CNBNEWS.NET/Gloucester City

Louis A. Grandizio III, age 49, of Audubon Park

Suddenly, On October 29, 2009. Age 49. Of Audubon Park. Loving husband of 12 years to Theresa Ann (nee Watkins). Cherished son of Dorothy T. and the late Louis A. Grandizio, Jr. Devoted father of Louis Michael, Daniel Steven, Gina Marie, Anthony James and Alisha (Ray) McClinclock. Loving brother of Thomas A., Dottie Grandizio-Burke, Lisa (Kim), Anthony W. and Cynthia (Scott) Grohowski. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Lou worked 9 years for Audubon Cesco.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his viewing on Monday evening from 6 to 9 pm and again 9 to 10 am at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St. Gloucester City, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:30 am at St. Mary’s R.C. Church: 426 Monmouth St. Gloucester City. Cremation will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lou’s memory to the Louis A. Grandizio, III Memorial Fund: P.O. Box 358, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 or to the American Heart Association: 1 Union St., Suite 301, Robbinsville, NJ 08691. Please write in the memo: Louis A. Grandizio, III. Expressions of sympathy www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Louis A. Grandizio, III. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ. Phone: 856-456-1142

College Sports for Saturday Oct. 31

No. 20 Field Hockey Cruises to 4-2 Win Over W&J; Ducks Complete Second-Straight Perfect Conference Ledger

HOBOKEN, N.J. (October 28, 2009) – The Stevens Institute of Technology field hockey team completed an undefeated conference regular season for the second time in as many years with a 4-2 win over Empire 8 foe Washington & Jefferson College on Saturday at the De Baun Athletic Complex in Hoboken, N.J. Sophomore Mallory Swanson (Princeton Junction, N.J.) scored twice and freshman Marguerite Chavez (Ocean Port, N.J.) tallied a goal and an assist as the No. 20 Ducks improved to 14-3 on the season (6-0 Empire 8) with the victory.

Stevens made the most of their first-half chances scoring three times on 11 shots. Chavez got things started at the 4:36 mark with an unassisted tally. The rookie carried the ball down the right seam and into the circle before blasting a shot past W&J keeper Shelby Colyer (Oxford, Ohio) from 12 yards out. It was her eighth goal of the season.

Swanson then gave the Ducks a 2-0 lead when she was able to put in her own rebound. The sophomore controlled the ball in front, took a shot that was blocked, corralled the rebound and put it home.

WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE?

By Bill Cleary

Dan Miller, the owner of Always Affordable Taxi, Gloucester City, asked me to find out why the City zoning laws prohibit a taxi cab business from parking its cabs on Broadway. Mr. Miller said last year he was going to open a Dollar Store at the South Broadway complex across from the senior citizens apartments. He planned to operate his taxi cab business at the same location and park the cabs in the large store parking lot. But because of the city law against taxi cabs he was refused a certificate of occupancy. He was also thinking of buying a north Broadway property but was told by the Housing Office no taxi cabs allowed.

Always Affordable Taxi provides jobs for 9 city residents, it purchases its gas for the taxi cabs here in Gloucester City, and it also uses the local newspaper (Gloucester City News), Channel 19 and ClearysNoteBook to advertize their services.

Pet Tip of the Week: All About Breeds

By Dawn Watson

I once knew a lady who insisted she had the best dog in the world except for one thing: she could not control him on walks. The dog pulled so hard on his leash that the woman had fallen several times and now, she was hesitant to walk him, at all. When she told me he was a Husky it made perfect sense! I suggested, among other things, that she invest in a sled and save money on gas.

Photo: Dawn Watson with Tasha

Okay so you’ve just fallen in love with a “mutt”, a mixed-breed whose parentage is questionable. You can either spend big bucks and have his DNA tested or take an educated guess depending on how he looks and acts. But however you uncover his heritage it’s important that you know a few characteristics about breeds so you aren’t surprised by his antics, later on. Here are a few things I’ve learned about specific breeds over the last 35 years as a dog trainer:

The Fantasy Football Fanatic: Basic Rules (Part 2)

By Dan Watson

Hello Fellow Fantasy Football Friends! This week I will conclude the basic rules of a typical Fantasy Football league. I hope that you’ve been enjoying this column.

Why are quarterbacks given fewer points for yards (and sometimes for touchdowns) compared to running backs and receivers?

Generally, quarterbacks gain more yards and touchdowns (through passing) than running backs or receivers (through rushing or receiving), so the scales are usually slanted to help even out the totals.

Can receptions count in fantasy leagues?

Some leagues award one point per reception for running backs, wide receivers and tight ends.

What are bye weeks?

Small Game Season Opens November 7

The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds hunters that the small game seasons for pheasant, quail, fox and coyote open 8:00 AM on Saturday, November 7.

The seasons for rabbit, hares and squirrel, ruffed grouse and woodcock north of Rt. 70 and raccoon/opossum remain open with an 8:00 AM start on November 7. Firearm hunting is prohibited November 6 on state Wildlife Management Areas designated as Pheasant and Quail Stamp Areas to allow for stocking (except in tidal marshes open to an on-going waterfowl season).

