Frelinghuysen Township celebrates Founders Day; school nurse honored with Humanitarian Award
FRELINGHUYSEN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — Frelinghuysen Township residents came together on Saturday, June 8, to celebrate Founders Day, an annual tradition hosted by the township’s Recreation Committee, featuring music, food, family fun—and a heartfelt recognition of community service.
This year’s Julaine Williams Humanitarian Award, which honors individuals whose compassion and dedication exemplify the spirit of the community, was presented to Ruth Toronzi, longtime school nurse at Frelinghuysen Township Elementary School.
For 36 years, Toronzi has been a steady, nurturing presence at the school. Rain or shine, she greets students each morning in the car line, opening back doors, welcoming each child with warmth, and sending parents off with a quiet reassurance.
“Ruth’s impact doesn’t end with the school bell,” said Mayor Sharon Drylie. “Frelinghuysen students aren’t just kids she cared for during the day—they’re family. My children graduated from Frelinghuysen Township years ago and still talk about Mrs. Toronzi. She truly is the heart and soul of Frelinghuysen School.”
Community members who helped establish the award described Toronzi as the “living testimony” of its purpose, someone who gives from the heart—always with love, and never with an agenda. One nomination simply read: “She is the pillar of Frelinghuysen Township School.”
In addition to the award ceremony, residents enjoyed live music by the Cellar Dwellers and food prepared by past and present Recreation Committee members. A surprise appearance by NorthStar, the New Jersey State Police helicopter, allowed families to meet law enforcement personnel and take photos with the aircraft.
The Frelinghuysen Township Volunteer Fire Department helped cool children off after rounds of “old-time games,” including potato sack and three-legged races. A pie baking contest rounded out the afternoon.
“What a fantastic day!” Mayor Drylie said. “It was so nice to see neighbors chatting and smiles all around. This day is exactly what the saying ‘small town America’ means. I can’t wait until next year.”
