Bergen County Commissioners's Podcast: Recent Episodes
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The Bergen County Board of Commissioners cover topics of interest to the residents of Bergen County, Northern New Jersey, and the entire region.
In this episode, Commissioner Mary Amoroso speaks to members of Bergen County's Division of Mosquito Control to discuss their efforts to monitor and manage mosquito populations. In attendance are Assistant Chiefs Grace Grootenboer and Frank Del Vecchio, Mosquito Inspectors Danny Nahra and Chris Jiosi, and Mosquito ID Specialist Brian Kong. Steven Spoto, Director of Communications and Policy for the Commissioners Office, also brings hands-on experience from working in Mosquito Control. For more information, visit https://bergencountynj.gov/bergen-county-department-of-public-works/mosquito-control/
In this episode, Commissioner Amoroso speaks with New Milford Councilman Matt Seymour, founder of the Domestic Violence Symposium. They discuss how the symposium began, its growth across the county, and the impact made on our residents. For more information on the symposium, visit @nomoreviolence2025 on Instagram.
Commissioner Amoroso joins Bergen's Promise CEO Dean Pastras and Community Outreach Specialist/Training Facilitator Nuha Kased-Hamoudeh to discuss how mental health training is equipping community members to better support youth in crisis. Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton and Lieutenant Damian Pope of the Community Outreach Unit provide insight into how public safety interests with mental health and wellness.
In this episode, Commissioner Amoroso visits the Butterfly Garden at Overpeck County Park with Don Torino, President of the Bergen County Audobon Society. The two discuss the role of native plants in Bergen County, pollinator habitats, and the power of community-driven conservation. For more information on the Audobon Society and their incredible volunteers, visit bergencountyaudobon.org
In this episode, Commissioner Amoroso speaks with Andrea Sheridan, Assistant Superintendent of Bergen County Technical Schools, and Dennis Montone, Principal of Applied Technology High School. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the future of vocational training, in time for Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month.
In this episode, Commissioner Chairwoman Amoroso speaks with Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton ahead of his newly sworn in term. The Bergen County Sheriff’s Office is committed to fostering community trust and engagement through programs like the Citizens Police Academy and the Youth Police Academy. These initiatives provide residents with a foundational understanding of law enforcement, preparing many for careers in criminal justice. Beyond education, they also serve as vital rehabilitation tools, helping participants transition into productive paths.
Looking ahead, the Sheriff’s Office is revitalizing community policing with a new Park, Walk, and Talk initiative. Officers will engage directly with the public in county parks and cooperating municipalities, fostering trust and opening vital channels of communication.
Stay informed by downloading the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office app on Google Play or the App Store. Get real-time updates and alerts to help protect your community. Together, we stop crime by sharing knowledge and building connections.
Also, beware of ongoing phone scams targeting Bergen County residents. Stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.
Commissioner Amoroso speaks with Joel Flagler, Department Head of Bergen County’s Extension Program at Rutgers University, as well as a Professor within the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences. The two discuss the breadth of programs and services available through the Extension Program and environmental tips for homeowners in the county.
In this special episode, Commissioner Amoroso brings together representatives from our county election agencies to discuss voting ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Deb Francica and Jamie Sheehan-Willis of the Superintendent of Elections, Richard Miller of the Board of Elections, and Sabrina Taranto of the County Clerk’s Election Division discuss the various roles fulfilled by each agency during the election process.
In this episode, Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Anna Gassib, founder of Bergen Equine Center’s A Stable Life equine therapy program. The two discuss the therapeutic power of horses in addressing trauma, highlighting how their gentle nature and non-judgmental presence foster emotional healing.
In honor of Hunger Action Month, Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Commissioner Zur and Jill Goordman- Assistant Director of the newly instated Unity Pantry in Garfield. The three discuss the changing landscape of food security in Bergen County and how residents can get involved via donations and volunteering.
