MANVILLE: Business group hears aid projects boosted

By Mary Ellen Zangara, Special Writer
   Manville Business and Professional Association members gathered Monday night at Pizza and Pasta for their annual dinner. About 40 members and guests enjoyed Italian food while socializing with fellow members.
   Oscar Gonzalez owner of Discount Mattress welcomed the business owners and observing he was “glad to see some new faces.” He thanked the committee of Jerry Harris, Lynn Cotty and Dean Shephard for organizing the event.
   Guest speaker Mike Kerwin, president of the Somerset County Business Partnership, spoke about money that is available from the state and federal government to use for Manville in an economic development strategy.
   ”You had a little under 11,000 people in 1960 and now you have a little under 11,000,” he said. “When it comes time to get funding, pick a Manville project that has some regional significance, like the Rustic Mall or revitalizing Main Street.
   He told them to develop an argument that aid money supports the economical goals of the strategic plan and this project is in a priority growth area. He urged them to say ‘This project is what the private sector needs.’”
   He ended by saying, “I look forward to working with you to do the best on this issue in Manville to really take advantage of this historical opportunity to really revitalize your community.”