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EPA Brownsfield program

Gloucester City EPA
BROWNFIELDS PROGRAM

EPA's Brownfields Program empowers states, communities, and other stakeholders in economic development to work together to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. A brownfield site is real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.

On January 11, 2002, President George W. Bush signed into law the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act.

Under the Brownfields Law, EPA provides financial assistance to eligible applicants through four competitive grant programs: assessment grants, revolving loan fund grants, cleanup grants, and job training grants. Additionally, funding support is provided to state and tribal response programs through a separate mechanism.

CLEANUP GRANTS
$400,000 for hazardous substances

EPA has selected Gloucester City for two cleanup grants totaling $400,000. The cleanup grants will be used for cleanup activities at the former Rug Factory site and the former Vanguard Vinyl site, which were identified during a previous brownfields grant.

The subsurface hazardous substance contamination at these sites poses a potential threat to the adjacent Delaware River.

COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION

Gloucester City was selected to receive cleanup grants. The city has targeted two sites in the city's industrialized Southport area. The city's population of 11,484 has an unemployment rate above state and national averages.

Cleanup of the Rug Factory is expected to spur economic renewal, create jobs, and revitalize the surrounding residential neighborhood.

Redevelopment plans for the Vanguard Vinyl site include a mixed-use facility that will stimulate additional economic development of the waterfront. The city's Brownfield Committee will continue to involve community organizations that participated in a previous brownfields grant.

CONTACTS

For further information, including specific grant contacts, additional grant information, brownfields news and events, and publications and links, visit the EPA Brownfields web site at: www.epa.gov/brownfields1.

EPA Region 2 Brownfields Team
212-637-4314
http://www.epa.gov/region02/
superfund/brownfields/

Local News

Letter Carrier Looses
Both Her Legs While
Loading Her Truck

Former Westville resident Maureen Buscher Deprince, who lost both legs after being run down July 24 by a hit-run driver in Ventnor, remains in critical condition, but her friends and family are still trying to plan for when she can come home.

Deprince, 38, of Collings Lakes, was on the job as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Ventnor, loading her delivery truck, when a car driven by Allan Miller, 30, of Schenectady, N.Y. hit her, pinning her against her own vehicle, police said.

The impact amputated one leg and doctors removed the other. Deprince has remained medically sedated in Atlantic Care Medical Center since July 24, said her sister, Beverly Rumaker of National Park.

A successful fund-raiser was held at the end of July and Deprince's co-workers have established a fund in her name.

"If and when she comes home, she will need the house revamped and transportation, that kind of thing," Rumaker said.

Several of Deprince's co-workers have submitted an application to the TV show, "Extreme Makeover," on Deprince's behalf, she said, to get her house renovated so she could live there.

Rumaker said the Maureen Deprince Trust Fund has been set up at the Atlantic City Firemen's Credit Union, 1701 Pacific Ave., Atlantic City, NJ 08401.

She said checks can actually be made payable to Maureen Deprince.

"This is all going to go toward costs not covered by insurance," Rumaker said.

Whats Happening

Scholarships to volunteers

The Kennedy Health System's fund-raising auxiliaries have awarded $5,500 in scholarships to high school seniors who have been volunteers at Kennedy Hospitals in Cherry Hill or Stratford.

A $2,000 scholarship has been awarded to Chelsea Maiese of Gloucester City, and a $2,000 scholarship was awarded to Patrick Ennis of Somerdale.

Maiese, who graduated from Gloucester City High School in June, will attend Arcadia University in Glenside, majoring in psychobiology.

She volunteered in the emergency department at Kennedy Memorial Hospitals-University Medical Center, Stratford.

Ennis, of Somerdale and a graduate of St. Joseph's Prep in Philadelphia, will major in biology at Loyola University in Chicago.

A $1,500 scholarship was awarded to Debbie Lukose of Mount Laurel. She is a graduate of Lenape High School.

She plans to major in pharmacy at the University of Sciences in Philadelphia. She has volunteered in the pharmacy at Kennedy Memorial Hospitals-University Medical Center, Cherry Hill.

Talented pooches sought

During these dog days of summer, Commerce Bank is searching for a few gifted dogs for its first Bow WOW! talent contest.

The top 10 dogs will be chosen to perform at the second annual Commerce Bank Carnivale of the Dogs on Sept. 9 at Rittenhouse Square.

Dog owners are encouraged to unleash their animals' antics and compete to win prize packages valued at a total of $1,000.

Participants must send a three-minute video demonstrating their dogs' talents and a completed registration form by Aug. 21 to Commerce Bank, 9000 Atrium Way, Mount Laurel, N.J. 08054, attn: Marketing Dept./Dog Carnivale.

Rules, contact information and forms are available at commerceonline.com/dogcontest.

'Nutcracker' auditions

The South Jersey Ballet Theatre will hold open auditions Aug. 27 for its 15th annual production of The Nutcracker, to be performed at Voorhees Middle School in December.

Auditions for children age 5 and up and adults will be held at the South Jersey Ballet School (formerly the Duffin School of Ballet) in the Cooper Run Executive Park, at Route 73 and Cooper Road in West Berlin.

For information and audition times, call 856-983-0484.

Media Release

Philadelphia Eagle Player
Charged With Unlawful
Weapon Possession

Acting Camden County Prosecutor James P. Lynch and Delaware River Port Authority Public Safety Director Vincent J. Borrelli reported today that Derrick Jabar Gaffney, a member of the Philadelphia Eagles pro football team, has been charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon stemming from a car stop in June during which a police officer observed a handgun in the glove compartment.

The gun was legally registered in Texas, Gaffney’s former home state, to a family member who was with him in the car. Gaffney, known as Jabar Gaffney, had a permit to legally carry the weapon in Texas, but not in New Jersey.

Investigation indicates Gaffney was driving his sport utility vehicle over the Walt Whitman Bridge into New Jersey on June 20, 2006, at approximately 7:25 p.m. A Delaware River Port Authority police officer on patrol observed Gaffney allegedly make sudden and erratic lane changes. The officer performed a car stop.

While Gaffney was retrieving driver and vehicle documents from the glove compartment, the officer observed a handgun in a holster. The officer seized that the gun, a loaded .380 semi-automatic pistol. Gaffney provided the officer with a Texas State Concealed Handgun License. After processing on the gun charge, Gaffney was released on his own recognizance. No court dates are scheduled.

Gaffney, 25, of Lumberton, N.J., is charged with a third-degree offense which carries a maximum five-year prison term, but a presumption of non-incarceration for a first offense.

Gaffney’s attorney, Robert A. Greenberg of Cherry Hill, has notified the Prosecutor’s Office that Gaffney intends to apply for the Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program. PTI is a court-run diversionary program for persons without prior criminal records who are charged with third- and fourth-degree non-violent offenses. Successful candidates complete a probationary term, after which charges may be dismissed.

Gaffney was also issued a ticket for Improper Passing.