For over 42 years, ADV’s county operated team of dedicated professionals have provided critical support services to Bergen County residents impacted and affected by abuse in their relationships. In this episode, Commissioner Amoroso is joined by division director Marisa Heluk and training technician Sophia Traphagen to discuss how the division uplifts and supports survivors in all stages of their journey.
On today's episode, Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Don Torino, President of the Bergen County Audubon Society and a member of The Nature Program Cooperative, to discuss the critical challenges facing butterfly populations. Recorded during Butterfly Day in the Meadowlands, this episode delves into the vital role butterflies play as indicators of a healthy ecosystem. Torino explains how the decline in butterfly species signals broader environmental issues, particularly in regions like New Jersey that are grappling with habitat loss. Tune in to learn more about how we can all contribute to preserving these beautiful and essential creatures.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined on today's episode with Dr. Arnold Brown, a Bergen County Historian and Civil Rights Leader, at Gethsemane Cemetery in honor of Juneteenth. The two discuss the history and legacy of the historically Black cemetery, which is recognized in the National Register of Historical Places.
In this enlightening conversation, Commissioner Mary Amoroso sits down to chat with Shelby Klein, Director of the Division of Mental Health & Addiction Services to delve into the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on young children who missed out on key socialization experiences. Throughout the discussion, a number of services and resources offered by the division are highlighted, offering valuable insight for families seeking help for loved ones. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape and available support systems for mental health and addiction.
Bergen County Board of Commissioner Chair Pro Tempore Dr. Joan Voss sits down with Commissioner Vice Chairwoman Mary Amoroso to discuss her heartfelt love of animals, shedding light on Bergen County's remarkable animal shelter and the transformative power of adopting a pet. Tune in to explore the profound impact of animal companionship and the invaluable work being done to support animal welfare in Bergen County.
Bergen County Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Joanne Cimiluca, the Bergen County Director of Economic Development, to discuss grant opportunities for small businesses and the brand new Film-Ready program. If you’re interested in joining New Jersey’s booming film industry, pay close attention!
Bergen County is home to roughly 25,000 veterans and 4,000 surviving spouses. There are many benefits that most veterans and surviving spouses qualify for, especially for those who are disabled. Director of Veteran Services Shaun Hutchinson discusses some of these benefits with Bergen County Commissioner Amoroso as well as other programs and initiatives the Department of Veteran Services are providing to help as many veterans as possible. Commissioner Amoroso also shares a touching story of a specific individual who received life-changing help from Director Hutchinson and his staff.
Bergen County Commissioner Mary Amoroso discusses statistics regarding mental health with Deborah Visconi, President and CEO at New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus. Over the last two years, there has been a 35% increase in in-patient care for children between the ages of 5 and 17, a potential after-effect of social isolation during the pandemic. During that same time span, New Bridge Medical Center has also provided mental health services to over 200 families, totaling over 5,600 services provided. Bergen County’s Stigma-Free movement is working tirelessly to continue encouraging those experiencing mental health problems to take action and seek help. Commissioner Amoroso and Ms. Visconi also discuss potential red flags to be on the lookout for that may help to identify if your loved ones are experiencing mental health issues.
Bergen County Commissioner Mary Amoroso has a conversation with Jeremy Wertheim, Principal at Bergen County Technical School’s Paramus campus. They discuss how their programs are preparing the next generation of work force by providing seniors work opportunities one day a week in the field they are studying.
Bergen County Technical Schools offer up to eleven different technical programs that place an empahsis on careers that are in high demand. Some of those technical programs include animal care, medical, culinary, cosmetology, carpentry, plumbing, and mechanical. The culinary program recently won a gold medal in a state-wide wedding cake competition hosted by Skills U.S.A. N.J.
Bergen County Commissioner Mary Amoroso sits down with Joanne Cimiluca, the Bergen County Director of Economic Development, to discuss several FREE resources Bergen County offers its local small businesses.
First, they discuss is Size Up, a free data intelligence tool to compare your business to industry competitors.
