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

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March 2011

Mt. Ephraim Commissioners Honor Poster Winners

By Leigh Anne Hubbs Gloucester City News Out of hundreds of contestants from schools all over Camden County, Mount Ephraim had two students that went on to compete in the county level Fire Prevention poster contest. Timothy Alexander won at the county level for the second time, and Maryellen Crain received honorable mention for their posters which promote safety and awareness. The two students were honored during March's Board of Commissioners meeting and posed for photographs with Mayor Joseph Wolk, Fire Chief Brian Gilmore and Commissioners Bruce Greenwald and Andrew Gilmore. In other news, the Commissioners announced that March has been designated "Women's History Month" and April will be “Alcohol Awareness Month.” Commissioner Gilmore congratulated Police Chief Edward Dobleman on a great effort by the Police Department for the issuance of 346 motor vehicle summons in the month of February, 76 of which were moving violations. Other February incidents police... Read more →


Only a Coward would Commit Such a Despicable Act of Vandalism

I just read about the despicable act of vandalism to Mayor James’ hummer. I grew up in Gloucester City and I have seen Bill James move up the ranks from rookie to mayor. We had many run-ins because I felt I had the right to drink, drug and act a fool without interference from the police. I believed, “I wasn’t bothering them, so they shouldn’t bother me.” Boy, was I so very wrong! I wish I would have taken heed to their attempts to straighten out my life and get me on the right road. If I had, I wouldn’t be finishing up an eight and half year stint in the NJ Prison for Women. As for the vandals, your act was that of a coward and a punk. If you hold strong feelings against Mayor James, step up to the plate and address them face to face. Do not... Read more →


NJDOT announces Kings Highway railroad crossing repairs in Mount Ephraim

(Trenton)-- The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced that Kings Highway (CR 551) in Mount Ephraim Borough will be temporarily closed in order to rehabilitate the Conrail railroad grade crossing. Kings Highway, between Route 168 (Black Horse Pike) and West Browning Road will be closed on Tuesday, March 22, at 7:00 a.m. until around 5 p.m. Thursday, March 24. Motorists will be detoured to Route 168 (Black Horse Pike) to West Browning Road and return to Kings Highway. Access to businesses and residences along Kings Highway will be maintained. In order to provide a safer and smoother railroad crossing on Kings Highway, NJDOT will replace the existing crossing with a new concrete freight rail crossing and repave the asphalt approaches. The cost of the work is $116,000. This project is part of NJDOT’s ongoing railroad grade-crossing safety program, which repairs, upgrades or removes approximately 30 crossings each year.... Read more →


Joseph A. Wunsch Sr., of Gloucester City

On March 18, 2011. Age 72. Of Gloucester City. Loving husband of 48 years to Jacquelin (nee Robinson). Loving father of Joseph A. Wunsch Jr. (Lisa), John Wunsch and Jason Wunsch. Cherished grandfather of Alexander, Jessica and Jeanine. Also survived by his sister, Marie Lewandowski (Arthur) and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his visitation on Wednesday morning from 9 to 11 AM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St. Gloucester City. Catholic Funeral Service will begin at 11 AM in the Funeral Home. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bancroft, a New Jersey Non-Profit Corporation, 425 Kings Highway East, P.O. Box 20, Haddonfield, NJ 08033. In the memo please write: Joseph A. Wunsch, Sr. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Joseph A. Wunsch, Sr. Funeral Arrangements and... Read more →


Welcome Back From Middle East Deployment

Delran, New Jersey Who: Master Sergeant Dan Caldarale When: Sunday, March 20, 2011 Time: 4:00 PM Where: A Touch Of Class 3001 Route 130 Delran, New Jersey 08075 Contact: Erica (Wife) Dave Silver (Yellow Ribbon Club) 856-986-7587 Please come out to welcome home Master Sergeant Dan Caldarale from serving in the Middle East. Master Sergeant Dan Caldarale’s career with the Army National Guard started in the summer of 1981 where he had basic training at Ft. Benning, Georgia. He then spent a few years as a National Guard Reservist in an Infantry Unit before joining the active duty force of The NJ Army National Guard. With now 30 years of service to his country, he is currently an Inspector General Investigator. Additionally, Dan attended the police academy in 1995. He is currently a Patrolman and a Crash Investigator and has been a Police Officer for over 16 years. He has... Read more →


Summit on Regional Force; Keeping Good Teachers; Philly Grows but Job Base Doesn’t; Merchantville School Budget Hearing; Emergency Fees Controversy

