Above: Gottheimer congratulates Sussex County “Senior Citizen of the Year” Linda Smith for her dedication and service to her community. Gottheimer had a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in her honor.

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Today, August 12, 2021, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) celebrated Senior Day at the New Jersey State Fair Sussex County Farm and Horse Show, held at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. Gottheimer presented a flag and congressional certificate to Sussex County’s “Senior Citizen of the Year,” Linda Smith, who is community leader in Sussex. 

Gottheimer greeted and thanked veterans and active duty service members, visited with the Sussex County Beekeepers Association; toured the 4-H farm animal exhibit; had lunch with constituents at Boy Scout Troop 180, visited the Quilts of Valor exhibit; and visited with robots. Gottheimer spoke with local seniors, residents, and students at booths throughout the Sussex County Fairgrounds.

Gottheimer was joined by Sussex County Commissioners Sylvia Petillo and Anthony Fasano, NJ State Senator Steve Oroho, and NJ Assemblyman Hal Wirths. 

Gottheimer highlighted Linda Smith’s dedicated work at ShopRite and her care and generosity as both a mother and a foster mother. Following her retirement, Smith has spent a large portion of her time leading the Hopatcong Senior Inc. Club, where she’s been a member since 2005. As Trips Committee Chair, Vice President, and President, Linda has greatly improved and expanded the Hopatcong Senior Club through her leadership and kindness. Linda is also always helping seniors and friends in need: she provides rides to seniors who need to get to medical appointments, meetings, and events and she volunteers with the Hopatcong Ambulance Squad. 

“There is no greater responsibility than that we owe to those who have given so much to us. Sussex County seniors and volunteers make invaluable contributions to our North Jersey community, and I’m proud to be able to take today to celebrate with them and honor Linda Smith in particular. Through her leadership and kindness, Linda Smith exemplifies Sussex County at its finest,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “The Sussex County Fair is one of my favorite New Jersey traditions and I’m glad to be able to visit with so many Fifth District residents and seniors here today.”

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) presents awards to Sussex County Skylands Ride Omnibus Operators for their years of safe driving.

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer with the Sussex Senior Citizen of the Year nominees.

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer visits Quilts of Valor Project stall with Assemblyman Hal Wirths.

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer visits livestock at the State Fair.

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer visits members and leaders of Boy Scout Troop 180.

Above: Congressman Josh Gottheimer visits Sussex County residents at the Fair. 

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