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

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February 2013

CHUCKLES: WHAT A LIFE!

It just hit me! My dog sleeps about 20 hours a day. He has his food prepared for him. His meals are provided at no cost to him. He visits the Dr. once a year for his checkup, and again during the year, if any medical needs arise. For this he pays nothing, and nothing is required of him. He lives in a nice neighborhood in a house that is much larger than he needs, but he is not required to do any upkeep. If he makes a mess, someone else cleans it up. He has his choice of luxurious places to sleep. He receives these accommodations absolutely free. He is living like a king, and has absolutely no expenses whatsoever. All of his costs are picked up by others who earn a living. I was just thinking about all this and suddenly it hit me like a ton of... Read more →


World of Little League: New Museum, New Name, New Look

Howard J. Lamade Stadium during the 2007 Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, USA (Photo credit: Wikipedia) By Communications Division SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. February 4, 2013 In a little more than four months, a “new” museum will open at the Little League International Complex. To go along with the $4 million renovation of the Little League Museum, the facility now has a new name and a new logo as well. Hours of operation will be expanded, and it will be open seven days a week. On June 15, when the general public is invited to the Grand Re-Opening, people will be stepping into the “World of Little League.” The new logo (full name: World of Little League: Peter J. McGovern Museum and Official Store) features a stylized rendition of the Colonial architecture of the facility, with its three arches that welcome tens of thousands of visitors... Read more →


Gloucester City News February 21 Issue Headlines

Gloucester City Board Of Education Backs Off School Choice Local Dancers Meet Television Stars Mount Ephraim BOE Considers 2013-14 Budget Westville Council Upset About Trains Causing Delays On Routes 45 And 130 NJ DOT Sponsors Hearing On Highway Project Tonight Related articles Gloucester City goes rogue for Halloween | philly.com GLOUCESTER CITY NJ: Help Wanted TIPS AND SNIPPETS: Church Renovations, Parishes Might Consolidate, Your Money | cnbnews.net The Public's Right to Know vs The City of Gloucester City | cnbnews.net Appreciate Gloucester City Firemen Read more →


STEFANO REACHES 2000 MARK

Pennsauken Tech (47) at Gloucester City (56) - Boys Basketball South Jersey Times, February 18, 2013 8:34 p.m. GLOUCESTER CITY NJ--Stefano Okoro joined an elite group Monday as the Gloucester High School senior joined Keith Gorman and Megan Light, both 1998 graduates, as the third Lion to reach the 2000-point mark as the Lions’ boys basketball team dumped Pennsauken Tech, 56-47, in a non-league matchup. Okoro needed 24 points heading into the contest and hit that number on the nose. Eighteen of his 24 came in the second half, including 11 in the fourth quarter. READ http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-8271619783506323650/pennsauken-tech-47-at-gloucester-city-56-boys-basketball/ Read more →


Catholic Church & Rebel Parish Declare Truce

By JOE HARRIS FEBRUARY 15, 2013 ST. LOUIS (CN) - St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church has won a long-running battle with the St. Louis Archdiocese for control of its own assets, but will no longer claim to be Roman Catholic. In a joint statement, the archdiocese said it will dismiss its appeal and that the judgment of the trial court is final. St. Louis Circuit Court Judge Bryan Hettenbach affirmed St. Stanislaus' ownership of its property in March last year. St. Stanislaus agreed to abstain from representing itself as affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. No money changed hands. Attorneys told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that the rest of the agreement was confidential. The battle between the archdiocese and St. Stanislaus lasted for a decade. It centered on a 19th-century agreement that allowed the parish to govern its own finances, with a lay board in control of the church's money... Read more →


WEEKLY BASKET: Engineering Boondoggles

Volume XVIII No. 7: February 15, 2013 While Washington is ringing its hands about the automatic across-the-board budget cuts known as sequestration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is digging taxpayers even deeper into debt by pushing a smorgasbord of wasteful dinosaur projects. Exhibit A: Instead of prioritizing funding on the most economically justified and critically important projects, the Corps is reviving ancient duds like the New Madrid Floodway/St. John’s Bayou project. The New Madrid floodway is an old Mississippi river channel in Missouri’s boot heel. Levees surround the floodway, except for a small gap at the downstream end (near New Madrid, Missouri). When river levels get high enough to threaten flooding in Cairo, Illinois and other cities upstream the Corps “operates” the floodway by blowing up parts of the levee, sending millions of gallons of floodwaters across the sparsely populated farm land in the floodway—preventing flooding in Cairo. The... Read more →


