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Surrounded by her loving family, on April 19, 2011. Age 72. (nee Loungo) Of Audubon Park. Loving wife of 32 years to the late William F. Watkins, Sr. Loving mother of Theresa Grandizio (late Louis), Donna Watkins and William F. Watkins, Jr. Cherished grandmother of Anthony, Alisha and Dominic. Dear sister of Joseph W. Loungo and Joanne Hardymon. Also survived by 8 nieces and nephews and her beloved pet, Meeka. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend her viewing on Tuesday morning from 9 to 11 AM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Catholic Funeral Service officiated by Deacon Joseph W. Loungo will begin at 11 AM in the funeral home. Interment New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250, Attn: Gift Processing. Please write in the memo: Ida... Read more →

By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, April 21, 2011 - President Barack Obama has approved the use of armed predator strikes in the international fight against Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi's regime, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said today. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates calls on a reporter for a question at the Pentagon, April 21, 2011. Gates and Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, fielded questions dealing mainly with the situation in Libya and the defense budget. DOD photo by R.D. Ward Gates and Marine Corps Gen. James E. Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, briefed reporters at the Pentagon. "The president has said that where we have some unique capabilities, he is willing to use those," Gates said. "In fact, he has approved the use of armed predators [in Libya]." Armed predators have been used... Read more →

By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, April 19, 2011 - In what started out as a small pilot program, members of Disabled American Veterans, working with the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments, began visiting wounded warriors at Fort Bragg, N.C., to talk about benefits and services available to them after they leave active duty. Disabled American Veterans National Commander Wallace E. "Wally" Tyson, addressing participants in the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic in Snowmass Village, Colo., in March 2011, said DAV is reaching out to wounded warriors and the newest generation of disabled veterans. VA photo (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. Now 40 DAV transition service officers have become regulars at 144 military installations participating in the joint VA-DOD Benefits Delivery and Discharge Program, which provides transition assistance to separating service members who incurred disabilities related to their military service. DAV National Commander Wallace E.... Read more →

June 5, 2011 marks the 27th running of the Philadelphia International Championship. Sponsored by TD Bank and presented by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the 156-mile classic remains the longest running and most important single-day cycling road race in the United States. The cyclists complete 10 laps of a 14.4-mile circuit that links the majestic Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the hillside community of Manayunk, site of the legendary Manayunk Wall, named by Pro Cycling Tour’s David Chauner and Jerry Casale, a steep half-mile cruncher that has become a Philadelphia icon and favorite spot for race watchers. The pros will finish with three laps of Lemon Hill and Logan Circle, having logged 156 miles total in one of the biggest special sporting events in the country. The day also includes the Liberty Classic with more than 100 professional, international women cyclists competing. The 57.6-mile race consists of four laps of a 14.4-mile... Read more →

compiled by CNBNEWS.NET The arrival of spring is eagerly anticipated by many, but more so by turkey hunters anxious for the beginning of New Jersey's Spring Wild Turkey Hunting Season. This year's regular season kicks off on Monday April 25 and runs for five weeks. With turkey populations restored statewide, Garden State hunters can enjoy some of the finest turkey hunting on the East Coast right in their own backyards. Spring turkey hunting is the fastest growing hunting pursuit in the nation and it's easy to see why. The tranquility of being in the pre-dawn and early morning forest coupled with the adrenaline surge caused by turkeys gobbling from the roost and on the ground provide an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. If you've never tried spring turkey hunting or have been away from it, make this the year you get hooked on the experience! YOUTH DAY SCHEDULED FOR APRIL... Read more →

By DAVID M. HALBFINGER Published: April 19, 2011 The lawmaker, Stephen M. Sweeney, the State Senate president, has placed a provision in a health care insurance bill that would prohibit the program from accepting new members. Mr. Sweeney, a Democrat from Gloucester County, is a close ally and a childhood friend of George E. Norcross 3rd, perhaps the most influential Democratic boss in New Jersey. Mr. Norcross, of Camden County, owns one of the largest brokers of health insurance to government entities in the state, and his company has been losing customers to the program Mr. Sweeney wants to rein in, according to an analysis of the program’s records. Mr. Sweeney, who rose to prominence with Mr. Norcross’s support, acknowledged in an interview that he had spoken with Mr. Norcross about the provision. But Mr. Sweeney said he had not introduced it at Mr. Norcross’s behest. Mr. Sweeney said the... Read more →

