JERSEY CITY, NJ- Jersey City has recently highlighted a local pencil company in The Heights that has been operating in the City for over 13 decades.
The General Pencil Company at 67 Fleet Street has been manufacturing writing utensils for use by everyone from school children to architects and professional artists for 135 years.
Katie Weissenborn-Vanocini, President and CEO of General Pencil Company, is also the fifth generation owner. Weissenborn-Vanocini said she carried on the company’s legacy for over 20 years, taking it over from her father right after she finished college.
“I’m the fifth generation of our family-owned business, making pencil here in Jersey City since 1889,” Weissenborn-Vanocini told the City. “We’re the oldest pencil company in the U.S.A. and we’re still operating here in Jersey City.”
Sales Manager Kirstin Wojtowicz underscored the American-made aspect of the General Pencil Company.
“It’s exciting also to hear the narrative about American-made and people really seem to care more and more about that,” Wojtowicz said. “And being the last pencil company in Jersey City, we take a lot of pride in that.”
Weissenborn-Vanocini also stressed how the company continues to use the same methods over the years, embracing the company's heritage.
“We do think some of the magic of our charcoal pencil is that we’ve been making it with those same traditional methods and we take our time to create really high-quality artist pencils,” Weissenborn-Vanocini said.
According to Weissenborn-Vanocini, the company prides itself on being a company run by women.
“We’ve been really building a culture od leaning into more a women-owned business,” Weissenborn-Vanocini said. “My dad taught me how to drive a forklift, deliver orders, make products, as well as sell the product. It didn’t matter what gender we were, we just happened to be really interested and inspired in the business.”
According to the local officials, the company employs dozens of locals from Jersey City and neighboring municipalities, with some having worked there for over 50 years.
“We honor this great American Made business and hope they continue making quality products in Jersey City for 130 more years," a ceremonial resolution said.
]]>WEST ORANGE, NJ – During the recent town council meeting, members discussed cannabis businesses. Council President Bill Rutherford reported, “The Planning Board has heard its first cultivator, and we're hoping to have cannabis businesses up and running very certainly this year.”
Two of the cannabis retailers that have been approved by the township haven’t communicated with the township in a while, and the council talked about revoking their letters of support. Township attorney, Stephen Gengaro, explained, “Even if we do the revocation of the two, I believe the two that we're all referring to are Kemistry and Peace of Mind.” He continued, “They’re two separate processes. In order to revoke them just because of where we're at with both. So for Kemistry, we gave them an opportunity to cure [complete] their application, but it's been several years. So with that one, you can do a resolution to revoke it.” He noted, "Revoking Peace of Mind would just be a separate resolution doing the same thing, but there's no requirement from what I'm told to get noticed.”
One of the attendees and speakers at the meeting was Jennifer Hardell, who’s trying to open a cultivating business called Blue Violet Grow, LLC. She has appeared at many town council meetings in an effort to move forward with her business. She always requests an update on when she can set up shop.
The township has a moratorium on cannabis businesses right now. Council members have considered ending the moratorium on cultivators because the public doesn’t patronize them, and they can be located away from business districts. Council Member Michelle Casalino warned that if the township opens a space, “Once we open it up, then you will have all this pressure of five more applicants coming to us, and we're going to expand and because it's a political year this year.” She added, “We need a mechanism in place because you have an apartment there with a lot of children living across the street from the playground right there on that corner. The delivery trucks have to go to the Park Avenue entrance, so it doesn't interfere.”
Williams pointed out, “The Planning Board will issue conditions, because this is a new industry that will regulate the odor, and it is within their purview and control. They can say if there is a complaint from a neighbor, and they can create whatever mechanisms they want. They can also implement something that says if there's a complaint that the entity has 30 days to remediate it.” She also suggested taking an inventory of space to ensure there’s space for more cultivators.
Council Member Casalino and Asmeret Ghebremicael spoke of the revenue that cannabis taxes would bring in.
Council members are holding a cannabis workshop to discuss ending the moratorium and welcoming new distributors and cultivators. There will be no public comment, but residents can watch the meeting.
]]>PLUMSTEADVILLE, PA—A local lumber yard is asking for help from the community as it tries to set a world record for the most people knocking on wood at the same time.
On April 25, Tague Lumber will try to assemble more than 295 people and have them knock on wood at the same time. The current Guiness World Record has recorded 295 people simultaneously knocking on wood.
Doors for the event at 6100 Easton Road will open at 4:30. The attempt to shatter the world record will begin at 5.
The event will also feature free food, live music, an appearance by the CB East Marching Band and more than 25 vendors featuring home improvement products.
Admission is free, but tickets are required. Tickets can be ordered online.
