Mayor’s Message: Scarpinato’s grand opening, Help Bag Hunger, and important council meeting mentions
The weekly message from Mayor Joann Gattinelli
Scarpinato’s grand opening
On Sept. 14, I was happy to celebrate with Joe Scarpinato at the grand opening of his new location in Washington Township. Joe and his wife Theresa have owned restaurants and catering halls in Washington Township for many years. Although they have changed locations several times over the years, Joe’s delicious meals have stayed consistent. Joe’s new catering hall, Scarpinato’s, is located at 194 Fries Mill Road, which was previously named The Washington. Freeholders Heather Simmons and Jim Jefferson were also there to congratulate Joe for his newest achievement and to wish him well at his new location. I would like to wish Joe and Theresa continued success in Washington Township.
Help Bag Hunger
On Sept. 20, I was joined by Council President Joe Perry, Fire Chief Pat Dolgos and members of both the Police and Fire Departments for the Help Bag Hunger event at Shop Rite Bottino’s. The Help Bag Hunger event was created to gain donations from generous shoppers. All the proceeds that were collected at this event were donated to help feed the hungry. Perry and I helped the cashiers bag the customers’ groceries. I had a great time getting to know the Bottino’s owners, employees, and customers. I would like to thank all of the residents and shoppers that donated towards this great cause.
Important council meeting mentions
At the Sept. 26 Council meeting, I was pleased to present Officer Louis DiAmbrosio with a certificate naming him the September Employee of the Month. DiAmbrosio assisted with a very sensitive case a few months ago. He went above and beyond the call of duty by comforting a grieving mother who was understandably distraught. Ambrosio’s actions showed his kind nature and compassionate personality. These qualities helped Ambrosio calm the mother down and made it possible for the emergency personnel to do their jobs.
Also at the Sept. 26 Council meeting, I was honored to issue a proclamation to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. The month of September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. I was more than happy to issue this proclamation for such a worthy cause. The statistics shared with me were staggering and I truly believe this is an important topic that should receive more attention.
Joann Gattinelli is the Mayor of Washington Township. She can be reached at [email protected].