NEWS, SPORTS, COMMENTARY, POLITICS for Gloucester City and the Surrounding Areas of South Jersey and Philadelphia

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January 2011

Obituaries: Joseph F. Yager, Jr. Of Westville; Winifred C. Hapsmith, of Gloucester City

Joe F. Yager Jr., Old Style Craftsman and Wood Worker Known as a Mr Fix It Born in Westville, NJ on Nov. 9, 1937. Departed on Jan. 28, 2011. Resided in Westville, NJ. Visitation: Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011 Service: Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011 Cemetery: Woodbury Memorial Park LEGACY The most fun father and devoted companion who adored his grandchildren and was a great neighbor and friend. Known as a "Mr. Fix-It", Joe was an old style craftsman and wood worker extraordinaire who loved to build, fix and tinker with antique clocks, stained glass, cars and anything he could get his... Read more →


Judge Rules Health Care Law Is Unconstitutional - FoxNews.com

A U.S. district judge on Monday threw out the nation's health care law, declaring it unconstitutional because it violates the Commerce Clause and surely reviving a feud among competing philosophies about the role of government. Judge Roger Vinson, in Pensacola, Fla., ruled that as a result of the unconstitutionality of the "individual mandate" that requires people to buy insurance, the entire law must be declared void. "I must reluctantly conclude that Congress exceeded the bounds of its authority in passing the act with the individual mandate. That is not to say, of course, that Congress is without power to address... Read more →


Ester C. Kleinburger, age 94 of Cherry Hill

On January 25, 2011. Age 94. Of Cherry Hill. Formerly of Philadelphia and Wildwood. Loving and devoted wife of the late Joseph Kleinburger. Beloved mother of Marie (James) Bevanar of Medford and the late Joseph Klineburger (surviving wife Jenny of Atlantic City). Cherished grandmother of 3. Esther loved to read and vacation. She was very devoted to her Roman Catholic Faith and was a former parishioner of Christ Our Light Parish: Saint Peter Celestine Church in Cherry Hill. At the request of the family, cremation and services are private. Family requests memorial donations to Christ Our Light R.C. Parish: 402... Read more →


An Investigation Into How Deaths in America Are Examined - ProPublica

On Feb. 1, 2011, ProPublica, FRONTLINE and NPR will begin airing and publishing the results of a year-long investigation into the dysfunctional system that determines how Americans die titled "Post Mortem." The newsrooms found a system in which there are few standards, little oversight, and the mistakes are literally buried. In state after state, reporters found autopsies conducted by doctors who lacked certification and training. Ultimately, the errors made by coroners and forensic pathologists have allowed potentially guilty perpetrators to go free and the innocent to be accused of crimes they did not commit. ProPublica's A.C. Thompson [1] was our... Read more →


Into the abyss: With high crime, fewer cops and little money, Camden is sinking even deeper into trouble

by Kevin Manahan/The Star Ledger Camden, the state’s poorest and most violent city, earlier this month laid off nearly half its police force. And even so, the city council voted this past week to raise taxes by 23 percent to cover the bills. No one knows what will happen next because this kind of civic collapse is new and historic. But the city’s 78,788 residents wonder if their lives are teetering, as resident William Sylvester says, on the edge of “all-out hellfire.” MORE CAMDEN IN PERSPECTIVE: • Life in Camden amid the blight and the bullets Just as the angry... Read more →


Sophie Maguire, St. Francis de Sales School Parish Secretary for Many Years

Sophie Maguire (nee Gulay), of Barrington, a secretary for 52 years at St. Francis de Sales School in Barrington, died Jan. 17 at the age of 92. She was the beloved wife of the late Michael J., and devoted mother of Patricia Lubonski (Joseph) and Dorothy Henshall (Bob). She was the loving grandmother of Jennifer Schneider (Larry), Stephanie Longo (Peter), David Lubonski (Michelle), Jonathan Lubonski, Thomas Lubonski, Bobby Henshall (Donna), Amy Moore (Chris), Michael Henshall (Jillian) and Matthew Henshall, and great-grandmother of Caleb, Sophie, Caedran, Peter, Joseph, Nicholas, Stephen, Natalie, Jacob, Ethan, Aidan, Sadie, and Macie. She was also the... Read more →