For detailed information on hunting for all legal species, including a link to the pheasant/quail stocking schedules, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2009/smgame09.htm on the division's website

Related articles by Zemanta

• Hunting banned in parts of Austria after hailstones kill 90pc of wild game (telegraph.co.uk)
• Fall Firearms Deer Seasons Making a Difference (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Outdoors: Stalking a Majestic Beast With an Eye on the Record Book (nytimes.com)
• Pa Dove and Early Canada Goose Seasons to Begin Sept. 1 (gloucestercitynews.net)

American Legion: COP Keating relief effort reaches Virginia

Thursday, October 29, 2009

The NoVa American Legion Riders Escort National Commander, Clarence Hill; Target Official, Carl Campbell and Undersecretary of Defense, Gary Motsek, to Legion Post 28 in Triangle, Va. (Photo by Noel St. John)

Representatives of The American Legion, Target Corp., and Computer Science Corp. met in northern Virginia Oct. 29 for the final U.S. leg of a nationwide drive to put smiles on the faces of 56 soldiers who were forced to destroy all their possessions when enemy insurgents attacked them in Afghanistan.

“This is extraordinary,” said Assistant Deputy Secretary of Defense Gary J. Mostek, as DVDs, video games, laptop computers, cameras, memory cards, books, magazines and other items were sorted at American Legion Post 28 in Triangle, Va. “Coming so close to Veterans Day, it really shows the strength of the bond among comrades in arms. There are no politics here.”

The goods, soon to be shipped overseas to troops who survived the deadly Oct. 3 attack on Combat Outpost Keating in eastern Afghanistan, were purchased after more than $50,000 was raised in cash donations through an American Legion blog site, The Burn Pit. Target Corp. matched the donations with another $50,000 in merchandise and gift cards. Computer Science Corp. of Connecticut (CSC) chipped in with 56 laptop computers.

American Legion Series champs honored during MLB World Series

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Midland, Mich., Berryhill Post 165’s Legion Baseball team, which won the 2009 American Legion Baseball World Series in Fargo, N.D., last August, was honored before Wednesday night’s opening game of the Major League Baseball World Series in New York City.

A crowd of more than 50,000 – including First Lady Michelle Obama, who was part of the first-pitch ceremony – watched as the Berryhill players were publicly recognized and met some of the major-leaguers on hand before the Philadelphia Phillies downed the New York Yankees, 6-1. The team’s trip marks the 84th time the Legion World Series champs have been honored during the MLB World Series.
Jordan Dean.  

Brooklawn/ Mt. Ephraim School Districts See Spike in Students Absent Due to Flu

EDITOR’S NOTE-Earlier this week ClearysNoteBook contacted the school superintendents in Gloucester City, Brooklawn and Mount Ephraim asking for information about the effects of the HIHI flu on their individual districts. They were also asked about the precautions being taken to prevent the flu from spreading in their schools. We did receive a response from the superintendents in Brooklawn and Mount Ephraim however Gloucester City School Superintendent Paul Spaventa did not respond.~ Bill Cleary

Dr. John Kellmayer, superintendent of Alice Costello School, Brooklawn wrote,

“In Brooklawn, on a typical day, we average about 3%-4% of students out, for various reasons, including illness. During the last few weeks, these numbers have spiked, most likely because of HINI. The past few weeks, absences have averaged about 12-14%.

"We have installed many more electronic hand sanitizers, including some on a portable cart.

"We have also distributed wipes and gloves in all classrooms, are encouraging much more hand washing, and the custodians are doing frequent wipe downs.”

To read Mt. Ephraim School Superintendent’s response click here 

Mt. Ephraim School District Experiencing Higher than Normal Absentee Rate

South Philly Review Police Report: Operation Good Egg

PHILADELPHIA-Once again local police are engaging in Operation Good Egg for Mischief Night, Oct. 30, and Halloween, Oct. 31.

Anyone caught throwing eggs or vandalizing property will be arrested and/or fined in addition to community service.

Residents who observe such activity should call 911 and provide an exact location of it, as well as a detailed description of the perpetrator or perpetrators and the direction the person or persons ran.

via www.southphillyreview.com

DOCKS REMOVED AT FRANKFORD ARSENAL & COMMODORE BARRY ACCESS ON DELAWARE RIVER

Image via Wikipedia

Philadelphia, PA – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) will be removing the floating docks and walkways from the Frankford Arsenal Access on November 3rd, and from the Commodore Barry Access on November 4th.

The PFBC manages some 300 state properties to provide free boat launch and/or fishing opportunities on the waters of the Commonwealth. The Frankford Arsenal Access is one of the most popular public recreational fishing and boating sites on the lower Delaware River.

The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. 

Postal Service Announces Holiday Mailing Guidelines

 

By Air Force Tech. Sgt. John Jung
Special to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Oct. 28, 2009 - U.S. Postal Service officials have announced recommended mailing dates for delivery by Christmas to U.S. servicemembers serving in Afghanistan and other overseas locations.

PHOTO: Air Force Staff Sgt. Shervon Greenhow helps to sort mail at the Air Force mail center on Camp Cunningham, Afghanistan, Oct. 22, 2009. U.S. Postal Service officials have announced recommended deadlines for sending holiday mail bound for servicemembers overseas. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Felicia Juenke 

One Week Oyster Harvest Season in Mullica River

Image via Wikipedia

The NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife has announced a limited one-week harvest season of the oyster beds known as Fitney Bit and Oysterbed Point, located at the mouth of the Mullica River. The season will commence on Monday, November 9, 2009 and end on Saturday, November 14, 2009 (daily harvest times are sunrise to sunset). The harvest is open to all commercial and recreational shellfish license holders. 