All persons charged with criminal offenses are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

CHEERS AND JEERS

Cheers and Jeers
By William E. Cleary Publisher Emeritus

CHEERS-Congratulations to Gloucester City resident Joe Rafferty on being named the new superintendent of the Mount Ephraim school district.

JEERS-In the mid 1980’s Gloucester City spent $100,000 plus on the Three Corner Park, located at Burlington and Middlesex Streets. At the time it was promoted as the “spark” to brighten up the neighborhood. The park today is missing swings, has picnic tables that are broken, sliding boards and park benches are rusted and in need of repair and the basketball court with only one basketball rack is surrounded by weeds. To the politicians who want to enhance the City’s Image why not start here.

CHEERS-So glad the Sylvester and West Memorial in Mt. Ephraim is back on track. What a great way to remember those fallen heroes. For information on how you can help fund the project call 933-3204 or go to www.mefd.org.

CHEERS- Gloucester City and Bellmawr Police Departments took part in the recent National Night Out. The 23rd annual event sends a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back .

CHEERS-Nice to see our state legislators are spending the summer in Trenton working on the budget. Hopefully this time we will see something positive come out of this session that will reduce our taxes. Less promises more action.

JEERS-For the second time the Gloucester City Planning Board has tabled a decision on Wawa’s plans to expand its Market Street store. The expansion will complement the area as part of the plan includes the demolition of two vacant storefronts to allow for more parking. New jobs would be created for local residents. Wawa is being punished because their store has been successful. If the variance is denied there is a strong chance the store will close. The Board should look at the big picture for once. What kind of message does this send to other companies who were thinking of locating their business here?

JEERS-To the person or persons who burned three American Flags in front of the Gloucester City Post Office on Broadway sometime around July 13. If you have any information about this crime call the Gloucester City Police Department at 456-7797

The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Gloucester City News
Comment on this article below. Note: you only have to use your first name. Your email address will not be printed on this site.

Clark

George Clark City
Resident 25 Years
Services Held

Funeral services were held August 10 at the Etherington-Creran Funeral Home 700 Powell Street, Gloucester City for George Clark, 64, of Gloucester City who passed away on Aug. 6, 2006.

Beloved husband of Lorraine (nee Venturino), and son of the late George and Leona Clark. Loving father of Georgie, Donna and Crystal Clark, and step father of Lance, Linda, and Larry Boudreaux.

George was born and raised in Camden. He was known for his humor and great love for his family.

Interment Calvary Cemetery, Cherry Hill, NJ. In lieu of flowers the Family requests memorial donations be made in his name to the Heartland Hospice, 800 Jessup Rd., Suite 807, Thorofare, NJ 08086.

Dilger

Mrs. Elizabeth A Dilger
Viewing Thursday

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 11, Annunciation BVM Church, 10 a.m 601 Browning Road, Bellmawr for Elizabeth M.Dilger of Bellmawr, who passed away on August 6, 2006. She was 76.

Beloved wife of Charles M., Sr.

Devoted mother of Charles M., Jr., Claude M. of Lindenwold, Dorothea A. Oliveri (Anthony) of Hillsdale and Christopher M. (Dotti) of Franklinville. Dear grandmother of Charles M., III, Dustin Joseph, Colleen, Daniel and Mary.

Mrs. Dilger was a member of the Singing Angels, Inc. of Haddonfield, the Helping Hands at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, the Senior 3H Club, the Always Young Club and the Saint Agnes Seniors, all of Blackwood. She was also a member of the Bellmawr Senior Club and the Young at Heart Seniors of Annunciation Church.

Viewing Thursday, August 10 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM and on Friday, August 11 from 8:15 AM to 9:15 AM at the Gardner Funeral Home, 126 S. Black Horse Pike, Runnemede.
.
Interment New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, 515 West Browning Road, Bellmawr

Heitman

Margaret Heitman
Succumbs; age 83

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 10, at St. Marys Church, 426 Monmouth Street for Margaret Heitman of Gloucester City who passed away on August 5, 2006. She was 83.

Mrs. Heitman is survived by her husband of 64 years, Paul.

Beloved mother of Paul Heitman Jr. (Sandra) of Clermont, Florida; Joseph Heitman (Barbara) of Barnsboro, Patrick Heitman (Kathleen) of Mantua and Michael Heitman (Jane) of Gloucester City.

Dear Sister of Charles Boyle (Teresa) of Gloucester City. Loving Sister-In-Law Ann Catri of the Villages Florida. Loving grandmother of 11 and great-grandmother of four.

Viewing on Wednesday Evening 6 to 9 p.m. and Thursday morning 9 to 10 a.m. at McCann-Healey Funeral Home 851 Monmouth Street.

Interment Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown, N.J.

Family requests that memorial donations in Margaret’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association: 1850 York Road, Suite D, Timonium, Maryland 21093. Please write in the memo of the check, Margaret Heitman.

Keenan

Robert F. Keenan Sr., Age 79
Founder of Clearview Cable

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 11, 2006 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at St. Marys Church, 426 Momnouth St., Gloucester City for Robert F. (Bear) Keenan, of Voorhees, who passed away on August 6, 2006 at the age of 79.

A former resident of Gloucester City and Sea Isle City. Bob attended St. Marys Grammar School and Gloucester Catholic High School. Robert co-founded the Keenan’s TV and Appliance Business at the corner of Broadway and Monmouth Street in Gloucester City. He operated a successful business at that location for 25 years until he sold it in 1977. Robert was the founder and President of Clearview Cable in the 1970's that wired all of Gloucester City and surrounding towns for cable TV.

He was a member of the Gloucester City Business Association, American Legion Post # 135 in Gloucester City, Knights of Columbus, a director of the Gloucester City Savings and Loan Association. He was a lifelong parishioner of Saint Mary’s R.C. Church where he was Secretary of the Needy Children’s Christmas Fund.

He was Chairman of the Gloucester City Community Disputes and Resolutions Committee for ten years. Mr. Keenan was a member of the Gloucester City Rotary Club for 50 years. He was a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Foundation Keenan was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and Gloucester City Town Watch.

He is survived by his wife of 7 years Margaret (nee Hoffman-Bignell) and the late Jean (nee Lyons).

Devoted father of Sharyn Keenan and her life partner Donna Taylor of Atco, Barbara Keenan Brown and her husband Robert of Voorhees, Bobby Keenan and his wife Tammy of Gloucester City and Carol Keenan DeLucia and her husband Fred of Lumberton. Dear Brother of Pat Walter (nee Keenan) of Gloucester City and Edward Keenan who was killed in action during World War II.

Beloved grandfather of Jaclyn Glatzer of Atlanta, Justin Kaplan of Philadelphia, Matt DeLucia and Michele DeLucia of Lumberton, Brandon Keenan, Patrick Keenan and Kelsey Keenan all of Gloucester City.

Following the viewing a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:30 am in the church. Interment with Military Honors New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr. There will be no evening viewing and no viewing at the funeral home.

