Nutley Scout Troop 147 celebrates its 95th anniversary

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NUTLEY, NJ — Nutley Troop 147, Boy Scouts of America, celebrated its 95th anniversary with a dinner at the Franklin Steakhouse in Nutley on April 30.
Rev. Jill Fenske, of the sponsoring Franklin Reformed Church, received a plaque honoring her 25 years as the executive officer of the troop. The church has sponsored the troop for all of its 95 years. Recent awards were presented for Scouts earning rank advancement and merit badges.

Plaques were awarded for merit badge champions – Scouts who earned the most merit badges in a calendar year:
• Scott Bolton Jr. for 2013;
• Anthony Gingerelli for 2014; and
• Suvan Bhat for 2015.

During the past few years the troop has grown from 10 to 24 Scouts.
Nutley Commissioner Steven Rogers read a township proclamation recognizing the troop and Scoutmaster Al C. Welenofsky for his years of service and impact upon the community.

He was assisted by Mayor Alphonse Petracco, and commissioners Joe Scarpelli and Mauro Tucci.

In addition to the current Scouts, 24 prior Scouts or alumni attended, nineteen of whom are Eagle Scouts. The alumni shared many humorous anecdotes of their experiences in the troop and with Scoutmaster Al. The alumni came to the event from Maine, Delaware, Florida, Washington, D.C., New York City and localities in New Jersey. Mike Wirth, Lenape Trail district executive of the Northern New Jersey Council, also recognized the troop and Scoutmaster Al.

The Scouts and visitors agreed that a great time was had by all.