Mayor and Township Board of CommissionersAnnounce Senior Adult Health Workshop

“How to Care for Your Aging Parents”
Will Help Inform Caregivers in Our Community

NUTLEY – The Township of Nutley’s Board of Commissioners recently announced that they plan to co-sponsor a senior adult health workshop, “How to Care for Your Aging Parents”, planned for Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. at the Nutley Adult Social Activity Center, 65 Bloomfield Ave., Nutley. The program, targeted to baby-boomers and all others who are caring for elderly adults, is intended to educate caregivers on the number of support services and resources that are available on both a local and county level.
This event will kick off with a brief panel discussion to include Elder Law Attorney Jeffrey R. Bascelli, CELA, Michelle Carter from the Alzheimer’s Association and Dr. James Morgan, Family Practice Physician who will represent Mountainside Hospital – a co-sponsor of the event. “This event will showcase all the beneficial programs that our Township has to offer to our seniors. This collaborative effort will focus on some really unique programs that help so many of our seniors in our community today,” commented Mayor Joanne Cocchiola.
Following the brief discussion, guests will be free to visit different resource tables from organizations such as NJ Shares, Food Stamps, the Nutley Family Service Bureau, the local Red Cross Chapter, Medicaid, Adult Day Cares and more. Representatives will be on-hand to answer questions and explain their programs. Additionally, each of the Township Departments will also showcase all the programs available to the seniors in the community, such as Shovel Out Seniors – or S.O.S., adult transportation and a senior tax freeze. Light refreshments will be served.
Contact the Department of Public Affairs at 973-284-4976, or check the township’s official website at www.nutleynj.org for additional information about this educational event. Information about existing senior programs can be found on the township website under each of the township department’s.

Corzine at Radcliff School

NUTLEY – Okay, so I'm not computer savvy so that means you have to download the talk at Radcliff School in Nutley from the regalroom to the top right of this Blog. He was there to expound on his proposed funds for education at the forum with teachers and parents. Audience response at the end gets very interesting. You never know just where this may show up.

Nutley UNICO Scholar

NUTLEY – Nutley UNICO President, Thomas Sposato and Scholarship Chairperson, Anthony Malfitano are very pleased to announce the winners of our Nutley UNICO Chapter’s 2008-09 Scholarship awards.
Our four-year scholarships offered by Nutley UNICO were awarded to Anthony Rauco, Michael Georgetti and Danielle Russo.
Our Nineteen one-time grants were awarded as follows: The Joseph Battaglia Scholarship, David Zatorski; The Tina Battaglia Scholarship, Alexandra Patrizio; The Amy Bonadonna Memorial Scholarship, Dana Majana; The Alfred A. and Anna Biondi Scholarship, Maria Straface; The Michael Geltrude Foundation Scholarship, Vincent Maurillo and Dominic Maurillo; The Cosmo D. Geltrude Scholarship, Gianna Stefannelli; The Arthur Scavone boy scholar/athlete, Louis Fusaro; The Arthur Scavone girl scholar/athlete, Krista Gilchrist; The Brian Piccolo boy scholar/athlete, Anthony Damico; The Brian Piccolo girl scholar/athlete, Danielle Restaino; The Pennoni Scholarship, Jarret Schack; The John V. Kelly Scholarship, Michael Ryder; The Vocational Scholarship, Gina Costa; The Nicholas Martini Memorial Scholarship, Mathew Picciano; The Michael Ritacco Grant, Mathew Genitempo; The Italian Language girl, Kate Andrews; The Italian Language boy, Connor Blanz; The Nanina’s in the Park Culinary Scholarship, Christopher Amato; The Nutley UNICO Music Scholarship, Rosanna OBrien
These awards will be presented in a series of three award events scheduled for April, May and June.
The Nutley UNICO is the local chapter of UNICO National and has a membership of nearly 160 members and is dedicated to sponsoring scholarships and raising funds for numerous charities. It is also dedicated to the preservation and fostering of the Italian culture and heritage. The total scholarship awards accumulated this year totals $27,850.
The families of the named scholarships have contributed generously to the individual scholarships listed.
The members of UNICO National, Nutley Chapter thanks everyone for the loyal support and success of this program.

Reiki in Nutley

Learn About Reiki

NUTLEY – Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation which also
promotes healing. The “laying on of hands” by a Reiki practitioner is done to
improve one’s physical, mental and emotional energy.
Shirl Knobloch, Reiki Master Practitioner of Nutley’s Briar Rose Reiki, will lead a
discussion and demonstration of Reiki and offer brief treatment sessions at the
Nutley Public Library on Monday, April 13 at 7 p.m. in the Stockton Room. Learn
about this holistic healing technique currently being used in hospitals and wellness
centers throughout the United States. The program is free and open to the public.

