(WHITE TOWNSHIP, NJ – March 6, 2023) – During Black History Month, Warren County celebrated the legacy of Black Americans whose power to lead, to overcome, and to expand the meaning and practice of America’s values has improved their communities.

The United States of America was established upon the profound but simple idea that all people are created equal and should be treated equally. The spirit of Black History Month serves to celebrate and honor black brilliance, culture, work, and the incredible contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout our nation's history.

This year, Warren County joined the rest of the country in honoring the legacy of Black Americans by celebrating the ways in which their work helps to shape and enrich all of our lives.

The Warren County Board of County Commissioners gave out proclamations to two Black business owners in the county, Maryland Woods, owner and operator of Lenora’s Bar & Grill in Phillipsburg, and Tanshel Pointer, owner of Kidz Я People 2 Spa & Lounge and KRP2 Swirl N Chill in Washington Borough.

“It was an honor and a privilege to support local Black American owned businesses during Black History Month,” Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla said, adding, “This country was founded on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all, as well as the ability to become whatever you want to be. These local business owners truly embody the American spirit and dream.”

When the tavern that is now Lenora’s Bar & Grill went up for sale in Phillipsburg, Maryland Woods bought it knowing it would enable him to continue helping the community he loved and already gave so much back to. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Woods and his wife gave out free BBQ dinners every other weekend, feeding more than 300 people. To this day, Lenora’s still gives free meals to the community on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

Tanshel Pointer and her businesses aren’t just a staple of the business community, but the entire community of Washington Borough and Warren County. Pointer uses her platform to spread love and unity among everyone she can, whether it’s hosting events to teach both kids and adults about Black history, participating in the Washington Township Police Department’s “Operation Brain Freeze”, working to promote and fight for small businesses, hosting “Cops Scoop the Ice-cream” days, and always being loving and inclusive of whoever comes through her doors.

“It’s important to honor the achievements and celebrate the heritage of the Black community, and while we honor the past it is comforting to know that the future is bright for Warren County thanks to business leaders like Tanshel and the Woods family,” Commissioner James R. Kern III said.

Commissioner Kern reads proclamation for Maryland Woods and Lenora’s Bar & Grill. Left to right are Vanessa Woods, Maryland Woods, Commissioner James R. Kern III, Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla, Phillipsburg Councilman Randy Piazza Jr.

Commissioner James R. Kern III,  Vanessa Woods, Maryland Woods, Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla, and Phillipsburg Councilman Randy Piazza Jr.

Commissioner Kern enjoys the wonderful BBQ at Lenora’s Bar & Grill; A display honoring Maryland Wood’s late mother, Lenora.

 Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla reads proclamation for Tanshel Pointer, second from left, as Commissioner James R. Kern III and Washington Borough Mayor Ethel Conry look on.

(Left to Right) Commissioner James R. Kern III, Tanshel Pointer, Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla, Washington Borough Mayor Ethel Conry