Assemblymember Didi Barrett’s (D-Washington) nomination for the 2012 Outstanding Contribution by a Senior Citizen, Margaret Fettes, was presented the award on Tuesday at the state Capitol as part of New York State Senior Citizens’ Day. Fettes, 86, a pioneering community activist, was the longest serving member of the Dutchess County Legislature.

“Margaret Fettes is a pillar of our community and her tireless work has been critical to Dutchess County for many years,” Assemblymember Barrett said. “Women like Margaret Fettes make our communities what they are today and they deserve our utmost gratitude. She is an inspiration to all of us.”

“Receiving this award is a tremendous honor, and I’d like to thank Assemblymember Barrett for nominating me for this award,” Margaret Fettes said. “As a lifelong resident of Washington, I’m proud of my roots and feel fortunate to have been able to serve our community for so many years.”

Margaret Fettes was raised on a family farm in Washington across the street from where she lives today. She was a member of the Union Vale Rescue Squad for 32 years and prior to her work in the Dutchess County Legislature, Fettes was appointed to the Dutchess County Soil and Water Conservation Board. She has also been a member of the Farmland Protection Board, the 911 Oversight Committee and served as President of the Church Alliance of Millbrook. She has also been a member of the choir at Millbrook’s Grace Church for 76 years.

“Margaret Fettes is a truly remarkable public servant,” Assemblymember Barrett said. “I am proud to recognize her enormous contributions to the Mid-Hudson Valley, and all seniors’ contributions on Senior Citizens’ Day.”