FCFP to Grant $300,000 to Little League Baseball

February 15, 2013 press relese By Communications Division SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP) is proud to grant $300,000 to Little League Baseball (Little League) through the Williamsport Lycoming Impact Fund. Since its creation in 2002, the Impact Fund has granted $1,225,000. The Fund was established to accumulate unrestricted funds for programs and projects with a high community impact. The grant from FCFP will be used to create a Little League Museum Viewing Plaza in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. In 2011, the Little League International Board of Directors authorized a $4 million renovation to the Little League Museum, the first such renovation since the museum opened in 1982. As part of the project, the Directors approved construction of a viewing plaza, which will be situated in the east end of the museum parking lot along Route 15. The Plaza, which will be a miniature baseball diamond... Read more →


Replacing the President’s Sequester with Responsible Spending Cuts, Not More Tax Hikes

House Republicans Weekly Remarks FEBRUARY 17, 2013 | "There is a smarter way to reduce the size of government than to slash defense spending, threaten national security and hurt military families," says Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL) in the Weekly Republican Address. “In fact, the Republican-led House has already voted twice to replace the president’s sequester with targeted spending cuts based on real budget priorities." Watch her here and read more below. Rep. Roby called on President Obama and Senate Democrats to join House-led efforts to replace his sequester – not with more tax increases, but with responsible spending cuts that help balance the budget in 10 years. “We’re weeks away from the president’s sequester," said Speaker Boehner, and the president still has “laid out no plan" to replace it. Senate Democrats still haven’t passed a replacement plan of their own either. "Do Senate Democrats support President Obama’s agenda?" asked Speaker... Read more →


Obituary: Mark B. Matteucci, age 59, of Bellmawr NJ | cnbnews.net

Mark B. Matteucci on February 16, 2013, of Bellmawr. Age 59. Beloved husband of Dot (nee Valdez). Loving father of Brett Michael Matteucci and Jamie Leigh Matteucci. Grandfather of Colin Wayne Phillips. Dear son of Rose M. Matteucci. Brother of Ray(Terry) and Val(Rene) Matteucci. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mark was the former owner of Somerdale Beverage. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing Thursday morning from 9 to 11am at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral Service 11am at the funeral home. Interment Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson. Family and friends may share memories at www.GardnerFuneralHome.com. Read more →


Obituary: Emily Michelle Peshick age 11, of Runnemede NJ | cnbnews.net

Emily Michelle Peshick on February 16, 2013, of Runnemede, peacefully passed away with all her loving family by her side. Age 11. Sunshine and loving daughter of Timothy and Michelle(nee Carpenter) Peshick II. Best friend and sister of Conner Peshick. Cherished granddaughter of John and Cathie(nee Curtis)Carpenter, Marsha(nee Rose) and Charlie Anderson, Timothy Peshick and the late Shirley Peshick. Loving great granddaughter of Norma Jo Peshick(nee Carpenter). Also survived by Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. Emily played soccer for Runnemede Youth Athletic Association and attended Volz Middle School. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation Tuesday evening from 6 to 9pm and Wednesday morning from 8:15 to 9:15am at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Memorial Mass 10am at Holy Child Parish, St. Teresa’s RC Church, Runnemede. Interment New St. Mary’s Cemetery,Bellmawr. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Emily’s name to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, P.O. Box 4072,... Read more →


Mount Ephraim School District 5th and 6th Grade Honors Band Members Announced | cnbnews.net

By Leigh Anne Hubbs MOUNT EPHRAIM NJ-- (5th and 6th graders) are the Honors Band members left to right: 6th grade Robert Snyder, 6th grade Gabrielle Crain, 6th grade Julianne Brown and 6th grade Mark Colavito. Band members not in photo are: 5th grade Mason Fowler, 5th grade Matthew King, 5th grade Andrew Stopper, 6th grade Brianna Hamilton, and 6th grade Kevin Mendez. "Honors Band began as a collaborative effort between Audubon Band Director Susan Moore and Mount Ephraim Schools 10 years ago. It has grown to include various local schools," said Mt. Ephriam Band Director and Music Teacher Mary Manion. Continuing, "We include students that are recommended by their directors in grades 5 and 6. This year participating schools included Audubon, Mount Ephraim, Gloucester City and Brooklawn. The students received music in November and worked on nine selections. They attended group rehearsal as Mansion Avenue School in January. Each... Read more →