by Holly Otterbein ARTSY CART: John Banks runs his Italian Market business his way. Neal Santos Among the various iconic symbols of Philadelphia's Italian Market — the imposing mural of former police chief and mayor Frank Rizzo; the great chariot wheels of cheese hanging in the windows of the Di Bruno Bros. grocery — John Banks is probably among the lesser known. On the other hand, he's probably one of the most colorful. Nearly every day for the past 20 years (yes, this year marks his 20th anniversary, he says), Banks has hawked 50-cent shopping bags and delivered groceries to nearby and elderly residents ($2 to $3 per delivery) from his homemade storefront — a shopping cart — developing in the process his own ramshackle brand. There's the uniform: hat, boots, cargo pants and a pair of sunglasses that he never, ever removes. And then, attracting what must be hundreds... Read more →

ASSEMBLYWOMAN ANNETTE QUIJANO WARNS TRENTON – Assemblywoman Annette Quijano is urging her Assembly colleagues to unite in opposition to the Governor’s proposed dismantling of the Urban Enterprise Zone program in the FY 2012 budget. CLICK ADVERTISEMENT The UEZ program, which has existed since 1983, boasts Elizabeth as one of its first and most successful participating municipalities. However, a 2010 report commissioned by Governor Christie recommended the elimination of the program, and a letter outlining the dismantling of the program was sent out to each of the 38 participant municipalities on April 7. “While the UEZ program has seen mixed results in some districts, it is wildly successful in Elizabeth,” asserted Quijano (D-Union). “Furthermore, the rate of minority business ownership in UEZ municipalities is 23 percent, whereas it is only nine percent statewide. In Elizabeth, more than 33 percent of all business are Hispanic-owned. Eliminating the incentives and benefits that these... Read more →

On Saturday, April 9, "A" Platoon members from Ladder 24, Engine 22, Squirt 51, and Battalion 13 planted over a dozen cherry trees along Chapel Avenue. The Cherry Hill Firefighters were joined by members of Rehab 13 and American Legion Post 372 who helped place dozens of American flags along the roadway between Haddonfield Road and Kings Highway. Resident Joe Zanghi started the tradition of planting the trees along Chapel Avenue and other Township buildings back in 1973. The blooming of the trees is marked with a yearly "9/11 Rememberance and Patriotic Gratitude" observance at the Joyce Kilmer School. The Kwanzan cherry trees will bring the total number of trees planted around the Township to over 1,400. All photos by J. Cundiff - Rehab 13. via cherryhillfire.blogspot.com CLICK BANNER Read more →

Image via Wikipedia 2011 Race Merchandise Now Available Through Online Store LOS ANGELES (April 18, 2011) - Official race merchandise for the 2011 Amgen Tour of California is now available for purchase on the race website, www.amgentourofcalifornia.com. The online store, which is available 24/7, is the place for fans and cycling enthusiasts to gear up for this year's race, which takes place over eight consecutive days from May 15-22, covering nearly 800 miles of scenic California roadways, highways and coastlines. Official race merchandise of the 2011 Amgen Tour of California includes something for everyone – from official race leader jerseys, outerwear, hats, collectables and more. Each year the race creates and produces new merchandise with new designs for men, women and children, and they are only available while supplies last. "We are very excited to release the official race merchandise for the 2011 Amgen Tour of California," said Sean Ryan... Read more →

DEAN’S LIST Kristen Wright of Gloucester City has made the Dean’s List at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, and received this letter: “Dear Kristen, “On behalf of the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences faculty and staff, I want to congratulate you on your recent academic achievement, which is recognized by being name to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2010 Semester. “Your superior academic performance is a competitive professional school is an outstanding accomplishment of which you can be very proud, and coupled with other opportunities for personal and professional growth at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, will provide strong support as you move forward in your academic career. “Congratulations and best wishes for continued success.” Robert M. Goodman Executive Dean CLICK ADVERTISEMENT Read more →

press release As the next step in the process of evaluating the feasibility of a regionalized countywide police force, the Police Committee met last week at the Regional Emergency Training Center in Blackwood. CLICK ADVERTISEMENT Camden County has also proposed a regionalized fire department. Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli Jr. welcomed the participants and reviewed the highlights of the March 23 meeting with Governor Chris Christie and Senate President Steve Sweeney. At that session, the state had offered to be a partner with Camden County as it charts this course exploring regionalization. The County’s role, working through its Shared Services Division, is to serve as facilitator of this project. “The time is now to act in the best interests of the taxpayers by taking progressive action in public safety,” said Capelli, who thanked the mayors and chiefs for lending their expertise to this endeavor. If adopted, it would follow a Shared... Read more →

