Middle Honors April Employee of Month, Fishing Tournament Winners

COURT HOUSE – Middle Township had a lot to be proud of at the June 2 Township Committee meeting. Several employees and residents were recognized for contributions made to the community. The meeting began with a presentation by Mayor Timothy Donohue, who honored Elizabeth Simpkins, Middle Township’s Employee of the month for April.
Simpkins began her career with Middle Township in 2002. She became a tax assessor in 2007 and then deputy tax assessor in 2012. Simpkins was recognized not only for the work that she does within her position, but also for the many things that she does for the township that exceed her job duties, said Donohue. He presented her with a bouquet of flowers and certificate.
Drum Fish Tournament
Three residents were also recognized as winners of the 10th annual Middle Township Drum Fish Tournament held May 16-17. This is an important event for the township, as proceeds are used to benefit the recreation department.
Third place was awarded to Timothy Shaw, captain of the Miss Kate. He received a check for $300. Second place was awarded to Jeremy Cox, captain of the Little Lady. He received a check for $500. First place was awarded to Jason MacFarland, captain of the Ginger Lee. He received a check for $1,200. Committeeman Michael Clark presented the awards.
Memorial Day Honors
Other honors were bestowed following the conclusion of the business on the meeting’s agenda, including those who were honored at the Memorial Day parade. Donohue said that several military families were honored who had loved ones serving overseas. Many of the local soldiers have been on multiple deployments, Donohue said, and are away from their families for the third or fourth time. He said that the township recognized these families as a way to show them that they are there for them, and that they have their support. The township will also be honoring the troops by sending them “care” packages.
A Healthy Township
Middle Township has also received a prestigious honor. The mayor said that the American Heart Association informed him that the township has been recognized as having a fit and friendly work environment that reached gold status. He said that the award is given based on various criteria, including opportunities for physical activity, more healthy food options, and promoting wellness within the work environment. The township was able to achieve gold status because it has a minimum of 25 employees and implements the necessary criteria for physical activity, nutrition and culture. This is a one-year recognition, so the township will have to re-apply each year.
Donohue said that the honor was being received thanks to the dedication of Deputy Business Administrator Kimberly Krauss and the rest of the newly-formed Wellness Committee, who have been together for a few months.
To contact Aimee Rutt, email arutt@cmcherald.com.