This article is sponsored by Twocents.
There’s nothing we love more than supporting Montclair’s small businesses. With eateries and shops on every corner, these places are the backbone of our community. But we’ve all been on the other side of the internet, combing through public feedback (both scathing and positive) to make decisions on where to go and what to buy. A team of locals is reimagining how we share that feedback. Twocents is a platform that includes a user-friendly app for both patrons and merchants designed to bring humanity back to customer reviews through direct collaboration between business owners and customers. It’s totally changing the game, and was started right here in Montclair. Read on to learn more about Twocents, a new, Montclair-based customer feedback platform.
About Twocents
Twocents is a private feedback app created by local entrepreneurs, Tom Strollo and Drew Weaver. Its mission is simple: to build a feedback ecosystem where businesses and customers collaborate to create better products, services, and experiences.
Public review platforms such as Google can often turn from praise to punishment, with rage bait and scathing reviews generating engagement. The way these platforms operate affects small businesses dramatically, whether it be positively or negatively. Constructive criticism is truly helpful, but it’s important for businesses to have a safe, private space for useful, honest tips from their customers.
This is where Twocents comes in. Traditional review platforms chase readings and public visibility, but Twocents opens authentic conversations between businesses and customers directly, creating space to thrive, improve, and shape the places we know and love (for the better). In the world of Twocents, feedback doesn’t damage reputations, it drives growth.
How it Works
Bringing humanity back to the customer review experience starts with the simple click. To get started, users can simply visit the Twocents website, enter their phone number, and create an account using their email. For those looking for a more mobile friendly option, the Twocents app is also available with the same sign-up process.
Once you’re in, you can send private comments and feedback directly to any business in Montclair — while remaining anonymous, if you choose. Just choose a category that your feedback is about — such as quality, service, atmosphere or the like – and rate your experience on a 0%-100% scale. The app will be expanding to all of New Jersey this summer, followed by NYC, and then nationwide.
Team MG tested the platform ourselves by submitting two reviews and earned 500 reward points instantly. When users share feedback with businesses on Twocents, reward points can be redeemed for discounts as they accumulate. Plus, user participation enters you into a sweepstakes where one lucky winner each month will receive a free dinner up to $500 at their favorite Montclair restaurant. Gift cards ranging between $25 and $100 are also awarded to eligible users through monthly giveaways at numerous locations, including Boschetto, Ani Ramen, Turtle & the Wolf, Paper Plane Coffee Co., and dozens more.
Joining Twocents
Whether you’re a local business or a patron, Twocents is waiting to hear from you. Residents can share their “two cents” by posting personalized feedback and earn points, rewards, and enter gift card giveaways at some of their favorite spots.
For businesses, Twocents unlocks more control over user reviews and opens the door to a world of constructive feedback to help strengthen the behind-the-scenes decisions guiding each action. Small business owners know that word of mouth is everything, and Twocents creates an exclusive avenue to explore what people are saying.
Twocents is available for all Montclair businesses. The company is highlighting dozens of early partners including Red Eye Cafe, La Rocca Osteria, Giftbar, Paper Plane Coffee Co., Turtle + the Wolf, Tony Boy’s Sandwich House, Marcel Bakery & Kitchen, Playa Taqueria, Montclair Bread Company, Dan & Day’s Burgers and Shakes, Gleek & Howard, Fish Delish, Minia’s Montclair, Boschetto, Ani Ramen House, and many more.
Twocents is currently available for use in the Montclair area before expanding nationwide. To sign up for free, click here.
The YMCA of Montclair’s Annual Montclair Run Returns for Its 42nd Year
This article is sponsored by the YMCA of Montclair.
The countdown begins as the YMCA of Montclair prepares to host its 42nd annual Montclair Run race on Saturday, June 1st. This beloved community event features a 10K Grand Prix Run and a 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk for a day filled with joy and connection. Most importantly, all proceeds from the day will directly support the Y’s Community Health Program Fund. Keep reading to learn more about the YMCA of Montclair’s Montclair Run race and how to register while spots last.
About The YMCA of Montclair
The YMCA of Montclair has been a cornerstone of the community since 1891. With a commitment to promoting healthy living, the Y has created a safe space where locals of all ages are welcome to play, learn, and thrive at any stage of life. At the heart of it all, the Y empowers individuals to reach their full potential through its various support programs, whether it's providing childcare and young adult job training or giving seniors a place to connect.
To promote these efforts, the YMCA of Montclair established its annual Montclair Run back in 1983 to raise proceeds for the Y’s Community Health Program Fund. The tradition lives on 42 years later, continuing to help neighbors live their best lives. For the Y, it’s truly all about giving back.
About The Run
On Saturday, June 1st, 2025, the 42nd Annual Montclair Run will kick off through the streets of Montclair, starting and ending at the Montclair Y headquarters (25 Park Street). Interested participants can register online by May 31st for entry to a 10K Grand Prix Run or a 2-mile Walk/Fun Run.
The 10K is part of a USATF-certified course that spans 6.287 miles and begins at 8 AM. Runners over the age of 16 can register for a $45 fee, while those under 16 can register for a $25 fee. The 2-mile Walk/Fun Run is family-friendly and begins at 10AM. 2-mile participants can register for a $30 fee, and children under 16 can register for $20. 100% of the proceeds will go to the Montclair Y’s Community Health Program Fund. Runners and walkers can take a sneak peek at the route via a map here or take a video tour of what to expect here.
Awards will be given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers overall for each race, given their age and gender categories. All runners and walkers will also receive race swag, including a race t-shirt and a finisher medal, while supplies last. The run is open to all: runners, walkers, and spectators are all encouraged to join in on the fun. Volunteers are always welcome and can register here.
The YMCA of Montclair is located at 25 Park Street in Montclair, New Jersey. For more information about the race, click here or contact the Y directly at 973-744-3400.