For more information on the harvest, including charts showing locations of the open and no-harvest areas, visit http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/news/2009/oysterharvest09.htm on the division's website.

American Heroes: Nine Soldiers Killed between October 25 and October 28

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

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

            Spc. Brandon K. Steffey, 23, of Sault Sainte Marie, Mich., died Oct. 25 in Laghman province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device.

He was assigned to the 178th Military Police Detachment, 89th Military Police Brigade, III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the deaths of seven soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 27 in Arghandab Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their vehicle with an improvised explosive device.

They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 5th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.

            Killed were:

            Staff Sgt. Luis M. Gonzalez, 27, of South Ozone Park, N.Y.

            Sgt. Fernando Delarosa, 24, of Alamo, Texas.

            Sgt. Dale R. Griffin, 29, of Terre Haute, Ind.

            Sgt. Issac B. Jackson, 27, of Plattsburg, Mo.

            Sgt. Patrick O. Williamson, 24, of Broussard, La.

            Spc. Jared D. Stanker, 22, of Evergreen Park, Ill.

            Pfc. Christopher I. Walz, 25, of Vancouver, Wash.

DoD Identifies Marine Casualty

         The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. 

            Lance Cpl. Cody R. Stanley, 21, of Rosanky, Texas, died Oct. 28 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. 

He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, Calif.

 

NJ Republican News for Oct. 29th

Christie on Corzine's Latest Plans to Revisit His 800 Percent Toll Hike Plan

PARSIPPANY, NJ - Today, Chris Christie released the following statement in reaction to Jon Corzine's comments to The New York Times that he is rethinking his monetization plan and is more than willing to raise tolls on already overtaxed New Jerseyans. 

"Just today, Governor Corzine has admitted to The New York Times that he plans to revisit his ludicrous and misguided 800 percent toll hike plan even though New Jerseyans soundly rejected it the first time around.  As if $9 billion in new taxes, the highest tax burden in the country and the highest property taxes in the nation isn't enough, Jon Corzine wants to pay off the debt he's created by making suffocating New Jerseyans pay even more in the form of an 800 percent toll hike. Let's face it, Jon Corzine likes raising taxes and he's never going to stop doing it."

Shirley Haub, age 74, of Maple Shade

On October 27, 2009. Age 74. Of Maple Shade. Loving and devoted wife of the late Fred C. “Frank” Haub. Survived by her many beloved and caring friends. These wonderful friends were caregivers day and night and loved Shirley dearly.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend her Catholic Rite of Committal on Tuesday, 11 am at Land of Canaan Cemetery: 678 South Fairview Road, Elk Township. Expressions of sympathy can be e-mailed to www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Shirley Haub.  Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street (at Brown Street) Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142

Related articles by Zemanta

• Joseph R. Maxwell Jr., of Audubon; General Manager of Potbelly Restaurant (gloucestercitynews.net)
• George M., Jr. The Mayor Dixon, of Brooklawn (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Michael J. Mickey Brandt, Retired Port Authority Police Officer, Korean War Army Veteran (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Daniel J. McCarthy Jr., Brooklawn Wiffleball Tournament Player/Volunteer; Former Gloucester City Resident (gloucestercitynews.net)

DEA Remembers Its Fallen Heroes

Memorial Service in Kabul Honors American Servicemen, DEA Agents

3 DEA Special Agents, members of the Kabul Country Office, died on October 26, 2009 when the U.S. military helicopter they were on crashed while returning from a joint counter narcotics mission in Western Afghanistan. (Photo by Daniel Wilkinson)

OCT 29 -- KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – A memorial service was held today in Kabul, Afghanistan in remembrance of those DEA Special Agents and United States servicemen who were killed this week while completing a joint counternarcotics mission.  Those who conducted the memorial service include DEA Assistant Regional Director Jay Fitzpatrick, and Deputy Ambassador Francis J. Ricciardone.

Remarks by DEA Acting Administrator Michele M. Leonhart (in absentia):

“Today, we mourn the tragic loss of three DEA Special Agents:

• Chad L. Michael was 30 years old from Quantico, VA.
• Michael E. Weston was 37 years old from Washington, D.C.
• Forrest N. Leamon was 37 years old from Woodbridge, VA. 

“These were not ordinary men.  In a world where “ordinary” has become acceptable, these courageous human beings made “extraordinary” contributions.

“They pledged an oath, they wore a badge, and they “stood the line.”

“They were proud warriors performing a vital mission.  They were more than just Special Agents, they were also special Americans.  Like you, they volunteered to serve their country.  Like you, they believed in the mission.  Like you, they made the saving of lives their life’s work.

“We are all saddened by this tragic event. DEA is an extremely tight family, and the death of these three brave agents is a devastating loss for us. We honor their service, bravery, and sacrifice.  We all stand taller and fight harder for having known them.  Their loss inspires us to even greater determination. 

“No expressions of grief can adequately convey the depth of the collective sorrow that we feel for their family and friends. The heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies of everyone at DEA go out to them. 

“We owe our fallen heroes a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid, and we will forever cherish their call to service and carry their spirit in our hearts.

“In closing, DEA would like to thank everyone, both civilian and military, who came to our aid by providing invaluable assistance and support during our time of need.  DEA will forever be grateful.    