Ross dethrones Evans to win NBA Slam Dunk crown

HOUSTON, Texas (AFP) February 17, 2013 2:42:41 AM EST Scott Halleran/Getty Images/AFP Terrence Ross of the Toronto Raptors jumps over a ball boy during the NBA Slam Dunk Contest on February 16, 2013. Ross slammed two spectacular dunks through the rim to win 58% of fan votes via Twitter and websites. Terrence Ross of the Toronto Raptors dethroned defending champion Jeremy Evans of Utah to win the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in a worldwide vote on social media. After a judging panel of retiredNBA players that included Chinese legend Yao Mingnarrowed the field to the finalists, Ross slammed two spectacular dunks through the rim to win 58 percent of fan votes via Twitter and websites on Saturday. "It's a dream come true," Ross said. Evans opened with a windmill dunk over a covered painting, then lifted the cover to reveal his own painting of the dunk he had just performed.... Read more →


Mount Ephraim Students of the Month

photo and caption by Leigh Anne Hubbs MOUNT EPRHAIM NJ: Mount Ephraim School District Student of the Month winners left to right: 1st grade Gary Gable, 2nd grade Kristin Jusiak, 3rdgrade Robert Yager and 4th grade Olivia Malinowski. This photo will appear in an upcoming issue of the Gloucester City News Related articles New Members for Mount Ephraim School Board Mt. Ephraim School Supt. Turns Down Salary Increase and Will Contribute to Health Benefits Mount Ephraim Escapes Severe Damage From Hurricane Sandy Mount Ephraim Students of the Month for May and June 2012 | cnbnews.net Read more →


Gloucester County Grand Jury Indictments

source Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office WOODBURY NJ--(February 14, 2013)Indictments handed down by the Gloucester County Grand Jury this week include: — Christopher A. Hyatt, 19, of Westville on charges of robbery with bodily injury, conspiracy to commit a robbery, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, burglary, robbery with a deadly weapon, conspiracy to commit burglary and theft by unlawful taking in Westville on Oct. 26, 2012. — Roberto R. Mercado, 21, of Camden on charges of robbery with bodily injury, conspiracy to commit a robbery, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, robbery with a deadly weapon, conspiracy to commit burglary and theft by unlawful taking in Westville on Oct. 26, 2012. — Latoya Martin, 24, of Deptford on charges of two counts of aggravated assault/simple assault of a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest in Deptford in Oct. 25, 2012. — Joseph W. Duncan, 31, of... Read more →


Video: Officer Frees Tangled Bucks by Shooting Apart Rack | Outdoor Life

This video, first posted on the Illinois DNR Facebook page, shows a trio of officers (one conservation officer, a state trooper and forest preserve officer) closing in on two tangled bucks in a cornfield. It's clear that the two deer are close to exhaustion (and probably death) when one of the officers starts shooting. But instead of a mercy killing, the officer shoots apart the bucks' racks. Unfortunately one of the deer had to be put down after being freed, but the other deer survived. Unbelievably, some animal rights activist are actually criticizing this incredible display of marksmanship. Mark Dorencz wrote, "As a proud supporter of PETA, I am appalled at this video. The officer should have comforted the deer prior to shooting at them," according to the Daily News. But the Illinois DNR defended its actions, saying "it was vital to ensure the survival of the bucks." via www.outdoorlife.com... Read more →


Adm. James Lyons (Ret.) on Growing Benghazi Scandal » GOPUSA

The nominations of John Brennan for CIA Director and Chuck Hagel for Secretary of Defense are being held up by Republicans in the Senate largely because of the unwillingness of the Obama administration to come clean on the what the President knew, when he knew it, and what he did during the seven hours that the Temporary Mission and the annex in Benghazi were under attack on September 11th and 12th last year. AIM recently interviewed Retired Admiral James Lyons. He is the former Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Pacific fleet, and a man not afraid to tell it like it is. We need more men like Admiral Lyons to stand up to the lies, hypocrisy and political correctness that so dominates our national dialogue today. The interview took place the day after outgoing Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s testimony to Congress, which Adm. Lyons discussed in our interview. It was... Read more →


Ducks Clinch 3rd Seed in Empire 8 Basketball Tournament

PITTSFORD, N.Y. (February 16, 2013) – The Stevens Institute of Technology women’s basketball team closed its regular season with a clutch win at St. John Fisher College Saturday afternoon, defeating the Cardinals by a score of 54-43 to secure a berth in the Empire 8 Championship. The Ducks end the regular season with a record of 14-11 and a mark of 8-6 in the conference and will take on second-seeded Hartwick College in the semifinals of the Empire 8 Tournament next Friday night. Ithaca College is the top seed but cannot host so the Hawks will do so as the No. 2 seed. Freshman forward Dylan Krause (Atlanta, Ga.) led the Ducks in scoring with 16 points. She also had eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and a blocked shot. Junior forward Avis Benjamin (Queens, N.Y.) closed an excellent weekend with 12 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, four steals and... Read more →


