CNBNEWS.NET

Rowan Softball Players Earn NJAC Conference Honors

Gloucester City:Howard Clark New Coordinator of UEZ

By Albert Countryman Jr.

  The Gloucester City Business Association (GCBA) announced at its meeting last week (Tuesday night) that Gloucester City has named Howard Clark of Channel 19 as the new coordinator of the Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ).

  A longtime officer with the GCBA, Clark had applied for the position after the current coordinator, Gina Dunphy, announced she was stepping down to spend more time with her family.

  Clark, who is also the owner of Sports Video, will receive an annual salary as Coordinator of the Gloucester City UEZ.

  Over the past 15 years, he has consistently supported local businesses working together to make Gloucester City a better place to live, work and shop.

DoD Announces Casualties:PFC Wm Dix., 32, Sgt David McDowell, 30 and Senior Airman Jonathan A. V. Yelner, 24

Media Release April 30, 2008

The Department of Defense announced today the death of the following military personnel

 

 Pfc. William T. Dix, 32, of Culver City, Calif., died April 27 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, of injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident.  He was assigned to the 14th Engineer Battalion, 555th Engineer Brigade, I Corps, Fort Lewis, Wash.

          The incident is under investigation.

           Sgt. 1st Class David L. McDowell, 30, of Ramona, Calif., died April 29 in Bastion, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.

           Senior Airman Jonathan A. V. Yelner, 24, of Lafayette, Calif., died April 29 near Bagram, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device.  He was assigned to the 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.

 

Soldiers Missing from the Korean War are Identified

Media Release April 30

           The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office announced today that the remains of two U.S. servicemen, missing from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

 

            They are Cpl. Robert L. Mason of Parkersburg, W.Va.; and Pfc. Joseph K. Meyer Jr., of Wahpeton, N.D., both U.S. Army. Both men will be buried Saturday. Mason will be buried in Belpre, Ohio, and Meyer will be buried in Wahpeton.

 

            Representatives from the Army met with the next-of-kin of these men to explain the recovery and identification process, and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Army.

 

            Mason was assigned to B Company, 32^nd Infantry Regiment, and Meyer was assigned to K Company, 31^st Infantry Regiment. Both were attached to the 31^st Regimental Combat Team (RCT), 7^th Infantry Division. The team was engaged against the Chinese People’s Volunteer Forces near the Chosin Reservoir, North Korea, from late November to early December, 1950. Both men died as result of intense enemy fire, and their bodies were not recovered at the time.

 

            Between 2001 and 2005, joint U.S. and Democratic People’s Republic of Korea teams, led by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC), conducted excavations of several burial sites near the Chosin Reservoir. The sites correlate closely with defensive positions held by the 31st RCT at the time of the Chinese attacks. The teams recovered remains there believed to be those of U.S. servicemen. Analysis of the remains recovered from the sites led to the identification of several individuals, including Mason and Meyer.

 

            Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory and JPAC also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in both Meyer’s and Mason’s identification.

 

            For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, visit the DPMO Web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or call (703) 699-1420.

 

TCNJ SOFTBALL PLAYERS NAMED TO ALL-NJAC TEAMS

Media Release

Ewing, NJ… The College of New Jersey softball team had four players honored by the New Jersey Athletic Conference for their performances on the diamond during the regular season, with two Lions earning a spot on the All-NJAC First Team.

Senior Christina Lizzi (Wyckoff, NJ/Ramapo) and sophomore Ellen Seavers (Ridgewood, NJ/Ridgewood) both garnered first-team honors, while sophomore Ashley Minervini (Cliffside Park, NJ/Cliffside Park) was named All-NJAC Second Team and sophomore Danielle Hagel (Egg Harbor, NJ/Oakcrest) received All-NJAC Honorable Mention.

Lizzi made the team as a first baseman after earning second-team honors in 2005 and 2006 as an outfielder. The change of positions did not slow her at the plate as she batted a steady .291 with three home runs and 19 runs batted in. She was also a perfect on the base paths with 16 steals in 16 attempts and leads the team with 21 walks.

At shortstop, Seavers and anchored the middle infield for the Lions and has led the team in a host of offensive categories this season. She has been consistent from the start hitting safely in 33 of 38 games with 17 multiple-hit games. The infielder put together hitting streaks of 11 and 12 games and is batting team-leading .396. She received All-NJAC Honorable Mention as a freshman last season.

Minervini has been the workhorse of TCNJ’s pitching staff logging a team-best 136.1 innings in 27 appearances and is third in the NJAC in strikeouts with 124. She is also fifth in the conference with 13 wins, which is a career best, to go along with a 1.90 earned-run average.

Hagel earned All-NJAC Honorable Mention for the second straight year, with this year’s recognition coming as an outfielder. The sophomore has set career highs in home runs (3) and runs batted in (20), while making 36 starts this season. One of her home runs was a game-winning grand slam in the top of the seventh inning to beat New Jersey City University.

The team has already advanced to the second round of the NJAC Tournament as the fourth-seeded Lions knocked off third-seeded Rowan University on Tuesday, 4-0.  TCNJ is currently 24-15 on the season and has won six of its last seven games.


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Westville: Without State Aid Borough Taxes Will Increase

By Sara Martino

NEWS Correspondent

Westville is one of the municipalities that, so far, will not receive any discretionary state aid.

  "We have lost $250,000 in state aid this year," Borough Administrator William Bittner said during the recent Borough Council meeting, where the 2008 municipal budget of $4.5 million was approved.

  Property owners will see an increase of 28 cents per $100 of assessed value in the local tax rate.

