CHAMBER CONNECT
Michael V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
It is my privilege to share the latest updates and exciting developments happening in our vibrant business community. This new year is off to a fantastic start, and I am thrilled to welcome several outstanding businesses to our Chamber family: Comprehensive Wealth Management Group – Allan Katz, Meadowbrook Industries – Joseph Caldeira & Anthony Scioscia, Nu Forma Wellness – Joseph Giaconia, Verizon Wireless – Sean Hogan. These businesses bring expertise and innovation to our community, and we look forward to supporting their success and fostering collaboration among all our members. Please join me in extending a warm welcome to these new members! We kicked off 2025 with meaningful events that highlighted the strength of our network. A special thank you to DiBari’s Restaurant for hosting a fantastic gathering and to Jackie Berman of Legal Shield/ ID Shield for her contributions to the event. Our Women in Business initiative also gained momentum this month, thanks to the generous support of Kearny Bank, represented by Mona Cach and Veronica Ross. These events continue to inspire and empower
Continue on page 4
MATAWAN HAS HEART IN FEBRUARY
By Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement
January is referred to as the month of renewal. We welcome the start of a new year with great anticipation and hope, full of optimism for growth and change. The nearly two-month presence of winter, however, often dominates our thoughts as February draws near. We are often worn down by the chilly, dark days, and the optimism of the new year fades and replaced by the winter blues.
This year, the Borough of Matawan’s Recreation Commission hopes to change with an initiative that encourages us to concentrate on what can unite and uplift us. It is called The Love, Matawan Project. Its goal is to raise money for the local community food pantries, which provide monthly assistance to many families,
while showcasing the best qualities we can give one another: kindness, love, care, and joy.
The initiative is simple to do but requires our participation to be successful.
First, families, businesses and individuals purchase one or more of The Love, Matawan Project kits all through February. The kits will be sold for $10.00 each (with the proceeds going to the Matawan United Methodist Church and Matawan Community Food Pantries) Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4:00 pm at the Matawan Borough Municipal Center, - 201 Broad Street, or Monday through Sunday from 8 am – 3:30 pm at our partner Project Kit Sponsor, Just Love Coffee, - 273 Broad
Street, Broad Street Plaza behind Walgreens. Each kit contains instructions, our note of gratitude, a Love Lock stamped with the words “I locked Love in Matawan, NJ”, blank cardstock hearts, and a return envelope.
Second, take the kits home and affix photos, short messages, or phrases that represent kindness, love, joy, and caring to the hearts, put them in the provided envelope, and drop it into the Love, Matawan Project Mailbox next to the Terhune Park fence display. They will then be displayed on an eight-foot-tall heart setup in the Municipal Center Lobby.
Third, take a black permanent marker and personalize your Love Lock on the back side. When
Continue on page 4
DEMARCO’S: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF QUALITY ITALIAN SPECIALTIES
In 1975 DeMarco’s opened its doors in Aberdeen. Under the leadership of Louis DeMarco, along with his sons Eugene and Robert, they have been dedicatedly serving the community with the finest Italian specialty foods, fresh baked breads, deli delights, fresh meats, and mouthwatering meals ever since.
One of the things that sets DeMarco’s apart from other food shops is the wide range of imported Italian products offered. They are dedicated to bring the authentic taste of Italy to the local community. The daily hot and cold prepared food specials are a popular feature, giving customers a new taste to try every day. The reputation of the delicious homemade breads often results in them selling out within a few hours.
Catering and party planning services are a specialty. They are well-known for their delicious holiday meals, homemade breads, and baked pies. They offer a wide
range of catering options, from small intimate gatherings such as birthdays and milestones to large corporate events and formal black-tie affairs like weddings. DeMarco’s butcher shop is a premier feature, offering customers fresh meats and poultry. They are carefully selected and prepared to ensure that customers get the best taste and value. You will also find fresh mozzarella made daily on premises.
They are not just about the food, but also about the community. They have a strong commitment to giving back,
Continue on page 14
A MESSAGE FROM THE MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOARD OF EDUCATION
Traffic concerns at our schools are top of mind for our school board, just as they are for many MARSD families. Administration is actively strategizing with both police departments to alleviate the safety and time issues. What is extremely important is the role you play in changing the results at drop off and pick up. Please:
• Park in designated areas only
• Follow all traffic signs and parking lot markings
• Use designated traffic patterns only
• Leave the drop off lane quickly
• Carpool on bad weather days
We will update you on solutions we create with law enforcement.