Family requests that memorial donations be made in Robert’s memory to Samaritan Hospice: 5 Eves Drive, Suite 300 Marlton, NJ 08053 or to the Robert F. Keenan, Sr. Scholarship Fund: P.O. Box 573, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003. This fund is for local youth attending his alma mater, Gloucester Catholic High School.

Funeral services are under the direction of the McCann Healey Funeral Home.

Wilczynski

ESTHER WILCZYNSKI
Of Mount Ephraim

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 9, 2006 for Esther Wilczynski, of Gloucester City, at the MaHaffey-Milano Funeral Home, 11 E. Kings Highway, Mt. Ephraim.

A former resident of Mt. Ephraim, Mrs. Wilczynski passed away on August 6. She was 86 years old.

Her children, Katherine Boone, Jeanie Densten, Billy Wilczynski, Ester Anderson, Pauline Hughes, Eddie Wilczynski, Helen Bogel and the late Johnnie Wilczynski and the late Patsy Smegelski, survive her.

Loving grandmother of 28 grandchildren, great-grandmother of 33 and two great-great grandchildren.

Entombment Lakeview Mausoleum, Cinnaminson.

Merryfield

Posted August 6, 2006

Mrs. Marybeth Merryfield
Dies Suddenly; Age 50

Mrs. Marybeth (nee Atkinson) Merryfield , of Gloucester City, died suddenly on August 2, 2006. She was 5o years old.

Loving mother of George W. Merryfield, III and Lewis J. Merryfield both of Gloucester City. Devoted daughter of Mary Elizabeth Atkinson (nee Tesmar) of Galveston, Texas and the late Lewis Israel Atkinson.

Beloved sister of Lewis Atkinson of Gloucester City, Dorothy Holpak (Edward) of Galveston, Texas; David Atkinson (Marcia) of Gloucester City and Joanne Howey (David) of Gloucester City.

Also, survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Services on Wednesday morning 9 am to 10:30 am at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 am at Saint Mary’s R.C. Church: 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Interment New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.

There will be no evening viewing.

Family requests in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made in Marybeth’s memory to Saint Mary’s R.C. Church: Special Fund: 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City.

Pryzwara

Posted August 6, 2006

Mr. Joseph Pryzwara
Community Activitist

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at St. Marys Church for Jospeh A. Pryzwara, 78, of Gloucester City, who died on August 4, 2006.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years to Patricia M. (nee Mischler).

Devoted and caring father of Rita Johnson of Cherry Hill, Patti Pryzwara (Ken MacAdams) of Brooklawn and Frank Pryzwara (Fran) of Pilesgrove.

Beloved Grandfather of Maxwell Joseph Pryzwara of Pilesgrove. Dear Brother of Edward Pryzwara (Anna Rose) of Mullica Hill, Lillian Villanova (nee Pryzwara) (Emilio) of Gloucester Heights, Dot MacLennan (nee Pryzwara) (late George Jacob and the late John) of Gloucester Heights, and the late Adolph and Cecelia Pryzwara, and the late Jessica and Alexander Grynkiewicz.

Also, survived by many loving brothers/sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces/nephews, and cousins.

A resident of Gloucester Heights for the last 70 years, Joe was a dedicated parishioner of Saint Mary’s R.C. Church in Gloucester City. He was a founding member of the Gloucester City Concerned Citizens Group.

Also a member of the Musicians Union in Philadelphia, Joe headed up the Al Joseph’s Trio, popular in South Jersey and Philadelphia. Self-employed as a home remodeler, he was a true craftsman who enjoyed working with his hands; he was also former owner of Central Fuel in Gloucester City.

He was an avid sports fan, with a special passion for the Boston Celtics Professional Basketball Team. Joseph took great pleasure in being surrounded by family/ friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, with a special love of boating and fishing.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his viewing on Tuesday August 8 from 8:30 to 10:15 am at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 am at Saint Mary’s R.C. Church.Interment Saint Joseph’s Cemetery, Chews Landing. There will be no evening viewing.

Family requests that memorial donations be made in Joseph’s memory to Saint Mary’s R.C. Church: Aid to the Aging: 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 or to the University of Pennsylvania, Gifts Administration - c/o Dept. of Surgery 420 Franklin Building 3451 Walnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19104-6285.

Local News

August 5, 2006

Rabid Cat
In Westville
Two People Bitten

The Gloucester County health Department reported on Friday August 4, that two Westville residents were bitten by a cat that tested positive for rabies.

The department is warning residents that other animals could be infected and are asking residents to report any abnormal behavior by wild or domestic animals.

According to a spokesperson for the health department a number of bats and raccoons have tested positive for rabies in recent months.

County health officials said the infected cat was captured in Deptford Township and euthanized.

To report abnormal animal behavior potentially caused by rabies call the Gloucester County Animal Control 856-881-2828.

To report a bite caused by a potentially infected animal, call the Gloucester County Health Dept. at 856-262-4218.

LIONS ALUMNI NEWS

GHS CLASS OF 1981

The GHS Class of 1981 25th Reunion will be Octo-ber 13-15 at the Grand Ho-tel, Cape May.

Interested classmates please contact Linda “Mags” DiOrio (Miller) 856-256-0705 or Michael Kazmar 856-742-9666, or email michael-kazmar@webtv.net

The History of Abbott

1875 The New Jersey constitution is amended requiring the Legislature to establish a system of "thorough and efficient education."

Feb. 1970 A lawsuit, Robinson v. Cahill, brought on behalf or urban school children, charges the state's system for funding schools discriminates against poorer districts and created disparities in education.

Apr. 1973 The New Jersey Supreme Court rules that heavy reliance on property taxes for education discriminates against poor districts

Jul. 1975 The Public School Education Act, Chapter 212, creates a new state-funding formula for public schools, but lawmakers do not raise tax pay for it.

Jul. 1976 The NJ Supreme Court shuts down the public schools for eight days because the Legislature failed to fund the new formula. The first New Jersey state income tax is then enacted.

Feb. 1981 ELC files Abbott v. Burke on behalf of urban school children, challenging the 1975 Act as inadequate to assure a thorough and efficient education.

1985 NJ Supreme Court issues Abbott I, remanding case to Office of Administrative Law and ruling that to satisfy the Constitution, the State must assure urban children an education enabling them to compete with their suburban peers.

1986-87 Trial in Abbott takes place over a 9 month period before Judge Steven LeFelt

Aug. 1988 Judge LeFelt issues a 600 page initial decision, finding for Plaintiff-children and recommending a complete overhaul of State's system of providing urban education.

Feb. 1989 Education Commissioner Saul Cooperman rejects the Judge LeFelt's decision. He says the existing funding system provides equal education opportunities.

May 1990 Governor Jim Florio introduces the Quality Education Act in anticipation of a Supreme Court decision in favor of the Abbott children and introduces a $2.8 billion state tax increase to pay for the new law and the budget deficit he inherited.