Attic fire in Nutley

The Nutley Fire Department responded to a North Spring Garden home on Saturday, Jan. 24 for a reported attic fire. The fire department, upon arrival, found a heavy smoke condition and fire showing from the attic. Captain David Hamilton, the initial officer on scene, ordered a hose line to the attic and ladders to the roof and third floor. Volunteer engines 2 and 4 responded to the scene and Engine 3 to Fire Headquarters on Chestnut Street to cover the township along with Belleville.
Deputy Chief Mark Guiliano arrived and assumed command of the scene, allowing Captain Hamilton to assume interior command operations. Through the coordinated efforts of the Nutley Fire Department the fire was brought under control within twenty minutes. The fire was completely extinguished in about forty five minutes. The fire department completed salvage and overhaul and returned most units to service within two hours. A total of 42 career and volunteer firefighters responded to the call and no injuries were reported.
The American Red Cross was on the scene to provide relocation and support for the family. Family members provided shelter for the night.
The Investigators LT David Wilson & LT Christopher Lohman with assistance from the Nutley Detective Bureau are completing an investigation, although the cause does not appear to be suspicious.
Commissioner Alphonse Petracco reminds residents that “this is the fourth serious residential fire since he took office in May. Every homeowner should check the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in their home. These low cost devices are critical in early warning of residents to fire and CO emergencies in the home. Residents are reminded to call 911 when these devices sound. Delaying an alarm while searching for the cause can create additional damage and put residents in harms way,”
“If you have any concerns about fire safety in your home,” Captain John Hund, who heads up the fire prevention bureau says, “call us and ask for a home safety inspection. The bureau can be reached Monday – Friday at 973-284-4937.”

Ribbon cutting with Mayor Cocchiola

Nutley Mayor Cocchiola, center, and employees of RiteAid: Dave Thomas RVP, Mike Logothetis - PDM, Qadreen Khan - Asst Mgr, John Kardashian - Rx Mgr, Dave Harper - LPM, Tamika McCrary - Shift Sup., Lou ann Obernesser - RX RVP (Tall woman in back), Jamil Abuharthieh - Manager, Ed Wells-Tsiatsos - Tallent Manager, Yolanda Reina - HRM, Scott Bensinger - DM and Kyle Ortlieb - SR HRM.

NUTLEY – Nutley Mayor Joanna Cocchiola will join Rite Aid Regional Vice President Dave Thomas and Regional Pharmacy President Lou Ann Obernesser at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Rite Aid store featuring the company’s “Customer World” design on Thursday, Jan. 8 at 11:30 a.m. The new store, located at 100 Franklin Ave., opens its doors for the first time to customers at 8 a.m. that day. The store incorporates features of the company’s “Customer World,” which was created using customer feedback.
The Nutley store opening is part of the company’s goal to open approximately 85 new and relocated stores this fiscal year.
“We’re very excited to open a Customer World store design in the Nutley community,” Thomas said. “Nutley residents can now see and experience the new design and services that many customers have been raving about since we opened our first Customer World store about four years ago. Customers told us that their relationship with the pharmacist was important, so each new store highlights the pharmacy. Pharmacy is our core business so we made it the focal point, or star, of the Customer World design.”
The store design, created using feedback from customer focus groups, is Rite Aid’s latest prototype design, offering a new look and many new services.
Before designing the new Customer World store, Rite Aid executives met with focus groups across the country to find out what they wanted in a drug store and pharmacy. Customer feedback was implemented into the new design including expanding merchandise selections, improving store navigation and improving on the professional feel at the pharmacy. The pharmacy department is easily seen and accessible from the entrance, emphasizing Rite Aid’s commitment to patient health and wellness. The Customer World pharmacy waiting area is designed with a lowered ceiling comfortable chairs, a TV, and connects to a pharmacy consultation room, providing a private professional setting for patient counseling by the pharmacist.
“Reaction to the new store design has been overwhelmingly positive from customers and associates alike,” Thomas said. “Aisles are wide and clutter free, and the design makes it easy for customers to find what they’re shopping for. The store environment shows that we also care about our associates’ ability to efficiently get their work done, Our store development program is a top priority for Rite Aid and will strengthen our market share, improve our competitive positioning and emphasize our commitment to customers in our existing markets.”
The new Nutley store is over 10,000 square feet with wide aisles and a bright open environment with direct views to each department. More visible department signs make it easier for shoppers to quickly locate merchandise. A new centrally located cosmetics department puts cosmetics and body care at center stage, appealing to Rite Aid’s core female customer.
The new store will also feature an expanded vitamin department with speciality products, a new Picture Center complete with the latest digital capabilities, drive-through pharmacy services, and a larger pharmacy waiting area with important information on health and wellness.
Rite Aid Corporation is one o the nation’s leading drug store chains with more than 4,900 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia with fiscal 2008 annual sales of more than $24.3 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases , is available through the company’s web site at http: //www.riteaid.com.