TIPS AND SNIPPETS: compiled by CNBNEWS.NET Gov. Chris Christie and Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney, D-Gloucester, will be in Camden County Wednesday to discuss a proposed countywide police and fire service, officials confirmed today. "Obviously, this is a big issue with (Sweeney), and he hopes the county can serve as an example to the rest of the state," said Christopher Donnelly, the Senate president's spokesman. Camden County spokeswoman Joyce Gabriel said the unusual summit would be held Wednesday afternoon at Camden County College. Public officials across the county would be invited to join the governor, Senate president and county freeholders. read Christie, Democrats to talk of regional force How do we grow and retain the very best teachers? A new report was released last week on how to grow and keep good teachers, looking at the comprehensive efforts in three high-achieving places, Finland, Singapore and Ontario. The release coincides with... Read more →


Hunting and Fishing News: The Purpose of the Three NJOA Organizations

by Anthony Mauro Jr. As I travel about New Jersey meeting with fishing, hunting and conservation groups one of the most frequently asked questions is for me to explain the purpose of the three NJOA organizations. So over the next few weeks I will endeavor to do so. Today, I’d like to introduce each of you to the New Jersey Outdoor Alliance Environmental Projects (NJOA EP). NJOA (EP) is a charity designed to improve the health of both land and sea by means of conservation and habitat stewardship. NJOA (EP) works with scientists, biologists, foresters, conservationists and others with an interest in habitat health and restoration in an effort to support a suite of native fish and wildlife species. The President of NJOA (EP) is Mr. Ed Markowski. One of the organizations under the NJOA (EP) umbrella is the New Jersey Quail Project. The people associated with the New Jersey... Read more →


Julian Santiago of Cherry Hill, age 43

On March 10, 2011. Age 43. Of Cherry Hill. After a long and hard disability, Julian is Home with the Lord. Loving Son of Julian and Jenny Santiago (nee Soto) Julian was born in Somers Point and has resided in Cherry Hill. He enjoyed listening to music, watching television and sitting in the sun. Julian’s Catholic Rite of Committal and Burial were private. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Julian Santiago. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME Read more →


Mount Ephraim February Students of the Month

photo by Leigh Anne Hubbs February Students of the Month. Left to right: Michael Killeen 1st, Arissa Aguilar 2nd, Alison McHugh 4th, Nevada DeFord 6th, Amber Broschard 7th, Jessica Chambers 8th. Not in photo: Roxanne Kravinsky 3rd grade & Jaymi Vilardo 5th grade. Related articles Mt. Ephraim Public Schools 2nd Marking Period Honor Roll (gloucestercitynews.net) MT. EPHRAIM Car and Motorcycle Show (gloucestercitynews.net) Read more →


Freeholders Introduce Budget that Cuts Tax Rate, Slashes Spending by $4.3 Million

March 17, 2011 (Woodbury, NJ)  The Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders introduced the county’s 2011 budget at their meeting last night that called for a $3.9 million reduction in taxes including a 1 cent cut in the county’s tax rate, reducing it to $0.50 down from $0.51. Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger said the introduced budget will call for a $4.3 million reduction in spending from last year’s budget. click advertisement “The Freeholders have continually cut spending and the county’s tax rate will have been reduced by 10 cents since 2006. We have eliminated 180 positions since 2008 while taking on important services to our residents and municipalities like EMS and regionalized tax assessing,” said Freeholder Director Damminger. Damminger said, “The county’s tax rate will be the lowest it has been since 1967. While most other counties are facing tax increases, we are going to cut spending and... Read more →


Hunting and Fishing: Dear Mr. President

National Rifle Association of America 11250 Waples Mill Road Fairfax, VA 22030 March 14, 2011 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: We read your editorial submission to the Arizona Star. However, to focus a national dialogue on guns – and not criminals or mental health issues – misses the point entirely. Americans are not afraid of gun ownership. To the contrary, they overwhelmingly support the fundamental, individual right to keep and bear arms. The primary reason why tens of millions of Americans own firearms is that they fear violent criminals roaming the streets undeterred. We agree with your assertion that "Americans by and large rightly refrained from finger-pointing" in light of the shooting in Tucson. In truth, the professional corps of gun control lobbyists moved with lightning speed to exploit the tragedy. These included the Violence Policy Center ("In the wake... Read more →


