CHAMBER CONNECT
As we head into the fall season, I am excited to share the latest updates and highlights from the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce. We are thrilled to welcome several outstanding organizations into our Chamber family, Lyon’s Mane Hair Co., Trish Lyons, The Dante Alighieri Women’s Society of Central Jersey, Louisa Taormina, New Jersey Sports Chiropractic & Physical Therapy, Toni Eterno and Dr. Chintan Shah. Each brings unique value and expertise to our growing business community, and we look forward to collaborating with them. Our Chamber has been buzzing with activity this summer. On July 29th, members enjoyed a flavorful luncheon at Hyderabad Spice, generously sponsored by Peaceful Pines Residence. Special thanks to Kat Verdi, Caregiver Coach and Founder of Verdi Consulting LLC, for her engaging and insightful presentation. We also had the pleasure of visiting Brightview Senior Living in Holmdel for a luncheon and tour. The team there hosted us in their beautiful dining room, providing a delicious meal and an informative presentation on the benefits of senior living. Members also enjoyed
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MATAWAN
DAY FALL FESTIVAL –COMMUNITY SPIRIT AT ITS BEST
by Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
As the crisp autumn air rolls in and the leaves begin to change, anticipation is building for one of the community’s favorite events — the Matawan Day Fall Festival. This year’s celebration takes place from Terhune Park to Hourihan Field on Saturday, October 4, 2025 (rain date: October 5), 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, drawing more than 5,000 visitors eager to shop, eat, play, and enjoy a full day of fun in the heart of Matawan. From food trucks serving mouthwatering dishes to over 150 vendors, attendees will discover local businesses, artisans, crafters, and non-profit organizations offering everything from handmade treasures to interactive activities, creating both entertaining and memorable experiences
for families and friends alike. Two lively performance areas ensure nonstop entertainment. On Broad Street, live bands will set the tone with vibrant music throughout the afternoon. Over at Hourihan Park, talented local students from dance schools, martial arts studios, cheer squads,
and music schools will wow the crowd with energetic routines and inspiring performances. And what’s a festival without a little friendly competition? This year’s contests offer audience favorites — from DiBari’s Pizza and Main Street Donuts
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ABERDEEN DAY RETURNS WITH
STAR POWER, FAMILY FUN, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Aberdeen Township is excited to announce the return of Aberdeen Day on Saturday, September 20th, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Matawan Regional High School, 450 Atlantic Avenue.
This year’s festival will once again transform the school grounds
into a lively community celebration filled with food, music, contests, rides, and family fun. A highlight of the day will be the annual autograph signing, back with a star-studded lineup. Making his first appearance at Aberdeen Day is current MLB
standout Oswaldo Cabrera of the New York Yankees. Cabrera will be joined by former Mets 3rd baseman Howard Johnson and former Rangers defenseman Ron Greschner, giving sports fans the chance to meet athletes from across the leagues. The Family Fun Zone will be bigger than ever, featuring bounce houses, a touch-a-truck exhibit, a mechanical bull, hatchet throwing, rock climbing, rides, a wildlife show and petting zoo, and even a rolling video game truck. Popular food contests are also returning, with pie- and
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V. Grandi President, Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce
LAKESIDE DINING RETURNS FOR A 5TH SUMMER
by Cathy Zavorskas, Director of Community Engagement, Borough of Matawan
With the new school year underway and Back-to-School Nights in full swing, the ‘25-’26 school year has begun! As we keep our community informed on key topics shaping our district’s future, one important update comes from a recently completed demographer’s study. That study projects our district’s population will increase by 4.2% through 2030. While growth is expected to slow after that, the near-term forecast shows that our elementary schools will face capacity challenges. We are already seeing this projection play out, as we have received more-than-anticipated kindergarten registrations. We want to assure our families that the district is ready. Our principals are making sure we are fully-staffed with classrooms prepared to meet the needs of all incoming students. The complete demographer’s report is available on the Business Department page at marsd.org, and we encourage the community to review it. We will continue working closely with the demographic firm to develop redistricting plans to balance enrollment across our schools.
Construction of the outdoor fitness court is underway. Through a grant from the National Fitness Campaign, in partnership with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, generous donations from our district partners, local businesses, community members, and the Township of Aberdeen, we received all the funds necessary to move forward. Thanks to all involved.
A reminder that parental involvement is one of the strongest predictors of student achievement, including higher grades, regular attendance, and on-time graduation. We encourage families to be engaged by attending events, volunteering with school PTOs, checking the parent portal, Google Classroom, and students’ class and homework. Let’s ‘Build Connections’ together! We look forward to working with our families and community to ensure every child receives the best possible education. Here’s to a successful and rewarding school year ahead.