Thank you.”  

For Full Story Please Visit Us At www.dea.gov

Related articles by Zemanta

• American Heroes: DEA Special Agents Michael, Leamon and Weston (gloucestercitynews.net)

TD BANK TO CELEBRATE GRAND OPENING IN GLOUCESTER CITY

Gift card drawing! Free and open to the public.

 October 27, 2009 – Cherry Hill, N.J. – TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®,  will celebrate the opening of its newest Camden County location on Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Broadway and Cumberland Streets in Gloucester City.

Photo: TD Bank executives Rob Curley, market president, Gloria Rowan, Gloucester City store manager, and Joseph Tredinnick, regional vice president, visit the site of the new Gloucester City store, which is scheduled open on November 14, with a free, public celebration.

Celebrate with the TD Bank team at this opening party, which is free and open to the public and will feature:

• Free food, refreshments, and giveaways
• Stilt walker, games, and more
• Free tote bag for first 100 customers
• Enter to win $500 gift card (drawing at 2:00 p.m.; need not be present to win)
• Ribbon cutting ceremony with local officials (noon)
• $5,000 donation to the Gloucester City Library from the TD Charitable Foundation (noon)

The Tortoise vs. the Hare

By Anne Forline

Special to the NEWS

A feeble attempt to re-write history took place at the Small Animal Show recently at the NJA3 program (by EIRC) at Cold Springs School.

At the show, John and Nick Orsino of Gloucester City treated children to an up close look at their personal collection of turtles, tortoises and amphibians.

They saw box turtles, Spade-Footed Toads, Cuban Tree Frogs, a Leopard Gecko and a Yellow Footed Tortoise, and learned lots of facts from the Orsinos, such as the dietary habits of the creatures, what their growth, weight and life spans are, and how to tell the difference between a male and female box turtle.

 

Look at their eyes, males usually have orange eyes while females usually have green eyes.

Gloucester City School District “Good News, Bad News”

By Linda Boker-Angelo

NEWS Correspondent

School District Director of Curriculum and Instruction Liz Curry has good news and bad news for the Gloucester City Board of Education (BOE) last week.

She said the majority of elementary school students met state standards, and even excelled, in the Language Arts portion of last year’s NJ Assessment of Skills and Knowledge (ASK) tests.

However, math scores were not quite as promising, with less than half of the total population ac-hieving a passing score.

Curry said the district’s results were parallel to the statewide results, as many districts had a poor showing in mathematics.

Mt. Ephraim: Winners of the Halloween Parade and House Decorating Contest

The Celebration Committee also hosted a Halloween Parade and House Decorating Contest. Over 60 children participated in the event that was held on Centre Avenue and Kings Highway and ended at the Norcross Park.

PNC Bank, Mt. Ephraim donated goodie bags for the children in attendance and also donated Visa gift cards to the 1^st place winners in each age category and Judge’s Choice House Winner. Also, CVS gave away candy and treats.

We would like to thank both businesses for their support of our festivities. Here is a list of all of the winners. Congratulations to everyone!

Toxics: A Remnant of Our Industrial Legacy

By Jennifer Adkins, Executive Director, Partnership for the Delaware Estuary

The Delaware River’s industrial legacy has its benefits and costs. The benefits include economic prosperity that has fueled art, architecture, world-renowned social and technical advances, and nationally-significant history. The physical remnants of this past have become part of our region’s identity, from coal mines in Schuylkill County and shipyards in Philadelphia and Wilmington to historic downtowns and small towns throughout the region. Unfortunately, the costs include some toxic remnants of this legacy that are just as long lasting. 

Toxic chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, and heavy metals like mercury pose threats to people as well as the environment, and these are among our top concerns for the health and future of the Delaware estuary. Where do these contaminants come from, and how can we minimize their future impacts? That is the focus of this issue of Estuary News. 

Some of the worst offenders, like PCBs, come from uses and even substances long abandoned, but will persist in our rivers for years to come.

Today, scientists at The Academy of natural Sciences in Philadelphia are earning about these contaminants in part by studying sediments from the Delaware River.  read more

Related articles by Zemanta

• Green light for dredging of Delaware (philly.com)
• Fisker Buys Idle GM Plant in Delaware to Make Second PHEV (Project NINA) (treehugger.com)

American Hero: Maj. David L. Audo, 35, of Saint Joseph, Ill / cnbnews.net

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

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

Maj. David L. Audo, 35, of Saint Joseph, Ill., died Oct. 27 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 22nd Military Police Battalion, 6th Military Police Group, Fort Lewis, Wash.

The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

Related articles

American Hero: Maj. David L. Audo, 35, of Saint Joseph, Ill

AMERICAN HERO: Staff Sgt. Todd J. Lobraico Jr., 22, of New Fairfield, Conn./cnbnews.net

American Hero: Spc. Javier Sanchez Jr., 28, of Greenfield, Calif/cnbnews.net

Bellmawr: Van Crashes into Liquor Store

Bellmawr NJ

8:00pm  338 E Browning Road

Liquor Mart

A van  drove through the front of the Liquor Mart on East Browning Road causing heavy damage to the building, no injuries reported.

The driver of the van was arrested by Bellmawr Police.

Bellmawr Fire Department Rescue 32 and Bellmawr Fire Department EMS Division also responded. Bellmawr police are investigating.