Hunting and Fishing News

In the Crosshairs Mike Piccione, Editor Hey Gunners, Prince George's County in Maryland borders Washington, DC. Democrats dominate the county and 88.87% of the residents voted for Obama. What you did not hear in the news was that there were 13 shootings in the first 13 days of this year in PG County. Why not? While the press is eager to paint Jared Loughner, the Arizona gunman, as the face of conservative talk radio and associate him to Republicans they completely ignored the murder spree in an area dominated by Democrats. Why isn't the press painting the picture of this... Read more →


Some Camden County Mayors Share Their Views on Countywide Police and Fire Department Initiative

They’re open to exploring the idea, and looking forward to more information Camden County mayors expressed interest in exploring the initiative of a countywide police and fire department proposed as a shared services option by the Camden County Freeholder Board, but are looking forward to more discussions, input and study before making any decisions. “It’s a very difficult conversation to have, but it’s a conversation we have to have,” said Collingswood Mayor Jim Maley. As the Freeholder Board expressed it, in these difficult economic times, shared services can present the opportunity to maintain services while saving taxpayers money. In the... Read more →


Bills Would Ban High-Capacity Gun Magazines, Close 'Terror Gap' and End Gun Show Loophole

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) introduced a package of three common-sense gun safety bills last week that would ban high-capacity gun magazines and keep deadly weapons out of the hands of criminals and terrorists. As one of Congress’ leading voices for gun safety, Senator Lautenberg has worked throughout his career to draft legislation that prevents criminals and terrorists from obtaining guns and assault weapons. “This package of common-sense gun safety bills would sail through Congress if it wasn’t for the special interest gun lobby. It’s time to put aside business as usual in Washington, and start... Read more →


2011 Deer Classic Winners; Coldwater Conservation School; Fish Stuff; PA NASP® State Championships

HUNTING AND FISHING NEWS compiled by CNBNEWS.NET 2011 Deer Classic Winners The Garden State Deer Classic is an annual event showcasing hunter entries in New Jersey’s Outstanding White-tailed Deer Program, which was initiated by the Division of Fish and Wildlife in 1964. On Sunday, January 16, 2011 at the 22nd Annual Garden State Deer Classic, a large crowd was on hand for the awards program which honors the top three entries in each category for deer harvested during the 2009-2010 hunting seasons. The 2011 Deer Classic was sponsored by the Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW), the New Jersey State... Read more →


CHFD News & Information: MVA/Rescue Assignment IFO 1638 Springdale Rd

Thursday, January 27, 2011 MVA/Rescue Assignment IFO 1638 Springdale Rd On the evening of January 16th around 2000hrs, Ladder 1344, BLS 1396 & BLS 1393 responded to an MVA across from Springdale Farms. Upon arrival, Ladder 4A's officer Lt. Jim Collins, assessed the 2 car MVA and determined that 1 occupant from vehicle 1 was trapped while occupants in vehicle 2 were out of their pick up truck and complaining of neck and back pain. The assignment was then upgraded to a Rescue Box. Rescue 13, Battalion 13, EMS 13 and 1392 responded. Ladder 4's crew stabilized vehicle 1 and... Read more →


James' buzzer-beater lifts Lions past No. 8 Gloucester Catholic

| courierpostonline.com | by Celeste E. Whittaker SUNDAY JAN. 30, 2011 Gloucester HIGH (12-1), which was just 5-for-18 from the foul line (2-for-4 in the fourth), led by as many as seven points twice in the fourth quarter, but Gloucester Catholic fought back with that late run. "The game wasn't lost at the buzzer," Gloucester Catholic coach Lisa Gedaka said. "The game was lost throughout the other 31 minutes and 55 seconds. We had a breakdown with guarding her (James) and they made a good shot, but the game was lost from the jump. We played timid, scared." Gloucester got... Read more →


Camden County News for February

This Month’s Regular Freeholder Meeting The next regular Board of Freeholders meeting will be held on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Cherry Hill Community Center, located at 820 Mercer St. The caucus meeting will be held the previous Tuesday, Feb. 15, at 6 p.m. in the freeholder meeting room of the Camden County Courthouse. As the meeting draws closer, the agenda can be found atwww.camdencounty.com. Camden County Celebrates Black History Month The Camden County Board of Freeholders in conjunction with the Cultural and Heritage Commission is sponsoring several events in February to commemorate Black History Month, including an... Read more →