Then, Commissioner Amoroso and Joanne Cimiluca are joined by two Bergen County small business owners and the student support specialists who helped them produce social media content and develop an online presence for their business.
For more information, please visit https://www.bergenforbusiness.com/
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Shelby Klein, the Bergen County Director of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
The two discuss the new 988 national mental health hotline. This new number is easier to remember than the 800 number, and still offers free services to those in need. You can call for yourself, or a friend or loved one.
To reach Bergen County's Mental Health & Addiction Services Department, call 201-634-2750.
Car thefts are up 53% over last year in Bergen County. Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella to discuss the car theft problem in Bergen County and what the Prosecutor's office is doing to address this crisis.
Commissioner Amoroso speaks with her guest, Anika Davis the Director of the Division of Disability Services in Bergen County. The two discuss numerous important programs and services available to the residents of Bergen County. Included in the discussion is Meals of Wheels, Personal Assiatnce Services, Post Stroke & Disabled Adult Support Group, and much more. For inquiries and assistance, call the division at 201-336-6500.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Shelby Klein, the Bergen County Director of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The two discuss resources available to those in crisis. The number to reach Mental Health Services is 201-634-2750, and Addiction Services assistance can be reached at 201-634-2740.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Michael Sluka, Counsel to the Board of Social Services, and Sonia Aufiero, Supervisor of the Bergen County Adult Protective Services Unit. Together, the three discuss protecting senior citizens from being financially scammed by criminals trying to separate them from their life savings. If you know of, or think that someone you know is being scammed, call 1-800-624-0275 24/7.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Bergen County's new Acting Director of Veterans Services Shaun Hutchinson. Together they discuss services available to our veterans, and the best way they can gain access to the benefits they've earned. Please reach out to Veterans Services at veterans@co.bergen.nj.us or call them at 201-336-6325.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by the Director of Economic Development in Bergen County, Joanne Cimiluca.
Bergen County has launched a FREE set of tools and services for business owners, and start up businesses. Whatever your business, Bergen County is ready and willing to partner with you to help you grow. Visit www.bergenforbusiness.com for more information. You can also call Joanne directly at 201-336-7336.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Deborah Visconi, the President and Chief Executive of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Newsweek Magazine recently recognized New Bridge as one of the top nursing home facilities in the United States. They discuss how New Bridge has grown and changed over the last several years to become a nationally recognized facility of excellence. To speak with a New Bridge health care professional call 201-967-4073.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Julia Orlando, the Driector of the Bergen County Homeless Shelter and the newly appointed Board Chair of New Bridge Medical Center. The two discuss how COVID-19 has impacted services for the homeless population, and how the shelter has mantained continuity in serving people in need. They also discuss the added complexity of a record month of cold which resulted in a continous month of "Code Blue."
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by New Milford Councilwoman Hedy Grant. While researching her historic home, Hedy uncovered a unique phrase in the public records "Old Colored Burying Ground." That phrase led her on a fascinating journey of discovery about the history of Black people in Bergen County, and more specifically New Milford, New Jersey.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Superintendent Howard Lerner to discuss the coming vocational technical high school coming to Bergen County. The state and county funded high school will be located in Paramus adjacent to Paramus Tech.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Table to Table Vice President of Operations Julie Kinner to discuss a great initiative to provide turkeys to those in need during the holidays.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by University of Pennsylvania undergraduate, Alex Howe to discuss an invention he and some fellow students patented while they were middle school students in Glen Rock, New Jersey. The invention turns nitrogen found in water into nitrogen gas which once removed from the water creates a cleaner environment for both the water, as well as the wildlife that relies on the water for survival.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Regan Downey, Director of Education at the Wolf Conservation Center to discuss the Red Wolf Species Survival Plan and how Red Wolf brothers, Rich and Shane fit into growing a worldwide red wolf population as residents of the Bergen County Zoo.