Passing game leads TCNJ to playoff win

Ewing, NJ … The College of New Jersey women’s basketball team defeated Richard Stockton College 69-57 in the opening round of the New Jersey Athletic Conference championship tournament in a late-afternoon match-up on Saturday in Packer Hall. The third-seeded Lions now advance to play at second-seeded William Paterson University on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. in the semi-final match. The winner of the Ramapo College at Rutgers-Newark game at 7 p.m. this evening will play top-seeded Montclair State University. It marked the first post-season win for TCNJ since the 2008-09 season when they advanced to the NCAA Final Four. Vision and execution may best summarize the Lions’ offensive performance. Their passing was superb as they assisted on 18 of 22 field goals in the victory and shot 52 percent from three. Senior Candace Vigo (New Brunswick, NJ/New Brunswick Science and Tech) led TCNJ in scoring with 13 points. She also... Read more →


New Dates and Times for Overnight Closures/Restrictions of Interstate 95

TRAFFIC ALERT - UPDATE: PRESS RELEASE Christiana, DELAWARE -- The Delaware Department of Transportation's (DelDOT) contractor, Cherry Hill Construction, will be periodically redirecting traffic overnight on various dates in February by closing Interstate 95, restricting lanes or closing ramps to expedite the installation of steel beams over I-95. DelDOT recommends motorists avoid construction and seek alternate routes during these times. All closures, restrictions and associated detours will be signed before and during construction activity. The work is necessary to build the new interchange. These closures are dependent on weather conditions and will be rescheduled if needed. Anticipated Dates and Times: Friday, February 15 and Saturday, February 16 I-95 Southbound CLOSED just south of Exit 4A (to Route 1 southbound) from 10 PM until 10 AM both nights. I-95 Northbound left three (3) lanes closed at Exit 4A from 10 PM until 10 AM each night In order to mitigate anticipated... Read more →


OBITUARY: John Welsh, age 92, Purple Heart Recipient, former Pantry Pride Brooklawn Manager | cnbnews.net

Purple heart (Photo credit: Wikipedia) On February 12, 2013. Age 92. Of Coral Springs, FL. Formerly of Brooklawn. Husband of the late Theresa (nee Dunn). Loving father of Mary Anne Welsh, John (Linda) Welsh, Margaret (Jack) Yeackel, Regina (Terry) Towle and Patrick Welsh. Predeceased by Letitia Welsh and their sons; James Welsh, Stephen Welsh and Michael Welsh (surviving Lori). Cherished grandfather of Laura, Matthew, John, Stephen, Kenny, Kelly, Tim, and David and great grandfather of 5. Dear brother of Alice Zalewski, Patricia Chester, Catherine Hoffman and Constance Moore. Also predeceased by brothers James, William, Joseph and Roger and his sister Mary Davidson. John proudly served our country in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and received a Purple Heart. He was the former manager of Pantry Pride in Brooklawn for many years. Visitation on Thursday morning, February 21st, from 10 to 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church:... Read more →


President Obama Calls For 'Modest Reforms' To Medicare | kaiserhealthnews.org

FEB 13, 2013 Jackie Judd and KHN's Mary Agnes Carey examine the health care issues in Tuesday night's State of the Union address -- and Sen. Rubio's Republican response -- in this Health on the Hill discussion. JACKIE JUDD: Good day, this is Health on the Hill. I’m Jackie Judd. President Obama did not spend a lot of time on health care during his State of the Union address. Still, there were some hints about what the coming months may bring. Senior correspondent for Kaiser Health News, Mary Agnes Carey, is here to help us analyze Mr. Obama’s speech. Welcome, Mary Agnes. MARY AGNES CAREY: Thank You. Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images JACKIE JUDD: When the president did talk about health care, it was mostly about Medicare. He highlighted two specific reforms that he’d like to see. What are the details of those? MARY AGNES CAREY: These are two ideas... Read more →


Congressman Andrews Announces $83,000 for Job Training

press release FEBRUARY 15, 2013 HADDON HEIGHTS, NJ – Congressman Andrews Announced that the Gloucester County and Camden City housing authorities will receive over $83,000 in federal funds to help put people in South Jersey back to work. Awarded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Family Self-Sufficiency program, these grants are designed to help struggling families find work and become financially independent. The funds are typically used to provide job training or college tuition assistance so enrollees can obtain the skills needed to compete in our competitive workforce. The program’s mission is to ultimately prepare newly hired employees for home ownership by giving them the tools needed to find a job so they can build a savings, establish good credit over time, and provide for their families. “To reignite our economy, we must build a stronger middle class,” said Rep. Rob Andrews. “This program helps out of work... Read more →