Nun to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe I South Philly Review I

The founder of a sacred arts academy seeks to add a revered image and an accompanying shrine to South Broad Street. By Joseph Myers Posted Jan. 13, 2011 Sister Mary Paula Beierschmitt holds the radiant image that her ordinary camera captured during a trip to Maryland. She sees it as a sign that she is to be an advocate for Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the numerous titles for the Blessed Mother. Photo by Greg Bezanis With Christmas, Jan. 6’s celebration of the Epiphany and Sunday’s observance of the Baptism of the Lord, early winter gives one plenty of... Read more →


My Colonoscopy Operation in Japan

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST Commentary by Hank F.Miller Jr. This was an overwhelming experience that was a pleasurable instead of a dreary one, I have been admitted to Japanese hospital before several years ago. But this had some pain and unpleasant times as every operation has but it was minor. On October 9, 2009 I went to hospital for my yearly check one of the procedures was that I see a doctor of Gastroenterology.The doctor explained to Keiko and I regarding the colonoscopy check, procedure to us then he gave us papers with written information regarding the procedure to be... Read more →


DCA DIVISION OF FIRE SAFETY WINTER SNOWSTORM REMINDERS

TRENTON, N.J. – The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Division of Fire Safety strongly encourages residents this winter season to help remove snow around on-street fire hydrants and building Fire Department Connections. Both are critical resources for fighting fires, but are often neglected during snow removal activities. “We recognize that because this year’s snowfall totals are reaching record levels, fire hydrants and building Fire Department Connections may have inadvertently become buried in mounds of snow,” said DCA Commissioner Lori Grifa. “This makes it difficult for firefighters to have quick access to these critical assets in the case of... Read more →


Bald eagles making comeback in New Jersey

Image via Wikipedia By LEE PROCIDA, Staff Writer pressofAtlanticCity.com | MILLVILLE - Jane Galetto gently stepped onto her frozen dock by a bend in the Maurice River, binoculars around her neck, a telescope positioned ahead of her and a bald eagle dunking its talons in the distant water looking for fish. Galetto's Brittany Lane home is a perfect vantage point for observing the rebound of New Jersey's eagles, which reached a record population of 333 birds and 82 eagle pairs actively laying eggs last year, according to an annual report released by the state earlier this month. That's a dramatic... Read more →


Philadelphia's Volunteer Impact Challenge

Philadelphia, January 22, 2011- Mayor Michael A. Nutter launched the 2011 Volunteer Impact Challenge and directed citizens to www.SERVEPhiladelphia.com during an all day service event at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Central Branch. The Volunteer Impact Challenge identifies the administration’s top ten volunteer priorities for 2011 and encourages Philadelphians to get involved in sustainability, public health and education. “There is nothing more powerful than the time, energy and expertise of those extraordinary citizens who choose to serve in their community. I’m asking Philadelphians to work together and contribute their considerable talent and creativity as we collectively address the most challenging... Read more →


Camden County Freedom Medal Recipients Recognized

Medals honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. January 20, 2011 -- One woman sweeps her block in Camden City every day, despite the fact she knows the trash will be right back there the next day. Another woman is a spokeswoman for multiple sclerosis and has raised more than $250,000 through fundraising over the last decade. Then there’s a man who has been a role model for more than 50 years, touching several generations through his work with the Collingswood Little League. Their form of volunteerism varies, but the community impact is unquestionable. These are just a... Read more →


SNOW BLANKETS GLOUCESTER CITY NJ

photo by Karlie Lesser Pollitt More than 12 inches of snow pelted New Jersey over a 48 hour period. Schools were closed throughout the area and many events were canceled. The photo above was taken in the Riverview Heights section of the City Thursday, January 27 looking south towards neighboring Brooklawn. Read more →