Photo and caption by Steve Skipton

Westville Has Two New Special Law Enforcement Officers

By Sara Martino

NEWS Correspondent

Westville Mayor Russell Welsh presented the oaths of office to two new Special Law Enforcement Officers during the recent Borough Council meeting.

Frank A. Schmitt and Michael Shannon will join the force with the same powers as the regular police officers, and will be armed.

 “A lot of people applied for the positions and we are glad that both gentlemen were selected. “Officer Schmitt is an Iraqi War Marine Veteran and Officer Shannon is a former Collingswood police officer,” Police Chief Fred Lederer said.

Gloucester City High School and Camden County College “Perfect Together”

By Lyn Esposito

NEWS Correspondent

The Commission on Higher Education must have been reading the minds of so many good students who dream of a higher education, but do not believe they can afford to go.

In 2006, former Gloucester City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mary Stansky was approached with a chance to partner with Camden County College in College Bound – a grant program begun by the Commission on Higher Education that offers students opportunities at the local level to prepare for higher education.

Stansky said the program offered students a chance to “focus early” on their futures, and “to go out of their communities and be on college campuses.”

City School Board Receives NJSBAIG Grant

At its September 30 regional sub fund meeting, the New Jersey School Boards Association Insurance Group (NJSBAIG) awarded Gloucester City Board of Education a safety grant in the amount of $13,557 The grant rewards the district for its commitment to risk management and must be used to invest in further safety and security-related improvements within the district. 

The Gloucester City Board of Education was one of 35 districts presented with a grant check at the Burlington and Camden County Educators Insurance Consortium (BACCEIC) meeting.

Philadelphia Waterfront Transit Expansion Plan Update

Standing with U.S. Senator Arlen Specter, Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, Deputy Mayor for Transportation and Utilities Rina Cutler, SEPTA General Manager Joe Casey, DRPA Board Chair John H. Estey, Board Vice Chair Jeff Nash and others, DRPA CEO and PATCO President, John J. Matheussen, announced an agreement that will result in Light Rail Service along Market Street between City Hall and the Delaware River Waterfront initially serving Pier 70 to the South and SEPTA’s Route 15 Trolley at Girard Avenue to the North. Locations served would include Independence Mall, the Market East Regional Rail Station, City Hall, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Reading Terminal Market, PATCO and SEPTA’s 8^th and Market Street Station, numerous other transportation facilities, Penn’s Landing and other residential, employment and entertainment destinations along Columbus Boulevard.

Selection of the Route means the project can now advance to the environmental analysis phase. The $500-million dollar project could begin operations in six years.

The decision to select Market Street as the preferred route for the new light rail service is based upon almost two years of analysis, extensive input received at four public open houses session and numerous meetings with community groups and stakeholders.

American Heroes: DEA Special Agents Michael, Leamon and Weston

DEA Identifies Special Agent Casualties

Special Agent Chad L. Michael, 30, of Quantico, VA	Special Agent Forrest N. Leamon, 37, of Woodbridge, VA.	Special Agent Michael E. Weston, 37, of Washington, D.C.

OCT 27-- WASHINGTON, DC– It is with great sadness that the Drug Enforcement Administration announces the deaths of three Special Agents who were supporting counternarcotics operations in Afghanistan.

The following Special Agents died on Oct. 26:

Special Agent Forrest N. Leamon, 37, of Woodbridge, VA.

Special Agent Chad L. Michael, 30, of Quantico, VA.

Special Agent Michael E. Weston, 37, of Washington, D.C.

Special Agents Leamon and Michael were members of DEA’s FAST (Foreign-deployed Advisory and Support Teams); and Special Agent Weston was assigned to DEA’s Kabul Country Office.

American Heroes: Sgt. Eduviges G. Wolf and Pfc. Devin J. Michel

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

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

Sgt. Eduviges G. Wolf, 24, of Hawthorne, Calif., died Oct. 25 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked her vehicle with a rocket propelled grenade.

She was assigned to the 704th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

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

Pfc. Devin J. Michel, 19, of Stockton, Ill., died Oct. 24 in Zhari province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.

Related articles by Zemanta

• American Heroes: Eight Soldiers KIA in Afghanistan War; One Soldier from SJ Area (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Mom's last duty to soldier -- escort body home (cnn.com)

American Heroes: Four Marines Die in Combat Operations in Afghanistan

The Department of Defense announced today the death of four Marines who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

The following Marines died Oct. 26 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Cpl. Gregory M.W. Fleury, 23, of Anchorage, Alaska.

Capt. Eric A. Jones, 29, of Westchester, N.Y.

Capt. David S. Mitchell, 30, of Loveland, Ohio.

Capt. Kyle R. Van De Giesen, 29, of North Attleboro, Mass.

Fleury, Jones and Van De Giesen were assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based out of Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Mitchell was assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, based out of Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Bomb Attacks Kill 8 U.S. Troops in Afghanistan

Image via Wikipedia

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2009 - Eight U.S. troops and an Afghan civilian working with NATO forces were killed today in multiple "complex" bomb attacks in southern Afghanistan, military officials reported.

Several other servicemembers were injured in the attacks and were transported to a regional medical facility for treatment, U.S. Forces Afghanistan officials said. 