MATAWAN ABERDEEN BOE MESSAGE
With the new school year underway and Back-to-School Nights in full swing, the ‘25-’26 school year has begun! As we keep our community informed on key topics shaping our district’s future, one important update comes from a recently completed demographer’s study. That study projects our district’s population will increase by 4.2% through 2030. While growth is expected to slow after that, the near-term forecast shows that our elementary schools will face capacity challenges. We are already seeing this projection play out, as we have received more-than-anticipated kindergarten registrations. We want to assure our families that the district is ready. Our principals are making sure we are fully-staffed with classrooms prepared to meet the needs of all incoming students. The complete demographer’s report is available on the Business Department page at marsd.org, and we encourage the community to review it. We will continue working closely with the demographic firm to develop redistricting plans to balance enrollment across our schools. Construction of the outdoor fitness court is underway. Through a grant from the National Fitness Campaign, in partner-
ship with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, generous donations from our district partners, local businesses, community members, and the Township of Aberdeen, we received all the funds necessary to move forward. Thanks to all involved. A reminder that parental involvement is one of the strongest predictors of student achievement, including higher grades, regular attendance, and on-time graduation. We encourage families to be engaged by attending events, volunteering with school PTOs, checking the parent portal, Google Classroom, and students’ class and homework. Let’s ‘Build Connections’ together! We look forward to working with our families and community to ensure every child receives the best possible education. Here’s to a successful and rewarding school year ahead.
MATAWAN MAYOR ALTOMONTE MESSAGE
Matawan Mayor Joseph Altomonte
I am proud to announce that Aberdeen Road has officially reopened and ahead of schedule. This is a milestone worth celebrating for our community. As you may recall, I re-negotiated this project to serve as a bypass road during the upcoming Lake Lefferts Dam upgrades. I want to extend my gratitude to the Monmouth County Commissioners for their partnership and support on both of these important infrastructure efforts. Infrastructure remains one of our top priorities. Looking ahead, we are carefully reviewing the future of our water system. While I remain committed to fair and transparent price exploration, I also believe every effort should be made to keep our utility under Borough control if that makes the most sense for Matawan. Over the next five years, we are preparing to move forward with over 10 critical water infrastructure projects that will ensure our system remains strong and reliable for generations to come.
Thanks to the support of Congressman Frank Pallone, we secured a $1 million federal appropriation to help remove lead service lines in our community. Unfortunately, the $750,000 allocation we were anticipating last year was clawed back due to changes under the new federal administration and we anticipate that may be the case with this year’s allocation as well. Despite this setback, I remain committed to pursuing every grant opportunity available, because grants are a proven way to get things done for Matawan while lowering the burden on taxpayers. On that note, I am especially proud of the Clinton Street Park revitalization, now well underway thanks to $400,474 in grant funding. This project will bring exciting new amenities to our residents, including pickleball and basketball courts, new playground equipment, fencing, lighting, sidewalks, and fresh landscaping. These accomplishments reflect what we can achieve when we stay focused, work together, and make smart investments in Matawan’s future.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN SAT
By Paul Pscolka
Students and parents often want to know how to best prepare for an SAT. Some assert it is to simply repeatedly take practice tests. It is not. Others argue it is to take a class. Not really. Still others swear by private lessons. That doesn’t cut it either. While the above 3 can be contributing factors to student success, I’d like to share what I’ve found to be most helpful to students. Students should…
1) take mock tests. A student could be a rock star at 4pm…or in the comfort of their own home…or when they take a test in pieces. The problem is that students need to perform early in the morning, in a classroom environment, all in one shot. Mock tests ensure this.
2) do each question to the best of your ability, under timed conditions.
3) use the Bluebook App to go over the explanation to every question you had wrong. Then try to do all the questions over again that you had wrong without looking at any notes or explanations. It is the only
way to ensure you really know how to do it.
4) click on the Khan Academy link below the results of the practice test. Set the difficulty level appropriate to your ability level. Work on the categories that reflect your trouble spots.
5) click on the “Practice Specific Questions” link below the results of the practice test. These will be questions that are similar to the questions you had wrong when you took that practice test.
6) practice and study for an hour each day. If you play baseball and watch film once per week but never practice during the week, you will be a terrible baseball player. Test prep is no different. If you, the parent, would like a sense of direction—whether or not you want paid prep—book a me for a consultation. I’d be happy to advise you on how your child could best reach his/her potential: https:// www.ivymasters.com/free-consultation/
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eating competitions, to the Geekery’s Scarecrow Relay and the Matawan Historical Society’s corn shucking challenge. Each offers a chance to win prizes, trophies, and of course, bragging rights!