SJCU continued their battle with the Mayer administration this week by opposing the fee increases voted into effect this past Monday. In a time when fiscal responsibility is the coin of the realm, Gloucester Township continues to reach for the Democrat playbook and raise taxes and fees. The Regional school District along with the GT District have already vowed to raise taxes and the six Fire Districts already increased the levy in February. While we applaud Mayor Mayer on the zero increase in the Township taxes there is still unanswered questions about where all of the state funds went in the transition budget. Remember the transition budget was for only 6 months. More sleight of hand it would seem. Gloucester Township Patch has become a great resource for information locally. http://gloucestertownship.patch.com/articles/council-approves-fire-inspection-fee-hike SJCU will continue to ask the tough questions and call out those whom we see as putting the public... Read more →

The Department of Defense today launched its newest initiative to support victims of sexual assault. Using DoD Safe Helpline, service members can “click, call or text” for victim support services for themselves or others. The free, anonymous and confidential resource can be accessed worldwide, 24-hours a day, every day, to connect with live sexual assault support professionals. In addition to improving victim care, secure and confidential access to Safe Helpline was developed to encourage victims to come forward when they might not otherwise. “The underreporting of sexual assault poses a serious challenge to military readiness,” said Clifford L. Stanley, under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness. “We believe the Safe Helpline will provide DoD sexual assault victims with a variety of support outlets, which will lead victims to report sexual assault, seek needed information, and receive care.” Safe Helpline offers three access options designed for service members. Users can... Read more →

Saint Mary School “A Community Treasure” 340 Cumberland Street Gloucester City, NJ 08030 (856) 456-0913 www.smshope.org REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR Open House Schedule Thursday, April 7, 2011 8:30 – 10:00 am Thursday, May 5, 2011 8:30 – 10:00 am Tours available by appointment. Contact: Dawn Burkhardt 856-456-0913 ext. 17 Aftercare 2:30 – 6: pm ($5.00 per hour) *Accomplished Sports Programs*Scholarships to High School ($40,000 awarded last year) *Electives that include Forensics, cooking, painting, and many more * Transportation reimbursement (out of town residents) *Bussing available (Inquire for more information) *Pre K 3 and 4 “Little Gems” (limited seats available) *Kindergarten through 8th Grades*Challenging curriculum*Science, Computer Labs*Accelerated Reading and Enrichment Programs *Music, Art, Physical Education *Extra-Curricular activities Related articles Saint Mary's School Students Honor the Memory of Dr. Martin Luther King (gloucestercitynews.net) Saint Mary's, Calif., edges Gonzaga 73-71 (seattletimes.nwsource.com) Read more →

Haddon Heights, NJ – Tuesday, Congressman Andrews announced over $2 million in funding to replace and renovate Gibbsboro sewer lines and create 20 local construction jobs. This funding, which represents a collaborative effort between federal and state government, will be used to revamp the sewer system in Gibbsboro – a project that will create jobs, benefit more than 100 households and improve the lives of many residents who are experiencing sewage back-ups and leaks from the borough’s outdated terracotta pipes. Specifically, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provided $175k in federal grants and $450k in low-interest loans for this effort. The New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund has awarded a $1.39 million loan to help with the project, and the NJ Department of Transportation added an additional $180,000 to repave the roads after the sewer work is complete. Additionally, the project improves water and sewer access to the senior citizens’ recreation center,... Read more →

THOM James B. Suddenly, On April 16, 2011. Age 58. Of Westville Grove. Formerly of National Park. Beloved Son of the late William and Dorothy Thom. Loving and Cherished Husband of 33 years to Donna Garrett (nee Canzanese). Devoted father of Rosemarie Garrett and James Wilson. Beloved Brother of Robert Thom, Dorothy Thom, Richard Thom and the late William C. Thom. Loving Uncle of Bernadette Clinksdale. Loving Grandfather of Raul, Antonio, Robert and Vincent. Dear Son-In-Law of Vincent and Donatella Canzanese. James was born, raised and lived in National Park. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his visitation and celebration of his life on Wednesday Evening, April 20 from 6:45 PM to 7:30 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, (at Brown Street) Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142. Methodist Religious Service 7:30 PM in the funeral home. Cremation is private. Condolences and Memories may be shared at... Read more →