With most of us on social media, we, too, see the reactions when incidents occur in our schools. Yet we often have more accurate information than what is circulated publicly. Due to HIPAA and privacy laws governing protection of minors, much information cannot be released. Our board is confident that administration is consistently following protocol and prioritizing student well-being. We encourage you to
avoid relying on information “through the grapevine.” If you are concerned, please reach out to the building administration.
Lastly, we are extremely proud of our audit results. The objective is to verify the accuracy of the school’s financial statements, ensure proper accounting practices, and identify mismanagement or misuse of funds. This annual state requirement starts each July and ends in January, and includes an audit of our books, accounts, and money. 2020-21 had seven audit findings, 2021-22 had two, and 2022-23 had one finding, which was simply having too much money in the lunch account and had to be spent, and was, on food service activities. (Unfortunately, this could not be used on lunch debt.) Many thanks to our business administrator as we have zero findings for this year’s 23-24 audit.
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.
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE
Matawan Mayor
Joseph Altomonte
As we reflect on the past year, I am proud to acknowledge the significant progress we have made together.
Looking ahead to the upcoming year, we remain focused on initiatives that will further improve the quality of life for our residents.
Planned projects will address infrastructure enhancements, community development, recreational improvements, and expanded programs to meet the diverse needs of our community. With these initiatives, we aim to build on the foundation of progress while fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for all.
Most recently, I had the honor of attending a summit meeting at the County to discuss the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration of our nation, set to take place in 2026. This momentous occasion presents a unique opportunity to reflect on our history, celebrate our shared heritage, and inspire future generations. Matawan took an important step in 2023 by passing a resolution to acknowledge
our excitement and commitment to participating in this historic milestone. At the summit, I was honored to accept a framed acknowledgment from the Monmouth County 250th Chair and Co Chair and, symbolizing our community’s active involvement in this significant event.
As part of our preparations, the Borough will be rolling out a series of exciting plans and activities to commemorate this anniversary in recognition of our nation’s remarkable journey. Stay tuned for updates as these plans continue to take shape.
Thank you for your continued trust and support as we embark on another year of growth and opportunity. Together, we will strive to make our community an even better place to live, work, and thrive while honoring our past and building a brighter future.
MATAWAN HAS HEART IN FEBRUARY
By Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement
Continued from page 1
you drop off your hearts into the mailbox, take your Love Lock and lock it onto the Terhune Park fence display. As the month continues, we’ll display a progress thermometer by the fence to indicate the growth of The Love, Matawan Project initiative. Finally, we will end The Love, Matawan Project with a celebration in Terhune Park on March 1st from 2:00 to 4:00 pm to celebrate the accomplishments of our teamwork, present some of the best images, mes-
sages, and quotations on our Heart display, announce how much money was raised and how many love locks were affixed to the Terhune Park fence exhibit. As part of the celebration, there will be s’mores, fire pits, music, hot cocoa, and some entertaining activities for the children. Most of all, remember to put this event on your calendar and prepare to be uplifted as you take part in this first ever February initiative - The Love, Matawan Project.
CHAMBER CONNECT
Continued from page 1
women leaders in our community. We’re gearing up for a February filled with opportunities to connect, learn, and give back: February 4th: Join us at Ginkaku Japanese Restaurant for an enlightening session with Tom Vastardis, CPA, on “Increasing Revenue & Profit for Business.” Gain practical insights to drive your business forward! February 19th: Don’t miss our fun-filled event at Strathmore Bowling Alley, where net proceeds will benefit the Chamber’s scholarship fund. Let’s make
a difference while enjoying an evening of community and camaraderie. As we look ahead, the Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering connections, providing valuable resources, and advocating for the success of our members. Together, we will continue to build a thriving local economy. Thank you for your dedication and support. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
DEANA GUNN, MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Happy New Year, Matawan! The Mayor and Council held its annual reorganization meeting on January 7th to organize for the new year. It’s an honor to serve you and I look forward to working with the Council to execute the Mayor’s agenda. In bigger cities, councils serve wards or districts. In smaller boroughs, like Matawan, Councilmembers act as liaisons to departments instead. We thought it would be helpful to share with the community the following council liaisons for each department should you have questions, suggestions, or challenges: 2025 Council Department Assignments:
• Councilwoman Deana Gunn-Council President: Police, Economic Business Development Commission, Planning & Zoning
• Councilman Arlan Feiles- Recreation, Sanitation, and Recycling
• Councilman Brian LiveseyDepartment of Public Works,
Deana Gunn Matawan Council President
DISCOVER GOLF REPUBLIC: THE ULTIMATE GOLF EXPERIENCE IN TOWN
Golf Republic is redefining the golf experience with its state-of-the-art ceiling-mounted Trackman iO technology, offering unparalleled precision and feedback for golfers of all skill levels. Each of the 7 spacious hitting bays, meticulously designed and installed by Trackman, is an impressive 18-foot wide, allowing players to swing freely and practice comfortably. Premium turf and a 16 x 9 clear-display screen create an immersive environment, complemented by Bose Sound Bars that deliver crisp audio for an engaging atmosphere. We’re a BYOB facility so bring some libations to help keep the vibes immaculate. Each bay even comes with its own fridge, ensuring refreshments are always cold and at hand.