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]]>MORRIS PLAINS, NJ - Do you have insurance questions? Current clients and new clients are welcome to call State Farm Agent Teri DiGrande with their questions.
"We're here to make your life easier", said DiGrande. "It's what we do".
Here's her card or scan the QR Code
]]>SPRINGFIELD, NJ -- The Springfield Planning Board heard an application from the owner of a massage therapist to expand her business at the General Green Shopping Center at its meeting on Monday, March 11.
The tenant told the board that her business is growing, and that she hopes to expand to the unit next door on the 200 block of Morris Avenue. There would be no change in either operating hours or services.
The board placed several conditions on the landlord before the applicant can obtain a Certificate of Occupancy to move into the additional space. The landlord must repair and pave certain areas of the parking lot, install landscaping that was previously agreed upon for a past application, must notify each tenant via letter that there is no reserved parking in the lot and, finally, must control the litter and trash blowing around the site.
Board members Scott Wishna and David Barnett voiced concerns over the trash in the parking lots and said that finding a way to control that should be addressed.
Jeff Tiger, chairman of the Planning Board, instructed the zoning officer to visit the site frequently and issue summonses as per township code if the property maintenance is not kept up.
The board also went into executive session to discuss pending litigation against the board.
The next Planning Board meeting will be on Thursday, April 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall.
]]>UNION, NJ - The Greater Union Township Chamber of Commerce recently elected its slate of officers and installed new directors.
Elected each year, officers have ultimate responsibility for chamber operations, policy, and overall direction. They also oversee and support proposed activities, events and projects that best serve the interests of members.
The incoming Executive Board consists of:
Also inducted as a new director was Dr. Andrew Iuzzolino of Progressive Edge Physical Therapy, Union.
The new slate will be officially inducted at the Chamber’s Annual Gala on May 2.
“The Chamber’s Board of Directors is comprised of dedicated individuals who truly advocate for and represent the interests and needs of all of our member businesses,” said James Masterson, Chamber CEO. “We are grateful for the ways in which they generously give of their time and talents for the betterment of the professional community.” Members of the Board of Directors are a group of dedicated volunteers, representing a cross-section of local businesses, who help the Chamber in its mission of promoting and serving its members.
The Union Township Chamber of Commerce is a professional association dedicated to strengthening, uniting, promoting and representing member businesses, added Masterson. Its affiliates include the chambers of Union, Roselle Park, Kenilworth and Hillside.
]]>FAIR LAWN, NJ - The borough is celebrating its 100th anniversary, so it's rather fitting that various areas in the borough are undergoing a renewal process, including Broadway.
Tiolora Lumbantoruan is now part of that process, an urban planner who will spend the next two and a half years on a Broadway Vision Plan.
Lumbantoruan, who hails from Jakarta, Indonesia, and graduated from Cornell graduate school in 2021, said part of her focus is the train station and the ease of circulation around it.
"I'll be reviewing priorities, existing plans, and talking to the stakeholders," she said.
Ryan Greff, Fair Lawn Main Street Executive Director, introduced Tiolora as the borough's "new economic recovery fellow who will be working on the revitalization of Broadway."
Greff said the project entails "district planning and design, beautification, customer attraction strategies, stakeholder engagement, and program delivery."
"The Economic Recovery Corp Fellow will conduct regular community outreach and engage with local government in developing design guidelines and exploring new grant programs to spur private investment to implement various beautification initiatives such as streetscaping and public art," Greff said. "The outcome envisioned is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly business corridor with low vacancy rates and increased foot traffic. The impact will be felt by residents, businesses, and visitors alike, contributing to the economic vitality of a thriving Main Street corridor."
Announcement of the project, which occurred in early February, comes through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Tiolora is part of the Economic Recovery Corps (ERC), which was launched in 2023 through a $30 million cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).
The ERC is designed to build capacity in some of the hardest-hit and most economically distressed areas across the United States while cultivating the next generation of economic development leaders, according to the IEDC. In February, the 65 Fellows began their two-and-a-half-year field placements with host organizations across the nation.
That's how Tiolora landed here in Fair Lawn.
Authorized under the CARES Act, "the Economic Recovery Corp was created to address long-standing economic issues in America that surfaced during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for historically underserved populations and communities," according to the IEDC.
These communities and regions have undergone economic distress that led to vastly different outcomes that continue to impact economic recovery today, according to the IEDC.
Greff said Tiolora's salary is "completely paid for by the IEDC," which received its money through the CARES Act.
Greff said the value of such an urban planner for the borough is "in excess of $275,000" over the course of her 2.5-year fellowship.