Welcome Home From Afghanistan SMSGT Bubba Beason

SMSGT Bubba Beason Friday, January 28, 2011 Approx. 7:45am (coming from airport) American Legion Post 372 1532 Martin Ave. Cherry Hill NJ 08002 Contact: Mike (Yellow Ribbon Club) 609-980-4172 Sue (American Legion) 856-495-7270 Tiny (WWR) 856-889-6724 From the WWR: “Bubba (WildMan) Beason is coming home from his 7th TOUR in the sandbox. Yep, you heard it and read correctly…not a typo…7 times this hero has been in the sandbox protecting our freedoms and way of life. In case you don’t know who this hero is, SMSGT Bubba Beason is the Founder of the NJ Run for the Fallen which he... Read more →


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE SUMMER NUTRITION PROGRAM TO BENEFIT CHILDREN

Seeking Agencies to Sponsor Meal Programs (TRENTON) – New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher today encouraged organizations to help provide meals to children in low-income areas during the summer months when they lack access to school breakfast and lunch programs that operate during the school year. More than 673,000 children in New Jersey receive free or reduced price meals in their schools under the National School Lunch Program. To ensure those students receive nutritious meals during the summer when schools are closed, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture offers the Summer Food Service Program. In 2010, only 10... Read more →


January 2011 OPRA Requests submitted to the Gloucester City Clerk

# REQUESTOR DATE DESC. PROVIDED COST TIME 2011-1 Walters, Michael 1/3/11 list of Fire Dept. EMS Advisory members, qualifications No such list none 15 mins. 2011-2 Schmidt, John 1/3/11 by laws of Governing Body None none 15 min.s 2011-3 Schmidt, John 1/3/11 docs relating to Organic Compost and research done reviewed none 20 mins. 2011-4 Schmidt, John 1/5/11 minutes Aug.09; payments to Steve Harris & his title reviewed $0.10 20 mins. 2011-5 Schmidt, John 1/7/11 first 6 emails from Eric Fetterolf after 11/1/2009 reviewed none 1 hour 2011-6 Rivera, Richard 1/11/11 copy of City OPRA policy re: 2 requests per... Read more →


Gloucester City Municipal Clerk Processed 127 OPRA Requests in 2010...41 So Far in January

“When a large percentage of OPRA requests are coming from the same person or same group of people working together, I have to agree with your statement that “they have taken this law and made a mockery out of it for personal reasons.” ~ Gloucester City Municipal Clerk Kathy Jentsch By Bill Cleary Earlier this month Kathy Jentsch, municipal clerk for the City of Gloucester City issued a notice that her office would only accept two Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request per business day from the public. Jentsch stated “more OPRA request than that will be considered a "substantial... Read more →


2010 Alphabetical OPRA Requests Submitted to the Gloucester City Clerk

REQUESTOR DATE DESC. COPY COST TIME ALBRECHT, WILLIAM 6/1/10 permits $2.25 30 mins. ANELLO, JOSEPH 11/18/10 information on OS Johnson emailed 45 mins. ASSET MGMT 3/18/10 bonds deposits escrows $7.00 30 mins. BEVAN, ROBERT 5/24/10 firefighter info $0.75 15 mins. BEVAN, ROBERT 5/24/10 firefighter info $2.25 15 mins. BRANDMAN, MICHAEL 6/2/10 Vanguard Vinyl $61.00 ?? BRENNAN, JEFFREY 1/21/10 Zoning codes, etc. Cheerleaders $3.75 45 mins. BRENNAN, JEFFREY 2/9/10 Cheerleaders audio tapes $30.00 1 hour BRENNAN, JEFFREY 2/9/10 Cheerleaders $23.50 20 mins. BRENNAN, JEFFREY 2/18/10 Cheerleaders $10.00 20 mins. BRENNAN, JEFFREY 6/15/10 Southport $6.00 20 mins. BRENNAN, JEFFREY 6/15/10 Southport $2.25... Read more →


Former Freeholder candidate seeks resignation of Camden Mayor Dana Redd and Freeholders

(Camden, NJ) - Former 2010 Republican candidate for Camden County Freeholder Scot DeCristofaro joined the call for a public safety solution and calls for a broad sweep of resignation as poor policy, planning and political leadership and management cumulates in a catastrophic decision to layoff police officers and firefighters first. "Given the economy has been in a perilous condition for more than 20 months this day was bound to come, "Scot DeCristofaro said. "For Mayor Redd and the Camden County Freeholders, which has controlled all seven seats for nearly two decades, to lay the woes of Camden at the feet... Read more →