TCNJ ENTERS SEASON AS NJAC FAVORITE IN LACROSSE

FEBRUARY 15, 2013 Ewing, NJ… College of New Jersey lacrosse team enters the upcoming season as the favorite to make it three straight New Jersey Athletic Conference titles as the Lions were tabbed first in the preseason poll voted on by the coaches. TCNJ picked up four of the available six first-place votes, with Montclair State University getting one vote in second and Rowan University the other in third place. The Lions are 18-1 all-time in NJAC play since the conference began sponsoring the sport in 2009. They have also won three of the four championships and enter this season having won 12 straight conference games. In addition to the conference poll, TCNJ is ranked in a pair of national polls. They are ranked third in Lacrosse Magazine's Division III preseason poll and sixth in the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association poll. The Lions return two key pieces to their... Read more →


New Little League Tee Ball Program

t By Communications Division SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. Children as young as four years of age are eligible to play Little League, beginning with Tee Ball. Little League International has created a new program for Tee Ball-age players (ages 4-6); and their parents or guardians, that is specifically designed to provide a foundation and introduction to baseball and softball that is grounded in fundamentals, fitness and having fun. Registration for the NEW Tee Ball program at the Little League Coaches Resource Center (CRC) is free and available here. “Community is the cornerstone of Little League,” Stephen D. Keener, President and Chief Executive Officer of Little League Baseball and Softball, said. “Welcoming the youngest Little Leaguers into our program through Tee Ball is the first step on what we strive to make a wonderful experience during their formative years. “Parents enjoy on a similar experience with their children,” Mr. Keener said. “We... Read more →


“Entertainment Tonight” Smears Pope

February 13, 2013 Bill Donohue comments on last night’s edition of “Entertainment Tonight” (ET): Pope bashers are coming out of the woodwork, so it is hard to keep up with all of them. But the vile hit piece on the pope that aired on ET is clearly one of the worst. “The Pope’s Past” begins with correspondent Brian Ross complaining that many years ago he was slapped on the wrist by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. The occasion for this “brutality” was Ross’ decision to badger the cardinal while the would-be pope was walking to a car. Ross said, “It actually stung.” He did not say whether he was rushed to the local ER. Next up is a promo for the documentary “Mea Maxima Culpa,” a classic agit-prop flick that is strewn with lies. Viewers learn that Pope Benedict XVI investigated, “but without much effect,” the charges levied against Father Marcial Maciel.... Read more →


Obituary: Richard T. Hearn, age 65, of Gloucester City NJ

Hearn, Richard T. June 23rd, 1947 - February 11, 2013 On February 11th he lost his battle with stage 4 lung cancer. Age 65. Of Gloucester City. He will be missed dearly by his wife, Susan ( nee Olive) Hearn, daughters, Susan Worrell & Mary Jacobs (William) and son Richard Hearn Janet. Poppop to Ashley, Lucas, Jack, Emma, Anthony, Andrew, Kristen, Rachel, Billy, Erin, Cailyn & Josh. Great poppop of Lily. Please join us in remembering him at the McCann - Healey Funeral Home: 851 Monmouth St, Gloucester City on Saturday, February 23rd at 1pm. Service by Pastor Harry Pressley of Calvary Chapel at 1:45pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society: 1851 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08034. Please write in memo: Richard T. Hearn. Condolences and Memories may be shared under the obituary of Richard T. Hearn. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries... Read more →


The Largest Privately Held Office Products Dealership in the US Opens in Bellmawr

W.B. Mason (Photo credit: Steve and Sara) PRESS RELEASE FEBRUARY 15, 2013 BELLMAWR NJ-Mayor Frank Filipek and members of Council are proud to announce that the W.B. Mason Company, the largest privately held Office Products Dealership in the United States, announces the opening of its brand new facility in Bellmawr, New Jersey. W.B. Mason employs over 80 individuals in this new 80,000 sq. ft. facility which houses W.B. Mason’s sales and customer service operations for Southern New Jersey and Metro Philadelphia. The new location features a WhattaBargain store – W.B.’s furniture retail outlet that encourages customers to drive on down and browse a large selection of new and used products at discounts up to 90% off. The Bellmawr building will host a fleet of over thirty supply and furniture trucks that will provide desktop delivery to over 200 New Jersey and Philadelphia towns, totaling over 2,000 orders per day. WB... Read more →


LETTERS: Regarding CNBNews Column " Some Thoughts on Gun Control "