Tiolora has a big task. Broadway, at least for the last 30 years, has seemed somewhat disjointed. While there are sidewalks, it never quite seems pleasant enough to walk. During the past 10 years or so, though, the Broadway Improvement District has made a difference by encouraging sprucing-up storefronts, adding large flower planters, and attracting new businesses, such as AutoZone, medical complexes, and educational facilities, while keeping community staples like Dunkin' Donuts and Columbia Bank in place.
And just as Route 4 leads into Elmwood Park where the KMart used to be, there is now a much-welcome ShopRite.
The Broadway Train Station, located on an overpass above Route 4 and originally known as a passenger stop called Warren Point, dates to 1934 when Route 4 was built between Paterson and the George Washington Bridge, according to Wikipedia.
]]>RANDOLPH, NJ- Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph, a leading dental practice committed to the oral health of children, recently participated in the American Dental Association’s annual tradition of "Give Kids A Smile". This nationwide event provides essential dental care to children in need, ensuring they receive the attention and treatment necessary for a healthy smile. This year, the dental practice was able to care for 34 patients, including new immigrants hailing from 4 different countries.
Community Outreach
Give Kids A Smile is a national initiative that began in 2003 with the goal of addressing the oral health needs of underserved children across the United States. Over the years, dental professionals have volunteered their time and expertise to offer free dental services to children who may not have regular access to dental care.
Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph has consistently been a dedicated participant in this noble cause, reinforcing their commitment to community outreach and providing essential dental care to those who need it the most.
Filling a Large Void
Lack of insurance, language barriers, unfamiliarity with the healthcare system, and financial constraints can hinder families from seeking timely and preventive dental treatments for their children. Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph addressed these challenges head-on, ensuring that language support was available and that lack of insurance or financial constraints were not a deterrent to receiving necessary dental care.
The team at Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph also made sure that these families understood how to go about making sure their children could obtain regular dental care going forward by showing them how to apply for benefits and explaining their own in-house discount dental plan.
Building Trust and Providing Compassionate Care
Building trust is crucial when treating children, especially those who have never had dental care and are new to speaking English. The team at Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph created a welcoming environment that fostered trust and comfort. By doing so, they not only provided essential dental treatments but also contributed to the overall well-being of the children and their families.
The Impact of Give Kids A Smile
The annual Give Kids A Smile event continues to have a significant impact on the oral health of underserved children across the nation. By actively participating in such initiatives, Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph exemplifies the importance of community engagement and the role that dental professionals can play in addressing healthcare disparities.
Pediatric Dental Associates of Randolph's participation in Give Kids A Smile reflects their unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children, regardless of their background or circumstances.
EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ - Grab a cup of Joe and a sweet treat at East Brunswick's newest family-owned coffee shop, Cozy Cup located at 1031 Route 18 (in the Arooga's Shopping Center).
Owner Pragash Pararajasingam is excited to serve residents "comfort food and fresh Colombian coffee" and said they'll be serving both breakfast and lunch. Saturday's Grand Opening was attended by Mayor Brad Cohen, Council President Kevin McEvoy, Economic Development Officer Robert Zuckerman, and representatives of the East Brunswick Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Cozy Cup offers a variety of well-priced sandwiches on ciabatta bread, bagels, and English muffins, at the last East Brunswick stop before drivers head down the shore or get on the Parkway off Route 18. Lots of coffee offerings and a variety of types of tea, too.
Need a frozen coffee or smoothie on your way to work or down the shore? This new East Brunswick business is the place for you!
]]>CAMDEN – High-profile funerals, such as those of former President John F. Kennedy and Britain's Princess Diana, utilized horse-drawn coffins, perhaps leaving some to think such amenities are for only the very famous or rich.
Dwayne Cooper and Tara Goree, graduates of the Camden Public School System and owners of the nearly 2-year-old Cooper & Sons Funeral Advocate Services – which they said is Camden's first funeral advocacy company – beg to differ.
“Our main philosophy is everybody gets treated the same, no matter if you have $1 or a million dollars,” Cooper said.
The use of the horse-drawn coffin for four miles during a funeral procession is provided for free to families who use Cooper & Sons Funeral Advocate Services, Cooper and Goree said. Coffins involved in funeral processions longer than four miles are placed inside a hearse, Cooper and Goree said. If a customer would prefer the hearse instead of the horse-drawn carriage, or if there are severe storms or high heat indices that would jeopardize the horse’s health, the hearse is free, they said.
The funeral procession is only one of many services that Cooper & Sons Funeral Advocate Services offers to those who have lost a loved one, they said. Other services include obtaining pricing from every funeral home in the area, explaining what fixtures can be rented, making arrangements with the funeral director of the chosen funeral home, coordinating the funeral’s program, dressing and grooming the deceased person and escorting the family to and from all the locations affiliated with the funeral and burial.
