732-290-1125, email matawanday@gmail.com, or visit macocnj.com.
Aberdeen Deputy Mayor Arthur Hirsch
FLOW STATE ON THE SAT
By Paul Pscolka
It was our best performance. When pitching, the strike zone seemed bigger. Our thoughts were crystal clear when taking that test. On stage, we hit every emotion-filled note.
We’ve all experienced a flow state. It is when we are completely immersed in a task. Students in flow think more clearly, make fewer careless mistakes and feel less anxious. This state can be developed intentionally when preparing for the SAT. To experience flow, students must practice consistently. Last-minute crams are not effective. When studying, the environment must be free of distraction—no TV. No phone.
Choice of material can also be important. Material should be challenging—slightly over the student’s ability. More than that could be overwhelming and counterproductive. Timed sections (and tests) are needed for pacing. Mock tests will simulate testing conditions best. One of the biggest mistakes that students make, though, is continually taking tests without learning from their mistakes. After each test, stu-
dents should review—know exactly why they had each question wrong and exactly what the fix is. Practicing this repeatedly will make solving SAT questions automatic. On test day, students should be calm, focused, and confident. Deep breaths and positive self-talk help. 100% focus should be given to the question at hand. Not the clock. Not the last question. Not even your score. It is important to maintain momentum. The SAT is difficult. Students will get stuck. It is crucial to pick the best answer and keep moving. Each question is an individual challenge, and students should think of it as such, not as a long exam. Trust preparation. Don’t second guess. Flow isn’t achieved by luck. It is the result of proper preparation and mindset. The SAT rewards sustained concentration, not perfection. When a student is fully engaged with one question at a time, peak performance naturally flows. Interested in flowing? Book a free consultation with me here: https://www.ivymasters. com/free-consultation
David Lee Hernandez Jr., Executive Director, NJ Lic No. 4626
EXCITING IMPROVEMENTS COMING TO TERHUNE PARK!
The Borough of Matawan is excited to announce that construction on the Terhune Park Improvement Project will begin on Monday, July 27!
Thanks to a $180,908 Monmouth County Municipal Open Space Grant, Terhune Park will undergo a major transformation, creating a more accessible, modern, and welcoming park for residents of all ages.
Project Improvements Include:
- New Playground & ADA Accessibility Improvements
- New ADA-Accessible Sidewalks & Pathways
- Outdoor Fitness Equipment
- New Benches, ADA Picnic Tables, Trash Receptacles & Flagpole
- Landscaping, Concrete Curbing & Other Park Enhancements
Please Note: Terhune Park will close beginning Monday, July 27, and will remain closed throughout construction. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we complete these exciting improvements.
While Terhune Park is temporarily closed, we encourage everyone to enjoy Matawan’s other outstanding parks and recreational facilities, including:
- Clinton Street Park, recently renovated with new amenities.
- Penniplede Park, featuring our recently completed basketball courts.
- Plus, our other neighborhood parks located throughout the Borough.
This project represents another investment in Matawan’s future and our continued commitment to providing
OB TEEN IS ONE STEP CLOSER ON A LIFELONG DREAM
Old Bridge resident and Red Bank Catholic student Avery Owens is one step closer to achieving a lifelong dream. Out of more than 300 applicants from around the world, Avery was selected as one of only 30 finalists in the prestigious Junior Starduster Competition at New York City’s iconic Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The competition gives talented young performers the opportunity to showcase their vocal abilities on the famous Stardust stage, where countless Broadway
performers have launched their careers. For Avery, performing at Ellen’s Stardust Diner has been a dream for years.
Inspired by the restaurant’s legendary singing waitstaff—many of whom have gone on to successful Broadway careers—she has always hoped for the chance to stand on that stage herself.
A dedicated performer, Avery is a student at Red Bank Catholic High School, where she is actively involved in
the performing arts. She has appeared in numerous theatrical productions and continues to pursue her passion for singing, acting, and musical theater. Her hard work, dedication, and love for performing earned her this incredible opportunity.
