Somerset Times

On September 13, 2024, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) hosted the second annual Seniors of Distinction event at the Bridgewater Township Senior Center. The event aimed to honor outstanding seniors from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

Congressman Kean recognized 29 seniors representing all six counties in the district. Each senior was nominated by friends, families, and neighbors for their long history of community service and ongoing contributions through their expertise and talents.

“All the seniors honored dedicate their talents, passions and experience toward enriching the well-being of New Jersey communities,” said Congressman Kean. “Their impressive achievements and extensive involvement in both professional and volunteer activities reflect their dedication and hard work. I extend my warmest congratulations to all the seniors recognized today and thank them for their tireless efforts to uplift our communities.”

Elisa Sananman of Westfield, one of the honorees, expressed her appreciation: “What I find particularly moving and positive is that an event like this highlights good community efforts at a time where the world needs that kind of motivation. It is very affirming to all the work that we are doing. Very personally and professionally motivating. With appreciation that it was originated.”

Edna Deacon of Mine Hill shared her surprise upon receiving recognition: “I knew nothing about this award until I received a letter from Congressman Kean in the mail. I was very impressed. I would like to thank the Congressman for the invitation and Bill Koroski for nominating me.”

The list of honorees includes:

Honorees That Attended:

- Eleanor Annis of Mountainside

- Ida Brown of Hopatcong

- Brad Chananie of Westfield

- Edna Deacon of Mine Hill

- Robert English of Gillette

- Julie Flynn of Berkley Heights

- David Gardner of Mount Arlington

- Dr. D. Michael Hart of Westfield

- Martin Kane of Mountain Lakes

- Norma Kania of Clinton

- Sandra Masklee of Budd Lake

- Donna Moser of Hopatcong

- The Hon. Howard Norgalis of Bridgewater

- Kathleen Piedici of Basking Ridge

- Anita Rogers of Belvidere

- Robert Rossi of Landing

- Dennis Ryan Of Berkley Heights

- Elisa Sananman Of Westfield

- James Smythe Of Belvidere

- The Hon Victor Sordillo Of Warren

- Sharon Still Of Netcong

- The Hon Elmer Still Of Netcong

- Harold Willard Of Somerville

Honorees That Did Not Attend:

-Harvey Kessler Of Budd Lake

-The Hon Allen Kurdyla Of Bridgewater

-The Hon Colleen Labow Of Budd Lake

-Richard Mason Of Gillette

-The Hon Kenneth Short Of Long Valley

-Robert Wolff Of Hardwick