New Biz Opens in Walgreens Node

"It's great to see a new business moving in. Revitalization is happening near the and new construction — exactly what we had hoped and expected would happen," said Township Committeeman Jerry Ryan this morning at the grand opening ribbon-cutting for Thernize & Associates Tax Services on 10 Burnett Avenue.

For his part, Pierre Thernize is excited to be in the area, just in time for the busy income tax preparation period.

Thernize is an Irvington resident with five years of experience in the financial world working for J.P. Morgan Chase, but he wanted to strike out on his own. "I want people to know that there is an alternative for their tax preparation."

An outgoing and personable man, Thernize not only speaks beautiful English, French and Spanish but also the Creole language of his native Haiti. Thernize emphasizes that his business welcomes all in the diverse greater Maplewood community.

On Monday morning, he was joined by several friends, his aunt Philomene Louis and fellow entrepreneur Melissa Dixon who owns EriDonn Mortgage LLC at 1563 Springfield Avenue.

After the ribbon cutting, Ms. Louis encouraged guests to enjoy the delicious food spread she had cooked while Mr. Thernize uncorked a bottle of sparkling wine.

Thernize & Associates Tax Services, 10 Burnett Avenue, Maplewood, NJ 07040, 973-856-7990. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Later meetings by appointment.