Published on June 13, 2013

Mayor Janice S. Mironov presented the East Windsor Township 2012 Business Awards at a recent Township Council meeting to: Dairy Queen;Moe’s Southwest Grill; and Pak Mail.

Each year the Township recognizes three businesses which have been special in some way for the community. This year’s theme, noting the challenging economic environment, focused on local small businesses operated by area residents. These awards were made to three Township businesses which have exhibited commendable local spirit and been strong participants and supporters of the community, by way of contributions to organizations such as East Windsor PAL, HEWYBL, local Fire Companies, East Windsor Regional School District events, East Windsor Senior Center, East Windsor Clean Communities events, and East Windsor National Night Out.

Mayor Mironov presented to owner George Vardakis the business award for Dairy Queen, on Route 130 North. Dairy Queen will be celebrating their 50th anniversary in East Windsor in 2014. The Vardakis family opened the East Windsor Dairy Queen in 1964, and George Vardakis has operated the store since 1998. The East Windsor Dairy Queen also received a 35 year award from Dairy Queen corporate in 1999.

Mayor Mironov stated, “For nearly half a century Dairy Queen of East Windsor has shown their generosity and community spirit through their participation and support of many local programs and activities. A true community landmark, their support of our community is far reaching and a model for others to follow.”

Mayor Mironov presented an award to owner Bhadresh Patel of Moe’s Southwest Grill, located in the Wawa Shopping Center, just west of Route 130 on Hickory Corner Road. Moe’s, which opened in 2007, prides itself on freshness and an expansive menu which includes several vegetarian options, underscored by no freezer or microwave on site.

Mayor Mironov stated, “Moe’s Southwest Grill has always been a community minded business, a favorite of local residents and an ever presence at community events. As one of the few which maintained power in the days following Storm Sandy, Moe’s Southwest Grill became a community focal point, welcoming residents to charge cell phones, computers and other electronic devices. There success is evident through the many loyal customers who frequent their restaurant and speak highly of the quality of their menu and service.”

Mayor Mironov presented an award to owner Michael Baskin of Pak Mail, located on Route 130 North in the Town Center Plaza Shopping Center. Pak Mail recently celebrated their 5th Anniversary in East Windsor this year. From a sales perspective, they are ranked 71 out of 280 stores nationwide and 400 stores worldwide.

Mayor Mironov stated, “Pak Mail chose to open for business in a prime location in the vibrant Town Center Plaza Shopping Center and the Township is excited to see them performing well in comparison to their sister stores around the county and worldwide. The business quickly became an active participant in our community, as Michael Baskin personally is a member of the Township Recreation Committee, contributing to the development of community programs and activities.”

East Windsor Township Mayor Janice S. Mironov presents the Township 2012 Business Awards to three local businesses – Pak Mail, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Dairy Queen. Pictured (from left to right) are: Pak Mail owner Michael Baskin; Dairy Queen owner George Vardakis; Mayor Janice S. Mironov, and Moe’s Southwest Grill owner Bhadresh Patel.