The East Passyunk Avenue festival will mark its fifth celebration with assistance from a collection of rookie establishments. By Joseph Myers Posted Apr. 14, 2011 These provisions from Monday are but a small sample of the food selections that will be available two weeks from Saturday. 20 restaurants will spend 5 hours sating desires for scrumptious rations. Photo by Greg Bezanis Combine 20 food purveyors with hundreds of eager tummies, and what is the result? Renee Gilinger hopes it will be the most successful Flavors of the Avenue yet. As the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District’s main street manager, she oversaw Monday’s A Taste of Flavors preview event at Urban Jungle, 1526-30 E. Passyunk Ave. This year’s main celebration, set for 1 to 5 p.m. April 30, will rely heavily on numerous first-time participants. Flavors, which resumed last year following 2009’s cancellation, lets the avenue’s diverse eateries delight patrons’... Read more →

On April 16, 2011, Of Gloucester City NJ, age 71years. Loving father of Tamara Meagher of DE and Henry C. Horn IV of Bellmawr, NJ He was the devoted grandfather of Shawna and Mikayla and also survived by his brother Kenneth Horn (Sandy). Mr. Horn was a 1957 graduate of GHS and was very active with the GHS Alumni Association and looked forward to the monthly class luncheons. Henry retired from the US Naval Shipyard in Phila. in 1993 after 24 years service. He very much enjoyed participating in and was former President of the Gloucester City Pool Leagues and also coached for many years for the Gloucester City Mustang midget football team. Relatives and friends are invited to meet Saturday morning from 11:00 to 12:00 noon at the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME 700 Powell St., Gloucester City. Memorial Services will be held 12:00 noon at the Funeral Home. Inurnment to... Read more →

Joe was a permanent fixture at Gloucester City's marina and waterfront park. Joe spent hundreds of hours over the past several years painting, planting flowers, repairing equipment, cleaning the boat ramp and shore line. He also performed the duties of security guard reporting any vandalism in the park. This was a “labor of love” as Joe received no money. Joe was from the “old school”, a man who took pride in getting involved as a citizen shareholder of the park. Yes, we can all learn a lesson from Joe. No man or woman will be able to replace Joe but we can all chip in and honor Joe’s memory by picking up a piece of trash or reporting any vandalism in the park to the police department. This would make Joe happy. Thanks, Joe Boccaleri, you will be sorely missed. Bob Bevan Read more →

PHOTO BY Leigh Anne Hubbs CONGRATULATIONS (left to right): Commissioner Bruce Greenwald, Mayor Joseph Wolk, Commissioner Andrew Gilmore, newly hired Class II Special Officer Kyle Ambrozaitis, Police Chief Edward Dobleman. Read more →

compiled by CNBNEWS.NET HARRISBURG – According to official 2010 bear harvest figures released today by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, hunters took a total of 3,090, which included 269 bears during the first-ever, five-day statewide archery bear season and 2,821 bears during the statewide three-day season, which included a Saturday-opener. This harvest ranks fifth among Pennsylvania’s annual bear harvests. In 2005, hunters set a record harvest of 4,164 bears. Other recent harvests were: 3,512 in 2009; 3,458 in 2008; 2,360 in 2007; 3,122 in 2006; 2,972 in 2004; 3,000 in 2003; 2,686 in 2002; 3,063 in 2001; and 3,075 in 2000. In all, 11 bears taken by hunters weighed 600 pounds or more, further illustrating Pennsylvania’s status as a major bear hunting destination. The bear harvest by Wildlife Management Unit (WMU) for both seasons (archery and 3-day), including 2009’s harvest results in parentheses, were: WMU 1A, 11 (8); WMU 1B, 42... Read more →

Washington, D.C. – Earlier this week, U.S. Rep. Robert Andrews (NJ-01) and U.S. Rep. Tom Rooney (FL-16) introduced bipartisan legislation that will speed short sales and spur growth in the housing market by requiring lenders to decide whether to accept an offer within 45 days. “Potential buyers can wait for months for a lender to make a decision on a short sale, and that wait often stops a sale from happening. Our bill would require that lenders respond when an offer is made, and will help make sure that these sales happen,” said Rep. Andrews. “I’m proud to work on this bipartisan effort that will help people in South Jersey who are struggling and facing foreclosure.” “Due to the economic crisis, the number of short sales in Florida is rising, but lenders haven’t always been able to keep pace,” Rep. Rooney said. “By requiring lenders to make decisions on short... Read more →