January School Board Recognition Month

By Anthony Wojtkowiak Gloucester City News January is School Board Recognition Month in New Jersey, which the Gloucester City Board of Education (BOE) noted during last week’s meeting. Superintendent Paul Spaventa read the proclamation resolving “that the Gloucester City Board of Education, does hereby recognize the services of local school board members throughout New Jersey as we join communities statewide in observing January 2011 as School Board Recognition Month; “And, be it further resolved that the Gloucester City Board of Education urges all New Jersey citizens to work with their local boards of education and public school staffs toward the... Read more →


Richard Bucher, âge 53, of Gloucester City; GCHS Alumnus Class of '75, Memorial A.A. Member

On January 26, 2011. Age 53. Of Gloucester City. Loved and cared for by his devoted wife of 23 years, Lynn M. (nee Brumbach). Beloved father of Regina, Wesley and Emily. Devoted Son of Charlotte Bucher (nee Schaeffer) and the late Ernie Bucher. Dear Brother of Millie and Jeff Perry, Linda Bucher, Janet Gonzalez, Barb and Steve Yoworsky and Joanne and Brian Pearson. Survived by many loving sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws: Pat and Bud Esmond, Peg and John Sacca, Bonnie Brumbach, Michael and Jody Brumbach, Clare and Kevin McNamee, Mary and Tom Iacovone, Debbie and Al Pfafman, Kathy and Bob Bottinelli,... Read more →


Obituaries: Alan Hollins, of Audubon; Barbara Miller of Lindenwold; Gary Jackson of Willingboro

HOLLINS Alan David On January 20, 2011. Age 54. Of Audubon. Formerly of Philadelphia. Loving husband of 13 years to Louise Marie (nee Checchia). Loving son of Joan “Carol” Anthony and the late William E. Hollins. Dear brother of Janel Kieslich and her husband U. Douglas Kieslich. Loving uncle of Brett Kieslich and Brooke Kieslich. Alan graduated from Lincoln High School class of 1974 and received his B.S. in Political Science from Rutgers University in 1996. Alan was a well respected and well loved employee of UPS Logistics Custom – Brokerage in Philadelphia. He was a Past Master of Athelstan... Read more →


Bellmawr Fire Department The Busiest 100 % Volunteer Dept in Camden County

Friday, January 21, 2011 The Bellmawr Fire Department finished 2010 with 919 emergency calls for service. Of the 919 calls 551 were in Bellmawr's local leaving 368 mutual aid responses to assist neighboring towns. At 919 Calls Bellmawr is the 'Busiest 100% Volunteer Department in Camden County" via www.bellmawrfire.com CLICK ADVERTISEMENT Read more →


Bellmawr Mayor on Layoffs of Borough Employees

By Chris Concannon Gloucester City News A recent Courier-Post article stated layoff notices would be issued to every Bellmawr Borough employee in the near future. A telephone interview with Mayor Frank Filipek confirmed the rumors and rhetoric. Filipek said that if Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ) cuts any more state aid to Bellmawr, layoffs might be necessary in an effort to maintain financially. He also added that the Borough has to remain under a 2 percent tax cap throughout the entire budget process. The Governor cut $275,-000 in aid to Bellmawr last year, the Mayor noted. When asked where the layoffs... Read more →


Gloucester City High School Alumnus Joe McGovern Releases Third Novel...The Genesis Halo

Gloucester City High School Alumnus Joe McGovern (1977) is pleased to announce that he has published his third novel, The Genesis Halo. The story, which is set in Southern New Jersey, tackles the debate of Creationism versus Darwinism, but with an extraordinary and unprecedented scientific twist. The Genesis Halo is the third in a series of books featuring the character of Sean Murphy. Follow him on a new journey through the labyrinth of New Jersey power politics and its remarkable battle with the greatest scientific minds in the Garden State over the significance of a unique geologic sample from Atlantic... Read more →