  Resident Virginia Horn asked if there were any efforts to cut the budget.

  Council members said the budget will be gone over line by line item to find if there can be any cuts.

  Bittner said that if the state does decide to give Westville extraordinary aid, there would not be any increase in the local tax.

  Representatives from the Gateway Regional High School (GRHS) and the Parkview Elementary Sch-ool, addressed the governing body explaining their proposed budgets.

  Joyce Stumpo, superintendent of the high school, said an increase of 17 cents per $100 of assessed value in Westville would be necessary to incorporate the necessities demanded by the education process for the students.

  Westville voters voted 118 yes and 118 no on the budget. In other districts sending students to GRHS, Wenonah, National Park, Woodbury Heights voters defeated the $8,222,125 general fund allocation.

  Parkview School representatives told the governing body that there would not be an increase in the local school tax year. On Tuesday, April 15, in a very low turnout, voters approved (151 to 96) the $1,635,551 general fund allocation.

  For the average property owner, the taxes will remain at $977 per year, the same as last year's tax.                         

  Council discussed a Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) for the age and income restricted proposed senior complex on Broadway. Borough officials said the builders of the $6 million improvement offered $16,000 per year instead of paying taxes, but the Borough asked for, and will receive, $89,000 with increases over 15 years.

  Council President Russell Welsh, sitting in for Mayor Michael Galbraith, startled the audience just prior to the adjournment, with notice that Fieldstone, Associates would be pulling out from their proposed "The Cove" project, citing financial difficulties and the serious housing situation.

  According to sources and an email, the redevelopment committee had met with Fieldstone's representatives on Tuesday when the redeveloper's reasons for the cancellation of the project were explained.

  The rest of the Council members did not learn of the development news until just prior to the Wednesday council meeting.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty:Spc David McCormick, 26, of Fresno, Texas

 

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. David P. McCormick, 26, of Fresno, Texas, died April 28 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his forward operating base came under rocket attack. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

 

6-Alarm Fire Engulfs Philadelphia Church

http://cbs3.com

                                               

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―        

Philadelphia firefighters are on the scene of a raging six-alarm fire in the city's Strawberry Mansion section. Flames also damaged at least three nearby home and residents east of the church were evacuated.

Authorities said the fire broke out at about 7:45 a.m. at the Prince of Peace Baptist Church in the 3200 block of W. Berks Streets. Flames quickly consumed the entire four-story building and went to five-alarms by 8:30 a.m. At about 8:45 a.m. firefighters began going door-to-door evacuating residents in homes immediately east of the church.

continue

Pets for the Environment: Sign up for a healthy environment for pets

http://www.enviroblog.org

Did you know your pet's food, toys, and bed don't have to be tested for safety?

EWG found 35 toxic chemicals in dogs and 46 in cats - most at even higher levels than we find in people. And pets grow 7 times faster than humans, so what happens to them (like increased cancer rates) might happen to people soon.

That's why Eddie, a dog on a mission, founded Pets for the Environment with the help of Environmental Working Group.

Sign up to get pet health tips and updates. Then check out the Wall of Cute and Eddie's Healthy Pet Tips.

Mullen Asks Philadelphians to Embrace Wounded Veterans

Related: Our Men and Women in the Military By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service PHILADELPHIA, April 29, 2008 - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff called on the citizens of Philadelphia last night to embrace those who have lost loved ones or who have been wounded in service to America. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen received the Gold Medal of the Union League of Philadelphia during a ceremony at the 1862 building, right down the street from City Hall. The league was established during the Civil War as an organization to help restore the Union, and it has pursued its mission to uphold the nation for the 135 years since. Mullen challenged the league to find ways to help the surviving spouses and families of servicemembers who paid the ultimate price, saying that communities have a moral responsibility to help returning wounded veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan. Many of these veterans face stark choices as they try to plan lives that changed in an instant. "A poll in this morning's news said some 70 percent of those veterans who have come back from this war don't think America is doing everything it can for those who are serving," Mullen said. The admiral didn't comment on the poll, but said he is "extremely concerned that we figure out a way to take care of those who sacrificed so much." Deborah Mullen, the admiral's wife, often meets and spends time with surviving spouses, the chairman said. They tell her that they want to stay connected to their service, and the admiral noted that significant support groups are helping them do so. The Mullens have visited young men and women in wounded warrior clinics in Hawaii; Camp Pendleton, Calif.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; the National Naval Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md.; and Walter Reed Army Medical Center here. "As they recover from these life-altering wounds, my vision is that the Department of Defense, the [Department of Veterans Affairs] and the rest of America figure out a way to take care of these young people and their families for the rest of their lives," Mullen said. "In many cases, they are trying to figure out what they want to be for the rest of their lives, and their choices have changed." Mullen said he wants to stop the focus on the disability side of the assessment and focus more on the abilities these wounded warriors still possess. "I really believe that, in this great country, ... DoD, VA, but most importantly, the communities throughout the country can connect the sea of goodwill that is in this country, that I know is out there, with these young families," he said. "I would hope that we as a country reach out to them so their American dream is still out there." Though their dreams may change because of their circumstances, wounded warriors want to go to school, they want a family, they want to go to school, they want to have a family, they want their kids to go to school, and they'd like to own a home and have the income stream to support it, Mullen said. "These are cases where young people sacrificed their all, and in other cases sacrificed their future -- certainly the way they saw it," the chairman said. "For them, we as a country must figure out how to best take care of them." Mullen thanked the Union League members for their high honor. "If I could ask you to remember one thing about the evening, it would not be about who got the award," he said. "It would be about those who serve and, in particular, those have given so much in this war and those who will continue to do so." In closing the ceremony, Union League President Frederick C. Haab said that one of the perks of his job "is to sit next to a gentleman like Admiral Mullen and talk with him and chat with him on a wide rage of topics. I wish you could all have that experience. It was wonderful, and I say in closing that there is a man who epitomizes our motto: 'Love of Country Leads.'"