SHOOTAROUND WITH BETH AND DEBBIE

"Shootaround with Beth & Debbie" Be sure to tune in and listen to today's Shootaround with Beth and Debbie podcast as they discuss the NCAA Divison I Women's Basketball Championship tournament bracket. Joining the Selection Show podcast this week are head coaches Pat Summitt (University of Tennessee), Curt Miller (Bowling Green State University), Jim Foster (The Ohio State University), Kevin McGuff (Xavier University), Gail Goestenkors (University of Texas) and Charli Turner-Thorne (Arizona State University). These six schools were among 64 that received word last night they will be playing in the NCAA Tournament. First round action will begin March 19. For those of you who will join us this year in Indianapolis, Ind., for the WBCA National Convention, held in conjunction with the NCAA® Women’s Final Four® please make sure to stop by the Werner Ladder presentsShootaround with Beth and Debbie live show on Friday, April at 9:30 p.m. ET... Read more →


Jack Hargraves, former Gloucester City Construction Official; Served in the Marines

Suddenly, on March 16, 2011. Age 71. Of Gloucester City. Loving brother of Gene H. Taylor, William Hargraves, Joan Bender and Diane Griffin . Jack was born and raised in Gloucester City. He graduated from Gloucester City High School. Jack proudly served our country in the U.S. Marine Corps in Lebanon. He was a member of the Townsend C. Young V.F.W. Post #3620 in Gloucester City, Brooklawn American Legion Post # 72, Marine Corp League Semper in Wenonah, N.J. Hunter Education, charter member of the Sportsmen A.C. and proud organizer of the Gloucester City Fishing Derby. He loved white water rafting. Jack worked 30 years as the Construction Official, Head Building Inspector and Zoning Officer in Gloucester City from March 1984 to his retirement in August 2006. He was a proud volunteer for Gloucester City by taking photos at different events throughout the year. Relatives and friends are invited to... Read more →


GCHS Grad and all Tri-county conference cross country and track runner Terence McPeak (Audubon) named to all A-10 indoor track team

Eight Indoor Track Athletes Named to All A-10 Team Seven Male, One Female Honored as Indoor Season Winds Down Terrence McPeak finished second overall in the 800-meter run and was a member of the 4x800-meter relay which also finished second PHILADELPHIA, PA – With the conclusion of the Atlantic 10 Indoor Track Championships this past weekend, eight La Salle student-athletes were honored for their performances and were named to the All-Atlantic 10 team, announced Tuesday by the conference office. The all-conference team is based on how each athlete finished in their respective events. La Salle had eight second place finishes which earned second team All-Atlantic 10 honors. Headlining the list on the men’s side is junior Terence McPeak (Audubon, NJ/Gloucester Catholic) who finished second in the 800-meter run and was a member of the 4x800-meter relay team which also came in second place. Prior to the race in the A-10... Read more →


VIDEO: HAPPY ST. PATRICK DAY FROM HOLMES BEACH FLORIDA!

HOLMES BEACH, FLORIDA Saint PATRICK CELEBRATION Clip 1 One of several clips of the March 13, 2011 St. Patrick Day Celebration in Holmes Beach Florida. A beautiful day with temperatures in the low 70's, a clear blue sky. Several thousand people line the parade route. The parade even had an Irish elephant plus an Irish camel ! The people on Anna Maria Island know how to celebrate St. Patricks Day. video by CNB correspondents Daisy Daily and Connie Clamshell Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 2 Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 3 HOLMES BEACH ST. PADDYS PARADE CLIP 4 Read more →


VIDEO: HAPPY ST. PATRICK DAY FROM HOLMES BEACH FLORIDA!...clip 4

One of several clips of the March 13, 2011 St. Patrick Day Celebration in Holmes Beach Florida. A beautiful day with temperatures in the low 70's, a clear blue sky. Several thousand people line the parade route. The parade even had an Irish elephant plus an Irish camel ! The people on Anna Maria Island know how to celebrate St. Patricks Day. video by CNB correspondents Daisy Daily and Connie Clamshell Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 2 Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 3 HOLMES BEACH ST. PADDYS PARADE CLIP 4 Read more →


HOLMES BEACH FLORIDA ST. PATRICK PARADE...clip 3

HOLMES BEACH ST. PATRICK CELEBRATION CLIP 3 One of several clips of the March 13, 2011 St. Patrick Day Celebration in Holmes Beach Florida. A beautiful day with temperatures in the low 70's, a clear blue sky. Several thousand people line the parade route. The parade even had an Irish elephant plus an Irish camel ! The people onAnna Maria Island know how to celebrate St. Patricks Day. Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 2 Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 3 HOLMES BEACH ST. PADDYS PARADE CLIP 4 Read more →


