Mayor Joann Gattinelli updates the community on business and happening throughout the month
Veterans’ Trunk or Treat
I was pleased to be a part of the sixth annual Veterans’ Trunk or Treat at Washington Lake Park on Oct. 28. This event was co-sponsored by the COW Project, Washington Township Education Association, Washington Township Rotary, Future Acts and the Washington Township Police Department. This occasion normally takes place at the Washington Township High School, but for the first time, it took place at Washington Lake Park and was a huge success. There were many volunteers and of course, trick-or-treaters in creative costumes. I had a great time passing out candy, along with Councilman Joe Perry, our Washington Township Solicitor Stuart Platt and my Administrative Assistant Alicia Rotella. Not only was this a fun event, but also the money raised was donated to the Veterans’ Nursing Home in Vineland and their Veterans’ Second Winds Dreams Program. I would like to thank the co-sponsors, as well as our Event Coordinator Lisa Collins, who helped the COW Project put this amazing event together for the kids.
Jefferson Health Comprehensive Breast Cancer ribbon cutting
I was honored to be invited to speak at the Jefferson Health Comprehensive Breast Center Open House on Oct. 30 at the Jefferson Health New Jersey Cancer Center. I was joined by township Business Administrator Jason Gonter, as well as our Administrative Assistant Megan Tahan. The President of Jefferson Health Washington Township Joe Devine was also in attendance for this momentous occasion. The four new surgeons who will be leading this new center were there to greet the many attendees of this event. They have created a revolutionary program that includes health care, support and counseling for cancer patients and their families. I was given a tour of the center and the state-of-the-art equipment and counseling areas were very impressive. These surgeons take pride in the program because it focuses on being there for the patient and their family every step of the way. I am happy this program has been established at Jefferson Health in Washington Township and am glad they can provide our community with exemplary health care breast cancer patients need and deserve.
Employee of the Month
At the council meeting on Oct. 25, I was happy to present the Employee of the Month program for Washington Township employees and recognize the first recipient, Colette Bachich. I am happy to install a program such as this in Washington Township to encourage employees to take pride in their work, and recognize and reward those who go above and beyond in the workplace. Bachich, the assistant finance and human resources officer is a 15-year resident of Washington Township and has thrived in both of her roles working for the township. Bachich assists with the township’s finances while also handling employee personnel matters. Bachich works extremely efficiently in balancing her two roles and has a positive attitude that is encouraging to employees. I would like to thank Bachich for her service to the township and we are happy to name her as the first Employee of the Month.
