By: Richard L. Smith
Years of giving back to neighbors, supporting young people and helping strengthen the Bloomfield community earned special recognition for a local family and longtime volunteer.
According to information sent by Bloomfield Township officials, the Tice Family and Daniel Bitecola III were honored with the Township’s 2026 community service awards during Bloomfield’s rescheduled Independence Day Celebration held September 5 at Foley Field.
The Tice Family received the 2026 Bloomfield Service Award for their extensive involvement with youth athletics, local schools, faith-based organizations and other community programs.
Among their most recognized contributions is Santa Night, a neighborhood tradition that began with an idea from their daughter Emily when she was in second grade.
Now entering its 15th year, the annual celebration brings local families together while collecting toys for the Bloomfield Police Youth Aid Division. Emily and her brother Kyle remain involved in the tradition.
Bitecola received the 2026 Outstanding Citizen Award from Mayor Jenny Mundell and the Township Council for decades of volunteerism throughout Bloomfield.
His community involvement has included service with the Board of Health, Emergency Medical Services, Bloomfield UNICO, Lions Club, Rotary Club, United Way of Bloomfield and several other organizations.
Bitecola has also devoted time to St. Thomas the Apostle Church, youth sports, community cleanups and programs supporting Bloomfield’s Police and Fire departments.
Mayor Mundell praised both honorees for giving their time and talents to others, saying their efforts represent the spirit that makes Bloomfield a strong community.
Township officials said nominations for future community service awards are accepted throughout the year.