By Jennifer Ersalesi
With so many new businesses opening in Rutherford and businesses that have stood the test of time, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce is under new leadership and is already supporting and promoting our local businesses. The new Board members include Daniel Meredith-President, Cliff Witmyer-Vice President, Tom LaTourette-2nd Vice President, Jennifer Ersalesi-Secretary, and Christopher Dunn-Treasurer. The Membership Chair is Earl Peterson and the Directors include the Board members, Matthew Ferazzoli, Jessica Davidson, Richard J. Allen, Julio Izquierdo, Jennifer Zenquis, Maria Johnson, Mike Rizzo, Earl Peterson, and Michael Lazzara.
The original Rutherford Chamber of Commerce was incorporated in 1927 as a non-profit organization. From its inception, the purpose of the Chamber has been to promote commercial, retail, industrial, and civic activities. The Chamber invites non-profit organizations to join as well so that the Chamber can provide them with additional opportunities and assist in spreading the word about all the good that they do within the community.
As stated by Daniel Meredith, President of the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce, “It is our duty to recreate and modernize what needs changing and adapt the chamber's direction to the world we live in today. Most of all we need to work together to bring the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce to the community, grow our membership, and offer our members the support they deserve by focusing on business-driven initiatives and introducing them to the local and regional community.”
In November, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce held Uncorked at the 18th Amendment. There were a number of local sponsors, such as Ferazzolis, Big Man's Brewery, Masons Cellar, 18th Amendment, Annabella's House of Mozzarella, Matera's on Park, and Allstate-Dan Meredith Agency. During this special evening honoring our local veterans, $2000 was raised to support the Rutherford Veterans Alliance.
During one of the snowstorms this winter, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce held a Mini Snowman Contest online and presented the winners with gift certificates to the Williams Center Movie Theater.
In early March, the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce attended the "Best of Bergen County Gala" along with Mayor Frank Nunziato, Councilwoman Stephanie McGowan, Councilman Ray Guzman, and Councilman Tom Mullahey. Rutherford was nominated for “Best Downtown”, along with Allendale, Ridgewood, and Westwood. Although Rutherford was not chosen (Ridgewood was), the Chamber, Mayor, and Council were excited to be recognized.
The Rutherford Chamber of Commerce also participated in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Rutherford.
President Daniel Meredith has teamed up with Steven’s Cafe owner, Steven Incekera, to offer the 6 AM COFFEE CLUB at Steven’s Cafe at 106 Park Ave on Tuesday mornings between 6:00-7:00 a.m. This is an opportunity for local residents and/or local business owners to join together and enjoy some coffee and chat.
On April 14th, the Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce and the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce will host a special fundraiser for the Relay for Life of Clifton and Rutherford at the Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce Headquarters (1099 Wall St, Suite110, Lyndhurst). “Have you been Mootzed?” with Vinnie Mootz. Click on this link to purchase tickets.
In June, members of the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce will present two scholarships to two students at Rutherford High School and at St. Mary’s High School.
Recently, the Chamber of Commerce participated in the Grand Re-Opening of Country Whimsey on Park Ave. Country Whimsey owner, Barbara Dalton, was forced to close her doors over 100 days prior to this event due to flooding that closed the lower level of the store. After its sudden closing, an online link was created where members of the community could donate to assist Barbara after losing months' worth of sales. The Chamber of Commerce presented Barbara with a check for $1000 from the fundraiser at the Grand Re-Opening on April 6th. Country Whimsey is located at 51 Park Ave.
One of the larger projects the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce is in the early stages of planning is the Annual Holiday Parade on November 26th in Rutherford. The Chamber is excited to invite the many different businesses, community organizations, school and local bands, non-profit organizations, as well as many others to participate in the parade.
Check out the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce website. The website highlights new and returning Chamber members and their local businesses and/or organizations. It also provides directories of restaurants, services, and retailers. The section entitled “Town Square" lists job opportunities, volunteer opportunities, community groups, sports and recreation, and links to local news sources, such as www.thisisrutherford.com.
If you are a local business owner or local non-profit organization and would like to join the Rutherford Chamber of Commerce, click here.
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