Jun. 1990 The NJ Supreme Court rules in Abbott v. Burke (Abbott II) that inadequate and unequal funding denies students in urban districts a thorough and efficient education and requires the State to equalize funding between suburban and urban districts for regular education and to provide extra or "supplemental" programs to "wipe out disadvantages as much as a school district can."

Mar. 1991 Governor Florio signs an amendment to the Quality Education Art diverting $360 million to property tax relief.

Jul. 1992 ELC reactivates the Abbott case charging that the Quality Education Act fails to comply with the 1990 Abbott II ruling.

Jul. 1994 The NJ Supreme Court, in Abbott III, declares the Quality Education Art unconstitutional because it does not equalize funding or guarantee needed supplemental programs. The Court gives the State until 1997 to fully comply.

Feb. 1995 The NJ Department of Education releases a rough blueprint designed to achieve equalization between suburban and urban districts by reducing spending in the suburban districts.

Nov. 1995 Gov. Christie Whitman unveils a plan to change the school-funding formula by capping spending in suburban districts at a minimum level by directing implementation of the NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards.

Dec. 1996 Gov. Whitman signs into law the Comprehensive Education Improvement and Financing Act (CEIFA) that incorporates her plan, without the spending caps in suburban districts. CEIFA authorizes spending in suburban districts at existing levels, and limits spending in urban districts at $1200 per pupil below the suburban average.

Jan. 1997 ELC returns again to the Supreme Court to challenge the failure of CEIFA to comply with the 1990 and 1994 Abbott rulings.

May 1997 The NJ Supreme Court, in Abbott IV, declares CEIFA unconstitutional and orders state officials to immediately increase funding for urban schools to parity with suburban schools. The Court also orders a special hearing before a Superior Court judge to determine the supplemental programs needed by disadvantaged children and to determine facility needs in urban districts.

Sep. 1997 The State allocates $246 million to the Abbott districts to comply with the Abbott IV ruling. 1997-98 marks the first school year in which funding for education is equalized between urban and suburban school districts.

Jan. 1998 After two months of hearings, Remand Judge Michael Patrick King recommends to the Supreme Court implementation of a package of supplemental programs, including preschool, at an additional cost of $312 million a year, and a program to renovate of replace urban school facilities.

May 1998 The NJ Supreme Court issues Abbott V and orders an unprecedented series of entitlements for urban school children including: whole school reform, full-day kindergarten and preschool for all 3 and 4 year olds, and a comprehensive state managed and funded facilities program to correct code violations, to eliminate overcrowding, and to provide adequate space for all educational programs in the Abbott schools. Other supplemental programs are also required such as health and social services, increased security, technology alternative education, school-to work, after-school and summer-school programs.

Jul. 1999 ELC returns again to the NJ Supreme Court to challenge the State's failure to implement well-planned, high quality preschool education for all children in the Abbott districts.

Mar. 2000 NJ Supreme Court, in Abbott VI, rules that the State had failed to implement preschool education as directed, and orders NJ Dept. of Education to overhaul program for 2000-01.

May 2000 NJ Supreme Court, in Abbott VII, reaffirms its prior ruling that the State must fully fund the Abbott school construction program.

Jul. 2000 Legislature enacts Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act authorizing school construction program for Abbott districts and school districts statewide.

Apr. 2001 Administrative Law Judge Masin rules that the State had failed again to properly implement the Abbott preschool program, as required in Abbott V and Abbott VI.

Sep. 2001 NJ Supreme Court hears argument on State's continuing failure to implement preschool.

Oct. 2001 Appellate Division of Superior Court hears arguments on the failure of the State to establish clear, effective and comprehensive guidelines for local school and district implementation of Abbott programs and reforms.

Oct. 2001 Supreme Court issues first half of Abbott VIII, directing timely state decisions of preschool plans and budget and expected administrative appeal process to resolve disputes between districts and DOE over plans and budgets.

Feb. 2002 Supreme Court issues second half of Abbott VIII, further clarifying requirements for State implementation of the Abbott V preschool mandate, as augmented by Abbott VI.

Feb. 2002 ELC and McGreevey Administration establish the Abbott Implementation and Compliance Coordinating Council, pursuant to Exective Order #6, bringing together the parties to Abbott, including ELC, Governors's office, Attorney General, Commissioners of Education and Human Services, Higher Education, and Economic Development Authority to identify implementation problems and solve them.

Mar. 2002 ELC agrees to support McGreevey Administration application before the Supreme Court for a one year freeze on further implementation of Abbott remedies at 2002-03 levels. In exchange, McGreevey agrees to boost preschool spending by $150 million and maintain parity with an additional $83 million in a year when budget deficits require flat State funding to all other school districts.

Jun. 2002 Supreme Court issues order in Abbott IX directing the one year freeze on further implementation of Abbott remedies.

Jul. 2002 McGreevey issues Executive Order #24 establishing the Schools Construction Corporation and calling for building "high performance" schools.

Dec. 2002 Abbott Implementation and Compliance Coordinating Council stops meeting amidst strong rumors the McGreevey Administration will seek a second year freeze on funding Abbott and will further seek to roll back the Court-ordered mandates.

Mar. 2003 McGreevey Administration applies to the Court to remove the mandates for whole school reform and supplemental programs.

Apr. 2003 Supreme Court directs the parties to mediate the disputed matters before Judge Philip Carchman.

May 2003 ELC and the DOE conclude ten days of mediation and Judge Carchman sens off a report to the Court.

Jun. 2003 Supreme Court accepts the mediation agreement, settling all matters except the DOE's request for a second year freeze on state funding of Abbott districts and issues the first half of Abbott X.

Jul. 2003 Supreme Court directs the DOE to fund the districts at amounts sufficient to maintain expenditures authorized in the 2002-03 budgets.

Aug. 2003 Cooperative Rulemaking group ordered in Abbott X concludes its work on new Abbott regulations and results in DOE accepting some recommendations and ignoring others.

Jan. 2004 Appellate Division hears appeals by 21 districts challenging the State's failure to provide $150 million in disputed state aid.

Jan. 2004 Secondary workgroup ordered in Abbott X begins meeting to develop research based reform initiatives for Abbott middle and high schools.

Feb. 2004 Evaluation workgroup ordered in Abbott X begins meeting to develop protocols for independent evaluation of Abbott implementation, ordered in Abbott V but not delivered by the DOE.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Education Law Center
60 Park Place, Suite 300 | Newark, New Jersey 07102
973-624-1815 | Fax 973-624-7339 | TTY 973-624-4618
E-Mail: elc@edlawcenter.org

posted on August 4, 2006

FLORENCE C. QUINLAN

A Funeral Mass was held at Saint Mary’s R.C. Church, Gloucester City, for Florence C. Quinlan, 71, of Gloucester City, who died July 30.