In response to the recent column SOME THOUGHTS ON GUN CONTROL by Bill Cleary, first I want to make it clear that I'm not a crusader or anti-gun. But God gave me a brain and the ability to think and reason. I think your stereotyping with your use of the term liberal. Personally, I voted for Obama and support his belief that America shouldn't be just about the 1 percent. But thats only one issue and there is much I disagree with him about. Another example of my way of thinking - After 9/11 I believe the war against extremist Muslim terrorism should have been over within hours after we learned who was responsible. A few well placed small nukes can go a long way towards convincing certain people the error of their ways. Am I exaggerating? Probably. But thats not a very liberal view point is it? So, I... Read more →


Carter Warns of Readiness Crisis, Urges Delay in Cuts

By Nick Simeone American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2013 - Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter urged lawmakers today to find a way to avoid billions of dollars in cuts set to take a deep bite out of Pentagon spending in two weeks, saying the nation will face a crisis in military readiness if they take effect. And if the current budget trend is not corrected over the longer term, Carter told the Senate Armed Services Committee, the military will have to revise its entire defense strategy within the decade and "would not be able to rapidly respond to major crises in the world or be globally positioned to deter our adversaries." Carter's testimony came as much of official Washington braces for a March 1 deadline in which massive, across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration are set to take effect -- cuts that would remove $46 billion from... Read more →


TCNJ SOFTBALL TEAM PICKED TO FINISH THIRD IN NJAC

FEBRUARY 14, 2013 Ewing, NJ… Led by a corps of four returning all-conference performers, The College of New Jersey softball team was picked to finish third out of 10 schools in the annual New Jersey Athletic Conference pre-season poll. Defending conference champion and second-ranked Montclair State University swept all 10 first-place votes, with 14th-ranked Rowan University picked second followed by the Lions. TCNJ has a strong group coming back that advanced to the NCAA Division III Tournament last spring and garnered 26 victories. Senior Ashley Sogluizzo (Middletown, NJ/Middletown South) earned All-NJAC First Team honors last spring, starting all 43 games at second base. The infielder finished with a .314 batting average with 38 hits and 38 runs scored. Sogluizzo is also a threat on the base paths stealing 23 bases on 24 stolen base attempts. Senior Liz Huttner (Princeton Junction, NJ/West Windsor-Plainsboro South) is a two-time All-NJAC Second Team honoree... Read more →


Bellmawr BOE Installs Mike Eckmeyer, Chris Concannon

By Anne Forline Gloucester City News (FEBRUARY 7, 2013 ISSUE)The Bellmawr Board of Education (BOE) recently underwent several key reorganizational changes that included one board member’s resignation, two new School Board members being sworn in, and the naming of a new President, Vice President and Business Administrator. Newcomers Mike Eckmeyer and Chris Concannon were sworn in to the Board, while Jody Mangus was elected as the Board President and Eric Hoban was named Vice President. Amy Capriotti was appointed Business Administrator/Board Secretary, School Alliance Insurance Fund Commissioner and Qualified Purchasing Agent. She replaces Valerie Carmody, who had been serving in an interim capacity. Board Member Ed Legenski, submitted his letter of resignation to the Board because he recently moved out of town. Mangus said the process for selecting Legenski’s replacement will begin shortly. After the notice is published and potential candidates submit letters, the BOE can move forward with the... Read more →


Raptors tabbed for ninth in pre-season NJAC baseball poll

Press release CAMDEN, N.J. (February 13, 2013) – The Rutgers University-Camden baseball program features a new coaching staff, practically a whole new team and a new direction as it heads into the 2013 season. The Scarlet Raptors, however, still have to build a new reputation on the field and, after an eighth-place finish in the New Jersey Athletic Conference last spring, they have been tabbed ninth in the pre-season poll by NJAC coaches, which was released today. Perennial powerhouse Kean University received six of the 10 first-place votes from the NJAC coaches to be tabbed as the pre-season conference favorite. Ramapo College finished second in the poll, receiving three first-place votes. Rowan University was picked for third and Montclair State University was tabbed for fourth, receiving the other first-place vote. William Paterson University, tabbed as the NJAC dark horse by the coaches, was picked fifth overall, while The College of... Read more →


OBITUARY: JESSE T. PRESSLEY, AGE 86, OF CRAMER HILL SECTION OF CAMDEN NJ | cnbnews.net

PRESSLEY Jesse T. On February 10, 2013. Of the Cramer Hill Section of Camden. Age 86. Loving Godfather of Marie Benjamin of Camden. Survived by many devoted caregivers and friends. Jesse proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a member of American Legion Post # 473 in Camden. Service 12 Noon Friday at McCANN –HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth St. Gloucester City. Burial BGWCD Cemetery. Condolences and Memories may be shared under the obituary of . Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: (McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: 851 Monmouth Street, (at Brown Street) Gloucester City PH: 856-456-1142 Read more →