TESCHKO, Charles R. On April 13, 2011, of Gloucester City, NJ. Age 54 yrs. Beloved companion of the late Patricia (nee Baldus). Dear father of Shawn M. Baldus, Timothy Teschko (Stephanie) and the late Nicholas Teschko (Wendi) (Lauren) and cherished grandfather of Libby, Nicholas, Carter and Bryce, Loving second father to Carolyn Hans and Christopher Liwock. Charles was an avid sportsman who loved fishing, the Eagles, the Phillies and NASCAR. Funeral services were under the direction of the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 POWELL ST., GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ. A Catholic Prayer Service will be held 1:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment is private and will be held at the convenience of his family. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations in Charles' name be made to American Cancer Society , 1851 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 online condolences may be sent to the family at www.etheringtonfh.com Read more →

On April 14, 2011. Age 70. (nee Anglero) Of Camden. Loving and devoted wife to the late Eduardo Cedeno. Loving mother of Edwaldo Sedeno Jr. (Stine) and Victoria Rodriguez (J.R.). Cherished grandmother of Nadia and Alyssa Rodriquez and Edward James Sedeno. Dear sister of Julio, Giberto, Fabian, Carmen, Cecila, Cristina, Baldo and Eneida. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her viewing on Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday morning 10 AM at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: 642 Market St., Camden. Cremation will be private. There will be no morning viewing. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Catalina Sedeno. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142. Read more →

MOUNT EPHRAIM NJ -Rocco R. Vespe, PE, FCMAA is a Director of the Philadelphia office of Trauner Consulting Services, Inc. He has over 40 years of construction management experience including 15 years as a successful contractor and 20 years of construction consulting including owner’s representation, project management, construction management, estimating, schedule analysis, dispute resolution, claims evaluation, partnering, and expert testimony. Mr. Vespe has a degree in Civil Engineering from Drexel University and is a registered Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Maine, Florida, and Connecticut. He co-authored Construction Estimates from Take- off to Bid for McGraw-Hill. Mr. Vespe is a Fellow of the Construction Management Association of America and is currently the President of the Mid Atlantic Chapter. Rocco has been a resident of Mt. Ephraim for over 50 years and lives on James Street with his wife of 40 years, Nancy. He has a daughter, Kristin, and a... Read more →

By John Aloysius Farrell At an EPA hearing last summer, representatives from Koch Industries argued that moderate levels of the toxic chemical dioxin should not be designated as a cancer risk for humans. When members of Congress sought higher security at chemical plants to guard against terrorist attacks, Koch Industries lobbyists prowled Capitol Hill to voice their opposition. And when Congress moved to strengthen regulation of the financial markets after recent collapses, Koch Industries — a major commodities and derivatives trader — deployed a phalanx of lobbyists to resist proposed changes. Charles and David Koch, the owners of the country’s second-largest private corporation, are libertarians of long standing, who contend that government regulations, taxes and subsidies stifle individual initiative and hamper American competitiveness. In recent years, the Kochs have played an increasingly public role as financial angels for conservative causes, politicians and foundations read via www.iwatchnews.org Read more →

Surrounded by his loving family, on April 15, 2011. Age 94. Lifelong resident of Brooklawn. Devoted husband of 49 years to the late Cecelia Marie (nee Hassell). Loving father of Anthony (Betty), Richard, Carmen (Debbie), Paul F. (Jenai), Lawrence (Cheryl), Noreen (Glenn) Miller and Karen (Peter) Byrne. Cherished grandfather of 9 and great-grandfather of 2. Survived by his brothers, Ernest (late Ruth) and Albert (Delores) Cipolone (late Albina). Predeceased by his brothers and sisters, Dominick (Grace), Alfred, Josephine (Michael) Conroy and Catherine (Joseph) Patton. Paul proudly served our Country in the U.S. Army and National Guard during World War II and Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Brooklawn American Legion Post # 72. He was one of the founding parishioners of Saint Maurice R.C. Church in Brooklawn. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his viewing on Wednesday morning from 9 to 11 AM at Saint Joachim... Read more →

PHOTO BY Leigh Anne Hubbs Student of the Month (March) winners left to right: 1st grade Michael Downs, 2nd grade Taylor Finnegan, 4th grade Nicole Dutill, 5th grade David Critch, 6th grade Louis Wittje, 7th grade Sarah Krieg, and 8th grade Samuel Czerski. Not in photo: 3rd grade Andrew Chang. Read more →