VIDEO: HAPPY SAINT PATRICK DAY FROM HOLMES BEACH FLORIDA! ...clip 2

ST. PATRICK CELEBRATION CLIP 2 One of several clips of the March 13, 2011 St. Patrick Day Celebration in Holmes Beach Florida. A beautiful day with temperatures in the low 70's, a clear blue sky. Several thousand people line the parade route. The parade even had an Irish elephant plus an Irish camel ! The people on Anna Maria Island know how to celebrate St. Patricks Day. Holmes Beach St. Paddy's Parade Clip 2 Read more →


John G. GALDI of Cramer Hill

On March 14, 2011. Age 58. Lifelong resident of Cramer Hill. Loving brother of Ralph Galdi and Ginny Collins (Danny). Loving uncle of Tina Galdi, Amy Galdi-Collins, Capt. Andy Galdi, Danny Collins Jr., Michael Collins and the late Christopher Collins. Also survived by his “son” Cat. John was a past member of Cramer Hill Boys Club. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday from 10 AM to 12 Noon at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Baptist Funeral Service 12 Noon in the funeral home. Interment Bethel Memorial Park, Pennsauken. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of John G. Galdi. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →


John D. Toppi, Sr., 70, of Bellmawr

John D. Toppi, Sr., 70, of Bellmawr on March 14, 2011. LEGACY There was nothing better in John Toppi's life than spending time in the mountains, hunting and staying in the home he built. John was happy in the woods! When John was 16, two great events happened. He took a job with Nardello Fuels. Over the years, John worked nearly every job there and retired as a vice-president (though he kept working). In his South Philadelphia neighborhood, John met Madge Tricocci. They started dating steady a year later and were married in 1960. Last year, John and Madge celebrated fifty years of marriage. FAMILY Husband of Margaret M. "Madge" (nee Tricocci) Father of John D. Toppi, Jr. (Jeanne); Denise Wright (Bob) and Chris Toppi (Nancy). Grandfather of Adara Wright; Kristen, Michael, Nicholas, Rachal and Ryan. Brother of Rosemarie Natale FAREWELL SERVICE A viewing will be held from 9:30 until... Read more →


OVERSTATING THE PHILLY PROBLEM

Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments as follows: The public impression that the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has been sheltering priests who have sexually abused minors has led to outrageous comments by agenda-driven lawyers, professional victims' groups and pundits. It's time to take a deep breath and look at the facts. Beginning in 2003, 61 cases of priestly misconduct were examined by the archdiocese. Twenty four were dismissed because the accusations could not be substantiated. Of the 37 remaining cases, three priests were suspended immediately following the recent grand jury report; 21 additional priests were suspended this week. Which means a total of 24 priests have been suspended, leaving 13 unaccounted for. Of the 13, eight were found not to have a credible accusation made against them; one has been on leave for some time; two are incapacitated and no longer in ministry; two more belong to religious orders outside the... Read more →


Hope Moffett takes on the School District of Philadelphia | South Philly Review

The Bella Vista resident will likely lose her teaching position for speaking out against changes to a Grays Ferry high school. By Joseph Myers Posted Mar. 10, 2011 Hope Moffett, 25, may have incurred enough wrath to lead the School District of Philadelphia to part ways with her. Photo by Greg Bezanis Hope Moffett is not a politician but conducts herself with as much aplomb as an established officeholder. The third-year English teacher at Charles Y. Audenried Sr. High School, 3301 Tasker St., has executed three weeks of civil disobedience opposing the School District of Philadelphia’s plan to allow Universal Companies, 800 S. 15th St., to convert her institution into a charter. Citing two elements, the district has enacted a course to terminate her employment. A resident of the 1000 block of Christian Street, Moffett wonders why the district feels Audenried is a lackluster academic school in need of joining... Read more →


Ex-Gov. Codey slams Norcross in new book; Camco powerbroker jabs back | Courier-Post

Richard J. Codey enjoyed wide popularity during a 14-month tenure as New Jersey's governor. But the reward was a clobbering by the state Democratic machine after he returned to the state Senate, Codey says in his upcoming book. Codey said he was stripped of his Senate leadership by fellow Democrats in 2009 because Camden County powerbroker George Norcross and Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo teamed up, settling old scores against him. Codey vents about the fall from power in the book, "Me, Governor?," due out in June, saying DiVincenzo has held a grudge ever since Codey backed an opponent in a 2002 county election. Codey also writes that he "always resented backroom bosses like Norcross. They wield a lot of hidden power over elected officials by controlling patronage, but they never face the voters and they are not a legitimate part of government." In an e-mailed response Saturday, Norcross said,... Read more →