Florence will be missed and most remembered for her warm and loving home where the door was always open. She was a good listener and a comfort to many.
Beloved wife and soul mate of 53 years to Francis (“Red”). Devoted mother of Cathy Wiley and her husband Glenn, Terry Graf, and her husband Matt, Margie McIntyre, Debbie Marshall and her husband Bob, Joe Quinlan and his wife Kim and Jeannie Stief and her husband Mike. Dear sister of Patricia Strauss, Kathleen Britt, Linda Sauer, Jan Bruni and Richard Sauer and his wife Sally. Sister-in-law of Marie and Lou, Alice and Peg. Loving grandmother of 18 and great-grandmother of seven.

Interment was in New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr. Family requests in lieu of flowers donations are made in Mrs. Quinlan’s memory to St. Mary’s Tuition Fund, 428 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, 08030.
______________________________________________

JOSEPH C. MATTIOLI

Funeral Services were held for Joseph C. Mattioli, 84, of Brooklawn, for Joseph C. Mattioli, 84, of Brooklawn, who died July 30.

Beloved husband of the late Rose. Devoted father of Richard Kelly and his wife Donna. Loving grandfather of Richard, Jonathan, and Megan.

Interment was in Haddonfield Baptist Cemetery, Haddonfield.
______________________________________________

JANET I. PARKER

Funeral Services were held for Janet I. Parker, 46, of Clementon, formerly of Mount Ephraim, who died July 28.

Janet was a cheerleader coach for the former Mount Ephraim Thunderbolts.

Beloved wife of Jeffrey Parker. Survived by daughters, Jessica Fennimore of Brooklyn, NY, Stacey Fennimore of Glendora, brother Mike Estes of FL, nephew Ricky Parker, Jr. of New York, faithful companion, “Buddy”.

Cremation was held privately.
______________________________________________

HOW TO SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG

1. Socialize your dog thoroughly with other dogs; for puppies, choose playmates of a similar age and adults who have been well socialized themselves. This means off-lead socialization, not sniffing noses at the end of the lead. The more experience a dog has with other dogs, the more refined his judgment will become about what constitutes rude or foolish behavior and how best to deal with it. He'll also learn how to be a polite dog himself.

If a dog has not or cannot be well socialized, be realistic about what you can expect from him in his dealings with other dogs. This may mean altering your training or competition goals to be fair to a dog who may not be able to cope with the stresses of these situations.

2. When socializing your dog under someone else's instruction or guidance, be careful. Some instructors and trainers are appalling ignorant about basic behavior, and unable to set up a positive socialization situation. If you feel uncomfortable with a situation, remove your dog. It only takes a few seconds for a bad experience to leave a lasting impression, particularly on a young dog.

Just turning dogs loose together to play is not socialization. There has to be supervision, and intervention when the potential for a problem appears. The instructor must pay attention to each individual dog as well as the pairings or subsets within the whole play group. If one dog is getting overly excited, it's time to gently capture him, take him out of the play group and calm him down before letting him play again. If a fearful dog has reached his limit, it's time to remove him from the group and give him time to relax and build his courage before putting him back in. If a particular dog or dogs begins to gang up on another dog, time to break up the brat pack.

Instructors need to carefully assess groups and not pair dogs inappropriately. For example, a rambunctious Labrador puppy should not be paired with a timid Sheltie pup. Since Lab puppies often resemble a cannonball crossed with a Sumo wrestler on drugs and consequently like heavy duty physical contact (preferably in mid-air, at great speed), the more sensitive Sheltie may be quickly overwhelmed and quite possibly hurt by the Lab pup. Not only might this leave a very bad impression on the Sheltie but it can also teach the Lab puppy that rudeness is acceptable.

3. Watch your dog. Your dog will tell you all you need to know about his perception of the world. When you're with him, really be with him. Pay attention to his behavior.
Position yourself and/or the dog so that the dog is always in your peripheral vision. Practice checking on your dog often. If he appears to be concerned, find out why. And then help him. Protect him.

Teach yourself to recognize the small, subtle signs that he's shifted out of a perfectly relaxed state of mind. These may be as simple as the tilt of an ear, a raised eyebrow, a slight holding of the breath or tensing of the muscles. Each dog is different - learn to read your own dog.

If you can't watch your dog in a situation where there are potential problems, put him somewhere safe. I've seen far too many incidents occur unnecessarily because a handler was engrossed in a conversation or fascinated by what was happening in the ring and ignoring the dog at their side.

When a handler's attention is elsewhere, I call this handling by Braille - meaning, knowing nothing more than that there was still pressure on the lead and thus the dog was still present. Unbeknownst to you, the dog could be acting rudely himself or trying to avoid a rude dog. Handle your dog with awareness, not by the length of your lead.

4. Be pro-active in protecting your dog. If you see a fool and his rude dog headed your way, do your best to protect your dog. If possible, walk away, lightly and quietly asking your dog to come with you. Be sure you are breathing and relaxed - don't let your apprehension about a possible altercation impact negatively on your dog.

If you can't walk away, try to get the fool to stop. Position yourself between the fool and your dog. If necessary, loudly & firmly tell the approaching person that your dog is not good with other dogs.

In close quarters where there really aren't any options for moving away, shield your dog with your own body. (Remember, stepping between dogs is an act of protective leadership.)

If you need to, sharply tell the fool to "please control your rude dog." You'll probably get a dirty look (fools rarely believe they or their dogs are rude and are shocked when spoken to sharply) but chances are good they'll at least make a show at controlling their dog or move huffily away from you.
DOs & DON'Ts
DON'T bring an intolerant or undersocialized dog to a puppy kindergarten or other concentrations of rudeness & stupidity when you know he can't handle puppies, stupidity, or rudeness!
DON'T put your dog in a situation you or he are not prepared to handle.
DON'T turn a rude puppy or dog loose with an intolerant adult.
DON'T expect your dog to like every dog he meets (at least until you like every person you meet.)
DON'T allow your dog to become overexcited or rude - help him find a more appropriate behavior or remove him briefly from the triggering situation
DON'T allow other people to allow their dogs to be rude to your dog.
DON'T ignore your dog or what your dog tells you about his feelings.
DON'T punish a dog for telling another dog to get the hell out of his face.
DON'T punish an adult for reminding a puppy to mind his manners.
DON'T let your training or competition goals overwhelm your good sense - always be fair to your dog.
DO respect the fact that your dog has a need for & a right to his personal space.
DO socialize your dog so that he's wise in the ways of other dogs.
DO accept the inexplicable disliking that your dog may have for another dog.
DO build your dog's tolerance levels through repeated, positive experiences.
DO continually educate yourself regarding normal and appropriate canine behavior in any given situation.
DO plan ahead to how you will handle difficult situations, people or dogs.
DO earn your dog's trust by keeping your promise to protect him.
DO pay attention to your dog when you are with him.
DO insist that your dog behave politely.
DO respect that your dog's individual needs may or may not be in line with your training or competition goals.
DO put your dog first - all your hopes, dreams, titles & goals all mean nothing if you ignore the needs, fears and realities of who your dog is.
DO honor & respect your dog's concerns, whether or not you share them. (Remember how your mom left the light in the hall on at night when you were a kid? It probably wasn't because she was afraid of the dark.)