This week, Avery will travel to New York City to perform alongside 29 other exceptionally talented finalists in the Junior Starduster Competition, representing young performers from across the globe. She performed before a distinguished panel of five prestigious judges with extensive Broadway credits and professional theater backgrounds, as well as Ellen Hart, the owner and founder of Ellen’s Stardust Diner. For a young performer with Broadway aspirations, the opportunity to sing before such an accomplished panel was an unforgettable experience and a milestone in her theatrical journey.
Simply being selected as one of the top 30 contestants from more than 300 applicants is a remarkable achievement and a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for the arts.
Her family, friends, teachers, and community are incredibly proud of her accomplishment and look forward to watching her continue to pursue her dreams on stage.
high-quality parks and recreational opportunities for our residents.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back to a revitalized Terhune Park when construction is complete. Thank you for your continued patience.
THE SPIRITUAL PRESENCE OF SUMMER LET’S HAVE A CONVERSATION
By David Boles, Marketing Director, Reformed Church Home
Each day, as I drive to work and return home, I see the abundant spirit of summer expressed in the flourishing parks, trees, flowers, and gardens throughout Old Bridge. During my day at Reformed Church Home, I experience that same spirit in the compassion, kindness, and dignity with which our staff surround residents and their families.
Summer offers reminders of renewal, belonging, and the importance of caring for one another. A garden flourishes when each plant receives the nourishment and attention it needs. In much the same way, a senior living community flourishes when every resident is recognized as an individual—with a lifetime of experiences, relationships, traditions, interests, and gifts.
Spiritual care does not look exactly the same for everyone. For some, it is grounded in worship, prayer, and religious tradition. Others experience it through friendship, music, nature, service, reflection, or a quiet moment of gratitude. Often, its presence is revealed in simple acts: listening patiently, offering an encouraging word, sharing a smile, or
taking extra time to help someone feel comfortable and understood.
Whether a person comes to Reformed Church Home for assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or a respite stay, our goal is to support the whole person. Professional expertise is essential, but so are trust, personal attention, and the reassuring knowledge that someone genuinely cares.
Families, too, become part of our circle of care. We understand that changing needs may bring uncertainty and difficult decisions. Our staff strive to be a steady, helpful presence—answering questions, offering guidance, and keeping families meaningfully connected.
Like the warmth of summer sunlight, compassionate care can lift the spirit. At Reformed Church Home, we seek opportunities each day to help residents and families feel welcomed, valued, supported, and at home.
It does not take much to spark disagreement. An online comment, a headline, or even a casual remark can quickly turn into conflict. Opinions are shared and the temptation is often to defend our own viewpoint rather than seek to understand someone else's.
Living in an age of constant information means we are surrounded by opportunities to debate. Healthy discussion can sharpen our thinking and help us grow. Yet meaningful conversations become difficult when we stop listening, assume the worst of others, or feel the need to have the last word.
A productive conversation begins with a willingness to listen before responding. It asks thoughtful questions rather than rushing to conclusions. It recognizes that understanding often takes time and that not every disagreement must be settled in a single conversation. Humility allows us to learn, even from those with whom we disagree, while holding firmly to our convictions.
As Christians, we believe truth is not something we create but something we discover in God. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Because of that, we can approach conversations with confidence and grace, trusting that truth does not depend on winning an argument. Our goal is not simply to persuade but to reflect the character of Christ.
A few years ago, I approached a group of protesters outside a county courthouse and said, “I'd love to hear your point of view.” Their response was, “We're done talking.” That brief exchange has stayed with me. When conversation ends, understanding rarely begins. While we won’t always agree, we can choose to listen well, speak with kindness, and point others to the One who is truth itself. In a world quick to argue, may we be known for wisdom, humility, and love.
Living Stones by Lloyd Pulley, Senior Pastor, Calvary Chapel Old Bridge
YOUR VOICE IN TRENTON
By Senator Owen Henry
Dear Old Bridge Residents, Governor Sherrill’s budget was yet another collection of broken promises. It increased state spending by more than $2 billion while failing to address the school funding shortages that continue to push the burden onto local property taxpayers. Communities like Old Bridge are being asked to do more with less, while state spending grows everywhere except where it is truly needed. Ignoring this problem only forces families to shoulder higher property taxes to compensate for the state’s inaction.