John Stephenson Named President & CEO of the College Football Hall of Fame

Atlanta native brings a strong track record of success and a deep understanding of all the local forces in the region. IRVING, Texas - Feb. 12, 2013 - The National Football Foundation (NFF) announced today that John Stephenson has been named the president and chief executive officer of Atlanta Hall Management, Inc., (AHM) the Georgia not-for-profit corporation tasked with constructing and operating the national College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. The announcement was made locally last week by AHM after its board of directors unanimously approved a three-year contract for Stephenson in late January. “We are very fortunate that John has agreed to lead the Hall in Atlanta. His presence puts us on a trajectory for success now and well into the future,” said Steve Hatchell, the president & CEO of the NFF, which launched the College Football Hall of Fame in 1951 and controls its rights. “John has... Read more →


Dr. Anthony Silvestri Class of 1954 Honored by Gloucester Catholic Alumni Board

Dr. Anthony Silvestri, Class of 1954, was recognized by the Gloucester Catholic Alumni Asociation on Monday Dr. Anthony Silvestri '54 (center) is congratulated by Gloucester Catholic Principal John Colman (left) and Alumni Association President Tom Iacovone '70. night, January 28 with a major honor. The Alumni Association and Gloucester Catholic Junior Senior High School, formally dedicated the high school science lab as: “The Anthony Silvestri/Sr. Martha Mary Science Lab” The retiring Alumni Association Board member enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a research scientist, a career in which he earned statewide and national recognition. After he earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Villanova University in 1958 and a doctorate from Penn State in 1961, Dr. Silvestri embarked on a long career at Mobil, where he had held summer jobs as a teenager and where his father worked for many years. Dr. Silvestri and his colleagues were among those... Read more →


Medal of Honor Recipient Earns Place in Hall of Heroes

English: Picture of the medal of honor (Photo credit: Wikipedia) By Amaani Lyle American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2013 - A U.S. Army soldier who was awarded the Medal of Honor for risking his life to save his comrades during an ambush in Afghanistan has been inducted into the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, Army Secretary John McHugh and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno presented the Medal of Honor flag and Hall of Heroes plaque to Staff Sgt. Clinton L. Romesha. President Barack Obama awarded the 31 year old the nation's highest military honor at a White House ceremony a day earlier. Panetta called the former 4th Brigade Combat Team Infantryman a hero as he described Romesha's selfless, fearless reconnaissance during a surprise enemy attack on Oct. 3, 2009 in which 400 Taliban fighters converged on Combat Outpost Keating, Kamdesh District,... Read more →


Cherry Hill FD Trains at Aquired Structure

CHERRY HILL FIRE DEPARTMENT NEWS & INFORMATION Companies performing roof cuts Cherry Hill Fire Department received permission to conduct training exercises from the owner of a dwelling that was to be torn down. Companies were rotated into the dwelling to complete several different tasks during the work week. Each platoon rotated their companies in each day to meet with training and train on various tasks. Instruction prior to cutting roof Companies completed hose stretches, searches, simulated occupant removals, floor breeches, wall breeches, roof cuts. They were also able to complete 1 & 1 SFD senarios under simulated smoke conditions. This training is invaluable when the fire department can acquire structures to train in. Final review of cuts made Posted in: Read more →


Bishop Dennis Sullivan Installed

Diocese of Camden welcomes Bishop Dennis Sullivan Jason Laday/South Jersey Times February 12, 2013 3:03:37 PM EST GLOUCESTER TWP. – A capacity crowd of 1,400 cheered within St. Agnes Church as they witnessed the installation of Bishop Dennis Sullivan as the spiritual leader of the approximately 475,000 Catholics within the Diocese of Camden Tuesday afternoon. High ranking church officials from all six of New Jersey’s dioceses, as well as Catholic leaders and civic groups from across the country came to congratulate the former New York Archdiocese auxiliary bishop, including Cardinal Timothy Dolan, retired New York bishop and cardinal Edward Egan, Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput and Newark Archbishop John Joseph Myers. “I want to give a special welcome to Bishop Sullivan’s family and friends with us today, as well as the many who came from New York, Pennsylvania and beyond” said Myers in his greeting to the congregation, before also thanking... Read more →