Camden Children's Garden & Puerto Rican Unity for Progress

Camden Children's Garden & Puerto Rican Unity for Progress Building Camden's 1st NEW Community Garden of 2011! Joining 90 food-producing gardens and 100s of gardeners to fight hunger and obesity in Camden, NJ This Event is a Celebration of our Accomplishments in 27 Years of Community Gardening in Camden, NJ and a Kick Off for the 2011 City-Wide Growing Season! DOWNLOAD Brag Sheet on CCGC's Growing Food to Fight Hunger & Obesity in Camden WHO: - Camden City Garden Club, operators of CamdenChildren's Garden (CCGC/CCG) - Puerto Rican Unity for Progress (PRUP) - Camden Mayor's Office WHERE: PRUP Community Garden - Broadway and Pine Street in Camden, NJ, adjacent to PRUP Building WHEN: - Wednesday, March 16th, 10am-4pm Camden Children's Garden Staff, AmeriCorps NCCC and residents will begin to clear out a trash-strewn lot to prepare for a transformation into a food-producing garden. (Best Visuals = apprx. 11am-1pm) - Saturday,... Read more →


SOME GOOD NEWS FOR GLOUCESTER CITY FIREMEN; NEW ROAD TO CUT THROUGH BELLMAWR CEMETERY

TIPS AND SNIPPETS By Bill Cleary WHAT’S UP WITH THE NEW AMBULANCE SERVICE? A Gloucester City fireman, who wished to remain anonymous, was asked if anyone from the James Administration has talked to the them about Lourdes Health Systems taking over the city ambulance service? The City awarded a three year contract to Lourdes in February. The fireman stated, “Absolutely nothing has been said. We have no idea where they will be stationed, who they will report to or how our operations will be affected. We have no idea if this means more layoffs or if they will keep the remaining guys on to have one full company. Even if we don't layoff any more guys we still don't comply with the 2 in 2 out federal regulations. They will tell you we do but they don't take the whole picture into account as far as what each guys roles... Read more →


Lawrence Burkhardt of Gloucester City

BURKHARDT, Lawrence On March 11, 2011, of Gloucester City, NJ, age 55. He was the beloved wife of Janice I. (nee Andrescavage) and dear stepfather of Robert Andrescavage and Michael Madden. He was the loving brother of Richard Burkhardt, Maryann Zearfoss (Zig), Robert, Bernard, James and the late John Burkhardt. Larry was predeceased by his loving parents Richard and Anastatia Burkhardt and is also survived by his dear stepmother Darlene Burkhardt. Relatives and friends are invited to meet Tuesday afternoon from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 POWELL St., GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ. A Catholic Prayer service will be held 2:00 PM. Interment is private and will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to help offset expenses.(www.etheringtonfh.com) Read more →


George M. Densten, of Gloucester City; Vietnam War Navy Veteran

On March 13, 2011. Age 64. Of Gloucester City. Formerly of Deptford. Loving husband of Genevieve L. (nee Wilczynski / Weimer) Loving father of Dawn and George, Jr. Loving step-father of John, Carl, Aaron and the late Bernard. Cherished grandfather of 5. Also survived by his friend Rachel Holdren and her son, Jaden. George proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. At the request of his family, Cremation and Services will be private. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of George M. Densten. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made though: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030 Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →


Georgia Tech's Theresa Wenzel Named 2011 WBCA Administrator of the Year

ATLANTA – Georgia Tech associate director of athletics Theresa Wenzel is the winner of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association’s (WBCA) 2011 Administrator of the Year Award for her excellence in athletic administration. This award is presented annually to an administrator, athletic director, associate or assistant athletic director or senior woman administrator who has excelled at encouraging the growth and quality of women’s basketball programs and women’s athletic programs overall. The candidate must also have served as a professional role model for student-athletes. “Congratulations to Theresa Wenzel,” said WBCA CEO Beth Bess. “It is imperative that the WBCA maintain strong relationships on campuses and in the NCAA governance structure. Like our member coaches, the WBCA depends on the continued support of administrators at their institutions. Theresa is one such administrator who is a staunch supporter of women’s basketball and this association.” Wenzel is in her fifth season as the senior woman... Read more →


Plate-Born Quake Shifted Earth's Axis 10 CM '