THE Groto on Christmas Eve Portland,Oregon

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST Commentary by Hank F. Miller Jr. We started our Christmas and New Years in Portland we had a wonderful experience first meeting with our son Max's new family. Caitlin his wife and son Kenji Michael Miller our new grandson , Caitlins, mother father and sister. On December 24, 2009 we met at the Groto. "The Groto is a place of sollitude, peace and prayer." This beautiful 62 acre Catholic shrine and botanical garden is administered by the order of Friar Servants of Mary. The GROTO offers a spectacular natural gallery of religious art with more than... Read more →


Lions’ swimmers show support for Team Beam

Ewing, NJ... Prior to its meet with New York University, The College of New Jersey women’s swimming and diving team sported “Team Beam” t-shirts in support of Violet head coach Laura Beam. Beam has been diagnosed with advanced stage colon cancer. Members of her swimming team at NYU organized a “relay for life” fundraiser and have since branched out to sell shirts with the help of Beam’s sister, Carrie. Lions head coach Jen Harnett ’93 developed a friendship with Beam through coaching and contacted her sister Carrie to order shirts as a show of support for her friend and the... Read more →


Nancy Marie Perez, of Mays Landing

On January 19, 2011. Age 26. Of Mays Landing. Cherished Daughter of Nancy Mae (nee Ernst). Beloved Sister of Mary Perez (Fiance Jeffrey) and Robert Ernst. Devoted Niece of Michele Nassaur, Diane Warren, Jeanie Martinez, Terri Ernst, Sandra Fenske and Joey Ernst. Best Friend of James Shea. Nancy was a graduate of Oakcrest High School Class of 2003 and loved to write poetry. She enjoyed art, music and poems. Nancy was a devoted friend to all who knew her. At the request of the family, cremation and services are private. Family requests memorial donations to Saint Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital:... Read more →


South Camden Theatre Company Opens Waiting for Lefty at the New Waterfront South Theatre

Production Will Open February 2 and run through February 20 on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. CAMDEN, NJ - The South Camden Theatre Company, a nonprofit professional theatre organization located in Camden, New Jersey continues its sixth season with a three-week production of Waiting for Lefty written by Clifford Odets and directed by Joseph M. Paprzycki. Producing Artistic Director Joseph M. Paprzycki states, “Waiting for Lefty, Clifford Odets’s first produced play, is set during the 1930’s as taxi drivers contemplate a strike against their employers. The play is broken in vignettes showing what life... Read more →


Damminger's Resolution Eliminates Health Benefits for Part-Time Officials/Employees

Woodbury, NJ) - Gloucester County Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger introduced a resolution at last week's meeting that will amend the eligibility requirements under the county's health and welfare plan to eliminate elected officials and appointed officials benefits as of February 28, 2011. "We put our residents first, not ourselves. Public service is about service, not about benefits. We learned last week that Sony in Pitman is closing at the end of March, times are tough and we know it. We are in the process of making some very difficult budget decisions and every dollar we can save now is... Read more →


Lautenberg, Menendez: Trenton Fire Department Receives $13.6 Million To Keep Firefighters On The Job

Image via Wikipedia Federal Grant Prevents Massive Layoffs For Fire Department NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Senators Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) today officially announced the Trenton Fire Department was awarded $13,685,436 in federal funding to prevent 61 firefighters from being laid off. The funding is made available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. The highly competitive SAFER grant program is designed specifically to staff departments with trained firefighters. Senator Lautenberg is Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security that funds the SAFER grant program. “This... Read more →


Attention Gloucester County Job Seekers

(Woodbury, NJ) - Gloucester County Freeholders announced today several new programs are available for job seekers at the Gloucester County Library System (GCLS) branches throughout January and February. All programs are without charge, but advance registration is required. Participants can register by calling the branch library or via the events calendar on the GCLS website, www.gcls.org. "Our Libraries are an outstanding resource for employment seekers and we want to make our residents aware of what is available to them, stated Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger. The workshops are presented by professionals whose advice and counsel is can help them get... Read more →


Life On Broadway: Abbott District Funding Helps Gloucester Students

By Publisher Albert J. Countryman Jr. Gloucester City News As a result of the hearing about continued funding for the 31 “poor” Abbott school districts, the NJ Supreme Court appointed Peter E. Doyle, an assignment judge from Bergen County, to determine if recent school aid cuts have been detrimental. Doyle will report the results of his inquiries by March 31 to the court. Bob Ingle, a columnist for the Courier Post, alleged on Sunday that the money is being wasted and “the kids in those 31 districts are not showing a lot of improvement for the money spent.” Ingle continued,... Read more →