"A loss like this is extremely difficult for the families as well as for those who served alongside these brave servicemembers," said Navy Capt. Jane Campbell, a spokeswoman for NATO's International Security Assistance Force's Joint Command. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends who mourn their loss." 

Further details about the event are being withheld pending notification of the families.
Marine Corps Col. Dave Lapan, a Pentagon spokesman, said a complex improvised explosive device attack can refer to the use of several explosives, with additional bombs set to strike first responders to an initial blast. 

"A complex [IED attack] usually is more than one, set up in a way to cause maximum casualties," he said.

Related Sites:
U.S. Forces Afghanistan
NATO International Security Assistance Force

Joseph R. Maxwell Jr., of Audubon; General Manager of Potbelly Restaurant

Suddenly, On October 24, 2009. Age 34. Of Audubon. Formerly of Mount Ephraim. Cherished Father of Sarah Maxwell. Loving and devoted Son of Joseph R. and Margaret “Peggy” Maxwell, Sr. of Mount Ephraim and Linda Ann and SGM Dennis I. Kretzschmar (nee Powell) of Thackerville, OK. Loving Grandson of Jean and John Russo, William B.and Lillian Powell, Sr., the late Marilyn Powell, the late Paul (surviving Sabina) Maxwell, the late Nina Magnotta and the late Florence Powell, the late Florence Maxwell. Loving brother of Jennifer (Thomas) Monteferrante, Monica Viggiano, Ashley (Shannon) Jeffcoat and Lesley, Colt, D.J. and Hannah Kretzschmar. Also survived by many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Joseph was a 1993 graduate of Audubon High School. He was the General Manager of Potbelly Restaurant in Cherry Hill. Joe excelled at his restaurant career, receiving several awards, including Diamond Club for Darden Restaurants. Outside of work, Joe enjoyed spending time with his many friends and family and special moments with his daughter Sarah.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his viewing on Thursday Evening from 6 to 9 pm and again Friday Morning from 9:30 to 11 am at Holy Maternity R.C. Church: 431 Nicholson Rd., Audubon, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 11 in the church. Please no flowers, the family strongly requests memorial donations to Sarah Maxwell Benefit Fund: P.O. Box 358, Gloucester City, NJ 08030. Expressions of sympathy can be e-mailed to the family through our website www.mccannhealey.com under online obituaries of Joseph R. Maxwell, Jr. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ. Ph: 856-456-1142

Lake Association Thanks Public for Donations

The Gloucester City Lakes Association would like to thank everyone who contributed to our coin drop on September 25. Also we would like to congratulate Hannah Walters for winning the fishing rod and tackle box at our free drawing on Gloucester Day.

Just a reminder what the Lakes Association does as an organization. Our goal is to try and keep the water clean and algae free during the summer months. This enables kids and adults to be able to fish during the summer season. We have hired Princeton Hydro this summer to treat the Minnie Hole and as most can see the water has stayed clear all summer.

The Lakes Association also runs the Earth Day Fishing Derby every April. Doing this event takes much planning and effort. The kids registered all receive snacks and a free prize.

Gloucester City Lakes Association

Camden County Sports Hall of Fame Honors Legends

Who Brought Glory in the First Half of the 20th Century

A total of 54 Camden County sports legends will be honored as part of the fifth Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Oct. 30.

“As the nominations committee prepared for the fifth induction ceremony at Lucien’s in Berlin Township, it was evident the committee had a problem,” explained Freeholder Jeffrey L. Nash, a co-founder of the Camden County Sports Hall of Fame.

“The committee’s efforts to properly honor athletes who brought honor and glory to Camden County through sports were losing ground,” Nash added.

Nash said the comm ittee’s stringent rules involving election caused a backlog as the committee attempted to honor the great athletes who performed in the county over the past 100-plus years.

Warning!!!! A Terrorist Hiding in Amish Country?

• Local FBI warning In Pennsylvania!

The FBI has issued a warning in Lancaster County. 

They suspect a terrorist may be hiding among the Amish community. 

This photo provided the first clue that triggered the investigation:

 

submitted by KenMac

Category: Chuckles

 

Obama signs VA advance funding bill

Submitted by admin on Thu, 10/22/2009 - 3:06pm.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

President Barack Obama signs the Veterans Health Care, Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009 into law. Photo by Craig Roberts

President Barack Obama signed the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act in an Oct. 22 ceremony at the White House. The new law, strongly supported by The American Legion, requires advance funding for the VA health-care system.

“We have made the biggest commitment to veterans, the largest percent increase in the VA budget, in more than 30 years,” Obama said. “So we’re keeping our promise to make real progress for our vets.”

In short, the president said, VA advance funding “promotes accountability at the VA, it ensures oversight by Congress ... And it ensures that veterans health care will no longer be held hostage to the annual budget battles in Washington.”

The president made his remarks in the East Room of the White House, joined by VA Secretary Eric Shinseki and Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii, chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the bill’s sponsor.

NJOA Endorses Chris Christie for Governor

Why Chris Christie for Governor?

Regardless if you are a democrat, republican or independent - if you are someone who prioritizes your enjoyment of fishing, hunting and the quality of our forests you should consider the following: The Corzine administration has neglected (or perhaps in some instances, intentionally extinguishing) many of entities that oversee fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, etc.

 

If you're a hunter you might be interested to know that on the list of Governor Corzine's charitable trust contributions there is $13,000 to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New York. On its website ASPCA NY states: "the ASPCA is opposed to hunting animals for sport, even if the animals killed in this way [hunted] are subsequently consumed."