Carrie Fetzer

On July 29, 2006, age 90 years. A resident of Gloucester City for 86 years.

Loving wife of the late John Fetzer. Devoted mother of Darline DeLaurentis and her son in law Cassmiro DeLaurentis of Atco. Dear sister of Darline Keebler (Frank) of Gloucester City, and sister in law to Jane Ternau of Carson City, NV, Clara Fowler of Maple Shade, Joan & Paul Keller of Mantua and Joseph and Gladys Fetzer of Sweetwater. Carrie was predeceased by her parents, a sister and brothers.

She shared her love with many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many dear friends that will miss her loving presence. Mrs. Fetzer was a member of the Gloucester City Fire Co. Ladies Aux., the Camden County Fire Ladies Aux., and the NJ State Fire Ladies Aux. She was also a member of the Townsend C. Young VFW Post 3620 Aux., and the Gloucester City Senior Citizens Club.

Relatives and friends met at the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 Powell St., Gloucester City. Interment Bethel Memorial Park, Pennsauken. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial donations be made to Samaritan Hospice, 5 Eves Drive, Suite 300, Marlton, NJ 08053.

David R. Saunders

David Robert Saunders, Suddenly, On June 10, 2006. Age 45. Of Gloucester City.

Loving and cherished father of Sean M. Saunders and David R. Saunders, both of Gloucester City. Husband of 18 years to Mary (nee Fitzpatrick) of Gloucester City. Beloved Son of Ralph J. Saunders and Margaret A. (nee Pine) of Gloucester City. Devoted Brother of Ralph J. Saunders of Gloucester City, Maureen A. Moran and her husband, Denis and Raymond E. Saunders and his wife Frances, all of Gloucester City. Survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Also, his friend Kelly of Gloucester City.

David was born, raised and lived in Gloucester City. He was a graduate of Saint Mary’s Grammar School in Gloucester City and Gloucester Catholic High School in 1978. David was a letter carrier employed by the United States Post Office and most recently worked in the Maple Shade Post Office. He loved to volunteer especially as a coach for the Gloucester City Mustangs Football and Gloucester City Little League. David was a member of the Gloucester City Knights of Columbus Council #674 and a lifelong parishioner of Saint Mary’s R.C. Church in Gloucester City. He was a member of the Sportsmen A.C. in Gloucester City and the Gloucester Catholic High School Alumni Association.

Interment New Saint Mary’s R.C. Church, Bellmawr.

Family requests that memorial donations be made in David’s memory to Saint Mary’s Grammar School Tuition Fund: c/o Saint Mary’s R.C. Church: 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030.

Funeral Arrangements McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, (at Brown Street) Gloucester City.

Violet Mae Johnson

On August 1, 2006. (nee Horstmann). Age 85. Of Bellmawr. Formerly of Barnegat and East Camden. Surrounded and cared for by her loving husband of 64 years, William P. Johnson, Sr.

Devoted mother of William P. Johnson, Jr. (Marie) of Gloucester City and the late Kathleen Ricciardelli. Loving grandmother of Anthony Ricciardelli (Eva), William C. Johnson, Eric T. Johnson (Rebecka). Dear Great-grandmother of 5. Violet was born in Philadelphia and lived in East Camden. She resided in Barnegat before moving to Bellmawr. She was a sales associate 30 years at Strawbridge and Clothier Department Store in Philadelphia then in Cherry Hill. Violet was a dedicated member of the Arwames Rebekah Lodge # 84 of Gloucester City formerly of Amity Lodge #105 in Pennsauken.

Funeral Service were held at the McCann Healey Funeral Home officiated by Reverend Theodore Chandler of Ocean Community Church in Whiting. Interment Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson.

Family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Violet’s memory to the charity of your choice.

Catherine Hines

Catherine L. Hines (nee Burns) of Gloucester City, on June 18, 2006, age 94.

Loving wife of the late John S. Hines. Devoted mother of John (Patricia) Hines of Gloucester City and Edward (Susan) Hines of Barnsboro. Beloved grandmother of Stacey Stinsman, Tyson Koppelman, James Hines, John Hines and Patrick Hines. Cherished great-grandmother of Madison and Kylie Stinsman and Amber Koppelman.

Catherine was born and raised in Elizabeth, N.J. and has been a resident of Gloucester City for the last 60 years. She has been a very devoted parishioner of 60 years at Saint Mary’s R.C. Church in Gloucester City and was a longtime member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas: Court Giese Council # 439 in Gloucester City. Catherine was a member of the Highland Park Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

Entombment New Saint Mary’s Mausoleum, Bellmawr.

Funeral services under the direction of the McCann Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City

James M. Bennett Sr.

On April 19, 2006. Surrounded by his loving family, Of Gloucester City. Age 62.

Loving husband of the late Mary Lou (nee Fowler). Devoted father of Jacquelynn Marie Kraft (Christian) of Deptford and James M. Bennett, Jr. (Georgeann) of Sicklerville. Dear Brother of Robert H. Bennett (Helen) of Port Saint Lucie, Florida and Janet Moon of Pennsauken. Beloved grandfather of Jillian Kraft, Rachel Kraft and Paige Bennett. Devoted son-in-law of Mary Halderman of Gloucester City. Dear brother-in-law of Leah Wade of West Deptford. Also, survived by many nieces and nephews.

James was a lifelong resident of Gloucester City. He retired from the Gloucester City Police Department in 1984. James loved to fish with his family and friends. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Saint Mary’s R.C. Church: 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Interment New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.

Family requests that memorial donations be made in James memory to American Lung Association of New Jersey: 1600 Route 22 East Union, New Jersey 07083-3407.

Funeral services under the direction of the McCann Healey Funeral Home.

Al Grynkiewicz

GRYNKIEWICZ, ALEXANDER, 88 - of Sea Isle City, and formerly of Gloucester Heights and South Camden on July 23, 2006, surrounded by his loving family, passed away from heart failure.

Loving husband of the late Jessie Grynkiewicz (nee Pryzwara). Devoted father of Richard L. Gannon, Sr. and his wife Lis of Sea Isle City and Sandra Milcarek and her husband Leon of Gloucester City. Beloved grandfather "Dziadzi" of David Pursglove (Ronda), Richard L. Gannon, Jr., Cynthia Reif (Carl), Dana Jamison (Dan). Dear Great-grandfather of Danny and Quinn Jamison, Alli and Tyler Pursglove, Dalton, Dean and Dylan Reif. Loving brother of Leonard Jurczykowski (Gladys) and the late Walter Grynkiewicz and Chester Jurczykowski. Alexander was born, raised and lived in South Camden.