Golf Republic isn’t just for serious golfers; it’s a great venue for special events. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, hosting a bachelor or bachelorette party, or organizing a corporate outing, Golf Re public offers a unique, fun and entertaining alternative. With 17 televisions displaying all of the day’s sports matchups, including major events like the Super Bowl and the
Masters, members and guests can enjoy every moment of excitement together.
Golf Republic also hosts multiple public events throughout the year, providing thrilling experiences and opportunities to connect with fellow golf enthusiasts. Step into a world where golf meets fun, and make your next gathering unforgettable at Golf Republic! We’re open 7 days a week (9a-10p) for member and hourly play!
CELEBRATING HUSKY HALL INDUCTEES
The Matawan Football Alumni Foundation is honored to announce the MFAF 2024 Hall of Fame class. Congratulations to our newest inductees:
• Twillie Curry - Class of 1989
• Tyson Curry - Class of 1989
• Kevin Davis - Class of 2002
• Anthony Grosso - Class of 2007
• Tom Schifano - Class of 1989
These inductees represent what it truly means to be a Husky, both on and off the field, and we are proud to welcome them into this exclusive club.
Votes are cast by our MFAF Organizing Committee and are based on a scaled point system ranking both individual and team accomplishments. Thank you to all those who submitted nominations. Those remaining nominees will be rolled over to next year and will be eligible for future Hall of Fame induction.
Tickets will be available soon for this year’s Matawan Football Alumni Foundation’s annual fundraiser dinner and Hall of Fame induction ceremony which will be held on 3/7/25 at MJs in Matawan. We would like to invite all past alumni and community members to join us for this special occasion.
This dinner serves to honor our program and community’s past while also helping raise money for our yearly high school scholarship awards. There will also be a pin ceremony at our awards dinner presenting each member of this year’s class with an exclusive, members only MFAF Hall of Fame pin. This pin serves as a symbol to honor and recognize the above individuals for their commitment, hard work, and dedication to our community and the Matawan Football Program.
Time and location: Friday March 7, 2025, from 7 – 11pm at MJs (formerly Buttonwood Manor) located at 845 Rt.34 Matawan, NJ. Tickets info will be posted in the coming weeks. Sponsorship opportunities will also be available. John Lazar President, MFAF Please follow our Facebook page for more information and updates.
DEPUTY MAYOR MONTONE MESSAGE
Aberdeen Deputy
Mayor Margaret Montone
Aberdeen Township is cleaner than ever! New Jersey is the Garden State and the town council is grateful that Aberdeen residents embrace the words reduce, reuse, and recycle that keep the town beautiful for everyone. Recycling is collected every other week and dates for pickup in your area are listed in the new Aberdeen Township 2025 calendar. You can also head to the recycling center for Aberdeen Township at 147 Lenox Road. It is open for your convenience Monday through Saturday,
7am-3pm, where you can quickly drop off your recycling and enjoy the rest of your weekend in our beautiful parks. The center accepts bottles, cans, cardboard, paper, and yard waste. We even accept items you might not think you can recycle which include electronic waste such as televisions, computers, household appliances, metal appliances or lawn furniture. Concrete bricks, ceramic floor tiles, porcelain sinks, asphalt and even toilets can be recycled too! If you have any extra motor oil after doing an oil change or anti-freeze from all of this chilly weather, we accept those as well. Remember your three R’s and keep Aberdeen clean!
At $1895 per
(min. 20 People) Choice of Chicken Cacciatore, Sausage Peppers & Onions, Eggplant Rollatini, Stuffed Shells, Chicken Francaise, Chicken Marsala, Shrimp Scampi, Sliced Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy, Barbeque Ribs, Pepper Steak, Tortellini with SunDried Tomato Cream Sauce & Much More!