Biographies: Adm. Mike Mullen Related Sites: Union League of Philadelphia Related Articles: Chairman Accepts Award on Behalf of Servicemembers

Urgent Message from Mayor William James to the Citizens of Gloucester City

April 29, 2008

"I hope that you all are up for the fight, for it is my intention to take whatever action, no matter how drastic and explore whatever venue, no matter what the cost to prevent this from happening", Mayor William James 

Dear Citizens of Gloucester City,

Today I met with a representative of South Jersey Port Corporation regarding the proposed relocation of the Camden City Methadone Clinic to the Port Facility in South Camden.  As I expressed my extreme displeasure with the plans to go forward with the project I was informed that a new location for said clinic has been identified.

The new location explained to me is the Air Products Facility directly on the right-hand side at the base of the Broadway Bridge. I've been advised that this is a recently identified location that the Port facility owns.

After expressing my thoughts on the matter, I advised the Port representative that the fight is on and that I would do everything in my power to prevent this from happening. 

After the meeting I contacted the Mayor of Camden City.  And spoke with her regarding the new location selected by the Port.  Mayor Faison was unaware of this new development and expressed her deepest concern as she no more wants the clinic at her entranceway than we want it on our entranceway.  The Mayor referred me to The Camden City CEO former Superior Court Judge Theodore Davis.  Judge Davis called me back later in the day and was caught off guard by the new information.  The Judge promised that he would look into the matter and expressed his concern with placing the clinic anywhere near a city entranceway.  He further advised that he would be contacting Joe Balzano of South Jersey Port as well as the Counsel to the Governor's Office. 

I hope that you all are up for the fight, for it is my intention to take whatever action, no matter how drastic and explore whatever venue, no matter what the cost to prevent this from happening.  The statistics don't lie, the clinic offers services to approximately 700 drug addicts a day and with all of our efforts to beautify our community entrances and exits in progress this would be absolutely devastating to our efforts not even taking into consideration the societal impact this facility and clientele would have upon our community and the Broadway Corridor.

We have already met with our neighbors in South Camden regarding the proposed plans of placing the clinic within the port facility and now with this new plan in existence I feel as though it's time to step up to whoever is responsible and forbid them from again dumping upon the City of Gloucester and the City of Camden. 

I know we have a lot going on right now but I am placing this project at the top of our agenda.  This situation that we face will have a dramatic impact upon the present and future quality of life within our community and I hope every one of you (members of Council), the news media and the fine citizens of Gloucester City are behind me for the "Good Fight".



William P. James
Mayor of Gloucester City

Elizabeth Dolson, of Gloucester City, devoted parishioner of St. Marys Church

DOLSON

Elizabeth Virginia  “Aunt Lizzy”

 On April 28, 2008. Age 88. (nee Harvey) Of Gloucester City. Loving wife of the late Joseph Dolson. Loving and devoted mother of Richard E. (Gail) Dolson, William (Darlene) Dolson and the late Joseph Dolson. Predeceased by her brother Richard Harvey and her sisters; Rebecca Stewart and Caroline Dick. Loving grandmother of Theresa (Bob), Deana (Bill), Richard (Cindy), Joshua, Christopher (Nicole) and Joseph. Loving great-grandmother of Dean, David, Tiffaney, Courtney, Brittney, Gabrielle, Natalie, Melissa, and Olivia. Elizabeth was a lifelong resident of Gloucester City. Elizabeth was a loving mother who devoted her life to caring for her loved ones. She was a faithful and devoted parishioner of St. Mary’s R.C. Church.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend her viewing on Friday morning from 8:30 to 10:30 am at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, (at Brown 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. In lieu of flowers, the family strongly requests memorial donations in Elizabeth’s memory to St. Mary’s R.C. Church: at the above address. Please write in memo of check: Elizabeth Virginia Dolson.

Expressions of sympathy can be e-mailed to the family through our funeral home website www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Elizabeth Virginia Dolson.

 

 

 

Gloucester County Prosecutors Office Continuing Investigation of Murder of Rowan U. Student

Source Media Release, April 22, 2008

Gloucester City High School Prom Photo Gallery

PHOTOS BY BRUCE DARROW

GHS Prom Photo Gallery

Bill's Point of View: How soon we forget!

Earlier this month I wrote a column about the Pimp your Prom contest sponsored by the radio station 102.Q FM. At first I was hesitant to post the contest because of the word Pimp.  I thought it was strange for a radio station to use that word for a contest.  After all I remember the word to mean whoremaster. It must be a generation thing I thought. And because of the number of schools participating in the event I felt I was over reacting and went ahead with listing it on my blog.

Shortly after it appeared on ClearysNotebook I received comments from people who thought it was awful that Gloucester City High School was participating in the event.

As the day unfolded more remarks came in and one in particular got me upset. The person wrote, "Does anyone recall that just a few years ago the Q-102 DJs came through Gloucester City making fun of us?  I will not forget and that is why I think this is a shame. I also have to agree with this "pimping" word becoming fashionable.  It is leading to many negative behaviors. Please reconsider this."

I remembered that incident the DJ's said, and I am paraphrasing "all Gloucester girls are toothless, fat and ugly". 