Cooper & Sons Funeral Advocate Services’ rate for those other services varies based on the funeral home it works with, according to Cooper and Goree. A proclamation Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen issued said that the company’s services,
when taken collectively, provide “families with tools developed to be educational and resourceful” and are offered “with the understanding that people have financial, emotional and spiritual needs when dealing with the loss of a loved one.” The proclamation also touted Cooper’s and Goree’s experience “delivering innovative and pertinent resources, financial literacy, solutions and ongoing support.”
Cooper said he was inspired to establish the business after roughly 20 years of working as an assistant in several funeral homes and while enrolled in the Mortuary Science Program at Mercer County College and Cremation Association of North America.
“There were a lot of things I could not control (when) I was just a worker,” he said, adding that during that time, he studied hard and learned how “to make the process more affordable and as easy as possible.”
About 325 families have used Cooper & Sons Funeral Advocate Services since the company first opened, according to Cooper and Goree.
BLOOMFIELD, NJ--Brookdale ShopRite prides itself on being Bloomfield’s “Supermarket with a Heart,” and its latest national recognition shows exactly why.
As part of ShopRite’s Partners in Caring campaign to end hunger in the communities they serve, the Brookdale store raised $11,600 over the past year to donate to local food pantries and charities. Of more than 300 locations from Connecticut to Maryland that participated in 2023, Brookdale ShopRite was one of the top performing stores.
For that achievement, two ShopRite associates – Devon Pray and Diana Alvarez – will be featured alongside associates from other locations on a limited-edition Cheerios box, which can be purchased at all ShopRite supermarkets.
This is the second year in a row that Brookdale ShopRite has received this honor, which, according to owner Neil Greenstein, is a testament to the entire team’s dedication to selflessly serving everyone who calls the Bloomfield area home.
Separately, in recognition of Brookdale’s 25th anniversary under its current ownership, General Mills and Wakefern Corporation (the corporate arm of ShopRite) donated $2,500 each to Montclair’s Human Needs Food Pantry and the Interfaith Food Pantry of the Oranges.
]]>
YORKTOWN, N.Y. - A gas leak has caused a major headache for the owners and loyal customers of a popular Yorktown eatery.
The leak has forced Yorktown Pizza and Pasta, located at 2013 Crompond Road in Yorktown Heights, to close its doors a it waits for Con Edison to restore service.
According to Con Ed's website, the leak was first reported on March 9 and was inspected the same day. At the time of writing (Saturday, March 16), the Con Ed online Gas Leak Map showed that the leak had been "made safe" and was a "priority repair" but offered no timeline for when service would be restored to customers in the area.
Meanwhile, the popular eatery, which opened in 1990, remains closed with no definitive date for reopening.
Other homes and businesses in the building are reportedly without heat but have been allowed to remain open. But the restaurant has been forced to close until its gas service can be restored.
In a Facebook post on Friday (March 15), Joe Giuliano, who owns the restaurant with his son Mike, said Con Ed hasn’t given them a clear timeline about returning to complete the repairs.
"Con Ed said we'd be back by Tuesday—they never specified which Tuesday," the restaurant’s Facebook post said. "Unfortunately, we are still without gas...and are unfortunately still closed. We're hoping to hear some good news about progress over the weekend, but in all likelihood, it looks like we're looking at the closure going into next week. This is absolutely the last thing that we want to be dealing with, and we're asking for your patience while we go through these tough times."
According to their Facebook page, the Yorktown Pizza and Pasta team initially hoped Con Ed would repair the leak by last Tuesday. Even a few days of downtime has been a major blow for the business.
"In the meantime, we are doing our best to figure out how to best honor the commitments we've already made to clients and will be reaching out to them to try and figure out how to go about the next few days," the restaurant posted on Facebook at the time. "We're sorry for all the inconvenience this will cause, but believe us, this is the absolute last thing that we want to be dealing with. We will keep you updated with any additional information we receive over the next few days.”
Customers have rallied to the business's support. Suzanne Nesbitt Keiling said patrons were frustrated with Con Ed's lack of action and the energy giant's indifference to the harm the delays were causing the business.
"We should all throw a party, any kind of party, in the parking lot," Keiling posted on Facebook. “That would get someone’s attention. So sorry you have to deal with this, with no answers after an entire week.
"YPP has been a part of our family, like many other families/customers for about 34 years or so now," Keiling continued. "I can probably count on one hand how many times Joe has taken off or closed his business. It’s always been the customers first for him and is still this way today. We will all be back to welcome you with open arms."
Customer Arlene Gioia noted that the Lenten holiday, when many Christians avoid meat on Fridays, was an especially bad time for a pizzeria to be closed.
"That’s awful," she said, "You should get free electric for the loss, especially during Lent."
Rob Manzella was one of several customers promising to make up for lost time.