For more information on Red Wolves visit www.nywolf.org.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Bergen County Communications Director Frank DelVecchio for the Bergen County Public Safety Operations Center. The two have an in-depth discussion about the over 100 fold increase in calls to 911 services throughout the county; how we responded; lessons learned; and how shared service agreements are greatly advantageous to the municipalities across the county.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by County Clerk Elections Division Supervisor Sabrina Taranto; Superintendent of Elections and Commissioner of Registration Debra Francica, and Deputy Superintendent of Elections Jamie Sheehan-Willis.
The four discuss the upcoming General Election, and clarify the three ways to vote in Bergen County. This helpful podcast provides listeners with important dates, phone numbers, and websites that residents can use to to make sure their vote gets counted this November.
For questions about your vote-by-mail ballot, contact the Bergen County CLERK'S ELECTIONS DIVISION at electionsclerk@co.bergen.nj.us or (201) 336-7020.
For questions about your polling place, or location of secure drop boxes, contact the Bergen County BOARD OF ELECTIONS at elections@co.bergen.nj.us or (201) 336-6230.
For questions about voter registration, or to report a potential election violation, contact the OFFICE OF THE Bergen County SUPERINTENDENT OF ELECTIONS at soe@co.bergen.nj.us or (201) 336-6109.
To track your vote-by-mail ballot, locate your polling location, or secure ballot drop boxes, or check the status of your voter registration, visit www.vote.nj.gov
Commissioner Mary Amoroso sits down with Edgewater Mayor Michael McPartland to discuss how Superstorm IDA impacted Edgewater.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by New Milford Councilwoman Randi Duffie to discuss the impact of Superstorm IDA on New Milford, and the surrounding areas.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by fellow Bergen County Commissioner Germaine Ortiz who also served as the Chair of Bergen County's Complete Count Efforts. Together the two discuss the findings contained in the recent census as well as lessons learned and how this census will impact the county for the next decade.
Inspired by the conservatorship issues surrounding Britney Spears, Commissioner Amoroso talks with Bergen County Surrogate Michael Dressler and how conservatorship works, and how families in Bergen County can work with the Surrogate's office to properly and legally care for your loved ones.
Commissioner Amoroso and Bergen County Audubon Society President Don Torino get together to discuss the fascinating story of "Alice the Eagle" - Bergen County's own American Bald Eagle.
Commissioner Amoroso and Rutherford's Acting Mark Mark Goldsack discuss the transfer of ownership of the historic William Carlos Williams Center from Bergen County to the Borough of Rutherford.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso talks with State of New Jersey Paul Aronsohn, the Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities and Their Families. The two discuss where things stand at the state and county levels, and where residents can turn to for assistance.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Stephanie Hartman, the Bergen County Mental Health First Aid Training Core Coordinator. The two discuss youth mental health issues; where parents, students, and school representatives can turn to for help.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by new County Administrator & County Counsel, Tom Duch. The two speak on a wide range of topics including; how he got his start in elected politics, public service, the difference between holding elected office, and serving the public from a manager/administrator role; and his transition from Garfield City Manager to his new roles in Bergen County.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by high school student, Valeri Guevvara. Valeri is the Founder & Executive Director of The ten Health 101, a youth-led nonprofit media organization that focuses on creating multimedia and reliable health resources to educate and inform the youth.
Bergen County Entomologist Matt Bickerton joins Commissioner Mary Amoroso to discuss a wide-range of bugs and insects in Bergen County; What the county is doing to keep people safe, and what residents should do as we enter into the warmer weather.
2019 Miss Bergen, and Pediatric Occupational Therapist Annelise Malgieri joins Commissioner Mary Amoroso to discuss mental illness, the Stigma Free Campaign, and her personal experiences as someone diagnosed with OCD.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by BCCLS Executive Director David Hanson. The two discuss how local libraries, and BCCLS fared during the pandemic, and how BCCLS is adjusting to a "new normal" as libraries serviced by BCCLS open up to patrons on a wide-scale basis.
To learn more about BCCLS, visit them at www.bccls.org.