A unique feature at Matawan Day is the live broadcast displayed on a giant 20-foot LED screen, highlighting scheduled events, interviews, contests, and performances as they unfold.
In addition to that, families can also explore the Inflatables that can be found in 4 locations, and the beloved Kidz Corral, designed to keep young festivalgoers laughing, playing, and making memories all afternoon.
What began decades ago as a modest
food festival in Terhune Park has now blossomed into a sprawling celebration spanning Terhune Park, Broad Street, Borough Hall, and Hourihan Field. This remarkable growth is possible thanks to countless volunteers and Borough staff, DPW, Police, and Fire who assist the Matawan Borough Economic Development Commission and the Matawan-Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce execute the day. Through all its changes, one thing has remained constant: Matawan Day reflects the very best of our community spirit. It’s a day where neighbors, friends, and visitors gather to celebrate the sense of pride, creativity, and togetherness that defines the Borough of Matawan.
DEANA GUNN, MATAWAN COUNCIL PRESIDENT
Under the Mayor’s administration, we have been incredibly committed to maintaining a regular and aggressive road paving program. It has been one of our biggest priorities because safe, well-maintained roads matter to every resident. To date, over 35 roads have been paved throughout the Borough, and we are not slowing down. Many of these projects have been made possible thanks to strong fiscal management and the successful pursuit of grants. For example, Crescent Place was recently reconstructed and paved with the help of $329,000 in grant funding. Oak Lane was also completed at this time. In the upcoming months, residents can expect to see additional work completed, including Oak Knoll Drive, the final phase of Washington Avenue, Crestwood Court, and Claire Court. Looking further ahead, more improvements are on the way thanks to
continued support from the New Jersey Department of Transportation. With their help, we will soon begin work on:
• MacArthur Avenue and Eisenhower Drive — supported by $299,000 in grant funding
• Edgewater Drive — supported by $288,000 in grant funding
We will continue to aggressively pursue grant funding for projects across Matawan whether it’s roads, parks, or open space. Grants remain one of the most effective ways to offset costs for our taxpayers while helping us achieve our shared vision: a safe, modern, and vibrant community that all Matawan residents are proud to call home. If you have any questions, please reach out to me at deana.gunn@matawanborough.com
SAVE YOUR VACATION
We all have a story.
We were a young family with two children. We each had 2 weeks of vacation and sick days from our jobs. Each year, we would split the days the kids were off from school. We would ask friends, family, and neighbors for coverage. Summer
camp, winter and spring break helped, but nearly every month
we had to juggle who was going to watch them on those random days off. If 10 days went to childcare, what was left afterwards?
The time with their grandparents was priceless. Family vacations were memorable, but the rest of the days, being shuffled around or home watching TV were…eh.
That’s when the concept started to formulate. A TRIP-A-DAY, an ADVENTURE, a MOMENT of CHILDHOOD to be remembered.
We needed childcare, but couldn’t keep taking days off. We couldn’t keep asking favors from family and friends. We needed childcare, but wanted to use our time for VACATION.
EPIC DAYZ is childcare- with a twist. Our staff are CPR certified, insured caregivers who are from a community of people that work with kids and love watching them discover things.
We created EPIC DAYZ as a program that has a TRIP for every day. We have a 1:6 ratio of Adventure Guides to children, with Adventure Coordinators that oversee all. Our goal is to make these days count for your child.
Our program is not for everyone, yet everyone is welcome. It is not by town nor district, it is by volume. We have limited spaces of 200 children per location.
EPIC DAYZ, it is Epic for the children and E-Z for the parents.
Deana Gunn Matawan Council President
DEPUTY MAYOR MONTONE MESSAGE
As Deputy Mayor of Aberdeen, I’m proud to share that our Township is once again taking action to make life easier for residents. On Wednesday, September 17th, from 12 to 4 PM, the Mayor and Council will host a free Property Tax Relief Public Filing Event at the Cliffwood Beach Community Center in partnership with the NJ Division of Taxation. This event will help residents apply for New Jersey’s property tax relief programs, right here in our community, no appointment necessary.