The budget also failed to restore the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for law enforcement retirees — a commitment that should never have been abandoned, especially as inflation continues to strain household budgets. Instead of prioritizing relief for taxpayers and retirees, the budget included hundreds of millions of dollars in political pork spending directed to Newark, Jersey City, and Paterson, cities with long histories of fiscal mismanagement.
These allocations came at the expense of responsible communities like Old Bridge, which continue to be shortchanged despite demonstrating sound governance.
New Jersey deserves better. Our residents deserve a budget that is transparent, responsible, and focused on real community needs. My vote against this budget reflects my commitment to protecting taxpayers, supporting our schools, and standing up for municipalities like Old Bridge that have been overlooked for far too long. I will continue fighting for a funding model rooted in accountability, fairness, and the future of our children.
With deepest respect and gratitude, Senator Owen Henry
CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!
By Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
Happy August! There’s still a little time to sign up for our summer reading program for kids, teens, and adults! Here are a sampling of events coming up this month: For adults, celebrate the long-lost art of letter writing on Thursday, August 6, at 7pm as we gather to put pen to paper and reconnect through handwritten correspondence. We’ll wrap up the summer with two special Thursday evening campthemed movie nights. On August 13, enjoy the classic comedy Meatballs, starring Bill Murray. Then, on August 27, we’ll screen Indian Summer, the heartwarming story of a group of former campers who reunite years later at their beloved summer camp. Both movies start at 7pm. For teens, we’re having a Teen Lock-in: Jurassic Park Movie Night on Friday, 8/14 from 6:30-9pm. We will start the evening with trivia and end with some post-movie desserts. We will also be hosting Cooking with Nick: Greek Dips on Wednesday 8/19 at 7pm. Nick will teach teens how to make Greek dips that will be a great after school snack once September rolls around. Both programs are open to patrons entering
grades 6-12. Registration is required. For kids, we’ve got fitness, and science, and yoga, and more! Be sure to check out our events calendar for all the exciting events we have leading up to our End Party, which marks the completion of Summer Reading. This year’s party will be on Saturday, 8/22 and will feature lots of prehistoric art. Stop by for the last chance to log the books you read this summer, and while you’re here, make sure to visit our face painter for an a-roar-able new look! No registration is required for the party and kids of all ages are welcome.
See our events calendar on our website for our full August calendar: www.mapl. org.
Have a question? Give us a call at 732583-9100, stop by, visit our website, or drop us an email at info@mapl.org. The library is open 7 days a week and our friendly staff is happy to assist you!
Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
CHAMBER CONNECT
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July After-Hours Networking Event at The Keyport Funhouse Boutique & Drinkery, sponsored by the Arts Society of Keyport, proved to be one of our most popular events of the year. The unique venue created the perfect atmosphere for members to connect while exploring artisan goods, creative spaces, and enjoying an evening of relaxed networking.
We have another outstanding lineup of events ahead: Tuesday, August 4 – Networking Luncheon at Crunch Fitness Aberdeen (12:00–1:30 p.m.), Monday, August 10 – Monmouth Monday Connections at Sofia’s Taqueria beginning at 5:00 p.m., featuring Happy Hour specials, Tuesday, August 18 – Networking Luncheon hosted by NJ Sports Chiropractic & Physical Therapy, Tuesday, September 1 – Networking Luncheon at Aby’s Mexican Restaurant.
Looking ahead, we are preparing for two of our largest community celebrations of the year. Aberdeen Day returns on September 27, 2026, at Matawan Regional High School from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities and vendor spaces are still available. For more information, please call 732-566-4200 ext. 129,
IN MEMORIAM
and be sure to stop by the Chamber table to say hello. The following weekend, we will celebrate the Matawan Day Fall Festival on Saturday, October 3 (rain date October 4) along Main Street in Matawan from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Applications for sponsors and vendors are now being accepted. Interested businesses may contact matawanday@gmail. com or call 732-290-1125 for additional information. As always, I encourage our members to stay engaged, attend our events, and continue supporting one another. Every connection made through the Chamber helps strengthen not only our businesses but the entire Matawan-Aberdeen community.