He was a graduate of Camden High School and a parishioner of Saint Joseph's R.C. Church on 10th and Liberty Street. He worked as a welder for the New York Ship Yard. Alexander was a member of the Boilermakers and Iron Ship Builders Union # 801. He was a life time member of the Gloucester City Volunteer Fire Department # 54 (formerly # 4) from 1942-1977 in Gloucester Heights.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Entombment with his late wife, Jessie in New Saint Mary's Cemetery, Bellmawr.
Ffamily requests that memorial donations in Alexander's memory to Deborah Hospital Foundation, PO Box 820, Browns Mills, NJ 08015. Please write in the memo of the check, Alexander Grynkiewicz.
Friends met at the McCann Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City

LIFE IS ABOUT CHOICES

John is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood
and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he
was doing, he would reply, "If I were any better, I would be twins!"

He was a natural motivator.
If an employee was having a bad day, John was there telling the employee
how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up and
asked him, "I don't get it! You can't be a positive person all of the time.
How do you do it?"

He replied, "Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two
choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or ... you can choose to
be in a bad mood. I choose to be in a good mood."

Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I
can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it. Every time someone
comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or...
I can point out the positive side of life. I choose
the positive side of life.

"Yeah, right, it's not that easy," I protested.
"Yes, it is," he said. "Life is all about choices. When you cut away
all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to
situations. You choose how people affect your mood.
You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's
your choice how you live your life."

I reflected on what he said. Soon hereafter, I left the Tower
Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about
him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that he was involved in a serious
accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower. After 18 hours
of surgery and weeks of intensive care, he was released from the hospital with
rods placed in his back.
I saw him about six months after the accident.

When I asked him how he was, he replied, "If I were any better, I'd
be twins Wanna see my scars?"
I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through
his mind as the accident took place.

"The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my
soon-to-be born daughter," he replied. "Then, as I lay on the
ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or...I
could choose to die. I chose to live."

"Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?" I asked.
He continued, "..the paramedics were great. They kept telling me I
was going to be fine.But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw
the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared.
In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man'. I knew
I needed to take action."
"What did you do?" I asked.

"Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me," said
John. "She asked if I was allergic to anything. 'Yes, I replied.' The
doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a
deep breath and yelled, 'Gravity'." Over their laughter, I told them,
"I am choosing to live. Operate one as if I am alive, not dead."

He lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of
his amazing attitude... I learned from him that every day we have the choice
to live fully.

Attitude, after all, is everything.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about
itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34.
After all today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

EPA/AMSPEC chemical settlement

Gloucester: EPA/Amspec chemical settlement

GLOUCESTER CITY: EPA AND AMSPEC CHEMICAL SETTLEMENT Date: 22 Jun 2000From: Delly.Karen@epamail.epa.gov IN SETTLEMENT WITH EPA, CHEMICAL COMPANY BUYS $20,000 OF HAZ MAT GEARFOR GLOUCESTER CITY AND MINIMIZES WASTE June 22, 2000 New York, N.Y. -

Emergency responders in Gloucester City, New Jersey have received $20,000 worth of essential equipment to help them betterprotect themselves, local residents and the environment from accidentsinvolving toxic chemicals, as a result of a settlement between theU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Amspec ChemicalCorporation.

EPA's innovative Supplemental Environmental Projectprogram gives companies that settle with the agency on certainviolations, the option of doing projects to benefit human health andthe environment.

In settling with EPA on charges that it violatedfederal chemical reporting requirements, Amspec, located at 751 WaterStreet in Gloucester City, agreed to: purchase $20,000 worth ofemergency response equipment for Gloucester City; make approximately$150,000 worth of environmental improvements to its facility that willreduce the amount of chemical waste it produces; and pay a cashpenalty of $47,245. "Our penalty policy is the silver lining of an environmentalviolation," said Jeanne M. Fox, EPA Regional Administrator.

"Ratherthan simply settling for a cash penalty from a facility we havecharged with violations, we are able to allow the facility to givesomething back to the community. We are very pleased that our policyhas benefitted residents of Gloucester City and their localenvironment, and we do not expect Amspec to repeat its mistakes in thefuture."

EPA inspected Amspec in 1998 and determined that the company hadfailed to submit information about certain chemicals it used at itsfacility in 1995 and 1996. The company also disclosed that it filedinformation late about chemicals it used in 1997.

After the tragic1984 chemical release in Bhopal, India, Congress passed the EmergencyPlanning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA), mandating EPA toobtain and make available to the public information about the toxicchemicals used and released into the environment by industry.

Companies like Amspec must provide information to EPA by July 1 ofevery year about the use and release into the environment of over 650toxic chemicals. This information is compiled by EPA annually into aToxic Release Inventory, which is made available to the public atwww.epa.gov/triexplorer/explorer.htm.

EPA charged that Amspec failed to submit information about its use orrelease into the environment of antimony and antimony compounds,cobalt compounds and methanol in 1995 and 1996 and N-butyl alcohol in1996. Subsequent to EPA's inspection of the Amspec facility, thecompany disclosed that it did file forms for antimony and antimonycompounds, cobalt compounds and chromium compounds in 1997, but thatit filed them late.

EPA also charged that Amspec violated the Toxic Substances ControlAct (TSCA), which requires any company that intends to manufacture anew chemical to tell EPA first. This notification provides the agencywith information about the chemical so that it can manage anypotential risks that the chemical might pose to human health or theenvironment.

Based on information voluntarily disclosed by Amspec, EPAfound that the company had manufactured a new chemical, sodiumpropylate, on three occasions from 1994 to 1996 without notifying EPAbeforehand. The equipment Amspec purchased for the Gloucester City Office ofEmergency Management's Hazardous Material Response Group includes: 32hazardous materials protective suits, several chemical testing kitsand cases of protective gloves and boots for handling hazardousmaterials.

Amspec also agreed to install a new waste-minimizing "cobalt recoverysystem" by January 31, 2001. This system will capture approximately90% of the chromium and cobalt salts the facility normally produces aswaste from its manufacturing processes.

Instead of being shippedoff-site as waste to be disposed-of, the chemicals would be eitherreused by the company or used by other companies in place of freshchemicals.

Amspec, a subsidiary of Antimony Products of America, manufacturesindustrial inorganic chemicals and is the largest producer of antimonyoxide products in North America.

Amspec has annual sales ofapproximately $40 million.

Nina Habib Spencer, (212) 637-3670 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 2New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands290 Broadway - New York, New York 10007-1866www.epa.gov/region2

STRESS

A lecturer, when explaining stress management to an audience, raised
a glass of water and asked, "How heavy is this glass of water?
Answers called out ranged from 20g to 500g.

The lecturer replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long you try to hold it.

"If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour,
I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to
call an ambulance. In each case, it's the same weight, but the longer I hold
it, the heavier it becomes.

He continued, "And that's the way it is with stress management. If we carry
our burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes
increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."

"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest
before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the
burden."

"So, before you return home tonight, put the burden of work down. Don't
carry it home. You can pick it up tomorrow. Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment if you can."

"Relax; pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy it!