When: Sunday, April 17, 2011 Time: Approx. 5:45 PM Where: 15 South Terrace Ave. Maple Shade, NJ 08052 Contact: Leslie (YRC) 609-980-4175 Please come out and welcome home Sgt. 1st Class Allen Maiden from his 4th tour…yes I said 4th tour. He served 3 in Iraq and this 4th one was in Afghanistan. Allen joined the Army in 1972. He has been serving for 29 ½ years. He is married to his wife, Betty, for 26 years. He has 4 children. He also works for the US Post Office. He has served all of these years and has never had a Rock Star style welcome home. His family is requesting a nice and loud welcome home and I think we can accommodate. Please join the Warrior Watch Riders, Yellow Ribbon Club, and the town of Maple Shade in honoring another hometown hero. *Media welcome.* The Yellow Ribbon Club http://www.yellowribbonclub.org [email protected] Read more →

Over 30,000 comments tell DRBC to extend moratorium and protect the Delaware from gas drilling West Trenton, NJ – Today, groups representing residents of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York and Delaware gathered to deliver a record-breaking number of public comments to the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC), urging them not to move ahead with gas drilling in the River Basin until such drilling is proven safe. The groups expressed strong concern that DRBC proposed rules without first conducting a cumulative impact study. Proprietors Park and the Delaware River, Gloucester City looking south towards the WW Bridge...photo by ClearysNoteBook...Feb. 2007 The groups delivered more than 30,000 public comments from four states in advance of the April 15th deadline, breaking the record for the most number of comments ever delivered to DRBC, and demonstrating extreme public concern over gas drilling’s impacts on the Delaware River and its surrounding watershed. More than 15... Read more →

My name is Kelly Light-Erlink, and I am running for one of the three open seats on the Gloucester City School Board. Both of my parents grew up in this town, and I have fond memories of a childhood well spent in Gloucester City. After college and getting married, my husband, Paul, and I decided to move back to town and raise our daughter here. I have a large extended family here in town and want my daughter to experience all that is good in Gloucester City. I remember a meeting I had with then superintendent, Dr. Stansky, when my daughter was starting preschool during which I asked, "What does Gloucester City School System have to offer my daughter? She will, after all, be spending more time here with your people than at home." She replied, "Well, she will do fine. Kids who get what they need at home will... Read more →

In an election year incumbents will do most anything to remain in office and with the economic climate raising taxes is never a good campaign strategy. The Gloucester Township Democrats control all 7 seats and the Mayor’s office. Four seats are up for reelection this year and it would be in the best interest of the Township to see a shift in politics as usual. South Jersey Citizens United is dedicated to keeping the public informed and our elected and appointed officials scrutinized. The idea of a zero tax increase is wonderful but now it seems that fees in the township will be raised. This is merely an election year tactic to give those running for reelection some political cover. We intend to ask the important questions and work to keep government honest and remind them that they are public servants. Respectfully, Joe Reed Issues Director (609) 929-7538 www.SJCitizensUnited.org Read more →

Image via Wikipedia LOS ANGELES - A world-class field of professional cycling teams, rivaling every other stage race in 2011, has once again been assembled for the upcoming Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling event in America, which will travel nearly 800 miles throughout California from May 15 - 22, 2011. Announced today by AEG, presenter of the race, the lineup of teams includes 19 elite international and domestic squads, ensuring a spectacular racing competition for the sixth-annual event. With the race's move on the calendar to May last year, the Amgen Tour of California has further solidified its position as one of the most important cycling races in the world by continuing to draw the strongest and most talented field of teams ever assembled for a U.S. cycling race. This year is no exception. The 19-team field is comprised of a collection of the world's best professional cycling... Read more →

Hi Bill, I am at the receiving end of flagrant corruption in superior court in Burlington County. The outrageously corrupt rulings are being made with the knowledge of the Attorney General. In other words the AG is letting the judge rule contrary to the law. The latest motion the judge granted was a motion for relief of court to file an amended complaint. The judge ignored all of my exhibits and the fact that I proved approximately 90 outright lies made in the plaintiffs sworn affidavits. The judge granted the motion even though the plaintiff did not include a copy of the amended complaint in the motion. Now the plaintiff can submit a complaint with whatever claims he wants. You can read the actual documents at http://www.corruptnj.org In my opinion this state is such a cesspool of corruption! Thanks! Nick Marchesani Read more →

My name is Kathleen McHugh and I am seeking re-election to the board of education. I lived in Gloucester all of my life and I am a graduate of Gloucester High. I also raised three children who graduated from the district and I have served on the board since 2005. Since that time there has been an incredible amount of changes in Education. New Jersey raised the standards in all areas of curriculum, funding has been cut and now the latest—the assault on public education. Greater accountability has also been placed on schools and board members alike. Every 3 years, the school district is graded in areas of fiscal responsibility, curriculum, facilities, and board governance. Members must also follow a stricter code of ethics in addition to mandated training to maintain our seat. Contrary to popular belief, being on the board gives you no power or perks. We don’t even... Read more →