Choice of Homemade Italian Bread or Rolls, Green Tossed Salad with Balsmic Vinaigrette. Package
COLD BUFFET
$1400 per person (min. 20 People)
Beautifully arranged trays of the finest Cold Cuts and Cheeses. Choice of four Meats & one Cheese. Plus Fresh Baked Rolls, Potato Salad, Cole Slaw, & Macaroni Salad, Pickles & Olives, Mustard & Mayonnaise. Monday-Wednesday 9am-5pm -
Stemo, Chafing Dishes and Free Cookie Tray.
Tax season is here again, and MAPL will be welcoming back the AARP Tax-Aide program. Since 1968, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has provided free tax help to over 75 million tax payers, with a focus on older adults with low to moderate income. There is no charge for this program, and it doesn’t require AARP membership. Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide, and are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.
In-person tax assistance will be available at MAPL starting on February 4, 2025, on Tuesdays and Fridays through April 11th by appointment only. There are three ways to register for tax assistance:
• Make an appointment online at https://tinyurl. com/TaxAideMatawan.
• Make an appointment by calling the library at 732-583-9100.
• Make an appointment by visiting the library’s Computer Assistance Desk.
Appointments on alternate appointment days and at other locations can be made by visiting the AARP Monmouth County website, or at the National AARP Foundation website.
Once you have made an appointment, you will need to do two things before arriving at your scheduled time:
1. Read the “List of items to bring to your appointment” available on our website or at the library.
2. Complete the intake questionnaire either online (link on our website) or pick up a printed copy at the library.
We look forward to seeing you! Should you have any questions, please refer to the Tax-Aide page on our website, or contact our Computer Assistance Desk in person or by phone. For patrons doing their own taxes, Forms 1040 and 1040 SR and instruction booklets will be available at the library.
For more information about our February events and to register, or for questions about any of our resources, make sure to visit our website at www.mapl.org, stop by, or give us a call at 732-583-9100.
Stay warm!
Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
THE IMPORTANCE OF MOCK TESTS FOR THE SAT AND ACT
By Paul Pscolka
Students can determine whether the SAT or ACT suits them better by taking a mock test of each.
Mock tests are official, released exams that simulate the real test environment but don’t count toward college admissions. While some parents use the PSAT to compare to the ACT, it’s not ideal since the PSAT scores out of 1520, not 1600. The PSAT does not have every advanced concept the SAT has.
We recommend taking at least three practice tests: one to establish a baseline score, another midway through prep to assess progress, and one before the official test as a dress rehearsal. Students who see the greatest score improvements are often those who take mock tests weekly. Mock testing offers advantages over independent practice:
1. Morning Performance: Students need to perform well at 8 a.m., even if they’re not “morning people.” Mock tests start at 7:45 a.m., helping students
adjust to the timing of the official test.
2. Attention Span Training: Most people struggle to focus beyond two hours, but the SAT requires 2 hours and 14 minutes of sustained concentration while the ACT require two hours and fifty-five minutes . Practicing fulllength tests builds focused endurance.
3. Managing Test Anxiety: Many students struggle with nerves that hurt their performance. There are two types of stress—distress (harmful) and eustress (beneficial). One of the biggest distressors is unpredictability. Regular mock testing helps shift paralyzing nervous energy from distress to the focused nervous energy of eustress.
Consistent mock testing prepares students mentally and physically, making test day feel familiar and reducing anxiety. It builds the focus, stamina, and confidence needed to succeed. Mock tests are free to Ivy Master students. Suggestion for a topic? You can reach me at info@ivymasters.com 833-SATsACT (833728-7228) www.ivymasters.com Check out my interview: https://gettestbright. com/why-practice-tests-matter-so-much/
FREE CAR SEAT INSTALLATIONS & INSPECTIONS!
The Matawan-Aberdeen First Aid Squad offers FREE car seat installations and inspections to ensure your little ones stay safe on the road! Our NHTSA-certified installer (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) is trained to keep your child secure in their car seat. We work with all types of car seats, including:
• Rear-facing infant seats
• Forward-facing car seats
• Booster seats
All installations are by appointment only. Spots are limited each month, so don’t wait! Have questions or want to schedule your appointment? Email us today! Let’s keep your family safe, one car seat at a time.
HONORING ALBERTA’S REMARKABLE JOURNEY
Reformed Church Home is preparing to bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished members, Alberta Romaniello. Alberta, a loving wife and a mother of five children and grandmother to five grandchildren, joined Reformed Church Home in 2003 as an activities aide on the skilled side. In 2004, she transitioned to the assisted living side while attending school full-time to become a licensed director of activities. After two years of hard work and dedication, she graduated in 2006.