Mary Amoroso is joined by Ridgewood High School students to discuss a paper they wrote on redlining - a practice of housing inequality practiced by government and the real estate industry to prevent minorities from moving into town.
The authors of the Ridgewood paper, "A Lasting Legacy: An Analysis of the Causes and Potential Solutions to U.S. Housing Inequality with a Focus on New Jersey," are Alexandra Jerdee, 17; Rebeca Samano, 17; Charles Healy, 17; Skyler Snow, 18; Emma Su, 18; Peter Joseph, 16; and Emily Truszkowski, 17.
The paper will be published in the first issue of the Journal of Future Economists this summer along with 11 other winners of the High School Fed Challenge, which aims to help students in ninth through 12th grades learn more about economics.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Yusra Matari, staff attorney for the Center for Hope and Safety. Together they discuss options for victims of domestic violence in all its forms. If you need assistance, or know someone that does, listen to this podcast and avail yourself of the services offered through the center.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by AJ Luna, Director of Veteran Services, and Dave Pearson, Assistant Director of Veterans Services at Catholic Charities, and the Co-Chair of NJSOS Vets Stakeholder Group. The three discuss programs and services available to Bergen County veterans.
Commissioner Amoroso talks with Simaza Sadek, the Director of Healing Space YWCA of Northern New Jersey about crisis intervention and support for victims of abuse of any kind. If your a victim of abuse or know someone who is, this podcast offers listeners critical advise for how best to proceed.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Lori Razzetti, the Administrator for the Office of Victim Witness and Advocacy within the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Stephanie Wang, a Rutgers Student who is making her voice heard in response to the rash of anti-Asian speech, and violence. She discusses how this unacceptable behavior started long before the outbreak of COVID19.
April is Internship Appreciation Month. Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Sophia Traphagen & Andrew Warta. Sophia is earning her Masters Degree in Social Work at Fordham University, and Andrew is completing his degree at Bergen Community College before starting Rutgers University in the Fall.
Sophia & Andrew are both interning with the Bergen County Board of County Commissioners.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso and Hillsdale Police Captain Sean Smith have a discussion on the history of the Hillsdale Police Department, as well as the two books Captain Smith has written on the subject, and the third one which is scheduled for release July, 2021.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Founder of the Asian American Youth Council Brian Jon to discuss the skyrocketing attacks on Asian Americans as a result of COVID19.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined my the owner of It's Greek to Me in Ridgewood, Paul Vagianos. Paul is also the former president of the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. The two discuss a special program spearheaded out of Ridgewood which is providing meals to people in Bergen County facing food insecurity, while also keeping the doors open in many restaurants in town.
Deborah Powell, the past president and museum collection chair of the Bergen County Historical Society join Commissioner Amoroso to discuss the history of Bergen County, and in specific New Bridge Landing.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by her fellow Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur. Together they discuss Tracy's work spearheading Bergen County's effort to address food insecurity, and hunger that many Bergen County families are experiencing as a result of COVID19.
Commissioner Amoroso is joined by Julie O'Brien, the Director of Bergen County's Office for Children. They discuss providing safe child care for Bergen families as a critical component of getting parents back to work.
Commissioner Amoroso talks with the new President of Bergen Community College, Dr. Eric M. Friedman. The two discuss the unique benefits of Bergen Community College, and how students and faculty are navigating COVID to create a great learning environment and experience for all.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by Colin Knight, a member of the Franklin Lakes Historical Society to discuss the rich history of Crystal Lake in Franklin Lakes, NJ.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by executives from the Bergen County Job Center, as well as Christine Budowsky, the Director of Business Operations at BioReference to discuss Bergen County's Virtual Job Fair.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by AJ Luna, the Director of the Division of Veterans Services, and Julia Orlando, the Director of Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center. The three discuss how the county is proactively addressing homelessness during COVID in Bergen County.