As I reflect on the article I believe I took offense to that remark more so then the use of the word Pimp. Should I promote a contest for a radio station that trashes the women of our community? So I removed the post from CNB.

A few days later I spoke with my older grandchildren about how is the word Pimp used in their vocabulary? And they explained that today's hip-hop generation is using the word as slang. Think for a moment one of them said. Didn't your generation use words that had different meanings than what was written in the dictionary?

They were right. As corny as it may sound we used some of the following slang.

(Cat) A hip person

(Beats) Chariot Car

(Cherry) Originally, an unaltered car. Later, anything attractive

(Hot-rodders) Chrome-plated Dressed up cars

(Circled) Married

(Classy chassis) Great body

(Cloud 9) Really happy 

I know that I enjoyed being a rebel in the fifties and sixties as much as the next guy. Long hair, (yes at one time I had hair) cutoff jeans, a bandana wrapped around my head, patches sewed on my jeans, long beads around my neck, a beard, and an earring. That was just some of the things I and others did to standout in the crowd when we were teens. I still can fit into those jeans……

And using a word such as Pimp, wearing bagging pants below their knees, putting their hats on sideways or backwards are apparently this generation's way to show their independence.

It is inevitable we all eventually lose touch with the next generation as we age... And once that happens we soon forget what it was like to be young and carefree. We take ourselves too seriously.

And it appears this is exactly what happened to me in this case.

I had forgotten what it was like to be a "Rebel".

So to the students of Gloucester City High School and to all the students in South Jersey and Philadelphia please accept my apology for making The Pimp Your Prom contest such a negative issue.

At the age of 63 I guess it is safe to say I have become my parents. And in some ways that isn't a bad thing. This too will happen to you…..eventually. And when it does you too will say to yourself….."How Soon We Forget"!

Related: Bill's Point of View

Related: A Few Thoughts

 

Walter E. Barr, of Fort Myers, Fl., GHS Graduate Class of 1985, Member of NJ National Guard

BARR

Walter E.

 Suddenly, On April 18, 2008. Age 40. Of Fort Myers, Florida. Formerly of Gloucester City. Loving father of Jacqueline Mary Barr. Devoted son of Elwood and Dorothea Barr (nee Beebe). Grandfather of Alexis Nevaeh Barr. Dear brother of Earl Barr and Debbie Wilkins. Also survived by 3 nephews.

 Walter was a graduate of Gloucester High School class of 1985. He proudly served our country in the National Guard out of Cherry Hill, NJ.

  Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his visitation on Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, (at Brown Street) Gloucester City. Methodist Service 8 pm in the funeral home officiated by Pastor Gary Brennan of Westville United Methodist Church. Cremation will be private at the request of the family.

  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Walter’s memory to My Father’s House: P.O. Box 230 Gloucester City, NJ 08030 or to the Covenant Community Ministries: 940 Tarpon St. Fort Myers, FL 33916. In the memo of the check, please write Walter E. Barr.

 Expressions of sympathy can be e-mailed to the family through our funeral home website www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Walter E. Barr.

Letters: Mount Ephraim Residents Asked to Sign Petition to Stop Construction of New Firehouse

There is a petition circulating the Borough of Mt Ephraim regarding a $3 million project to purchase Fire Department property, demolish and re-build a new fire house on Bell Road. THIS WILL CAUSE YOUR TAXES TO GO UP!!!

This should not be able to proceed unless the tax payers have a say. That is the fair way a democracy operates.

You're Fire Department and Commissioners have flown under the radar on this and don't want you to know the facts.  Borough employees have lost jobs, benefits, and additional money...And while all this was being done they borrowed $3 million. And don't want you the tax payers to have a say or know.

And while all this is going on the Police Department gets threatening letters from an alleged fireman to leave them alone???

May 1st next town meeting 8pm all residents should attend support your town employees and let the commissioners know we run the town. 

It's your town you should have a say about how it is being governed.

Bob Medlar

E-mail referendum1@yahoo.com for additional information or signing locations.

ClearysNoteBook: Mount Ephraim $3 Million Fire Station Project ...

News/Sports/Commentary for South Jersey & Philadelphia area updated daily... The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessary represent ...
gloucestercitynews.typepad.com/clearysnotebook/2008/03/mount-ephraim-f.html - 99k -

Bellmawr: The Southern NJ Chest Clinic

Camden County freeholders are opening a facility at the Bellmawr Regional Health Center, 35 Browning Rd., for patients with suspected or confirmed cases of tuberculosis.

The Southern New Jersey Chest Specialty Clinic also will address the needs of patients with an increased risk of the disease or progression to active disease.

"With a decline in TB cases statewide, local practitioners did not have the opportunity to gain the expertise necessary to treat these patients," said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the county's Department of Health and Human Services. "There were minimal resources locally, which led to an inconsistent level of care."

The clinic will accept referrals from Gloucester, Burlington, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Salem Counties.

It will be available to patients from 1 to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays. The clinic's hours will be increased if need arises.

The Ultimate Sacrifice: Missing WWII Airmen are Identified

DoD Media Release April 25,  2008

           The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of 11 U.S. servicemen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

 

            They are Capt. Robert L. Coleman, of Wilmington, Del.; 1st Lt. George E. Wallinder, of San Antonio, Texas; 2nd Lt. Kenneth L. Cassidy, of Worcester, Mass.; 2nd Lt. Irving Schechner, of Brooklyn, N.Y.; 2nd Lt. Ronald F. Ward, of Cambridge, Mass.; Tech. Sgt. William L. Fraser, of Maplewood, Mo.; Tech. Sgt. Paul Miecias, of Piscataway, N.J.; Tech. Sgt. Robert C. Morgan, of Flint, Mich.; Staff Sgt. Albert J. Caruso, of Kearny, N.J.; Staff Sgt. Robert E. Frank, of Plainfield, N.J.; and Pvt. Joseph Thompson, of Compton, Calif; all U.S. Army Air Forces. The dates and locations of the funerals are being set by their families.