Starring The Roots with Special Guests Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael McDonald, Estelle, Sara Bareilles, DJ Jazzy Jeff and More! The impressive line-up of world-class musicians will perform the largest free concert in America on July 4th in Philadelphia. PHILADELPHIA (April 12, 2011) – Mayor Michael A. Nutter announced today that four time Grammy award-winning band The Roots will headline Philly’s Fourth of July Jam during Wawa Welcome America! The band and their Musical Director ?uestlove will be performing their set as well as sets with special guests Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael McDonald, Estelle, Sara Bareilles, DJ Jazzy Jeff and more on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The concert will also include a special tribute to the 40thAnniversary of Gamble and Huff’s iconic Philadelphia International Records, “The Sound of Philadelphia.” “Philly’s Fourth of July Jam is one of the many reasons why Philadelphia is the place to be to celebrate... Read more →

The Sierra Vista Mountain Lions haven't had much luck against Bishop Gorman over the years, but that could be changing after last week's 8-5 victory over the Gaels. Bishop Gorman has won the last five Class 4A state championships in Nevada and has a been a perennial member of the national baseball rankings. The Gaels also hadn't lost to Sierra Vista in the last six meetings between the teams. But the Mountain Lions are off to an incredible start at 17-0 and they got to Bishop Gorman pitcher T.J. White early with a home run in the first inning. The loss handed the Gaels their third defeat of the season while Sierra Vista used the win to move into this week's MaxPreps Xcellent 25 National Baseball Rankings at the No. 13 spot. Photo by David Stephenson Colin Reed, St. Francis Sierra Vista is one of seven teams to join the... Read more →

By Chris Concannon Gloucester City News The Bellmawr Board of Education moved to withhold a pay increment, following a somewhat heated dialogue with Special Education Teacher Karen Metzger at their March 24 meeting. Originally scheduled for March 17, Mrs. Metzger had requested a public hearing to answer several allegations against her stemming from her first arriving in the school district in 1989. After waiting for her to arrive, the Board moved to close the hearing at 6:20 p.m. and move into Executive Session. Officially, Metzger did not arrive with her attorney until about 6:45 p.m. Allegations involved in the matter, which Metzger described as a “litany of charges,” included several incidents of lesson plan filing violations, chronic absences/lateness, as well as an issue with the cleanliness of her classroom. Also, complaints against her have also been received from parents. Metzger is currently assigned to Bellmawr Park School. As the meeting... Read more →

It's prom headquarters at The Partnership at Drugfree.org. Wait -- before you start envisioning the staff promenading around the office in tuxes and taffeta, high heels and updos, let me explain. They've been busy preparing heaps of helpful information for parents (like me) whose teens are off to prom this spring. Yes, my son Michael will soon be attending his prom in Baltimore. He'll be going with his girlfriend, renting a tux and riding in a limo. For many teens, prom is a chance to feel like an adult -- get dressed up, go out with a date, hang out with friends, have a nice dinner, do some dancing and celebrate the end of high school. But for parents, it's a whole other story -- one often fraught with worry. We've all seen the classic prom movies, heard stories of prama and what really happens on prom night. The good... Read more →

On Monday, March 21, I started having chest pains. My husband called 911. I wanted to let people know what a great City ambulance service we have! The EMT’s were very caring and compassionate and gentle. They took me to the hospital and were very helpful in making me feel at ease. Thank you so much EMT A. Bramble and EMT D. Brandt! Thanks for all you do. It turned out I didn’t have a heart attack. I was very dehydrated from a virus. God Bless you and thanks again! The Lehman Family, Gloucester City reprinted from the April 7 Gloucester City News Read more →

new partnership between AEG and Strava Strava Provides Cycling Fans and Participants with Route Maps, Training Day Challenges and Ability to Share, Compare and Compete During Major Races SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - April 11, 2011 - North America's top cycling event just got more social for riders and fans. Today, Strava, creator of powerful Web and mobile applications for avid athletes, and AEG, one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world, announced that Strava will power social fitness for Amgen Tour of California fans. Strava is a social platform that allows athletes to compete with each other and interact as a part of an online community. The addition of this technology to AEG's cycling event websites makes them valuable resources for training and racing information. This three-year partnership adds Strava's event maps and compare-and-compete GPS technology to the websites for the Amgen Tour of California, its Stage... Read more →