Commissioner Mary Amoroso is joined by newly sworn in Bergen County Commissioner Ramon M. Hache, Sr. They discuss Ramon's journey from immigrating with his family to the United States at the age of nine, and the steps along the way which brought him to where he is today.
Chairwoman Amoroso speaks with Erin Beischer, the Unit Coordinator for Special Child Health Services in Bergen County. Together, they discuss how the County is offering assistance to families looking to have their child evaluated, explore options, and receive services .
Chairwoman Amoroso and Linsey Short, Director of Development for the Center for Hope and Safety discuss domestic violence and how the center is assisting victims and children of domestic violence during the pandemic. To reach their 24 hotline, dial 201-944-9600, or visit them online at www.hopeandsafetynj.org.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Mark Welsh, Esq., Sr. Housing Attorney with Northeast New Jersey Legal Services to discuss housing evictions & moratoriums. They talk about how landlords and tenants are navigating the legal system during these stressful times. The legal services offered to tenants are without costs.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Mitch Schonefeld, CEO & President off the Bergen Volunteer enter. They discuss charitable giving during COVID. The Bergen Volunteer Center has been serving the residents of Bergen County since 1898. For more information, go to www.bergenfamilycenter.org.
Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Nina Bachrach, CEO of Bergen Volunteer Center to discuss charitable holiday giving and volunteering during COVID. For more information visit www.bergenvolunteers.org.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Ridgewood Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke to discuss community policing. Chief Luthcke shares her experience of beginning as a police officer and leading her local department.
There’s no other way to say it; Theodora Smiley Lacey is living history. She is a civil rights activist who helped organize the Montgomery bus boycott. She subsequently moved up north where she and her family settled in Teaneck. There, she fought for voting rights and fair housing. Chairwoman Mary Amoroso had the privilege to speak with this living legend shortly after an elementary school in Teaneck was named in her honor.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso sits down with Glen Rock Police Officer Sarah Orsita to discuss what it's like to be a female police officer here in Bergen County.
Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Marianne Vella, Zoo Director of the Bergen County Zoo located at Van Saun Park. The two discuss how the zoo has been impacted by COVID19 and the changes they have had to make to keep animals and visitors safe. Go online to https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/bergen-county-zoo/about-bergen-county-zoo to purchase tickets to visit the zoo.
Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Sr. Assistant Prosecutor Brian Sinclair - the Chief of Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Cyber Crime Unit. They discuss the functions of the cyber crime unit and the important role it plays in protecting our children.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by David Cohen, the Division Director of Bergen County Alternative to Domestic Violence. The two discuss domestic violence during the pandemic and resources available to Bergen County residents in order to take proactive action to find solutions to a critical problem.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks about the challenges of aging in place in the time of COVID19 with Jacqueline Kates Project Advisor from Age Friendly Teaneck, and Janet Sharma - coordinator of Age Friendly Englewood.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by the Director of the Bergen County Animal Shelter & Adoption Center, Deb Yankow.
They discuss the unique challenges of caring for shelter animals during the COVID19 pandemic and how they are still able to find good homes for many deserving animals. However, the shelter still needs our support.
Bergen County Commissioner Chair Pro Tempore Steve Tanelli and Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso are joined by Amanda Garzon, the National Director of Program Services and Communications at the Hydrocephalus Association to discuss hydrocephalus and what resources exist for anyone with hydrocephalus, or anyone concerned that they or a loved one may have this condition.
Commissioner Chair Pro Temper Steve Tanelli leads a discussion on innovative approaches to addressing opioid and heroine addiction in Bergen County. Joining the discussion are Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, Captain Hector Carter - head of the Bergen County Prosecutor's Narcotic Task Force, and Elizabeth Raybine - Senior Assistant Prosecutor, Chief of Community Engagement.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Sue Debiak - the Division Director for the office of Alcohol & Drug Dependency, and Luis Sanchez - the Program Coordinator of Telehealth Services. The three discuss Bergen County's efforts to deal with the opioid crisis.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Carnegie Mellon University Professor Lisa Tetrault. Professor Tetrault specializes in the history of U.S. women and gender. The two discuss a fifty year period in the late 19th century and separate fact from fiction, and the importance of controlling the narrative surrounding the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks with Garden State Equality Executive Director Christian Fuscarino about a wide range of issues which impact the LGBTQ Community. For more information go to www.gardenstateequality.org or send an e-mail to Christian at fuscarino@gardenstateequality.org.