The PAS-1 (Property Tax Relief Program Application Supplement) is used by eligible homeowners, renters, seniors aged 65 and older, and residents receiving Social Security Disability benefits. Because the form requires detailed personal information, including income documentation, Social Security numbers, and property tax records, we encourage residents to review the PAS-1 Filing Checklist in advance,
available at nj.gov under the Division of Taxation. At the event, trained staff will answer questions and guide residents through the process, ensuring applications are completed correctly and confidently. This event builds on another recent initiative, our Stop the Scam: Fraud Prevention Workshop on August 19th. With support from the Aberdeen Police Department, we gave seniors the tools to recognize and defend against common scams, from phone impersonators and home contractor fraud. The presentation was excellent, and the response overwhelmingly positive. Many left feeling more confident and protected. Whether fighting fraud or filing for relief, Aberdeen’s leadership is committed to bringing services directly to the people who need them most. That’s what local government is meant to do: listen, respond, and serve. If you or someone you know could benefit from help with a property tax relief application, please join us on September 17th. We’ll be there, ready to help.
Margaret Montone Deputy Mayor, Aberdeen Township
Aberdeen Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone
MAYOR TAGLIARINI MESSAGE
Aberdeen Township is in the process of completing a major rehabilitation of the 750,000-gallon water tower on JerseyAvenue, a vital piece of our infrastructure that serves residents every single day.
This project isn’t just about a fresh coat of paint; it’s about safety, longevity, and continued invest-ment in our community’s future.
The work includes structural upgrades, repainting the interior and exterior with high-performance coatings, and bring-ing access up to current OSHA safety standards. Inside, the tank has already been stripped to bare steel and primed. Outside, the heavy drapes that once covered the structure have come down, revealing a bright, clean blue finish that already stands out proudly on our skyline.
In the coming weeks, crews will install containment around the tower to safely complete the exterior blasting and final coat. The project will culminate with the addition of the Aberdeen Township seal, marking our identity
on one of our most visible landmarks. Nearby, the smaller 150,000-gallon tank will also be repainted to match. When completed, this tower will not only look great, but it will also function better and more safely for decades to come. These improvements are part of our continued commitment to maintaining essential services and deliver-ing long-term value to our residents.
As Mayor, I am proud to see this invest-ment taking shape. It’s a clear example of your local government working behind the scenes to protect public resources and make smart, future-focused decisions.
Next time you look up over JerseyAvenue, I hope you’ll see what I see, a community that cares, plans ahead, and takes pride in the place we all call home.
ABERDEEN DAY RETURNS WITH STAR POWER, FAMILY FUN, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT
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pizza-eating challenges for kids. For thrill-seekers, the BMX stunt show will take over the parking lot, bringing high-flying tricks and jaw-dropping stunts. A DJ will keep the energy going, and more than a dozen food and craft vendors will be on hand to give visitors plenty of reasons to stop, shop, and eat.
Mayor and Council say they are eager to welcome residents and visitors for this year’s festivities. “This is one of our favorite traditions,” said Mayor Fred Tagliarini. “It also happens to be my last Aberdeen Day before retirement. When we started planning, I said I wanted to go out with a bang and this year’s event will do just that. Aberdeen Day showcases everything we love about this township: our families, our small businesses, and our sense of community.”
Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone called the festival “a day where neighbors come together and Aberdeen shines at its best.”
Councilman Greg Cannon highlighted the impact on families: “From meeting a
Yankee to climbing the wall or watching the BMX riders, it’s the kind of experience that makes memories for a lifetime.”
With its mix of celebrity guests, thrilling shows, family activities, and hometown pride, Aberdeen Day 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest yet. Residents are encouraged to spread the word, invite friends and neighbors, and join in a celebration that brings the entire community together.
For updates, please visit Aberdeen Township’s website or follow the township on social media.
Aberdeen Mayor Fred Tagliarini
CHECK IT OUT: LIBRARY NEWS!
It’s September and there are so many wonderful things going on at your library!
First, it’s library card 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!
Next, we have just launched a new service available to our community: Social Work services! 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, we will be celebrating National Good Neighbor Day on Sunday, September 28th. We want to welcome
all of our community members – existing and new! We will host tours of the building, and provide information sharing/Q&A. There will also be snacks, games, raffles, and giveaways! 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 also have many programs, clubs, and activities to offer, including some new additions to our calendar. Please visit our online events calendar for more information.
Lastly, we look forward to seeing you at all of the district’s Back to School Nights. Stop by our table to say hi! And teachers: save the date for this fall’s TEACHER
BOOK GIVEAWAY on Sunday, October 12, from 1-4pm. All of the details will be posted on our website soon.
Have a question? Give us a call at 732-583-9100, stop by, visit our website, or drop us an email at info@mapl.org. Check out our full calendar of events: www.mapl.org.
Wishing all of our teachers, school staff, and students a fantastic school year!