 

            Representatives from the Army met with the next-of-kin of these men in their hometowns to explain the recovery and identification process and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the secretary of the Army.

 

 On Dec. 3, 1943, these men crewed a B-24D Liberator that departed Dobodura, New Guinea, on an armed-reconnaissance mission over New Hanover Island in the Bismarck Sea. The crew reported dropping their bombs on target, but in spite of several radio contacts with their base, they never returned to Dobodura. Subsequent searches failed to locate the aircraft.

 

            In 2000, three Papua New Guineans were hunting in the forest when they came across aircraft wreckage near Iwaia village. The Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) was notified and began planning an investigation. In 2002, a JPAC team traveled to Deboin Village to interview two individuals who said they knew where the crash site was. However, the witnesses could not relocate the site.

 

            In 2004, the site was found about four miles from Iwaia village in Papua New Guinea where a JPAC team found an aircraft data plate that correlated to the 1943 crash.

 

            Between 2004 and 2007, JPAC teams conducted two excavations of the site and recovered human remains and non-biological material including some crew-related artifacts such as identification tags.

 

            Among dental records, other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of the remains.

 

Gloucester City: Alleged Food Fight Comes Back to Haunt Breakfast Club

By Daisy Daily
CNB Gossip Columnist

NOTE from Bill: The following article is NOT TRUE, it is a fictitious story.

The Gloucester City Breakfast Club was thrown a "curve" this past Saturday morning finding out when they arrived at the Dining Car Depot that their favorite restaurant was closed.  The sign on the restaurant door read, "New Baby, will Re-Open on Tuesday, April 29".

The organization has been meeting at the restaurant for over a year, the last Saturday of each month at 9 AM.

Photo El Presidente Chalie

Now this is where the story gets interesting. I have an inside source who works at the local eatery and he told me the restaurant was open.  Flip Flap Jack said, (not his real name) "several of the elderly Geezers started a "Food Fight" at last month's meeting. When the owner saw them pull into the parking lot on Saturday, he told me "quick lock the door".  As for the posted signs about the baby, "that was just a ruse so they would go away," said Flip Flap.

I stood in the parking lot with "The Geezers" as their numbers continued to grow wondering what they were going to do. There were a few rebels in the crowd, left-over from the 60's no doubt, who pull out these dilapidated signs that read, "Power to the People". They thought it was a sit-in I guess. The others just talked about their ailments and what new medicine they were taking this month. In fact one of them even took down his pants to show off the new style "DEPENDS" he was wearing.

The oldest of the group, a man the other "Geezers" call "El Presidente Chalie" shouts out for everyone to follow him to the Brooklawn Diner.  I notice whenever El Presidente speaks no one pays any attention to him. It was interesting to watch this gentleman drive his pickup truck around and around in circles for several minutes looking for the driveway to exit. Finally someone pointed him in the direction of Brooklawn and The El Presidente headed south. Minutes later the rest of group got in their cars and they drove that way also.

Before he drove off I had asked this man Chalie about the food fight, and he said it never happened. "Someone asked me to pass the toast. It was a long table. So I had to throw it. This happpen a couple of times. It was no fight. We were just passing the toast back and forth.".

Curious I headed to the Brooklawn Diner myself to see how many of the group which numbered about 50 would be able to find their way to the new destination. When I arrived at the Brooklawn Diner, El Presidente was standing outside. Apparently word about last month's suppose food fight at the Dining Car Depot spread to other establishments. El Presidente said the manager of the Diner was unable to accommodate so many people for breakfast.

It was hard to believe the manager since the diner was only half-full.

By this time it was getting late and some of "The Geezers" were either hyperglycemic since they started to faint from not having anything to eat. Or they were tired from all the excitement and decided to take a nap.

Two hours was more than enough time of watching this comical group so I decided to split and head for a nearby Dunkin Donuts. The last I heard "The Geezers" headed further south to a restaurant on Old Crown Point Road in Gloucester County. No doubt the story about the Food Fight had not reached that Diner so they were allowed inside.

As for next month's meeting stay tuned to ClearysNoteBook, I will let you know where and when it will be held.

Related: Breakfast Club articles

Anita Ciullo, age 69, of Bellmawr

CIULLO, ANITA U.
(nee Ek), on April 23, 2008, of Bellmawr. Age 69. Beloved wife of the late Bruno V.
Devoted mother of Debbie Rosanio (Bill) and Yvonne Parcels (George). Dear sister of Yvonne Neilsson (Lennart). Mom Mom of Michael,Courtney and Stephanie. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation from 10 to 11am Tuesday morning at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, BELLMAWR. Funeral Service 11amat the funeral home. Entombment New St. Mary's Mausoleum, Bell- mawr. Family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made in Mrs. Ciullo's memory to the American CancerSociety, 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd., Cherry Hill,NJ 08034. Expressions of sympathy may be e-mailed to
  Condolences@Gardner
  FuneralHome.com