I look forward to seeing everyone at our upcoming events!
Michael V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
Bob Wyshynski
January 21, 1947 - July 20, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Peter Kemprowski
July 22, 1959 - July 20, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Rose Formica
February 19, 1939- July 17, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Natalie Paszek
March 15, 1929 - July 16, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT WAITT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE
Mary Mirando
December 25, 1933 - July 12, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Cy Borretsky
August 11, 1942 - July 9, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Edwin Nieves
December 27, 1958 - July 9, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT BEDLE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE
Wyvinia P. Vergara
April 23, 1943 - July 8, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Carmen Rodriguez
August 8, 1947 - July 5, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Frank Figliolino
January 6, 1929 - July 4, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
Mary Beth Wilson
July 19, 1954 - July 2, 2026
SERVICES WERE HELD AT OLD BRIDGE FUNERAL HOME
HONORING A LEGACY: 2ND ANNUAL ZACH & JUDE MEMORIAL
3v3 Hoopsfest Returns to Old Bridge. The Old Bridge community is invited to come together on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the 2nd Annual Zach & Jude Memorial 3v3 Hoopsfest at Geick Park. Hosted by Old Bridge Hoops Academy (OBHA), the event celebrates the lives and
enduring legacy of Zach and Jude Attianese while raising scholarship funds for local student-athletes. While basketball brings people together, the heart of Hoopsfest is preserving Zach and Jude’s legacy by investing in young people who demonstrate the same character, compassion, and love for
community that defined their lives. Every game played, every raffle ticket purchased, every volunteer who gives their time, and every scholarship awarded reflect the values Zach and Jude embodied—community, generosity, compassion, and a love for others.
Originally launched in 2016 as a back-toschool community celebration, Hoopsfest quickly became a popular local tradition. After a brief pause during the pandemic, the tournament returned in 2025 and once again brought together athletes, families, volunteers, and supporters for a day of competition, fellowship, and giving back. The event also features a Tricky Tray fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the Jude & Zachary Foundation, established in 2018 to honor Zach and Jude’s memory. The Foundation awards scholarships to student-athletes selected by coaches and community leaders based not only on athletic achievement, but also on character, leadership, sportsmanship, and service to others. “Hoopsfest is about much more than basketball,” said Ian Daley, Program Director of Old Bridge Hoops Academy. “It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, celebrate the lives of
Zach and Jude, and support the next generation of young people through education. The success of this event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Old Bridge Hoops Academy, the Jude & Zachary Foundation, volunteers, officials, sponsors, and community supporters who believe in continuing their remarkable legacy.”
Whether you’re competing, volunteering, supporting the Tricky Tray, or simply enjoying a day of basketball and community, everyone is invited. Join us as we honor two remarkable lives and invest in the next generation of student-athletes. Team registration is now open at www.obhoopsacademy.com. Follow Old Bridge Hoops Academy on Facebook and Instagram for tournament updates and information on upcoming programs and events.
E-BIKE LAW IS NOW IN EFFECT
Effective July 2026, electric bicycle (EBike) laws have changed in New Jersey. We encourage parents, riders and community members to become familiar with the updated requirements to keep you and your family safe and in compliance. The term “e-bike” refers to both low-speed electric bicycles and motorized bicycles. Lowspeed electric bicycles are pedal-assisted with assistance ending at 20 MPH, while motorized bicycles are throttle capable reaching assisted speeds over 20 MPH but no more than 28 MPH. All e-bikes and motorized bicycles must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission; however, motorized bicycles must also be insured. To operate an e-bike or motorized bicycle, you must be at least 15 years old. Riders between 15-16 years old must have an MVC-issued e-bike/motorized bicycle license or permit and riders 17 years and
older must have a valid driver’s license. Helmets are required for all e-bike and motorized bicycle riders and must meet the minimum industry standard such as NTA 8776 certification manufacturer tagging. Riders must obey all New Jersey vehicle laws and regulations for bicyclists and motor vehicle drivers, as well as any local government ordinances and laws. E-bikes and motorized bicycles are prohibited from being parked on sidewalks, and modification kits to increase bike speed are no longer permitted. Following these regulations and responsible riding are imperative to keeping our roadways and neighborhoods safe and preventing accidents.
