Mayor Joann Gattinelli also recognizes fourth grader Dominic Bricker for saving his younger brother’s life.
Hometown Hero: Dominic Bricker
On Monday, May 22, I was honored to attend Birches Elementary School for a special assembly recognizing 10-year-old Dominic Bricker for his bravery. I felt humbled to read a special proclamation on behalf of Washington Township declaring Dominic Bricker a “Hometown Hero.”
Dominic displayed incredible wisdom and courage when he saved his 5-year-old brother Michael from choking on a piece of candy by performing the Heimlich maneuver.
Throughout the ceremony, it became evident the bond between Dominic and Michael is very strong.
As Dominic told his story, he was composed and well-spoken. He had seen the Heimlich maneuver on the television show “Psych,” and acted quickly and instinctively to attempt the maneuver. After the candy was dislodged from Michael’s throat on the first try, Dominic and his family took Michael to the emergency room at Kennedy Hospital. Michael was then examined by Dr. Mary Kay Stailey-Sims, who also attended the assembly and spoke of how impressed she was by his decision-making skills and accuracy in performing the Heimlich maneuver.
Others in attendance to honor Dominic’s courageous act were Principal of Birches School Jessica Rose, Superintendent Joseph Bollendorf, state Sen. Fred Madden, Freeholder Heather Simmons, Chief of Operations of Washington Township Ambulance and Rescue Association James Connor, and President of Gloucester County Hero Scholarship Fund Michael T. McEnery. Following the awards, nurse Maureen Green gave a demonstration of the Heimlich for all students. I am extremely proud of Dominic and the example he set for his classmates and our community. He demonstrated the decisions they make can save a life and make a difference.
Super Saturday
On Saturday, May 20, I was happy to see so many residents attend the Super Saturday event. The community came together to celebrate everything Washington Township has to offer. There was plenty of food, rock-climbing, games, prizes, face-painting and more. Residents were able to enjoy the talented Washington Township High School marching band and color guard as they marched through the park. The Washington Township Fire District and Police Department passed out helmets and other gadgets for the children. The state police helicopter landed on field 7, followed by the WTPD K-9 demonstration. Vendors, township businesses and organizations set up tents to sell their goods and give out information. The township Scouts and the Toni and RJ Foundation Against Distracted Driving were a couple of the organizations in attendance. Master Ju’s Karate School, located in Washington Township, also did a karate demonstration and the state curling club presented a curling demonstration.
I would like to thank our parks and recreation and public works employees who helped make this event possible. A special thanks to our sponsors, including The Washington Township Sun for helping us continue this tradition.
Joann Gattinelli is the mayor of Washington Township. She can be reached at mayorgattinelli@twp.washington.nj.us.