Kimberly Paone, Library Director Matawan Aberdeen Public Library
Matawan 9/11 Memorial Service. by Deputy Fire Chief Ed Lee
It is hard to believe that 24 years have passed since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
The emergency services of the Borough of Matawan – Fire Department, Police Department, OEM, and EMS will host our annual memorial service. The service will be held at Memorial Park (Main & Broad St) at the 9/11 Memorial, 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 11th. During the service,
Aberdeen 9/11 Memorial Services.
“On Wednesday, September 11th at 10:30 AM, Mayor Fred Tagliarini, the Township Council, and Town Manager Bryan A. Russell invite the community to gather at Aberdeen Town Hall for a memorial service at our 9/11 Artifact Me-
there will be a special recognition announcement of the six Matawan citizens who lost their lives that day. Please note, too, the two flags on the monument that were gifts to us from the FDNY. One flag flew at Ground Zero during recovery efforts. The other flew at FDNY’s 10 House on the 20th anniversary of the attacks.
Please join us for this solemn service as we remember the victims, and the growing number of victims we lose each year to the 9/11 related cancers. “We Will Never Forget.”
morial. Joined by members of Township staff and the Aberdeen Township Police Department, this ceremony will honor and remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and ensure that their legacy is never forgotten.”
Republicans Republicans
Re-Elect Re-Elect
CLIFTON Alex SAUICKIE Rob CLIFTON Alex SAUICKIE
In the Assembly, Clifton and Sauickie are leading the fight against the disastrous policies of the far-left Democrat majority in Trenton, that have made New Jersey unaffordable for the seniors and hard working families in LD12.
Rob and Alex will continue to:
FIGHT reckless Democrat Energy policies that have reduced generation and caused Energy bills to skyrocket.
WORK to get our fair share of school funding and restore funding cuts by Trenton Democrats
OPPOSE reckless Budgets & out of control spending that is making New Jersey unaffordable for seniors & hard working families.
BRING COMMON SENSE to Trenton. IT’S TIME to end the far-left, extreme agenda of Trenton Democrats.
INSPIRED LIVING AT REFORMED CHURCH
As the warm summer months are almost over, it’s the perfect time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect—with yourself and with others. At Reformed Church Home Assisted Living in Old Bridge, New Jersey, we believe that assisted living should enrich every aspect of your life: Body, Mind, and Spirit. Our community is here to support you with care, joy, and meaningful connection.
Inspired Living for the Body
Staying active is essential to well-being, and at Reformed Church Home, we make it enjoyable. Residents can take part in summer wellness classes and daily walks through our beautifully maintained grounds. Our team provides warm, personalized care rooted in dignity, respect, and heart.
Inspired Living for the Mind
Lifelong learning and curiosity never fade—and we embrace that fully. Residents enjoy engaging discussion groups, creative expression through music, art, and storytelling, and even intergenerational programs that bring in young visitors and digital tech fun. It’s a vibrant way to stay mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled.
Inspired Living for the Spirit Spiritual well-being is honored here, with faith-based and inclusive gatherings that welcome everyone. Our community celebrates moments of peace, reflection, and purpose through meaningful activities and seasonal events that lift the spirit and foster deep connection.
FindaCommunityThatFeelsLikeHome
Reformed Church Home is more than a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. We’re rooted in faith, committed to exceptional care, and inspired every day by the people who call this community home. Come in for a tour and see what makes Reformed Church Home so special. Fall in love with inspired living this summer. Call us at (732) 607 - 9230 to schedule your visit.
CHAMBER CONNECT
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a guided tour of the impressive facilities. Mark your calendars—there’s plenty ahead this fall! Networking Luncheon at Aby’s Mexican Restaurant, Tuesday, Sept. 9th, 12–1:30 p.m. Sponsored by Chris Parmigiani, President of CMIT Solutions of Monmouth County North, who will present: “Are you PCI Compliant? Learn what can happen if you aren’t!” An after Hours Event at 3BR Distillery, Thursday, Sept. 18th, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Thank you to 3BR Distillery for being our First Drink Sponsor! This evening will include food
and networking with several local business groups. Don’t forget to stop by the Chamber table at the Matawan Blues & Cruise Car Show on Friday, Sept. 5th (5–8 p.m.) and at Aberdeen Day on Saturday, Sept. 20th (11 a.m.–4 p.m. at Matawan Regional High School). The Matawan Day 2025 Fall Festival, The biggest event of the year is right around the corner! Join us on Saturday, Oct. 4th from 12–5 p.m. (rain date Oct. 5th). Sponsorships and vendor tables are moving quickly so reserve your spot now by visiting www.macocnj.com.
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