Paul Cahill, 89, past Gloucester City Volunteer Fireman, WWII Army Veteran

CAHILL, ELMER PAUL
On April 25, 2008 of Gloucester City, NJ. Age 89 years.
He is the beloved husband of Frances (nee Elliott)andthelate Eleanor (nee Elliott), loving father of John (Tina), Dennis (Tina) and Paul Cahill all of Gloucester and Dolores Bangs (Edward) of Bellmawr, devoted grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and dear stepfather to Al (Dolly), Elaine (Jim), Norman, Shirley (Tom), Patty (Carla), Terry (Billy), Kathleen (Dave), Danny (Barbara) and Jim, 24 step grandchildren, 27 step great grandchildren and 1 step great great grandchild. He is the dear brother of Dolores Marks and the late James Cahill and is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Mr. Cahill was born in Camden and graduated from Camden High in 1936. He moved to Gloucester City in 1941 and has lived here ever since. Mr. Cahill proudly served his country in the Army during WW II. He was a life member of Townsend C. Young VFW Post #3620, and member and Past Service Officer of Gloucester American Legion Post #135. Mr. Cahill also served as a volunteer fireman for over 20 years and was a Past President of the Highland Park Fire Co. and was the last living member who was active when the new Fire House was built. Mr. Cahill was also renown for his Shuffle Board and Dancing. He was a member of the Fire Company's Championship Shuffle Board Team in '53 and '54. He was also on teams at the Gloucester VFW and Verga VFW and loved attending the Gloucester City Old Timers Luncheons.

Relatives and friends are invited to meet Monday evening from 7:00 to 9:00pm and again Tuesday morning from 9:00 to 10:00am at ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 Powell St., GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday 11:00am at Sacred Heart Church, Kings Hwy, Mt. Ephraim. Interment to follow at New St. Mary's Cemetery Bell-mawr. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial donations in Mr. Cahill's name be made to Sacred Heart Church Building Fund, 11 N. Black Horse Pike, Mt. Ephraim, NJ 08059.

God Bless Every Veteran: Before You Go.....slideshow & song

The elderly parking lot attendant wasn't in a good mood! Neither was Sam Bierstock. It was around 1 a.m., and Bierstock, a Delray Beach, Fla., eye doctor, business consultant, corporate speaker and musician, was bone tired after appearing at an event. He pulled up in his car, and the parking attendant began to speak. "I took two bullets for this country and look what I'm doing," he said bitterly. At first, Bierstock didn't know what to say to the World War II veteran. But he rolled down his window and told the man, "Really, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you." Then the old soldier began to cry. "That really got to me," Bierstock says. Cut to today… Bierstock, 58, and John Melnick, 54, of Pompano Beach - a member of Bierstock's band, Dr. Sam and the Managed Care Band - have written a song inspired by that old soldier in the airport parking lot. The mournful "Before You Go" does more than salute those who fought in WWII. It encourages people to go out of their way to thank the aging warriors before they die. "If we had lost that particular war, our whole way of life would have been shot," says Bierstock, who plays harmonica. "The WW II soldiers are now dying at the rate of about 2,000 every day. I thought we needed to thank them." The song is striking a chord. Within four days of Bierstock placing it on the Web, the song and accompanying photo essay have bounced around nine countries, producing tears and heartfelt thanks from veterans, their sons and daughters and grandchildren. "It made me cry," wrote one veteran's son. Another sent an e-mail saying that only after his father consumed several glasses of wine would he discuss "the unspeakable horrors" he and other soldiers had witnessed in places such as Anzio, Iwo Jima, Bataan and Omaha Beach. "I can never thank them enough," the son wrote. "Thank you for thinking about them." Bierstock and Melnick thought about shipping it off to a professional singer, maybe a Lee Greenwood type, but because time was running out for so many veterans, they decided it was best to release it quickly, for free, on the Web. They've sent the song to Sen. John McCain and others in Washington. Already they have been invited to perform it in Houston for a Veterans Day tribute - this after just a few days on the Web. They hope every veteran in America gets a chance to hear it. GOD BLESS EVERY VETERAN   CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO HEAR THE SONG AND SEE THE PICTURES:   Before You Go <http://www.managedmusic.com/Music/PlayBeforeYouGo.php> submitted by Tom Moody Related: Gloucester City War Memorial Related: The Ultimate Sacrifice Related: Our Men & Women in the Military

 

New Jersey Corruption Untamed by conviction streak

http://www.newsday.com

But the Garden State outpaced its neighbors in federal corruption arrests last year, and the state's top prosecutor expects just as many officials collared this year.

Since 2002, 128 public employees in New Jersey have been convicted on federal corruption charges. About a third of those were elected officials, including state lawmakers, mayors and town council members.

Those numbers back up New Jersey's reputation as a corruption hotbed, fueled by TV shows like "The Sopranos." Experts say the state's labyrinth of local boards, commissions and councils has created fiefdoms where fraud and abuse flourish.
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Related: Only in New Jersey