"Now we have to come on and order double to make up for lost days," he posted.
As they wait to be able to fire up their ovens, the owners are looking for ways to operate and have thanked customers and fans for their support.
"Big, big thanks to everybody who has offered kind words of support in the meantime. They mean more than you know," they said on Facebook. "We'll update you with more information when we find it out!"
This is a developing story and will be updated.
]]>WESTFIELD, NJ — In a strategic move to bolster career exploration opportunities for its students, the Westfield High School counseling department has developed the Blue Devil Community Network.
The initiative provides insight into various educational and career pathways by establishing connections between WHS students and other community members, alumni and local professionals.
By bridging the gap between students and community members, the initiative not only enhances career exploration, but also fosters a sense of belonging and connection within the WHS community.
“We often see students coming down to the counseling office asking about specific post-secondary options/careers,” said Director of Counseling Falynn Balassone, who oversees the network. “We thought it would be helpful to have community members to contact for more information based on their direct experiences.”
The Blue Devil Community Network marks a significant step forward in the school’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for students as they navigate their post-secondary options.
Through the network, students can learn more about post-secondary options by making individualized connections with potential mentors. In addition, alumni and community members can get more involved with WHS by helping to mentor and guide students.
“So far, we have had about 30 community members sign up for the network. We are so grateful and are looking to grow the network further and attract those with non-traditional paths, as well,” Balassone said.
Community members who want to be part of the network can submit their information to this form.
Students can visit their school counselor to express interest in getting connected. All communication between students and community members will be observed by an administrator or counselor.
Balassone added that the network is looking to increase its career exploration programming.
"We would love to build events such as career panels, etc.,” she said.
Julie Snyder is a student at Westfield High School participating in a journalism program with TAPinto Westfield.
]]>EAST HANOVER, NJ - RetireMD is hosting a 'Networking Business Bash' at Ravellos in East Hanover on Wednesday, March 20th from 5:30pm - 9pm.
The event promises to be an evening of professional networking, vendor presentations, and indulgence in a three-course Italian dinner.
Networking Business Bash is an all-in-one networking event with wellness vendors and an Italian dinner all included with the ticket.
To purchase tickets, click here.
]]>UNION, NJ – A Union businesswoman is dedicated and committed to her customers, in helping them throughout their many journeys and stages of life.
Maria Sparacio is the owner of The Pink Room, a business on Morris Avenue (with locations in Union and Elizabeth) specializing in shapewear. “Our customers are women who have different needs throughout their life's journey,” she said. “For example, young girls who want to feel more confident in a dress, women getting married and those who have an important event to attend and want to look flawless in their gowns and dresses.” In addition, Sparacio said, some new mothers need a support garment, helping realign their body back to their pre-pregnancy shape.
Sparacio said The Pink room also specializes in garments designed for post-surgery customers, such as those who have had liposuction, tummy tucks, breast and arm surgery, a hysterotomy, or bariatric surgery. The store also carries men's garments.
The Pink Room first opened in Elizabeth in May 2008. “I was focused on excellent customer service, high quality merchandise, and fair prices” said Sparacio. The Union store opened on June 25, 2015. “We were looking for a location where plastic surgeons could feel comfortable sending their patients. This beautiful location in Union was perfect. When we opened, the town was welcoming and nurturing, and the mayor and Town Hall were very supportive, which made it easy for us to open the store and be successful.”
Sparacio was born and raised in Cali, Colombia, the oldest of two children. “I grew up in a family where my mother was a very smart woman, a registered nurse. My father was a businessman. Even at a young age, I saw myself doing the same thing as my father and wanted to become a business owner.”
She said she came to the United States in 2001 to learn the language. “After being here a couple of years, I really liked the opportunities available to a hard-working person, and I decided to stay.” She said she had saved $25,000, but she wasn’t sure what kind of business she wanted to open. She knew, however, that she “was ready to take any opportunity and do it. That is how I opened The Pink Room.”
“People purchase from The Pink Room because they trust us,” said Sparacio. “Most of our customers are referrals from peers and plastic surgeons who we have worked with for many years.” She said customers also find the store by their excellent Google ratings.
“We have wonderful people working here,” Sparacio added. “We have beautiful experiences helping customers who are looking for a foundation garment that will help them to enhance their natural curves and beauty and feel special. It is very inspiring to see women happy, and in some cases, very emotional when they see themselves the way they’ve always wanted.”
“What makes us special is the way we approach our customers,” added Sparacio. “We take our time, we listen, and we understand our customers’ needs before making any recommendation. It is very important for the customer to feel understood.” The Pink Room employees have worked hard to make every customer’s experience perfect, she said. “We are constantly training our team to be compassionate, empathetic, and ethical, especially when working with customers who have had surgery.”