Commissioner Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Commissioner Tom Sullivan and joined by Ashley Sudol from the Center for Alcohol & Drug Resources at Children's Aid and Family Services as well as Pascack Hills student activist Ariah Chalileh to discuss the dangers and of vaping among the youth of Bergen County.
Chairwoman Amoroso talks with Tammy Murphy, First Lady of New Jersey to discuss the First Lady's State-Wide Awareness campaign to combat poor maternal mortality outcomes in our state. For more information, go to nj.gov/nurturenj.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Christine Eubank, Bergen Community College Associate Professor of History - Specializing in the Modern Women's Movement. The two talk about the growth and sometimes awkward evolution of the suffrage movement in the United States of America.
Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso is joined by Dr. Marcela Micucci, Curatorial Fellow in Women's History at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. Together, they discuss women having the right to vote in New Jersey from 1776-1807. How it came to be, and how and why it ended.
For more information, visit the Museum's website at www.amrevmuseum.org.
Mary is joined by Cynthia Forster, Director of Bergen County's Division of Cultural & Historical Affairs, as well as Vivian Davis, the host of the Bergen County Women's Suffrage film series under the direction of the Division of Cultural & Historical Affairs.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Jean Sinzdak, the Associate Director of the Center for American Women and Politics at the Eagleton Institute at Rutgers University. They discuss the Ready to Run program which helps women of all political parties in their efforts to seek public office at all levels of government.
Mary is joined by Bergen County Prosecutor Chief of Investigations Robert Anzilotti, and Lt. Kelly Krenn of the North Jersey Cold Case Homicide Task Force. The three discuss cold cases in Bergen County.
Mary talks with Larry Hlavenka, Bergen County Community College's Executive Director of Public Relations, Community & Cultural Affairs. They discuss how higher learning is changing to meet the new challenges presented by COVID19.
Bergen County Clerk John Hogan joins Chairwoman Amoroso to discuss the impact of COVID19 on some of the duties he carries out - performing marriages, as well as voerseeing the design, printing and mailing of ballots for the November General Election - as part of his position.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by her colleague, Freeholder Joan Voss to discuss the importance of Project Literacy. If you need assistance with your English reading skills or would like to get involved as a volunteer, call 201-301-9676.
Chairwoman Amoroso speaks with Bergen County Director of Communications and 911 Coordinator, Frank Delvecchio. The topic: Emergency Response Services offered and provided by Bergen County.
Chairwoman Amoroso is joined by Acting Director for Mosquito Control in Bergen County, Warren Staudinger, and Bergen County Entomologist Matt Bickerton to discuss the mosquito population in Bergen County.
Montclair State University Anthropology Professor Dr. Christopher Matthews, PhD. and Eric D. Johnson, PhD Candidate studying at Harvard University join the podcast to discuss the archaeological survey of the Dunderhook area of Saddle River County Park about to get underway in the next several months.
The podcast delves into the history of the African American people in Bergen County. To find out more information you can reach out to our guests at ericjohnson@g.harvard.edu and/or matthewsc@montclair.edu.
Brian Jon - Founder & President of the Asian American Youth Council joins the podcast to discuss the events leading up to and following his founding the Asian American youth Council.
Lawrence Fine, the president of the Bergen County chapter of Students Demand Action joins the podcast to talk about gun violence, and Black Lives Matter from a student's perspective.
Lisa Sandhusen is a Parent Peer Educator, a Post Partum Doula, as well as a Councilwoman from New Milford. She and Chairwoman Amoroso talk about maternal and reproductive health during the COVIS19 pandemic.
