Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Community at Annual MAC Awards & Installation Dinner

The Matawan Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce held its annual MAC Awards & Installation Dinner on June 12, 2025, at MJ’s Buttonwood Manor in Matawan. The evening brought together local and state leaders, Chamber members, and community supporters for a night of celebration, networking, and recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations.

A standout moment of the evening was the Chamber President’s Special Recognition Award presented by President Michael Grandi to Mayor Fred Tagliarini, who is retiring after 16 years as Mayor of Aberdeen. In addition to this honor, Senator Vin Gopal presented the mayor with proclamations from the County of Monmouth and the State of New Jersey, recognizing his dedicated service and impact on the community.

This year’s award recipients included

• Michael Giasi, NY Life - Chamber Ambassador of the Year;
• Matawan Aberdeen Public Library - Community Cornerstone Award;
• Court Jester of Aberdeen - Business of the Year; and
• Sal Longette, Town Tire Service – Philanthropic Impact Award.
• Maria Milazzo of Young at Art received the Spirit of Matawan Award, and
• David Shah of Dunkin’ was honored with the Spirit of Aberdeen Award.

The Chamber also recognized legacy and milestone members for their long-standing commitment. Honorees included

• 10-year legacy members - Barbara Downs McNulty, Esq.; DaCosta Design; Matawan Lodge #192 F&AM; and Matawan Wellness Center
• 15-year members - An Eye to the Future, Court Jester of Aberdeen, and SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel
• 20-year members - Amboy Bank and LoDrago Insurance Services
• 35- year member - Joan Roum of the Matawan-Aberdeen Hometown Shopper

Recognition awards were presented to David Hernandez & Michael Grandi of Waitt Funeral Home for its 60th Anniversary, and Marc Spallino & Nicholas Taberna represented Meadowbrook Industries receiving a Centennial Celebration Award.

A surprise award was presented to Cathy Zavorskas, the event’s Master of Ceremonies, in recognition of her many years of unwavering dedication and service to the Chamber as a member, President, and Past President.

The evening also included the formal installation of the Chamber’s 2025 Executive Board. Mayor Fred Tagliarini installed

• Michael Grandi as President;
• Alan Ao and Matthew Saldutti as Co-Vice Presidents;
• Barbara Downs McNulty as Secretary; and
• Kimberly Paone as Treasurer.

Mayor Joseph Altomonte of Matawan installed new Board Members

• Ervis Bida,
• Michael Cline,
• Tanya Jones-Awolusi,
• Kevin Moran, and
• Marina Plantz.
  These individuals will join returning Board Members, Erika Boyer and Lindsay Constantino.

The Chamber extends sincere thanks to its sponsors:

• Waitt Funeral Home & Cremation Services,
• Aberdeen Together,
• Restore Matawan & Aberdeen Forward,
• Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, and
• Vin Gopal Civic Association.
  Media sponsors included Mic Squared Events who provided the entertainment and Greyshore Studios provided photography services.

Special appreciation goes to the Events Committee - Linda Martin, Caitlin Zavorskas, and Cathy Zavorskas for their time and effort in planning this memorable event and the Event Team, Lindsay Constantino and Donna Delgrosso whose assistance helped make the evening a success.

The Chamber thanks everyone who generously donated door prizes and all the attendees who made the night truly special!

Event photos are available at www.macocnj.com