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST Commentary By Hank F. Miller Jr. The magnitude of Friday's 8.8 earthquake that jolted northeastern Japan was caused by a tectonic upheaval that created offshore faults stretching for hundreds of kilometers from Iwate Prefecture to Ibrakai, seismologist said on Saturday evening. As i watched N H K TV, Satoko Oki of the University of Tokyo's Earthquake Research Institute said the massive quake, estimated to be nearly 1,000 times more powerful than the 1995 Great Honshin Earthquake that killed more than 6,000 people, was caused by a rupture near the boundary between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. The earthquake was created when the Pacific plate slipped underneath Japan at the Japan Trench, causing a tsunami as high as 10 meters to slam the east coast. Experts estimate the the impact of the world's fifth largest earthquake caused a displacement of about 20 meters and a... Read more →


More Legal Problems for the City; Fire Union Saga Continues

TIPS AND SNIPPETS By Bill Cleary MORE LEGAL TROUBLES FOR CITY OF GLOUCESTER CITY-Political activists John Schmidt and Mark Walters have filed a lawsuit against the City of Gloucester City, the Gloucester City Board of Education, and the Gloucester City Housing Authority. Specifically Municipal Clerk Kathy Jentsch, School Board Business Administrator Margaret McDonnell, and Sue McElhaton custodian of records for the Housing Authority. Walter Lauers, Esq. is their attorney. It was filed in Camden County Superior Court on March 3, 2011. Schmidt and Matthews alleged the City Defendants have violated OPRA and OPMA by (1) denying Plaintiffs access to executive session meeting minutes of the governing body; (2) not timely approving executive session minutes; (3) not providing meetings minutes of the City’s Fire Advisory Committee; (4) denying access to the meeting minutes of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee and a list of the 2010 Mayor’s Advisory Committee members; (5) and holding... Read more →


Roseann M. Kilcourse, age 81, of Gloucester City, Wife of Former Mayor

Suddenly, on March 12, 2011. Age 81. (nee Herbert) Of Gloucester City. Loving and devoted wife of 56 years to Thomas J. “Tut” Kilcourse. Mr. Kilcourse was a former Gloucester City Mayor and Gloucester City Municipal Clerk. She is also survived by her many loving nieces and nephews. Roseann was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of the Hibernians and the Gloucester City Senior Citizens Association. She was a faithful and devoted parishioner of St. Mary’s R.C. Church. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Wednesday morning from 8 to 10:30 AM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday at 11 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church: 426 Monmouth St. Gloucester City, NJ 08030. Interment New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr. Memorial donations may be made to Msgr. Lucitt’s Needy Children’s Fund: P.O. Box 87, Gloucester... Read more →


Maple Shade Twp. Police Dept. Traffic Alert: Regarding “Bus Route Nos. 407 and 414

Beginning on or about Tuesday, March 15 and continuing for approximately five months, Bus Route Nos. 407 (Moorestown Mall-Merchantville-Philadelphia) and 414 (Moorestown-Philadelphia) will operate on a detour between Main Street at Fellowship Road and Main Street at Kings Highway due to extensive roadwork. Customers traveling to: Camden/Philadelphia - Use bus stops located on Main Street at Fork Landing Road in Maple Shade and Main Street at Locust Street in Moorestown. Moorestown - Use bus stops located on Main Street at Fork Landing Road in Maple Shade and Main Street at Union Street in Moorestown. Please allow extra travel time as delays are expected. We apologize for any inconvenience. If you have any questions, please contact NJ TRANSIT Customer Service at (973) 275-5555. http://www.njtransit.com/sa/sa_servlet.srv?hdnPageAction=ServiceAdjustmentTo&AdjustmentId=7350 Address/Location Maple Shade Township Police Department 200 N Stiles Ave Maple Shade Township, NJ 08052 Contact Emergency: 9-1-1 Non-emergencies: 856-234-8300 via local.nixle.com Read more →


Gloucester Catholic HS General Announcements

Another "Ram-Done" Act of Kindness! Kudos to our GCHS students who donated more than 270 warm coats to Sacred Heart Parish in Camden. Special thanks to the Golden Family for organizing this effort. Reserve Your Tickets Now!!! Our seventh annual GCHS Basket Auction is set for Thursday, March 31st at Luciens Manor in Berlin. Click on the Basket Auction Quick Link on this page or visit us on Facebook to reserve your tickets and to learn about the fabulous baskets and entertainment for the evening! Cell Phones for Soldiers GCHS Junior Kyle Quigley is coordinating Cell Phones for Soldiers, a program to provide phone cards for our soldiers serving overseas. Used cell phones are sold to a recycling firm and a one hour calling card is provided for every phone donated. Details about the program can be found at www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com. A donation box is located in the GCHS library. For... Read more →