And then he shared some ways of dealing with the burdens of life:

Accept that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue.

Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.

Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of
it.
Drive carefully. It's not only cars that can be recalled by their maker.
If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague.
If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably
worth it.
It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to
others.
Never buy a car you can't push.
Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won't have a leg to stand on.

Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.

Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird; sleep late.

The second mouse gets the cheese.

When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.

You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to
one person.

Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once.

A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.

Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today. . . .

. . . . . I did

_________________________________________________________________

New! Find great places to

A Waste of Tax Dollars

By William E. Cleary Publisher Emeritus

Gloucester City Mayor and Council are planning to publish a Community Newsletter to send vial the mail to residents several times throughout the year. This idea isn’t new it has been proposed numerous times in the past.

And each time the suggestion is thrown about, the NEWS asks the same question. Why?

The Gloucester City News publishes every news release the City gives it for FREE. For example in the July 6 issue above the fold the headline reads, Gloucester City Officials Working On Many Projects. The story was a press release from our city fathers.

Mayor and council along with residents should be thankful they have a community newspaper.

The NEWS started in 1927 and 79 years later it is still going strong. But it continues to need the support not only from the local government but also from the residents if it is going to survive.

An estimated cost to print and mail a city newsletter could run has high as $10,000. There is postage, printing expense, handling, and monies spent to pay a city employee(s) to layout the paper.

Besides the Gloucester City News the City also has at its disposal a local cable channel to broadcast its message to the community. Let the public view a city council meeting on channel 19 each month.

If it works for the local Board of Education why doesn’t council do the same?

Television. What a unique idea. The public would actually get to see the people they elected at work.

Instead of spending money on frivolous newsletters why not put the funds towards painting the rusted and dilapidated park benches and playground equipment that are in need of repair and maintenance.

Just look at the rusted fence that surrounds the playground at Lane and Thompson Avenues. A little elbow grease and a few gallons of paint would make the corner shine.

Instead of using the money to publish and mail a newsletter spend it on removing the abandon and unlicensed vehicles that sit on numerous properties throughout the community.

Lets not wait until a small child climbs inside the trunk of one these cars and smothers. The tragedy that happened last year in Camden City should be all the motivation mayor and council should need to tell police to start enforcing the city ordinance.

I think it is great the business community and the local government have decided to work together to improve the city.

But get the priorities in order.

A government newsletter would be just another waste of our tax dollars.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Gloucester City News

The article was published in Gloucester City News July 15-06

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Enough Already

By William E. Cleary, Publisher Emeritus

Once again the state legislators have decided to increase our taxes. The state is running out of things to tax. Did you know that Governor Corzine had proposed a tax on your drinking water? What a ludicrous idea. Soon after it was proposed the idea was dropped because some state legislators said, “Yo Jon you might be going to far with that one.”

Year in and year out our legislators have continually mismanaged the state’s finances. It makes one wonder how this could have happened, how we citizens could have given away the power over our earnings and property to these spendthrift politicians, without much more than a feeble mumbling of protest.

New Jersey taxpayers are stuck with the highest property taxes in the nation, in addition to the highest automobile insurance, the highest per pupil cost, and just about every imaginable tax and fee that a liberal government can impose.

Cut programs; reduce pensions, and lifetime health benefits for state employees. Cut the work force. Corporate businesses do it everyday when faced with financial deficits. Why should state and local government be any different?

People on fixed incomes along with those in the middle class cannot afford to live in New Jersey. If it isn’t state taxes that are going up it is your local and school taxes that increase.

Come on people wake up! Get mad! Tell them you’re not going to take it any longer. Don’t just complain get involved in your local and state government. We need to send a message. Vote out of office those career politicians that have made our State the highest taxed state in the nation.

They had their chance. They have become complacent and have loss touched with those they represent. We need to elect people who will change the ways things have been done in Trenton for too long.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Gloucester City News

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__________________________________________________
The article was published in the Gloucester City News July 25, 06

Action Speaks Louder than Words

   By William E. Cleary, Publisher Emeritus

Gloucester City Mayor and Council want to spend taxpayer’s money on printing a newsletter to be distributed to residents via the mail. 

Why would our City Fathers want to have their own newsletter when they can publish the same items in the local newspaper at no cost?

I suggest it is because this is an election year.

Those running (mayor and three council seats) want complete control over every avenue of communication for their “political spin”. 

The incumbents are facing strong opposition this year from three popular candidates.  Even though those in charge have free access to the local newspaper for press releases along with a cable television channel, and a City run Internet web site it is not enough for them. 

Your tax dollars will foot the bill for the City newsletter/newspaper so the Democrat Club wont be spending any of their money.

But here is the real problem.  Your opinion (if it is an opposing thought) would not appear in the newsletter even though your tax dollars are paying for it. Prove it you say.

Example- In nearby Haddon Township, Commissioner Mary Hogan sued Mayor Park for infringing upon her constitutional right to free speech by keeping her articles from being published in the township’s monthly publication, the Haddon Township Monitor.  The Mayor’s attorney argued the township has complete control over what it wishes to publish since the government owns, publishes, and distributes it.  A ruling on the case, being heard in the U.S. District Court in Camden, is pending.

Example-Two years ago the Independents running against the incumbents asked for equal time on the local cable channel to present their point of view.  Their request was denied.

Example-Even though the public wants council meetings to be televised on the local access channel this Mayor and Council have said no. 

In June the City government held a community workshop entitled “Enhancing Gloucester City’s Image”.  In attendance were members of council and business owners.  The speaker was from Philadelphia.  After a tour of our City she offered a number of things to improve the economic vitality of our community. 

Here are my recommendations for free on what needs to be done to Enhance  Our City's image.

*Start with the painting and repair of the rusted park benches, park fences, and playground equipment.  Remove the unlicensed, unregistered broken down vehicles that exist in many neighborhoods.

*Strictly enforce the ordinances that deal with rental properties.  Make slum landlords clean up their properties or they would face heavy fines and the property condemned.  Go after residents who don’t cut their grass or remove the trash around their homes.

*Get Animal Control to trap the feral cats that run throughout the city.  In my neighborhood we have one  woman who is feeding 15 cats.  The little kittens grow up they have more cats and the cat problem keeps growing. Call Animal Control they will tell you to pick up a cage lease it from them for $75 and you are suppose to capture the cats. When you bring the cage back your $75 is returned. I thought that is why the City hired Animal Control people.

*Begin with the cleanup of the blighted businesses and properties along Broadway.  One property on South Broadway is surrounded by so much junk you can barely make out there is a house behind the weeds and refuse.

*A final suggestion is for you, the public.  Get involved in the running of your local government.  Tell mayor and council you don’t want your money spent needlessly on a Government controlled newspaper.  Speak out.  Instead of more written words and promises let see some action for a change. 

The opinions expressed are those of the  author and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the  Gloucester City News 
_______________________________________________
The article was published 8-3-06 in the Gloucester City News

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