For additional information on the updated e-bike laws, please visit the NJMVC’s resources via their website at www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/ebike.htm
SUMMER EVENTS DRAW CROWDS ACROSS ABERDEEN
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the evening concluded with fireworks over Cliffwood Beach. The event required coordination between the Recreation Department, Police Department, Fire District, EMS, Department of Public Works, volunteers, and dozens of vendors and performers who helped keep the celebration running smoothly.
The crowds continued throughout July as the Summer Concert Series returned on Wednesday evenings. The weekly concerts featured performances by Madison Avenue, Southern Steel, E. Boro Bandits, and Kevin Kenny: The Kenny Chesney Show, drawing residents to Veterans Memorial Park for four weeks of free live entertainment.
This year’s series also introduced new ways to support Aberdeen businesses. The opening concert featured Tunes & Take Out, allowing attendees to order dinner from Tony’s Pizza & Restaurant for delivery directly to the park. Later concerts expanded the concept with Tunes & Bites, where DeMarco’s Catering & Gourmet Deli served meals on-site throughout the evening.
Mayor Greg Cannon said the events continue to provide opportunities for residents to gather while supporting local businesses.
RT 35 IS RENAMED TO HONOR U.S. ARMY SOLDIERS.
Laurence Harbor residents James Francisco and Walter Schmidt were killed in Vietnam in the late 1960s, while serving with the U.S. Army. The highway will be renamed to honor U.S. Army soldiers James Leonard Francisco and Walter James Schmidt. Both are from Laurence Harbor and were killed in South Vietnam in the late ‘60s. Francisco enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968 at the age of 20 years old. He served as
a light weapons infantryman with the 9th Infantry Division. On Feb. 5, 1969, he was killed in action in South Vietnam. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. On Nov. 8, 1966, at the age of 22, Schmidt’s unit was participating in Operation Attleboro when it was suddenly and violently attacked by two Viet Cong main force regiments. Schmidt was serving on a machine gun crew and continued firing at the insurgents until
“These events give people a chance to spend time together while also supporting the businesses that are part of our community,” Cannon said. “Whether it’s a concert, fireworks, or one of our seasonal events, it’s great to see our parks filled with families throughout the summer.” With summer winding down, attention now turns to the Township’s fall calendar. One of Aberdeen’s largest annual events, Aberdeen Day, returns on Sunday, September 27, at Matawan Regional High School. The event will feature a Family Fun Zone, vendor showcase, celebrity autograph guests, live entertainment, and activities throughout the day.
A few weeks later, the Bonfire Bash returns to Cambridge Park on Saturday, October 10, following a successful debut last year. The fall event offers an evening of music, seasonal activities, and a community bonfire. While each event has its own identity, together they reflect a calendar that continues to draw residents outdoors and provide opportunities to gather throughout the year. With fall just around the corner, Aberdeen’s busiest event season is far from over.
he was mortally wounded by hostile small arms fire and hand grenades. He was awarded a Silver Star for his valor.
The legislation to rename Rt. 35 was sponsored by Assemblymen Rob Clifton and Alex Sauickie, and state Sen. Owen Henry sponsored the companion legislation in the New Jersey Senate. All are Republican. The two pieces of legislation were signed into law this week.
“Too many of our nation’s brave Vietnam veterans didn’t get the homecoming they deserved either because they were killed in action like Private First Class James Francisco and Specialist 4 Walter Schmidt, or because of politics,” Assemblyman Sauickie said this week. “This measure rightfully honors our heroes and cements the legacy these young men earned in a community that tragically never got to welcome them home.”
Said Assemblyman Clifton: “We are incredibly proud that James Leonard Francisco and Walter James Schmidt are products of New Jersey and Laurence Harbor. This memorial will serve as a reminder to the community that we have two local fallen heroes who died for the freedoms we hold dear today and forever deserve our recognition and gratitude.”
