Morristown 'Heroes' Honored By Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Three Morristown residents were recently named in U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill's award program, which recognizes people from New Jersey's 11th Congressional District who have made a difference this past year.

"This was an opportunity to remind our everyday heroes— teachers, healthcare providers, first responders, family members, volunteers or others who have impacted another person's life in a positive way— that our community is incredibly grateful for all of their work," Sherrill said.

Here are the nominees affiliated with Greater Morristown:

Allison Gogarty, Baker, Morristown

Nominated by her husband, John Gogarty

“During the pandemic, my wife, the ‘Morristown Cake Lady,’ started baking to help neighbors that couldn't get a cake for their children's birthdays. She wanted to give back so she created a small cottage bakery with the tag ‘Eat Cake, Do Good.’ She'd bake a cake for anyone, as long as they agreed to donate to a worthy local cause. It grew and grew and she started baking cupcakes for all the kids in town who were part of the Homeless Solutions community and as word spread the cakes got bigger and better and the donations increased. Everyone deserves a cake on their birthday and the Morristown Cake Lady is making sure everyone gets their slice!”

Christina Ferrante, Teacher, Morristown / Wayne

Nominated by her brother, Patrick Ferrante

"Christina has been a dedicated middle school health and physical education teacher in Wayne, NJ for the past 19 years. She also teaches adaptive physical education. While her time and dedication to her students may be a reason to nominate her as a 2023 NJ-11 Hero, it is her commitment to breast cancer awareness that is cause for this nomination. A breast cancer survivor herself, Christina was a warrior throughout her own battle and upon recovery three years ago, started a charity event with her friend Gwen Urwin, owner of Tavern on the Rocks in Rockaway. Over the past three years Christina and Gwen organized and held their annual Pinkalicious Party, raising $35,800. Each year the proceeds were donated to a different local organization providing support for breast cancer patients and survivors. The proceeds from their first event was donated to the I Love You More Foundation, last year to Mary's by the Sea, and this year the donation was made to The Tutu Project of the Carey Foundation. While Christina seeks no recognition for her and Gwen's efforts, I am proud to nominate my sister as a 2023 NJ-11 Hero!"

Rev. Dr. Robert Rogers, Pastor, Morristown

Nominated by his executive assistant, Adrienne Valentine

“Rev. Dr. Robert C. Rogers is a ‘more than person.’ He is more than humble. More than faithful. More than empathic. More than a good role model. More than gentle. More than genuine. More than involved with his church and with his community. More than giving. More than concerned. More than sweet. More than resilient. More than empowered and empowering. More than resourceful. More than available. More than loved. More than respected and respectful. More than compassionate. More than honest. More than dedicated. More than encouraging. More than deserving. More than a Hero. He's an outstanding, all-around wonderful man of integrity who works in excellence with everything that he does. He is a father, shepherd, and activist who shows great concern and strives for the best for his family, his church family, and his community. Yet is so humble that he expects nothing in return. A man of good character.”

Residents were asked to nominate ordinary heroes in their lives to show that our community appreciates all that they do. According to Sherrill, there was a flood of nominations from the community, and heroes were chosen based on the information provided by the person who submitted them.

All 2023 heroes live or work in NJ-11, and they will all get a congressional certificate acknowledging their community service.

“Each year, my office and I receive so many incredible submissions for our yearly Heroes program. This year is no different. I am so moved by the amazing people throughout our district making a difference in the lives of others. All are inspiring citizens whose stories should warm everyone’s hearts this holiday season. It is programs like this one that exemplify why I am proud to represent New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District,” Sherrill said.