Five Teaneck Residents Named 'Hometown Heroes'

TEANECK, NJ – More than 40 residents from around northern New Jersey were recognized Monday morning for their contributions to the community.

During the fifth annual Hometown Hero awards, which were held at Holy Name Medical Center, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer honored a group that included first responders, veterans, business owners, students, seniors, community leaders and veterans for their dedication to others.

“Today’s Hometown Heroes are what make North Jersey so special. I’m so proud to highlight the contributions made by those joining us today. From volunteering, to mentoring children, to protecting our communities and families, to helping the less fortunate and being exemplary citizens, these individuals come from all walks of life but embody an idea that is particularly special,” he said.

“We should focus more on what unites us as opposed to what divides us. More time focusing on service to our country — whether it’s mentoring children at a local non-profit, getting our backs as a first responder, helping to lead your church, synagogue, or mosque — we are always strongest and united when we celebrate all of our differences,” Gottheimer said. “These Hometown Heroes are nominated by leaders throughout our community — including our mayors and faith leaders — as well as by friends, family members, and loved ones who believe that they truly deserve the title. These individuals come from all walks of life, but all share an idea that is particularly special — they embody our Jersey Values and make our community such a special place to live, work, and raise a family."

Local honorees from are listed below, along with biographical information provided by Gottheimer's office.

Adam Hirsch, Teaneck, Bergen County

Adam is the chair of Congregation Bnai Yeshrun’s security committee and keeps the congregation safe. Adam takes the security of the congregation very seriously and is a wonderful guardian. He stays up-to-date on security information to make sure the congregation is protected, all while understanding how to find the balance between safety and ensuring the congregation remains a welcoming environment.

Judy Distler, Teaneck, Bergen County

Teaneck-native Judy Distler is responsible for bringing art and films to our community in a wonderful way. In 2005, after coming up with the idea while on the treadmill, Judy began the Teaneck International Film Festival, with the goal of creating a film festival with a social conscience where the arts could be shared and appreciated by everyone. Today, the festival is a major annual event with a permanent theme of “Activism: Making Change,” and draws 3,000 film lovers to a variety of feature-length movies, documentaries, and shorts.

Deena Seelenfreund, Teaneck, Bergen County

Deena is a member of the Keter Torah Congregation of Teaneck and is the regional manager of Community Security Service (CSS) of New Jersey. As a member of the congregation and the CSS, she is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all congregation members. Deena has spent countless hours with local law enforcement agencies, determining the most effective methods to keep North Jersey congregations safe, as well as ensuring the safety of communities and synagogues throughout the entire Garden State.

Deacons Robert and Joyce Giddens, Teaneck, Bergen County

Bob and Joyce are the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Teaneck Road Business Community Alliance (TBCA), a network of organizations committed to community wellness through economic development; business and resident advocacy, and accountable government. They advocate for transparent government accountability to all community members. Bob and Joyce have been on the ground for over 15 years helping local businesses and communities strengthen their relationship with government, and to develop Teaneck roads.