Joe Matos cheese factory, founded in 1979 by Joe and Mary Matos, is closing primarily due to Joe's health needs requiring 24/7 care from his daughter, Tucker. Increased workers' compensation premiums and the closure of a local supply plant have compounded their challenges. For over 40 years, the factory has produced beloved St. Jorge cheese, known for its unique flavors. Local restaurants have stocked up in anticipation of the closure, leaving the community saddened by the factory's legacy ending as fans bid farewell to their cherished cheese.
We've been having so many wonderful people come out. They all understand. They're just sad to see us go. I'm sad to see us go, but Dad's the most important thing right now.
Dad is Joe Matos, the factory's namesake, who along with his wife Mary immigrated from the Portuguese island of St. Jorge, in the Azores, in the 1960s.
Tucker refers to a 'bogus' claim, disputed for two years, that caused monthly rates to triple and the operation to be helmed solely by Tucker and her daughter, Heather.
It's sad because this has always been my favorite cheese. I can't imagine not having it anymore.
Collection
[
|
...
]