“We always offer personalized recommendations, fitting advice and high quality products that are crafted with sumptuous materials and made via ethical production processes where the workers are treated with respect and fairness.”
“We are committed to body positivity, empowering women and helping them in any stage of their journey,” said Sparacio. “Our excellent reviews are a very clear glimpse of our customer service and how we conduct our company.”
The Pink Room was honored as the Business of the Month by the Township Committee at the August 2017 committee meeting. Sparacio is actively involved in township events, participating in events and is a committed member of the business community in Union Center.
The Pink Room is located at 1994 Morris Avenue in Union and 249 Morris Avenue in Elizabeth. Their website can be found by clicking HERE.
]]>SPOTSWOOD, NJ - Pizza lovers in Spotswood, Helmetta and surrounding communities have been anxiously awaiting the grand opening of Milltown's popular Maria's Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen's second location on Summerhill Road. The borough's newest eatery had a soft opening this week and is offering a limited menu. It's grand opening week is set for Monday, March 25 through Friday, March 29.
Maria's owners, Rosamaria and Camillo Bonesse, are doing something special to support the Spotswood School District while celebrating the opening of their new location. Rosamaria and Camillo are donating 50 percent of each receipt from their grand opening week to the Spotswood School District. Half of all dine-in, takeout and website orders qualify for the week-long dine-to-donate. Diners do not need a code or flyer to participate in the March 25 through March 29 dine-to-donate. Third party orders from apps such as DoorDash, GrubHub and Slice do not qualify for the dine-to-donate.
Maria's Pizza became a Milltown staple in 1987. Rosamaria and Camillo took over the family-run business when her mother retired six years ago. When the space previously occupied by Tony’s Pizza became available in the Romeo Plaza on Summerhill Road, Rosamaria and Camillo started to think about expanding and bringing Maria’s closer to patrons from Spotswood and Helmetta as well as parts of East Brunswick and South River. The couple is also excited about introducing Maria’s Pizza to other nearby communities like Jamesburg, Monroe and Old Bridge.
Maria's Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen is located at 210 Summerhill Road. Takeout, delivery and catering orders can be made by telephoning 732-360-8846. Orders can also be placed online at Maria's Pizza Spotswood's website. For menu updates and more, follow Maria's Pizza Spotswood on Facebook.
]]>MORRISTOWN, NJ - The Morristown Women in Business, whose mission is to empower women entrepreneurs and business leaders, will be honoring three Morristown business owners during their 2024 Awards Event.
On March 25 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm, the group will honor Pan Donovan from Ethan and the Bean with the Newer Business Award, Jamie and Michele Moore from Tavern on the Green with the Long Standing Business Award and Andrea Lekberg from Artist Baker will be awarded with the Medody Whitelaw Award.
The organization is made up of women business leaders who live and work in Morristown by helping to grow their business through networking, education and leads.
Sign up to get all the news as it happens at www.TAPinto.net/enews and follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MorristownTAP/ and on Twitter at @MorristownTAP.
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]]>SAYREVILLE, NJ -- Sayreville took center stage on News 12's "Main Street NJ" segment on Friday, March 15, 2024.
Reporter Lauren Due visited the boat ramp in Buchanan Park and Sayreville Police Headquarters, as well as several local businesses: Isabella Fitness Center (242 Main St.), Royal Bakery (3290 Washington Rd.), Rustoni's Pizza (309 Main St.), Sayreville Seafood (141 Main St.), and the Bombers Beyond Café (132 Main St.)
Due also learned some local insights from Lt. James Novak of Sayreville PD, Mayor Kennedy O'Brien, and Borough Administrator Glenn Skarzynski, who spoke about the importance of the Raritan River and the $2.5 billion Riverton project that is expected to break ground soon.
Want to watch the segments? Click here.
]]>CORAL SPRINGS, FL – Calling all local professionals: a Coral Springs-based law firm is hosting a networking event at Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar on April 11.
The Business Networking Mixer by Berman Law Group will be from 6-8 p.m.
“It's an opportunity to connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting,” said Russell Berman, the firm’s founding partner.
The firm’s other founding partner, Theodore Berman, added: “Whether you're looking to expand your network, share ideas, or simply enjoy good company, this event is for you.”
The Bermans are long-time Coral Springs residents who attended J.P. Taravella High School and went on to open Berman Law Group, a full-service firm specializing in personal injury, commercial litigation, medical malpractice, real estate law, and more.
Registration is required. Register here.
Attendees will get a ticket for a free drink.
Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar is at 3111 North University Drive in Coral Springs.