Gloucester City Headlines for upcoming Oct. 29th issue

• Voters Will Choose Governor In General Election November 3

• Gloucester City Planning Board Okays Second School On Market Street

• Bellmawr Borough Council Honors Local EMTs

• New Mt. Ephraim Program “A Celebration of Excellence”

• City Council Names Starlite Lake After Former Drive-In

Related articles by Zemanta

• EMTs Chris Oliver and Kirt Dillon...Simply The Best (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Police Officer Claims Harassment by Gloucester City Politician (s) (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Four fined for failing to file financial disclosure forms (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Tips and Snippets: Piano Finds a Home, Zoning Board Oks Dog School, Levins Endorsed by USW (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Tips and Snippets: Broadway Work, Skinheads, Paying for Water, Et cetera (gloucestercitynews.net)

American Heroes: Spc. Eric N. Lembke, 25, of Tampa, Fla.Pfc.; Kimble A. Han, 30, of Lehi, Utah.

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Oct. 23 in Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked their vehicle with an improvised explosive device. The soldiers were assigned to the 569th Mobility Augmentation Company, 4th Engineer Battalion, Fort Carson, Colo.

Killed were:

Spc. Eric N. Lembke, 25, of Tampa, Fla.

Pfc. Kimble A. Han, 30, of Lehi, Utah.

R.O.O.R. Rally Results

A 25 year veteran of New Jersey's political establishment said, "It was the most legislators that I every saw at a sportsmen event and I was proud to be a part of the rally."

Another observer stated, "There were as many people in attendance at the R.O.O.R. as were at the rally held by the Vice President of the United States for Governor Corzine - and that rally had no threat of rain."

One person noted, "I think R.O.O.R. should be an annual event."

For those of you unable to attend, there were  8 legislators from both the democrat and republican parties in attendance. There were a total of 15 guest speakers (including legislators) - experts in their fields. They discussed bear policy, open space, commercial gear on the reefs, the state of New Jersey's dwindling quail habitat, poor forestry practices and the sea bass closure. The legislators thanked the outdoor community for their support and recognized their contributions towards environmental stewardship.

Helicopter Incidents Claim Lives in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service

KABUL, Oct. 26, 2009 - Separate helicopter incidents today have claimed the lives of service members in Afghanistan, military officials reported.

ISAF officials said four U.S. service members died when two International Security Assistance Force helicopters apparently collided over southern Afghanistan, and a recovery operation is under way for another helicopter that went down in western Afghanistan. 

In addition to the four service members killed, two more were injured in the collision, officials said, adding that they've confirmed hostile fire was not involved. 

In an unrelated incident, a helicopter went down "due to unconfirmed reasons" as a combined force in western Afghanistan was departing after a firefight that left more than a dozen enemy fighters dead, officials said. 

Military casualties are reported, officials added, and a recovery operation is under way.
(From a NATO International Security Assistance Force news release.)

Related Sites:
NATO International Security Assistance Force

Related articles by Zemanta

• U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan (cnn.com)
• 4 U.S. Soldiers Die in Afghan Helicopter Collision (nytimes.com)
• You: 4 U.S. Soldiers Die in Afghan Helicopter Collision (nytimes.com)

NJ TRANSIT Promotes Safety Lessons for High School Driver Ed. Classes

School participation encouraged in recognition of National Teen Driver Safety Awareness Week

NEWARK, NJ — In recognition of National Teen Driver Safety Awareness Week, NJ TRANSIT is promoting its Driver Education Safety Program, encouraging New Jersey schools to obtain the agency’s free curriculum package for use in high school classrooms. 

In an effort to help teen drivers operate vehicles in a safe manner near railroad crossings, light rail lines and buses, NJ TRANSIT has made available two class periods of multimedia instructional content to nearly 700 public, private and charter schools throughout the state.

Congressman Andrews Supports Councilman Marchese for Re-Election

Dear Resident,

As your Representative in Congress, I have had the opportunity to work with Nick Marchese on a number of issues and I am proud to endorse him for re-election as Gloucester City Ward 2 Councilman. Throughout Nick’s three years on City Council, he has worked to ensure that Gloucester City continues to be a strong and vibrant community despite our difficult economic downturn. Nick has proactively worked to bring reliable, high paying jobs to Gloucester City by aggressively supporting local redevelopment efforts like the revitalization of Chatham Square Apartments, a project that converts an aging apartment complex into 50 newly refurbished moderate to high end townhouses.

As an effort to secure long-term economic growth, Nick created a comprehensive downtown improvement plan to generate new incentives for people to do business in Gloucester City. By working to make construction, planning and zoning codes more business friendly and customer oriented, not only has Nick paved the way for businesses to relocate in Gloucester City, such as the new TD Bank branch and the tenants at Freedom Pier, but he has helped generate fresh employment opportunities for the residents of Gloucester City at a time when job loss has reached record highs. These efforts not only demonstrate Nick’s grand vision for the community, but they also show his strong commitment to holding the line on taxes. By enticing new businesses to enter the community, Nick has increased the town’s base of corporate ratables, which will provide much-needed relief on Gloucester City taxpayers.

