RELEASE: At New Jersey State Fair, Gottheimer Celebrates Sussex County Senior of the Year Shirley Smith Hill for Life of Service

Above: Gottheimer congratulates “Sussex County Senior of the Year” Shirley Smith Hill.

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) celebrated Senior Day at the New Jersey State Fair and presented a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to Sussex County’s “Senior of the Year,” Shirley Smith Hill of Augusta — honoring her service as a dedicated community volunteer.

“The New Jersey State Fair is one of my favorite New Jersey traditions, and I’m glad to be able to visit with so many Fifth District residents, veterans, and seniors,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “I’m proud to celebrate and honor Shirley Smith Hill as Sussex County’s Senior of the Year, who has spent decades giving back to our community. From donating to food pantries and serving meals at Manna House for the Needy, to packing more than 1,000 holiday gifts for children in need last year, her commitment to our community and country is truly inspiring.”

Across the fairgrounds, Gottheimer greeted families, thanked veterans and active-duty service members, toured the 4-H livestock exhibits, met with youth leaders, visited local veteran organizations, and stopped by the locally operated food concessions. He also participated in the U.S. Army’s flight and parachute virtual reality exhibit. 

Gottheimer highlighted “Sussex County Senior of the Year” Shirley Smith Hill’s decades of dedicated service to the Sussex County community. A longtime Augusta resident, Shirley donates to local food pantries to support families in need and serves meals each month at Manna House for the Needy. During the holiday season, she’s well known across Sussex County for collecting toys and stuffed animals for Operation Christmas Child Boxes — ensuring no child goes without a gift. Last year alone, Shirley and the women from her church packed 1,056 boxes filled with gifts for children.

Below: Gottheimer visits the New Jersey State Fair, including the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show, at the Sussex County Fairgrounds.

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