District 37 Candidates Rose Hernandez Carroll and Yitz Stern Continue Community Momentum with Back-to-Back Meet & Greets in Bogota and Hackensack

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ – May 2, 2025 – This week, the Together for Bergen 37 campaign brought vibrant energy and powerful conversation to both Bogota and Hackensack as candidates Rosemary Hernandez Carroll and Yitz Stern continued their district-wide outreach, connecting with residents, elected officials, and local supporters to discuss the issues that matter most.

On Tuesday, April 29, more than 40 residents gathered at Bistro Taino in Bogota for a meaningful evening of conversation and connection, hosted by Bogota Council President Frank Miranda, Councilwoman Diana Vergara, and former Councilman Jorge Nuñez. Each host expressed their strong support for candidates who are present, prepared, and grounded in community values. Jorge Nuñez emphasized the importance of electing leaders who understand the people they represent and are committed to advocating for them at the state level. The event welcomed council and board of education representatives, along with community members eager to engage. Special thanks to Abner, Hackensack resident, co-owner, and manager of Bistro Taino, whose hospitality and endorsement added to the evening’s warmth and spirit.

Just two days later, on Thursday, May 1, nearly 100 enthusiastic residents packed Viva Margarita’s in Hackensack for a festive evening of food, live music, and civic engagement. Guests were treated to an energetic performance by Grupo Yanikeke, a ten-piece band that had the crowd dancing, including Rosemary’s proud parents who immigrated to Hackensack in pursuit of a better future for their family. The band played fan favorites like Carnaval, Volveré, Verano en Nueva York, and La Dueña del Swing, igniting a joyful celebration that reflected the heart and rhythm of the community.

Rosemary delivered a powerful bilingual speech, sharing her story as a Hackensack native, the daughter of Dominican immigrants, a public school graduate, and a small business owner raising her family in the very community that shaped her. “I don’t come to you with a pocket full of policies,” she said. “I come with an open heart and a clear purpose: to listen, to serve, and to uplift.” Her message centered on perseverance, unity, and the importance of working together to build a better future. She invited the community to help make history by electing the first Latina to represent District 37.

Yitz Stern, Chief Fiscal Officer of Bergen County’s Department of Public Safety, spoke about his extensive background in government and fiscal management. He emphasized how his experience pairs with Rosemary’s energy and insight to offer the kind of balanced leadership the district needs. Hackensack Councilman Gerard Carroll, Sr. also offered remarks, voicing his confidence in their ability to advocate for Hackensack and beyond.

Both events highlighted the campaign’s commitment to listening, showing up, and uplifting the communities they seek to represent. From Bogota to Hackensack, the momentum continues to grow.

As the campaign heads into its next phase, Together for Bergen 37 encourages supporters to get involved. Every conversation, every shared message, and every volunteer effort brings Rosemary and Yitz one step closer to victory.

Join the movement at: www.togetherforbergen37.com/getinvolved

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