There is no arguing that Bruce and Leslie Schott have given so much back to the Greater Washington community, and more! Between them they have been involved in dozens of non-profit organizations, non-profit fundraiser events, and an integral part of the community in general.

It was with great pleasure, then, that Washington Celebrates America announced recently that the Schotts would be this year’s Grand Marshals for the annual July 4^th parade.

The Washington Celebrates America festivities also includes a Soap Box Derby for kids, an Old Fashioned Parade and Fireworks at dusk!

The American celebration is a longtime tradition for Washington – and it’s completely paid for with community donations.

The fun kicks off in the morning with the Soap Box Derby on Broad Street. The parade steps off at 3:30. Prior to the fireworks, DJ Doc South will entertain at the Middle School. And once dusk sets in get ready for the awesome fireworks.

“We can’t tell you how happy we are that Bruce and Leslie will be our Grand Marshals,” said WCA Committee Chair Rich Maguire. “When you look up the word community in the dictionary, the Schotts are right there. They are truly the type of people we look for as our Grand Marshal every year. They are all about community!”

And so, the Schotts, who have five children and nine grandchildren, will lead the parade!

Bruce worked for 40 years with area banks, assisting thousands of people and businesses in achieving their goals. A Warren County Hall of Famer, a Hackettstown Medical Center Hall of Famer, and a Blue Streak Wall of Famer, he has served on numerous boards including Hackettstown Medical Center and the Arc of Warren County, of which he is also a founder.

Bruce has been a 50-year plus member of the United Methodist Church in Washington, having also served on its board. He has also been involved with the Washington Rotary Club, Washington Food Pantry, Mansfield Masonic Lodge, Boy Scouts of America and was a Pony League baseball coach.

Leslie has worked for The Arc of Warren County for 27 years and she too, has been involved in numerous community groups and organizations, including the Washington Community Theate , Washington Nursery School Board of Directors, Washington Township Board of Education, Warren County Community Singers, Jr. Woman’s Club  (Past President), Washington Woman’s Club, Meals on Wheels, the Washington Food Pantry (serving as coordinator for 6 years), Washington Rotary Club, and Abilities of NW Jersey. She is also a member of the Hackettstown Area Senior Hall of Fame. Additionally, Leslie is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Washington where she has been a Choir member, Sunday School Teacher, Youth Group Leader, Deacon, and Elder.

Community people? No doubt about it!

Washington Celebrates America is made possible through the many devoted volunteers and financial donations made by businesses and community members. For further information about Washington Celebrates America and how you can get involved, or to make a donation, call 908-619-5749.