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GIVING BACK: Dozens of Volunteers Needed for Coral Springs Festival of the Arts This Weekend
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: “I Love Helping People:” Brian Walsh Sr., Owner of Wings Plus in Coral Springs, Talks Wings, Giving Back, and Politics
]]>RARITAN, NJ - After defunding the Economic Development Committee (EDC), Raritan Borough has tried to formulate a plan to balance the EDC and the new Downtown Development Committee, an internal standing committee for the council to work with and in tandem with the planning board, the new redevelopment committee and the EDC.
However, EDC members say that after several months, there is still no clear plan to move the EDC forward, which may require rewriting the EDC ordinance and bylaws.
"We don't have a plan, we don't know what we're doing, we don't know what our purpose is, and, until we do, I don't think any of us can really decide how we want to proceed," said EDC member David Marder. "So I would ask the council seriously to consider what they want out of this committee, and then we can move forward."
The EDC can't be part of the Downtown Development Committee since it's a committee by appointment and has no budget and no chair, but Marder said they're left with several responsibilities under the ordinance the EDC wasn't carrying out and that members need to be qualified to do, or have some training or access to resources.
"It's not a lack of desire or a lack of interest in learning those things," he said, but a need to know what the council wants them to do and subsequently learn if need be.
EDC secretary Fabiana LoPiccolo-Stewart said the EDC business plan submitted for 2024 was events-oriented, which members realized wasn't the EDC's intended function under the ordinance. Based on conversations the EDC had with the Downtown Committee, "some of the words that kept coming up were 'emerging,' 'we're absorbing,' but then when I look at the email that [Mayor Nicolas Carra] sent to give us some additional clarification, it's clear that a merge and absorption isn't actually what's happening," she said.
"We just have to sit down and actually paint a picture of what the expectations are, what the delineation between these various groups is going to be — the Downtown Committee, EDC, recreation — because right now, I think the main reason why we can't make any progress is because we don't know how to," she added. "And so, yes, we've made progress, but not quite enough to actually take any action yet."
Councilmen Adam Armahizer and Michael Patente said the borough, through joint conversations, needs to rebuild the EDC by reassessing and resubmitting the EDC bylaws.
"Maybe the council doesn't totally know what they want out of an Economic Development Committee, and maybe it needs to be developed as you go along," said Patente. "I think what we need to do is gel something, but it doesn't have to be that specific ordinance. Maybe it could be something a little different as long as it's not the same things that the standing committee is doing."
Marder said his point of emphasis at the joint meetings is that the council needs to decide what they want the EDC to do, and while the EDC is open to discussions and giving input, "at the end of the day, we don't get to decide those things," he said.
A part of a problem in town is the lack of a Chamber of Commerce and a disconnect between the purpose of the EDC and replacing or building a Chamber of Commerce, “and I think going forward, that has to be rectified, in one way or another,” Marder said.
Patente said the original EDC intended to develop a Chamber of Commerce, but the council and EDC didn't really follow the ordinance. The first big thing the EDC did was Discovering Raritan, which was a big hit with a big turnout, to get the businesses involved and help start a Chamber of Commerce.
Patente said he still hopes the town can establish one.
The EDC and Downtown Development Committee will meet again to discuss a plan, an EDC chair and next steps under the guidance of Carra.
"It's not that we're not capable of having a conversation, ot was productive as far as we all have ideas about what we'd like to see happen in the town," said Marder. "I think there's a lot of agreement about that. It's just about who will be responsible for what and how it gets done. And having the knowledge of process — having the knowledge of how we can move forward — I think is going to be essential to be able to do that."
]]>LIVINGSTON, NJ — A few months after realizing her dream of opening a boutique medical spa in her hometown of Livingston, Berlin Beauty Medical Aesthetics founder Lena Berlin, PA-C, is optimistic that her new office on E. Northfield Road is on the fast track to becoming Livingston’s preferred destination for Botox and other high-quality aesthetic treatments.
Berlin, who is currently offering a special Botox deal for new clients, expressed enthusiasm about her journey thus far, sharing that opening Berlin Beauty has been “a rollercoaster ride of emotions, filled with excitement, anticipation and a healthy dose of nervousness” and that every aspect of her experience has reaffirmed her “unwavering commitment and resilience.”
“Ever since I was a little girl, I was always a dreamer and always dreamed big,” said Berlin. “I wanted to one day be part of something grand that would make a difference in people's lives. I knew I wanted to have a business of my own that I could design and build from scratch from an idea that I would, with hard work, see come to life. This is what Berlin Beauty has been for me.”
Berlin shared that one of the most rewarding aspects of launching Berlin Beauty Medical Aesthetics has been witnessing the transformations of her clients and the profound impact she has had on their lives.
