Park Named In Honor Of Ex-Mahwah Councilwoman

MAHWAH, NJ — A park was dedicated Sunday to a nearly 30-year member of the council for her countless hours of volunteer work and dedication to remembering the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

A ceremony was held at the newly-named Lisa DiGiulio Tranquility Park. The park is located in front of the Department of Public Works building. There is a tree and a small walking path there dedicated to the 9/11 victims, including Richard Avery Aronow, a township resident who died in the attack on the World Trade Center. DiGiulio had the tree planted there.

DiGiulio began holding an annual remembrance service there beginning in 2001.

"She has always tried to make Mahwah a better place," Council President Rob Hermansen said of DiGiulio. "She dedicated 28 years of service as a councilwoman, was a member of the Volunteer Ambulance Corps for many years, and served on the Beautification Committee."

Hermanensen said a marker with DiGiulio's name and the name of the park would be erected at some point.

"It's a great place for people to go and reflect and remember, especially 9/11 victims and Mr. Aronow," Hermansen said.

DiGiulio said she was "shocked" when she found out about the honor.

"This came out of the blue. It was a very well-kept secret. Certainly, I'm very honored. I was overwhelmed today. It's never just one person who accomplishes things, it's a group of people," DiGiulio said. "I've worked with a lot of amazing people. I just want to remember these people, especially the police, the Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the firefighters, and the Department of Public Works. They're out there protecting us all the time."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com

Photo by Emily Leayman, Patch staff