Halloween gang scare

NUTLEY – The Nutley Police Department has received numerous calls from concerned parents who have heard rumors concerning drive-by shootings and gang related incidents directed toward area schools. The Nutley Police Department has confirmed through a meeting with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office that all of these rumors are baseless. NPD standard patrol procedures will remain in effect.

Det/Lt Steven Rogers
NPD

Nutley police reports

From the desk of Det. Anthony Montanari

NUTLEY – Oct. 10 Belleville resident Brenda Wos-Munuz, 41, was issued a summons for driving a motor vehicle with a suspended license and a court date was set.
Newark resident Richard Rivera, 38, was issued a summons for driving a motor vehicle with a suspended license and a court date was set.
A motor vehicle was stolen from the front of a business in the area of Washington Avenue. The silver, 2008 Honda was reported missing by the owner police are investigating.
Oct. 11
Burglary to auto in the area of River Road was reported by the owner of a green Honda wagon. A rock was thrown through the rear window to gain entry to the vehicle and remove several items. Approximately $2800 in merchandise was taken from the vehicle. Police are following up on all leads pertaining to this mater.
A report of criminal mischief was made in the area of Cottage Place. A township tree was removed from in front of a house during the night. Police are investigating.
A resident reported a fraud committed to their bank account. Police are following all leads in reference to this matter.
Oct. 12
A store in the area of Franklin Avenue reported a shoplifter. The police are actively investigating this matter and will prosecute.
Criminal mischief was reported at one of the elementary schools where graffiti was found on the east side of the school. The Juvenile Detective Division has a number possible suspects and is in the process of investigating.
Oct. 13
Belleville resident Mark Lopez, 44, was issued motor vehicle summonses for unregistered motor vehicle, driving with a suspended drivers license, and fictitious plates. At this time it was determined that Lopez was wanted for an outstanding warrant from Roselle Park. The suspect was placed under arrest and turned over to the custody of Roselle Police Dept. who transferred him to their facility.
A burglary was reported in the area of Passaic Avenue. Police are investigating all leads in this matter.
A township eatery reported a theft of services in that patrons left without paying their bill. Police are following up on leads received in this matter.
Oct. 14
A theft of movable property was reported at a store in the area of Franklin Avenue. The victim reports that the contents of a wallet were taken while in the store. Police are investigating the matter.
Burglary to auto was reported in the area of River Road. The roof of an auto was tampered with and items were taken from the vehicle. Police are following up on all leads regarding this incident.
A 63-year-old Nutley resident was issued motor vehicle summonses for failure to yield to a pedestrian in crosswalk, reckless driving, and disregard of officer with raised hand. A court date has been assigned.
Oct. 15
Wanaque resident Daniel Allen, 32, was arrested during a motor vehicle investigation for possession of controlled dangerous substance, possession of controlled dangerous substance with the intent to distribute, possession within 1000 feet of a school, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Allen was processed, issued a copy of the complaint summonses, advised of the court date and released.
Anthony Tedesco, 42, voluntarily surrendered to police and was arrested for a warrant out of Hackensack. Tedesco posted bail and was released.
Belleville resident Dawn Glycenfer was issued a motor vehicle summons for speeding. Upon investigation it was revealed that the passenger of the car –Belleville resident Jessica Khan, 27, had an active traffic warrant from the Township of Belleville. Kahn was placed under arrest and issued a mandatory court appearance before released.
Oct. 16
A report of criminal mischief was reported in the area of Satterthwaite Avenue where the resident discovered the home was struck with paintballs. Police are investigating the matter.
A Washington Avenue business reported a fraud at their establishment. An unknown actor/s used a credit card, that had been reported stolen, to purchase merchandise at their place of business. The owner is being held accountable for the purchases. Police are actively investigating this matter.

Fire Prevention Bureau hours

NUTLEY – Director of Public Safety Alphonse Petracco has announced that the Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention will have extended hours beginning Wednesday September 3. The bureau will be open until 7 p.m. on Wednesday evenings and will be staffed with a fire inspector.
In addition, fire inspectors will be available most evenings until 6 p.m. to perform inspections for residents and businesses that find the normal 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. schedule inconvenient.
“This change is much needed, with two income households local government must be more responsive to the needs of the people they serve. This change instituted by Director Petracco will allow us to be responsive to the residents at no additional cost to the taxpayer of Nutley,” Fire Official Captain John Hund said.
Deputy Fire Chief Mark Guiliano also said that the department will continue to actively pursue new ways to save money, improve services and develop new programs for residents.

Nutley hit hard by storm