Middletown Recognizes Richard Saker As A Distinguished Citizen

Middletown Mayor Gerry Scharfenberger, Laura Saker and Richard Saker

Middletown– Mayor Gerald Scharfenberger, PhD. and the Township Committee awarded Richard Saker the Distinguished Citizen Award at the Township Committee meeting on February 15.

Saker, the head of Saker ShopRites, Inc., was honored for his ongoing and significant contributions to the township’s Cultural and Arts Council, the Middletown Arts Center, and Middletown Day. He’s a major sponsor of many township outreach programs including the Welcome Home Picnic for Vietnam Veterans and the Mayor’s Food Basket. He’s also dedicated member of the Economic Development Committee, explained Mayor Scharfenberger.

“Richard Saker is unique and special in the difference that he makes to Middletown,” Scharfenberger said. “In good times and bad, he is always looking out for his neighbors and the community at large.”

Scharfenberger noted that the day after Hurricane Sandy while he was dealing with his own crisises with damage to his supermarkets, Saker was there for the community. “I called Richard the day after the storm because we needed ice and other supplies,” said the mayor. “Without hesitation, Saker said, ‘If you can get a truck to the store, take whatever you need.”

The Township Committee created the Distinguished Citizen Award in 2015 to acknowledge residents to stand out in their commitment and contributions to the township. “Super volunteers” Anthony Parzica and Tom Garretson were honored last year.