From the very beginning, Alberta brought creativity and compassion to her role. Under her guidance, the activities program blossomed, offering a wide range of programs that catered to the diverse interests and needs of the residents. These included art classes, fitness sessions, movie nights, and intergenerational events with local schools. Reflecting on her time at Reformed Church Home, Alberta fondly recalls her early days and her mission to create a home-like atmosphere. “When I first started, my goal was simple: to make every resident feel valued and included,” she said. “I wanted to ensure they had opportunities to engage and connect with
each other and the wider community.”
Over the years, Alberta’s initiatives have not only fostered personal growth among the residents but also cultivated a strong sense of community within Reformed Church Home. Her openness and genuine interest in each person’s story have created lasting bonds between staff and residents alike.
Next month, Leading Age and the community will gather to celebrate a statewide achievement of Alberta, The Excellence in Community Service Award. This award recognizes LeadingAge member achievements that contribute to their communities by providing outstanding services, programs, and opportunities for engagement. In a heartfelt message to her colleagues and residents, Alberta said, “I am truly grateful for the chance to be a part of this amazing community. Each of you holds a special place in my heart, and I will carry the memories we’ve created together into this next chapter of my life.”
DEMARCO’S: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF QUALITY ITALIAN SPECIALTIES
Continued from page 1
and have been regularly donating meals to local organizations. They believe that it is important to support the community that has supported them for so many years. But it’s not just about the community, the family also prides itself on the quality of its products. Only the highest quality ingredients are used. Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff are always willing to cater to their individual needs. The family atmosphere is what makes DeMarco’s a one-of-a-kind business.
Customers will find a wide variety of fresh baked breads, from crusty to stuffed, to homemade pies, daily hot and cold specials along with hard-to-find pastas imported from Italy. The store offers
DeMarco’s
something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal.
As the family celebrates its 50th anniversary, they would like to thank the community for their continued support. They invite everyone to come in and see what they have to offer. They are proud of their outstanding quality, love of the community, and authenticity. DeMarco’s is more than a store, it’s a family and community tradition. Their commitment to quality, community and authenticity is what sets them apart and makes them a true legend in the area.
DeMarco’s Catering & Gourmet Deli is located at 1121 NJ-34, Aberdeen.You can reach them at (732) 566-2112 or visit online at demarcoscatering.com.
IN MEMORIAM
LORETTA F. RUESC
MAY 5, 1928- JANUARY 21,2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
JEANETTE RUSIN
MAY 24,1925 – JANUARY 19, 2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
GIUSEPPINA DECARLO
APRIL 1ST, 1954 – JANUARY 19,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
THOMAS DUNCAN CONOVER, III
DECEMBER 27TH, 1950 – JANUARY 18,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
ANNA HELEN BORN BURNESS
FEBRUARY 15, 1934 – JANUARY 18TH,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
PATRICIA KOHLER
JULY 23, 1934 – JANUARY 16,2025
Services held at Waitt Funeral & Cremation Service, Morganville
KRISTI K. MORLEY
OCTOBER 30,1956 – JANUARY 14,2025
Services by Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
MARIE POMEROY
FEBRUARY 18TH, 1935 – JANUARY 11,2025
Services held at Old Bridge Funeral Home, Old Bridge
HOW WE CAN HELP FERAL CATS
By Anita Greenberg,DVM.
A feral cat is an unowned domestic cat that lives outdoors and avoids human contact. A feral cat does not allow itself to be handled and is not adoptable. In contrast, stray cats were once owned and have wandered away from their homes. Generations of free roaming cats become feral colonies.
Animal rights groups advocate for Trap Neuter and Release (TNR) programs to prevent feral cats from continuing to breed. TNR has many advantages and is the most humane and effective approach for managing stray and feral cats. It immediately stabilizes the population by eliminating new kittens from being born.
The nuisance behavior associated with feral cats is dramatically reduced, minimizing yowling, fighting and the odor of unneutered males spraying to mark their territory. If you are feeding feral cats, it is a important to trap them and have them spayed and neutered. There are many low cost spay and neuter facilities. The cat will be altered, vaccinated and the left ear tipped to indicate it has been neutered.
Rabies vaccination is paramount before releasing the cat for its well-being and the other animals with which it comes into contact. It is beneficial for the safety of the community in preventing the transmission of rabies.
Kittens from a feral colony, if trapped early enough, will be adoptable and make loving pets.
Gestation in cats is about 63-65 days. Cats can breed as young as four months of age and can breed year-round. Feral cat populations can grow explosively. TNR is an investment in cats’ lives and their health. TNR is an efficient approach to serving not only the animals but also the public. Consider being a volunteer to help reduce the feral cat population in your community.
Saving one cat won’t change the world, but for that one cat its world will be forever changed.
member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016