GCBA Supports Extended Sunday Hours in Gloucester City

Press Release March 10, 2011 The Gloucester City Business Association (GCBA) at its February 22 membership meeting overwhelmingly supported a motion by its Board of Directors to obtain the necessary signatures to place the following question on the November election ballot as a first step towards extending Sunday hours in Gloucester City: “In order for our restaurants and bars to be competitive with businesses in surrounding communities, shall Sunday hours during which the sale of alcoholic beverages at retail for consumption on premises in the City of Gloucester be expanded to include those hours between 12 PM / Noon (commencement) and 2 AM (cessation) ?” Currently restaurants and bars in Gloucester City are not permitted to open until 1 PM and must close by 10 PM on Sundays. Restaurants and bars are able to remain open until 2 AM or later in the surrounding communities of Bellmawr, Brooklawn, Haddon Township,... Read more →


Maple Shade Township Police Dept. Traffic Alert

The Main St (CR537) Bridge over Route 73 will close on March 15th for approximately 150 days. The bridge will be removed and a new one built in its place. Also during the construction period, Route 73 will also be closed to traffic for several hours at a time on certain days or nights. Detour routes will be well marked with signs and traffic control devices. Please follow the directions of these signs and devices, and Police Officers when they are present. PLEASE, DO NOT STOP the flow of traffic and stop your car in the middle of the roadway to try to ask for directions from the Police Officers directing traffic. To do so creates a hazardous situation by distracting their attention and places the Officers in danger as well as you and the other motorists and the workers. Follow their hand signals, read and follow the signs and... Read more →


Reconstruction of Main Street Bridge over Route 73 in Moorestown to Start

Work is part of ongoing $18 million project (Trenton) - The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) today announced that an ongoing $18 million project in Moorestown and Maple Shade will reach a new stage next week, when work starts on reconstructing the Main Street/CR 537 Bridge over Route 73 in Moorestown. The Main Street bridge will be closed to traffic starting 7 a.m. Tuesday, March 15 and remain closed until August 2011. Main Street motorist detours include: · CR 537 (Camden Avenue) westbound motorists will be directed to South Lenola Road to Route 41 (Kings Highway) to Route 38 westbound to West Mill Road to South Fork Landing Road and returning to CR 537 (Main Street). · CR 537 (Main Street) eastbound motorists will be directed to South Fellowship Road to Route 73 southbound to Route 38 westbound to Route 41 (Kings Highway) northbound to CR 537 (Camden Avenue).... Read more →


Osteoporosis Drugs Linked to Thigh Fractures, Yet Again

NEWSINFERNO Bone loss drugs in the class of bisphosphonates have, again, been linked to bone fractures of the femur (thigh bone). Web MD said that a recent, large review of over 200,000 post-menopausal women found that those taking bisphosphonates—drugs sold under the names Fosamax, Fosamax Plus D, Actonel, Actonel with Calcium, Boniva, Atelvia, and Reclast, as well as generics—for over five years experienced a two-fold likelihood of suffering fractures, versus women taking these drugs for briefer periods. Fractures occurred in about one of every 1,000 women who took bisphosphonates for five years or more, one of the researchers told WebMD. The study appears in the February 23rd issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. According to recent studies, about half of all women over the age of 50 will suffer a bone loss-related fracture, and about one in every five of these women will die within a year,... Read more →


Arlene Mae Williams, of Cherry Hill

On March 8, 2011. Age 64. Of Cherry Hill. Loving Daughter of the late George and Louise (nee Ference). Cherished Sister of George Williams, Nancy Williams and Carol Williams. Survived by her devoted friends and caregivers at Surrey and QMA. Arlene loved pocketbooks and drinking coffee. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend her visitation on Tuesday from 9 am to 10 am at Christ Our Light Catholic Community: 402 North Kings Highway, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 am in the church. Interment Colestown Cemetery, Cherry Hill. There will be no evening visitation and no visitation at the funeral home. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Arlene Mae Williams. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →


Theo and Liam to be Repatriated Together

Dog handler and dog to return to UK together, RIP to both. March 7th, 2011 by MOTHAX Stories like this always tear me up. A dog handler and his springer spaniel, who died within hours of each other in Afghanistan, are to be flown home to Britain together. Lance Corporal Liam Tasker was shot dead on Tuesday while the pair were on patrol in southern Helmand province. His spaniel Theo died of a seizure shortly afterwards. The Ministry of Defence said on Friday the 22-month-old dog's ashes would be brought back to Britain on the same flight as L/Cpl Tasker. "A dog can not be repatriated, but they will be returned to the UK on the same day, in the same plane," a defence department spokesman said. They will be flown into RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire next week. Three weeks ago, Theo had been praised by the Ministry of Defence... Read more →