Face of Defense: From Life in India to U.S. Army, Soldier Sees the World

By U.S. Army Sgt. James Hunter Special to American Forces Press Service CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq,, April 24, 2008 - The nearly 200 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony at the Al Faw Palace here on April 12 each took a different route to the military and their service in Iraq. U.S. Army Spc. Vivek Mishra, a native of central India, raises his right hand and recites the Oath of Citizenship during a U.S. naturalization ceremony at the Al Faw Palace at Camp Liberty, Iraq, April 12, 2008. Mishra serves as a chemical operations specialist for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Multinational Division Baghdad. Photo by U.S. Army Sgt. James Hunter, Multinational Division Baghdad (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. Army Spc. Vivek Mishra, a chemical operations specialist born and raised in central India, took a rather unusual route to his new life. Mishra serves in Multinational Division Baghdad and is assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. His father was a doctor, serving at the head of India's Department of Pharmacy. Mishra's family was wealthy; famine or war didn't bring him to the United States of America. His studies did. He grew up in a large household that held anywhere from 25 to 40 family members at any given time. There was a lot of respect among the household's members, he said, and a major focus on family and religious values. Often, Mishra spent time with his friends at clubs or dining out at the restaurants that lined the highways near bodies of water. When it was time for Mishra to go to college, he knew exactly the field he wanted to join. He felt he was not good at math, and he didn't like art. He wanted to be a chemist. "At that time when I was in India, they considered it a very big thing to be a doctor," Mishra said, "but my dad never forced me to do anything. He said whatever I wanted to choose to do, do it." After three years at the Government Science College, Mishra earned his bachelor's degree. Then, less than three years later, he earned his master's degree in chemistry at the Rani Durgeivati University in Jabalpur, India. "In chemistry, I love reactions," he said. "You cannot see it how it changes into another substance. When you mix two substances, it will have a reaction. I love being able to understand those things." After earning his master's degree, Mishra joined the doctorate program. During his studies, he said, his professor asked if he was interested in getting another master's degree at a school in the United States. He said he thought it would be a good choice, but wanted his parent's opinion on the matter first. His father told him if he stayed in India, he would just know his surroundings; however, he would not know the "real world." Mishra arrived in the United States in 2002 and enrolled at Illinois State University to work toward another master's degree in chemistry. He was nearly complete with his degree, he said, with one semester left and 80 percent of his thesis done, when he decided he needed to take a break from school. He was recently married, and said he didn't make much money working as a graduate assistant at the university. He had to put college aside to provide for him and his wife. He worked a numerous jobs, but never really found his true calling. He said he wanted to work in a lab as a chemist, mixing different substances. "At that time, I said, 'Well, I do not have this much patience to continue to look for a job,'" he recalled. After seeing an article on recruitment, he decided the next best thing for him would be the military. Mishra recalled with a chuckle that he didn't tell his parents he'd joined the Army until he graduated from advanced individual training, where he became a chemical operations specialist. "They were in shock," he said. His mother didn't want him to join the military, he said, but his parents understood he wanted to make a difference. His mother thought that no matter where he was as a soldier a bullet would find him, he said. That has not been the case. Mishra said being in the military is his true calling. "I will be in the Army for about 20 to 25 years, as long as my body permits it," he said. "It's like a big family. It's a big mental support. I have made a lot of changes within myself." When growing up, he said, he wasn't given orders; he simply was given the choice if he wanted to do something or not. "I have learned responsibility and order," he said. Now that he's a soldier and a U.S. citizen, his next goal in his career is to become an officer in the chemical field. "War is completely changing, but chemicals are still an issue," Mishra said. "The chemical corps is growing, and they need really good soldiers to understand all these things." He said he wants to maximize his abilities with chemicals in relation to the military. In the meantime, however, he will first soak in his new status as an American citizen. "It's completely different now to be an American citizen. It's a good feeling," Mishra said. "Now I am on the same track as everyone. I don't think anyone treated me differently because I wasn't a citizen, but it's a mental thing." Becoming an American citizen is an honor Mishra deserves, said Army Capt. Robert Woodruff, his commander. "Specialist Mishra exemplifies all that is good in an American soldier, even before he officially became a U.S. citizen," Woodruff said. "He's been through a roller coaster ride for the two years to get to this culminating point in his life. He is technically and tactically proficient in his skills as the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear expert in the company, routinely filling the shoes of a noncommissioned officer on a daily basis. He definitely deserves this." (Army Sgt. James Hunter serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office.)

Related Sites: Multinational Corps Iraq

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST: Al-Qaida No. 2 Man Hints Japan a target

Commentary Report by Hank F. Miller Jr.

 

I happen to pick this commentary up on one of the many news sources that I have access to here in Japan. I also thought that you may want to read what you may not have the opportunity to read in the local newspapers back in the States.

Ayman al-Zawahri, second in command of al-Qaida, vowed Tuesday to punish Western countries that participated in the Iraq war, hinting that Japan could be a target and advising it to end its alliance with "America who had occupied, looted, humiliated and bombed them with nukes."

The comment by Osama bin Laden's top lieutenant, a response to a question submitted by Kyodo News, here in Japan was heard on a 2 hour, 36-minute audiotape of al Zawahri that surfaced early Tuesday on militant Web sites.

Bin Laden's right-hand man was answering questions submitted by hundreds of al-Qaida followers, critics and journalists on major Islamic Web sites used by Islamic militants.

The al-Qaida media arm, Al-Sahib media in December that al-Zawahri would receive questions from the public and would answer them "as soon as possible."Today's message is one of two lengthy audiotapes by al-Zawahri answering questions posted last year.

Asked by Kuodo, using a different name, if al-Qaida intends to "punish the Western countries that have contributed troops to Iraq." al-Zawahri said:" My answer is: Yes! We believe that any country that participated in the aggression on Muslims must be deterred."Asked by Kyodo if Japan remains a target because it sent troops to Iraq, al-Zawahri said:"Japan provided the so-called assistance under the flag of the crusader coalition as part of the propaganda for the crusader forces invading the homelands of Islam. It did not provide this assistance through charitable organizations and thus it is participating in the crusader campaign against the lands of Islam."Why did the Japanese start the aggression on us within the alliance of the Americans?...Our Islamic faith incites us to resist the despots and tyrants, even if they were the most powerful force on Earth...so will Japan learn a lesson from this?" he said. Japan sent a 600-member noncombat Self-Defense Force group to Samawah in southern Iraq to carry out reconstruction work such as repairing buildings and providing medical assistance. The action, unpopular with Japanese public, was thought by many to violate the pacifist Constitution.