Freeholder Chair Mary Amoroso checks in with the head of the Bergen County Complete Count Committee, Freeholder Germaine Ortiz. The two speak about the importance of the federal census, as well as how we are performing as a county. If you haven't provided your information to the census, here's your chance to get it done. Lots of good and important information for all.
Freeholder Chair Mary Amoroso is joined by Freeholder Steve Tanelli and the Director of Bergen County Veterans Services AJ Luna to discuss Bergen County Veterans and a new veteran recognition program - conceived of by Freeholder Tanelli - the Bergen County Veteran of the Week.
Jeff Carter discusses important racial issues that exist here in Bergen County. Mr. Carter provides important context and insights for what needs t4o happen to move forward in order to create a better and stronger Bergen County for all residents.
Pat discusses the dramatic uptick in the need for food assistance for the residents of Bergen County. They are now assisting more than 20,000 people every day.
Lee Porter - an Icon for Fair Housing in Bergen County and beyond speaks with Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso about her decades-long efforts to improve fair housing in Bergen County.
She is living history. Prepare to be both informed and entertained.
Small business owners in Bergen County can apply for small business grants through Bergen County. If your business is between 1 and 19 full time employees, this podcast is for you.
Freeholder Tracy Zur talks with Freeholder Chairwoman May Amoroso about how Bergen County is stepping up to help it's residents with food assistance in the time of COVID19.
Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso and Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton discuss modern policing in Bergen County and the changes over the last several months.
Spring House is a half-way house for women in Bergen County that recently celebrated their 45th year in operation. Over the years, Spring House has assisted over 1,800 women recover from their individual illnesses.
Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks with Spring House Director Sue Debiak, and Alyssa, once a resident and now an employee helping others follow her footsteps through the program.
Project SEARCH Transition-to-Work Program is a unique, business-led, one-year employment preparation program for uniquely abled children in their last year of education that takes place entirely at the workplace. Total workplace immersion facilitates a seamless combination of classroom instruction, career exploration, and hands-on training through a series of targeted non-paid internships.
Detective Christopher Nichols of the Maywood Police Department was the first officer to introduce a scent-specific dog in Bergen County. His K9 companion, Remi, receives calls all over Bergen County to assist in missing persons cases as well as ongoing criminal investigations. Remi is currently the only bloodhound in the county trained to locate individuals after a single sniff of their scent from an article of clothing or even a few drops of blood. Officer Nichols and Remi discuss how the program works in Maywood and the possibility of expanding the use of more bloodhounds throughout Bergen County.
Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso speaks with Patrick Fallon – Project Coordinator, Bergen County Division of Senior Services, and Myrna Bruno – Senior Wellness Specialist, Bergen County Division of Senior Services.
The three discuss the federal grant Bergen County recently received to combat elder abuse. The $300,000 grant was only awarded to 8 communities across the country, and Bergen County is already hard at work putting this grant to good use. Specifically, the grant comes from the Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) Enhanced Training and Services to End Abuse in Later Life Program.
Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks with fellow Freeholder Steve Tanelli, and Michael Demarco - coach of the Lyndhurst High School wrestling program about the Wrestling Takes Down Drugs (WTTD) program.
WTTD focuses on strengthening and educating local wrestling programs to help in the prevention of drug addiction for the young people in our communities. Each wrestler and coach signs a pledge that acknowledges awareness of the crisis and their determination to avoid being drawn in.
Bergen County Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks with Julia Orlando, the Director of the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center about "Code Blue" - which provides for emergency shelter for the homeless when temperatures fall to 32 degrees or below.
Bergen County Freeholder Chairwoman Mary Amoroso talks with Bergen County Freeholder Germaine Ortiz about the upcoming 2020 Census. Freeholder Ortiz is in charge of Bergen County's census efforts and she goes into great detail about the importance of the census, the security and privacy of the data, as well as how easy it is for residents to complete the 2020 census.