Gloucester City News Headlines for Jan. 27 issue

Gloucester City School Board Has Three Vacancies To Fill In April 27 School Election Gloucester City Planning Board Hires Barbara J. Fegley As The New City Planner Mount Ephraim School Board Discusses Upcoming Plans; Honors Students Bellmawr Board Of Education Ratifies Teachers Contract Countywide Fire And Police Department Proposal Meeting With Mayors And Fire And Police Chiefs Will Be Tuesday, February 1 Read more →


Community News for Avalon

GRILLO FAMILY PRESENTS DONATION TO AVALON VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi travelled to Wilmington, Delaware on Tuesday, January 18th to receive a donation from Anne Grillo and her family for the Avalon Volunteer Fire Department. Each year, the family hosts a major golf outing with proceeds benefitting the fire department. This year’s golf tournament is scheduled for Saturday, August 13th, 2011. Related articles Avalon Contributes to Reward to Catch Suspected Police Officer Killer (gloucestercitynews.net) News for the Community of Avalon (gloucestercitynews.net) Read more →


Jennifer M. Vessella, Lifelong Gloucester City Resident, Graduate of GHS

VESSELLA Jennifer M. On January 22, 2011, (nee Matter) of Gloucester City, NJ, age 32 yrs. Jennifer is the beloved wife of Edward Vessella III, loving daughter of Dorothy (nee Wiltbank) and Joseph Matter and dear sister of Heather Digristina (Paul). She is also survived by her loving mother in law Mary Vessella, father in law Edwaerd Vessella II (Joan), sisters in law Tina Vessella (Bill) and Karen Johnston (Tim) and 21 adoring nieces and nephews and 2 great nephews. Jennifer was a lifelong resident of Gloucester City and a graduate Gloucester High School. Relatives and friends are invited to... Read more →


Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Dear Neighbors, There are many thoughts that cross a student’s mind in the pursuit of higher education, but one of them shouldn’t be, “Can I afford this?” Unfortunately, many students do face this question, but they don’t have to. For those students, Camden County College is here to help. Many college students depend on grants, loans and need-based scholarships to fund their college or university studies. To receive many of these, students must complete the often-confusing financial aid application process and file the complex Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA form. Camden County College personnel will help current... Read more →


Villanova signed five players to National Letters of Intent

VILLANOVA, Pa. - During the recent early signing period, Villanova signed five players to National Letters of Intent and all are expected to enroll in the University for the 2011-12 academic year, it was announced by head coach Joe Godri today. The group of five players includes four pitchers and an infielder as the Wildcats addressed a number of immediate needs with the beginning of its recruiting class for next year. "I am very happy with the group we have assembled," Godri said. "I can't say enough how great a job the assistant coaches have done throughout the whole recruiting... Read more →


Meandering w/ Mark Matthews: Bottom Dollar Blueprints and Road Changes

A busy Saturday led to a lazy Sunday. So as I sit here hiding from the cold by watching the football playoffs and countless random shows… the laptop ends up in front of me and the aimless web surfing begins. Which leads me to a short blog on the new Bottom Dollar Store, and a few upcoming road projects of interest... information derived from obsessive Googling. Bottom Dollar Mechanicals Based on a very recently posted “Request for Proposal”, it looks like things should start happening soon at the old Heim’s supermarket. Mechanical contractor Costa and Rihl has posted full mechanical... Read more →


SAFER Grant to be Formally Awarded to the City of Trenton

Congressman Chris Smith and Trenton Fire Department Instrumental TRENTON-The City of Trenton, after months of anticipation, learned today the Trenton Fire Department will receive a $13.7 million grant. The Staffing for Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants are awarded to communities in serious danger of massive personnel cuts which jeopardize lives and the community at large. “This is an incredible close to a very difficult process for our Fire Department and the City of Trenton. I am grateful for Congressman Smith and his staff who tirelessly presented Trenton’s need as a priority to Washington officials. In addition, Acting Director Carmichael,... Read more →