“The most beautiful transformations are not just skin-deep—they emanate from a place of genuine care, compassion and unwavering dedication to the happiness and well-being of others,” said Berlin. “Seeing the joy and confidence radiating from our clients' faces after receiving our treatments is truly priceless. It reaffirms my belief in the power of beauty and self-care to uplift and empower individuals from all walks of life.”
According to Berlin, it has not been uncommon for patients to leave her office feeling not only rejuvenated, but also “profoundly grateful for the positive change.” She shared that many of her patients express their appreciation through heartfelt hugs, testimonials and other gestures that “speak volumes about the transformative power of Berlin Beauty.”
One such instance occurred recently when a patient left Berlin a handwritten note saying, “Thank you for making me fall in love with myself again.”
“These words, simple yet profound, encapsulate the essence of my mission: to inspire self-love and acceptance in every individual that comes to Berlin Beauty,” said Berlin. “These moments of connection and validation fuel my passion and reaffirm my commitment to my craft.”
Berlin, who also has a passion for interior design, added that she was grateful for the opportunity to design her own office, which she described as “a relaxing, vivid and welcoming space” where patients can rest in velvet green chairs, listen to music and feel comfortable throughout their service.
“I would describe our office as a great escape,” said Berlin. “From touches of color to pops of pampas, we designed the space to be your oasis.”
Above all, Berlin said she was proud to be able to provide these services and to see her longtime dream come to fruition in her hometown of Livingston, where she resides with her husband and three children.
After 10 years as a resident and now as a member of the business community, Berlin said she is hopeful about her future in Livingston.
“Looking ahead, I am filled with optimism and excitement for the future of Berlin Beauty,” she said. “As we continue to grow and evolve, my vision is to become a trusted destination for individuals seeking personalized, high-quality medical aesthetic treatments delivered with care, expertise and integrity.”
As she continues her mission to become one of the top medical spas in the area, Berlin is currently offering new clients the opportunity to receive three areas of Botox at a discounted price of $450 at Berlin Beauty Medical Aesthetics.
“Our commitment to natural, subtle enhancements makes us the preferred choice for the best Botox in Livingston,” said Berlin, adding that the best Botox journey begins with a comprehensive consultation process that she provides as part of all treatment services at her Livingston office.
During this initial meeting, Berlin takes the time to understand each client’s specific aesthetic desires and concerns with a detailed assessment of his or her skin and facial features.
“This session is crucial in crafting a customized treatment plan, tailored precisely to enhance your natural beauty and meet your individual goals,” said Berlin. “We’ll discuss your medical history and any previous cosmetic treatments to ensure the safety and efficacy of your Botox treatment.”
As an expert in aesthetics, Berlin said that the most popular areas to get Botox injections typically include the forehead, glabella (the area between the eyebrows), and the crow's feet around the eyes.
“These areas are prone to dynamic wrinkles, which are caused by repetitive muscle movements such as frowning, squinting, and raising the eyebrows,” she said. “Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles responsible for these movements, thereby smoothing out wrinkles and lines in the skin.”
Berlin Beauty Medical Aesthetics is located at 65 E. Northfield Rd, Unit K, in Livingston.
To learn more about Berlin Beauty or to claim the New Client Offer of three Botox areas for $450, CLICK HERE.
]]>CHATHAM, NJ -- A four-story mixed-use building with retail on the first floor and 18 apartments above it will be built at 246 Main St. in Chatham, the site of the former Sherwin-Williams store. Three of the apartments will be set aside for affordable housing.
"It's been a long time coming and we're very eager to get it done," Matt Koenig, owner of the building, said. "We're taking one of the worst-looking buildings and making it one of the nicest."
Koenig estimated that it would take 16 to 18 months for the construction to be completed and said he is not pre-leasing the retail space at this time, concentrating first on the apartments.
"We're super excited to see it go up," Koenig said. 'Our team worked very hard to incorporate a lot of the features from the original building into the new design."
The fourth floor will be set back 10 feet from the front facade and will not be visible from street level, according to the 10-page resolution, approving the requested variances for the new building. There will be an elevator in the middle of the building.
When completed, it will be the tallest building on Main Street. There will be parking for tenants and retail customers available behind the building.
Chatham Borough Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the application and variances on March 18, 2019, and memorialized on April 24, 2019.
]]>MADISON, NJ -Stay, the Salon held a grand opening. Stay provides a range of services including cuts, styling, bridal, retexturing, and hair treatments.
Mayor Robert Conley, accompanied by representatives from the downtown council, the Downtown Development Commission, the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as friends and family, extended congratulations to Tracy Walsh, owner of Stay, the Salon during the grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, March 6th.
Well-known and respected for her decades of experience as a Master Colorist and Color Director, Tracy is joined by a team of talented hair professionals.
Stay, the Salon is located at 20 Waverly Place in Madison.
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