BERNARDSVILLE, NJ (Somerset County) – Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) Friday hosted a Seniors of Distinction event, to honor the outstanding senior citizens in the community.
The Congressman received over 100 nominations and narrowed it down to 22 senior citizens, who represent all six counties in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District. Each citizen was nominated by their friends, families, and neighbors and recognized at the event.
The Seniors who were selected were chosen for their long history of giving back to their community and for continuing to lend their expertise, experience and many talents to helping and supporting others today. Every honoree has a long list of achievements but more important, a long list of professional, philanthropic, charitable, spiritual activities to which they devote their time and energy to every day.
“We had a strong response from residents throughout the six counties in our Congressional District and received the names of many individuals who exemplify the very best of our neighborhoods, our state, and our country,” Kean said. “Each individual recognized is unique in their own way, but they all share a common denominator, a passion to give back to their community. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to share this event with everyone recognized, and I look forward to more events like this.”
“I am a community minded person, enjoy people and teaming up with those that share a common vision to do good for others,” said Lee Moreau, Senior of Distinction Awardee. “I was surprised when I was notified about the award and thought it was a mistake. I am honored to be recognized by Congressman Tom Kean Jr. It is really cool that Congressman Tom Kean Jr. shows up at Lake Hopatcong in support of Veterans (Miss Lotta Salute to Veterans cruise), the Lake Hopatcong Foundation block party and supports the Elks Lodge 782 Leap in the Lake fundraiser for our youth with significant challenges. Without a doubt we are connected on common ground. With leadership, a shared vision and trust, a lot can be accomplished. Thank You Congressman Tom Kean Jr for your leadership and support to the Lake Hopatcong community.”
“I am both surprised and humbled by the recognition,” said Jeffrey H. Katz, Senior of Distinction Awardee. “Thanks to Representative Kean for spotlighting senior citizen volunteers.”
“I think it’s important for residents to give back to their community,” said Linda Kale, Senior of Distinction Awardee. “That’s what makes our community of New Providence such a wonderful place to live and to raise a family.”
The honorees are:
- Barbara Agins, Somerville
- Raymond Chimileski, Califon
- Charles Fineran, Hackettstown
- Dr. Thomas Foregger, Berkeley Heights
- Jeffrey H. Katz, Springfield
- Linda Kale, New Providence
- Dr. “Ken” Austin Kutscher, Raritan Township
- Shirley Lakatos, Berkeley Heights
- James McCabe, Westfield
- Robert & Dace McLaughlin, Basking Ridge
- Howard “Howie” Meyer, New Providence
- Leon “Lee” Moreau, Landing
- Mayor Al Morgan, New Providence
- Mitchell Morrison, Sparta
- Barbara Perkins, Warren
- Dr. Nancy Polow, Scotch Plains
- Herb Waddell, Berkeley Heights
- Ronald Whalin, Basking Ridge
- Dr. Rudolph Willis, Warren
- Rita Jordan, Branchburg
- Larry Orlans, Hopatcong
- Rheva Smickel, Belvidere