At 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 13, 2011, Judge Frederick J. Schuck, sitting in Camden, will hear oral argument in a lawsuit alleging that the City of Gloucester City committed several violations the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA), the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and the common law right of access to government records. The lawsuit, Schmidt et al v. City of Gloucester City, et al, Docket No. CAM-L-1287-11 was filed on March 17, 2011 by Oxford, New Jersey attorney Walter M. Luers on behalf of Plaintiffs John P. Schmidt and Michael Walters, both of Gloucester City. In addition to the City, the lawsuit names the Gloucester City Board of Education, the City's Housing Authority as well as City Clerk Kathy Jentsch, Board of Education Business Administrator Margaret McDonnell and Housing Authority Records Custodian Sue McElhatton as defendants. The lawsuit and other case documents are on-line here http://ogtf.lpcnj.org/201167Pm//SchmidtvGloucesterCity.pdf (File is... Read more →

Bill Gates recently gave a speech at a High School about eleven (11) things they did not and will not learn in school. He talks about how feel-good, politically correct teachings created a generation of kids with no concept of reality and how this concept set them up for failure in the real world. Rule 1 : Life is not fair - get used to it! Rule 2 : The world doesn't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself. Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both. Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough, wait till you get a boss Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word... Read more →

by Bill Cleary CHEER-The Brooklawn Board of Education approved the district’s 2011-2012 budget of $5,087,799 at a public hearing on March 24. There will be no tax increase in the district. The district remains at the state minimum tax levy, which means that state law will not permit the Board to reduce taxes below this amount. CHEER-To Maryellen Crain, Timothy Alexander who won the Mount Ephraim Fire Prevention Poster Contest. CHEER-Gloucester City Public Works Supervisor Steve Cianchetti announce in March that the branch, brush and soft vegetation will be combined into one recycling program. These items will all be collected on Wednesday of each week. Items included in this recycling program include: BRANCHES, BRUSH, GRASS, OTHER VEGETATIVE YARD WASTE and SMALL AMOUNTS OF LEAVES. It will no longer be necessary to call to arrange a special pickup for branches, unless you have a very large amount. Good Idea Steve! JEER-The... Read more →

My name is Jacqueline Borger and I am running for a position on the Gloucester city Board of Education. As one of the three incumbents, I have always been eager to familiarize myself with the responsibilities that accompany this honor *I have been on the Finance Committee for the past three years and held the position of chairman for the past year. I have never been the person to “rubber-stamp” any financial decision. Almost to an exhaustive state, I question and discuss purchases and programs in which the district shows interest. *I am a taxpayer, as almost in Gloucester City, and I treat the responsibility of spending your money with good conscience and care. One of my favorite saying is “Just because you can, doesn’t always mean you should”. As a parent of three, and a grandparent of four, sometimes it’s necessary to say, “no.” It would be very easy... Read more →

Sunday, April 10, 2011 Task Force 32 was dispatched to 207 Saunders Avenue at 05:59 this morning for a dwelling with reported people trapped. Squad 32 staffed by members of the Beaver Brook Regional Fire Alliance arrived within four minutes of dispatch. First arriving crews were met with heavy fire conditions in a 2 1/2 story wood framed dwelling along with several occupants on the front lawn suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Seven of the occupants were transported to the hospital with one remaining in critical condition. The fire in under investigation by the Local and County Fire Marshal's Offices. The occupants were alerted to the fire by their smoke detectors. The Bellmawr Fire Department wants to encourage all residents to check their smoke detectors. Mutual aid from Runnemede, Barrington,Gloucester City and Mt Ephraim assisted at the scene. via www.bellmawrfire.com Read more →

When: Sunday, April 10, 2011 Time: Approx. 11:45am Place: Adrian Hall, Ocean Gate Borough 50 Arverne Ave. Ocean Gate, NJ 08740 Contact: Leslie (YRC) (609) 980-4175 Please come out and welcome home Spc. Nicole Addonizio from serving a second tour in Iraq. Nicole is the US ARMY. She graduated from Jackson Memorial High School then went to Brookdale County college. She decided she wanted to join the US Army and be Military Police. However, she has a different job, not able to discuss it. Nicole went off to Basic Training at Ft. Jackson in Feb. 2008. She went on for more schooling and training at Ft. Gordon then assigned her duty station at Ft. Carson. She just returned from her second tour in Iraq. When Nicole left for deployment, she not only had to say good bye to her family and friends but the hardest thing was saying good bye... Read more →