As part of the regional 2011-2012 WinterFest celebration, the Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce, Mahwah Schools, and several local restaurants have teamed up to help support the Mahwah Marine Moms-North Jersey Military Moms.

Beginning Wednesday, December 28, 2011 and every Wednesday in January, restaurants in the area will host “Support Our Troops Nights” and will donate 10% of their dinner sales (excluding alcohol, tax and tip) to the organization.

The dates and restaurants hosting a WinterFest “Support Our Troops Night” are:

December 28 -- Mahwah Bar & Grill, 2 Island Road, Mahwah

January 4 -- Brady’s at the Station, 5 West Main, Ramsey

January 11 -- Mason Jar, 219 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah

January 18 -- Allendale Bar & Grill, 67 West Allendale Avenue, Allendale

January 25 -- The Grille, 1033 MacArthur Boulevard, Mahwah

Since its formation in 2006, the Mahwah Marine Moms-North Jersey Military Moms have shipped more than $30,000 worth of goods in care packages to Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan. “The troops truly appreciate receiving the packages. Knowing there are Americans back at home who support what our soldiers are doing reminds them that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed,” said Terry Wendrychowicz, coordinator of the organization.

When Dr. Karen Lake, Interim Superintendent of Mahwah Schools heard of the events, she volunteered to help: “I am delighted to spread the word about Support Our Troops Night events,” said Dr. Lake. “The moms meet monthly to pack and ship boxes filled with snacks, books, personal-care items, and greetings from home. Community donations are vital to continuing their efforts.”

Dr. Annette Freund, WinterFest Chairperson, encourages everyone to dine out and support our troops: “This is a great opportunity for everyone to enjoy a family night out and support our military men and women stationed abroad. I hope everyone will come out to join us.”