Three named Vernon's Seniors of the Year

Vernon — Every year Vernon’s outstanding senior citizens are honored for their tireless work for the community. On Monday, three Highland Lakes residents were named as Vernon’s Seniors of the Year at a ceremony held at Crystal Springs Resort in Hardyston. Nearly 170 seniors and guests attended. Terri Van Emburgh was named Vernon Senior of the Year. Her accomplishments include working for the Salvation Army, singing with and servicng as secretary for the Community Choral Society, volunteering for Saint Clare’s Sussex Hospital and Hospital Auxiliary. She is also an Elder and choir member at the Christ Community Church on Breakneck Road in Highland Lakes. She is also a member of Swim, Inc, the XYZ Club at St. Francis De Sales Church, the Senior Services President Club, the Vernon Leisure Club, the Highland Lakes Senior Club, the Highland Lakes Country Club and the Red Hat Society. Vernon’s 2011 Senior Couple of the Year are Marlene and Tom Clements. Their civic and community activities include the Red Hat Society, working at the Lutheran church and soup kitchens, and visiting seniors who are homebound or in nursing homes. The awards ceremony included a three-course dinner following the award presentations by Mayor Sally Rinker. Music for both listening and dancing was provided by DJ Allan Boles of Lake Stockholm. A hit with the seniors, including Rose Moro of Lake Wanda, was the availability of a karaoke system. Moro sang no fewer than three songs for the audience. In order to be nominated as Vernon’s Senior of the Year, a resident must have lived in the township for at least five years and must have made significant contributions to the community. Township employees and Senior Board members are ineligible.