Seven Kids Killed in Pennsylvania Farmhouse Fire | Firehouse.com

BLAINE, Pennsylvania -- A fire at a farmhouse killed seven children Tuesday while their mother was in a barn milking cows and their father was taking a nap in a milk delivery truck, a state trooper said. Those who perished ranged in age from 7 months to 11 years. A 3-year-old child survived. The children's father had left the two-story home, on a working farm in dairy country not far from the state capital, to get his truck around 10 p.m. Tuesday, Trooper Tom Pinkerton said. Two children, ages 2 and 3, were watching television at the time. The father drove a short distance away to pick up milk and then parked the truck about a mile from home. Then, Pinkerton said, he nodded off. read via www.firehouse.com Read more →


Mt. Ephraim Fire Prevention Poster Contest Winners

photo by Leigh Anne Hubbs FIRE PREVENTION POSTER CONTEST WINNERS: Left to right...Mount Ephraim Commissioner Andrew Gilmore, student Maryellen Crain, Mount Ephraim Commissioner Bruce Greenwald, student Timothy Alexander, Mount Ephraim Mayor Joseph Wolk, Fire Chief Brian Gilmore. Advertisement...click for menu Related articles Mt. Ephraim Commissioner Reminds Residents about Snow Removal Rules (gloucestercitynews.net) Mount Ephraim Sewer Rates Increasing 100 percent (gloucestercitynews.net) Mt. School District Appreciates Services by Borough Departments (gloucestercitynews.net) Mount Ephraim School District Reminders (gloucestercitynews.net) Mount Ephraim to Increase Sewer Rates (gloucestercitynews.net) MT. EPHRAIM Car and Motorcycle Show (gloucestercitynews.net) Read more →


Former Gloucester City Resident Reports on Disaster in Japan...see Video

Entire communities destroyed; fires rage out of control. Earthquake, Tsunami Slams Widespread Areas of Japan...Initial death toll and damage not yet calculated Commentary by Hank F. Miller Jr. An earthquake with a historic magnitude of 8.9 struck the Tohoku region friday,registering the highest intensity level of 7on the Japanese seismic scale, in Miyagi Prefecture,the Meteorological Agency said. Miyagi and four other prefectures and many people were reported injured. The quake struck at 2:46 P.M.Many fires were reported at scores of locations in northeastern Japan, as well as a huge refinery inferno in Chiba Prefecture.The quake was felt hundreds of kilometers away, including in Tokyo, where buildings swayed for a long time and people swarmed out of them. The tremor is one of the strongest ever to have occurred in the quake-prone archipelago, according to the Meteorological Agency, with it's magnitude surpassing the 7.9 registered in the1923 Great Kanto Earthquake in... Read more →


Camden County Furlough Days

As previously announced, furlough days without pay for 750 non-Public Safety Camden County employees began Friday, March 4, and will continue every other Friday during 2001. The projects to 22 furlough days and a total savings to taxpayers of $3 million, the Board of Freeholders said. These furloughs are in addition to almost 300 projected layoffs. Both measures are designed to help bridge the $43 million budget gap the County is facing this year. “We continue to pursue all options as we work through these tough economic times,” said Camden County Freeholder Director Lou-is Cappelli, Jr. “We need to balance the budget, protect our taxpayers and come up with the best solutions for our employees,” Cappelli said. “While our plan demands great sacrifice from our workforce and from elected officials, who will also lose pay, we believe that the course we are pursuing is the fairest solution to the budget... Read more →


Terri Metler, age 53, of Lindenwold

Passed away unexpectedly on February 24, 2011. Age 53. (nee Simmerman). Of Lindenwold. Loving wife of 15 years to Mark Metler. Loving sister of Jesse Simmerman (Carole) and Fred Simmerman (Annette). Loving aunt of Holly Sheridan, Jesse Simmerman Jr. and Reid Simmerman. Loving great aunt of Elizabeth Anne Sheridan and Annabelle Audrey Simmerman. Loving niece of Rose DiSylvestro. Also survived by the loving members of the Hoffman, Metler and Szymanski Families. Born in Salem, NJ, Terri always enjoyed the company of good friends, music, a great story and books in Braille. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend her visitation on Monday from 10 to 11 AM in the Chapel of Our Lady of Hope Parish: St. Agnes R.C. Church: 701 Little Gloucester Road, Blackwood, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM in the Church. Interment Land of Canaan Cemetery, Elk Township. In lieu of... Read more →