Nick’s commitment to the community stretches far beyond his duties on City Council. Among his many activities, Nick has served as President of the Gloucester City Lakes Association, a position where he worked to make the city’s waterways more environmentally friendly while protecting its local wildlife. Having said all this, it is Nick’s proven leadership and strong willingness to stand up for working families that makes him an excellent candidate for re-election as Gloucester City Ward 2 Councilman and someone I am proud to support.

Sincerely,

Rob Andrews Member of Congress

Related articles by Zemanta

• Letters: Personal Witch Hunt (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Letters: Like Positive Steps Gloucester City Has Taken (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Tips and Snippets: Piano Finds a Home, Zoning Board Oks Dog School, Levins Endorsed by USW (gloucestercitynews.net)
• Tips and Snippets: Broadway Work, Skinheads, Paying for Water, Et cetera (gloucestercitynews.net)

Fresh start - South Philly Review

While some Fresh For Alls are at a business or organization partner of Philabundance, the local location does not have a cohort and will be in the parking lot under I-95 Fridays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., rain or shine.

Typically, the partner organization provides the space for the stand, but some are outdoors. After the organization came up empty-handed on a group to accommodate its program, it worked with the City to use the lot under 95, which is accessible by car and SEPTA’s Route 29 bus.

Only severe cold weather or a snowstorm could prevent the stand’s appearance, but residents may call 215-220-1920 for that day’s status.

via www.southphillyreview.com

More than $50,000 pours in for COP Keating comfort items

Submitted by admin on Thu, 10/15/2009 - 12:53pm.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Target Corp. matches Legion with $50,000 donation

In less than a week, an American Legion blog site raised more than $50,000 to help U.S. soldiers forced to destroy their camp and possessions during a deadly Oct. 3 enemy attack in Afghanistan. Now the Target Corporation has announced it will match that fundraising effort with $50,000 of its own. In addition, Connecticut-based Computer Sciences Corp. has donated 56 laptop computers to replace the ones destroyed in Afghanistan.

The Combat Outpost Keating Relief Fund sprang to life on The American Legion’s Burn Pit blog site after one of the 56 surviving troops wrote in an e-mail that he believed no one at home had any idea what they were doing there, and that no one cared.

Pennsylvania FF Stricken At House Fire; Dies At Hospital

Firehouse.com LODD E-Alert
Sunday October 25, 2009

BY ED BALLAM
Firehouse.com News

A 28-year member of the Westover Area Volunteer Fire Company, Clearfield County, Westover, Pa., Station No. 45 took ill at the scene of a structure fire Saturday morning and died at a local hospital from what appears to be cardiac arrest.

Lt. Roy E. Westover Jr., 41, was on a 3-inch line, coupled down to 2.5-inch, as part of a exterior attack team on a structure fire that was reported at about 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, according to Josh Quigley, Director of Emergency Management for Clearfield County, Pa. Quigley is serving as the public information officer for the event.

When reached by telephone Saturday night, Quigley said WAVFC Fire Chief Santo Adamo arrived on the scene of the fire and determined that the abandoned single-family home was too far involved for an interior attack and ordered a defensive fire fight. Lt. Westover was part of a team staffing a nozzle mounting the exterior attack, according to Quigley.

Read More....

Losing a class act - South Philly Review

Al Martino was in the studio recording Garth Brooks’ “If Tomorrow Never Comes” Oct. 12. That night, he and wife Judi met longtime friend Jerry Blavat for dinner at Le Virtu, 1927 E. Passyunk Ave. Blavat asked to meet his old pal the next night, as well, at Modo Mia, a Fishtown restaurant the two frequented.

But Mr. Martino never showed. Blavat called his cell, home and wife’s cellphone, but no one answered. Martino’s daughter Alison called Blavat later that night with the news.

The crooner whose likeness sits between Bobby Rydell’s and Eddie Fisher’s on a music industry mural of local greats at 1231 E. Passyunk died suddenly Oct. 13 at his home in Springfield, Delaware County, six days after celebrating his 82nd birthday.

via www.southphillyreview.com

College Sports Report for Sunday, Oct. 25

Attention: AD’s…send us your results for our daily report… BillGCN@verizon

Johnson, Sandberg, Quijano Tally Goals as Men’s Soccer Rolls to 3-0 Win Over Ithaca

HOBOKEN, N.J. (October 24, 2009) – The Stevens Institute of Technology men’s soccer team defeated Empire 8 rival Ithaca College, 3-0, on a stormy Saturday night at the De Baun Athletic Complex in Hoboken, N.J. Senior Terrence Johnson (New Orleans, La.) scored the game-winner less than seven minutes in after a great through-ball from fellow senior John Radvany (Yardley, Pa.) as the Ducks improve to 12-3-1 overall and 4-1-1 in the conference. With the win, the Ducks clinch a spot in the Empire 8 Men’s Soccer Championship.

With about 6:30 gone by in the first, Radvany controlled a loose ball around the circle, made several touches before hitting Johnson with a perfect pass in the middle of the box. Johnson made several touches as he headed toward the left post before putting a perfect shot in the lower-right corner for the lead. It was his seventh goal of the year and fourth game-winner.

For the next 15-plus minutes, Stevens controlled the action, dominating possession and field position, but with 22:43 to play in the first, play was halted for one hour and 10 minutes because of a severe thunderstorm. When play resumed a little after 7:30 p.m., the rain had picked up and field conditions were treacherous.