Although the ground troops were withdrawn in 2006, the Air Self-Defense Force airlift activities still continue to and from Iraq.

"If Japan has given up its arms, why did it send troops to our lands under the flag of the crusader campaign?" asked al-Zawahri.

In 2004, al-Zawahri reportedly called for attacks on the interests of the United States and Britain as well as their allies such as Japan. Al-Qaida has constantly tried to get the Japanese people riled up against sending any help to any troubled area of the world and it has been working, there are many issues that are troubling to the Japanese people about taking any part militarily to help the Americans. Every day I hear on the radio, read in newspapers and see on television complaints and protests from many Japanese citizens about our troops being stationed here in Japan especially on Okinawa, many people want our troops out of Japan completely. They do not realize that our troops here are to protect them the Japanese people and to deter the North Koreans and Chinese so they will not become aggressive.

Warm Regards from Kitakyushu City, Japan

Hank F. Miller Jr.

FDA Orders Pet Food Maker to Obtain Emergency Operating Permit

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an order requiring that Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co., Inc., in Wheeling, Ill., obtain an emergency permit from the FDA before its canned pet food products enter interstate commerce. 

A recent inspection revealed significant deviations from prescribed documentation of processes, equipment, and recordkeeping in the production of the company’s thermally processed low acid canned food (LACF) products. These problems could result in under-processed pet foods, which can allow the survival and growth of Clostridium botulinum (C. botulinum), a bacterium that causes botulism in some animals as well as in humans.   

“As outlined in the Food Protection Plan, the FDA uses a risk-based approach to locate the areas of greatest risk for foods, and targets preventive controls and inspections to those areas, “ said Dr. Stephen Sundlof, director, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.  “The FDA’s authority to issue an order requiring an emergency permit is an enforcement tool designed to prevent unsafe foods from reaching consumers.”

The FDA issues an “Order of Need for Emergency Permit” if the agency determines that a company fails to meet the regulatory requirements to process a product that does not present a health risk.  For Evanger’s to resume business, the company must document that corrective actions and processing procedures have been implemented to ensure that the finished product will not present a health hazard.

  
Botulism is a powerful toxin that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. The disease has been documented in dogs and cats. Signs of botulism in animals are progressive muscle paralysis, disturbed vision, difficulty in chewing and swallowing, and progressive weakness to the body. Death is usually due to paralysis of the heart or the muscles used in breathing.

In light of human botulism illnesses and recalls that occurred due to under-processed hot dog chili sauce, and potentially under-processed canned green beans, FDA has urged all LACF processors to review their operations and the apply scientific principals and regulations that have been established to provide a safe product. 

While FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has authority over animal feed and foods, CFSAN is responsible for regulating all human and animal LACF processing.  The two centers are collaborating on this enforcement action.

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American Legion Online: Offensive art exhibit: Care to trample on Old Glory?

http://www.legion.org

A university student's controversial art exhibit left out one important variable: resistance from a determined Legionnaire.

Susan Crane, a 40-year-old education major at the University of Maine at Farmington, displayed a series of U.S. Flags last week on the floor of a student-center hallway.

"My purpose was to figure out how people felt about the flag and (I) gave them a choice to walk around it," she said.

Enter Vietnam War veteran Charles Bennett. The American Legion commander of Maine's District 4 tried to remove the flags from the floor, but university officials threatened to arrest him. Bennett held his ground as he stood in front of the flags, discouraging many students from stepping on them. Even so, some students chose to walk or stand upon Old Glory.

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Related: Our Men & Women in the Military

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Mae Miraglia, formerly of Mt. Ephriam, Chef at Hudson Tavern

MIRAGLIA, MAE R.
On April 24, 2008 formerly of Mt. Ephraim, age 94 years. 
Loving sister of Theresa Minutola and her husband Juno of Mt. Ephraim. Also survived by her nephew Gregg Monforte and many other loving nieces and nephew and great nieces and nephews.
Prior to retirement, Ms. Miraglia was employed as a chef at Hudson Tavern in Camden for many years. She enjoyed to travel and loved to spend time with her family.
Relatives and friends are invited to the visitation and Funeral on Monday from 8:15-9:15 AM at the FALCO/ CARUSO & LEONARD PENNSAUKEN FUNERAL HOME, 6600 N. Browning Rd. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM at Sacred Heart Church, W. Kings Highway, Mt. Ephraim. Entombment Calvary Cemetery in Cherry Hill.
If desired, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Assoc. 1 Union St #301 Robbinsville, NJ 08691-4183 Condolences may be emailed to fcloffice@ carusocare.com

Warren Bowen Jr., 58, of Mays Landing, formerly of Mt. Ephraim, Audubon High Class of 69

BOWEN, WARREN A., JR.
Age 58, of Mays Landing, NJ formerly of Mount Ephraim, NJ passed away suddenly on April 23, 2008.
Warren was a graduate of Audubon High School in 1969, he was a Vietnam Veteran. In the past he served as a volunteer fireman and paramedic. He presently was employed by Ceaser's Casino in Atlantic City.
He was the son of the late Warren & Anna Bowen and is survived by his loving sister    Margaret A. Bowen.
In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.
Services will be private. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to bowenjr49@msn.com.
Professional services are entrusted to KEVIN M. LYONS FUNERAL SERVICES: 610-583-4400.