Obituary: Gary A. Ellis, age 47, of Gloucester City | cnbnews.net

ELLIS Gary A. On Feb 8, 2013, of Gloucester City, NJ, Age 47 years. Beloved husband of Cindy Ellis (nee Merrill), Loving father of Lauren, Justin and Zachary Ellis and like a father to Daniel Doyle, Jr. Cherished son of Joanne Gurick (Tom) and Gerald Ellis. Dear brother of Kimberly Hagan, Rebecca Snyder and Matthew Gurick. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Gary was a hard worker, who could fix anything and was an accomplished carpet mechanic. Relatives and friends are invited to meet Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00PM at the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME 700 Powell St., Gloucester City. Memorial Services will be held 8:00PM at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family has requested Memorial Donations in Gary’s name be made to the family to assist with expenses c/o the Funeral Home Read more →


Obituary: Elizabeth "Lee" Romanowski, age 90, of Gloucester City | cnbnews.net

ROMANOWSKI Elizabeth “Lee” Age 90, of Gloucester City, NJ, died peacefully on Saturday, February 9, 2013 surrounded by her family and friends. She had 4 sons, John Romanowski (Barb) of Harrisburg, Eddie Roman (Irma) (1940-2007), William Romanowski (Peggy) of Gloucester City, and Andy Russell (Barb) of Mullica Hill. Elizabeth also had 5 wonderful grandchildren JohnnyRomanowski, Billy Romanowski (Lil), Mindy Freedman (Mark), Chrissy Romanowski (Scott), and Becky Horn (Tim), plus 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Relatives and friends are invited to meet Friday, February 15th from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the ETHERINGTON-CRERAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 POWELL ST., GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ. Lee’s Funeral Service will be held 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, aka Polish Cemetery, Bell Rd. at Anderson Ave. in Bellmawr. Read more →


Catholic Church in uncharted waters after pope resigns

VATICAN CITY (AFP) February 11, 2013, 9:26:52 PM EST Filippo Monteforte/AFP People gather in front of Saint Peter's dome at the Vatican on February 11, 2013 after Pope Benedict XVI announced he will resign. The Catholic Church entered uncharted waters on Tuesday after Pope Benedict XVI's shock announcement. The Catholic Church entered uncharted waters on Tuesday after Pope Benedict XVI's shock announcement that he would become the first pontiff to resign of his own free will in 700 years. The 85-year-old Benedict told a group of cardinals in a speech in Latin on Monday that he will step down on February 28 because his advancing age prevented him from carrying out his duties in a fast-changing world. /AFP/Graphics Profile of pope Benedict XVI who announced he would resign on February 28 Only a few advisers knew of the pope's plan beforehand and many leaders of the Vatican hierarchy were caught... Read more →


RIVERSHARKS SIGN FORMER NEW YORK MET PASCUCCI

Camden Riversharks (Photo credit: Wikipedia) Camden Riversharks continue building for 2013 season CAMDEN, N.J. – The Camden Riversharks have signed former New York Mets first baseman/outfielder, Valentino Pascucci. Pascucci, a 1999 draft pick by the Montreal Expos, had a brief stint with the Camden Riversharks in 2010 and was a midseason signing by the New York Mets. In 2011, Pascucci went 3-for-11 with a home run in a September call-up from AAA-affiliate, the Buffalo Bisons. The Riversharks also signed two players as they continue to build their roster for the 2013 season. Infielder Ruddy Yan and catcher Raul Padron will join Camden for the 2013 campaign. Yan, who played with the Riversharks in 2011, enters his 13th season of his career after spending much of his career within the minor league-affiliates of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Chicago White Sox and the Texas Rangers. Padron, a 10-year veteran returns to the Riversharks... Read more →


Louis Cappelli Jr : Another landmark reached for the Camden County Police Department

February 12, 2013 Yesterday marked another milestone in the buildup of the Camden County Police Department’s Metro Division with the arrival of seven new officers. The hiring of these officers signal the continued increase of our regional law enforcement organization formed to bolster public safety in Camden County. These men and women started assisting a contingent of officers and civilians at the Police Services building where they are preparing for the orientation and training of hundreds of new candidates. Since the state and Gov. Chris Christie have granted $7.5 million in startup funding for the Camden County Police Department the Freeholder Board has moved forward with its plan to construct a 401 officer Metro division in Camden City. These officers will provide the backbone for facilitating and training new officers to police the streets of the County seat, while taking on a supervisory role and assisting in the background check... Read more →


Video: The Obamaville Song

published on Youtube Dec 21, 2012 A funny song sung to the tune of Margaritaville and inspired by Rush Limbaugh. This parody has original lyrics by Rick White and sung by Jack Anderson. Both of Charleston, West Virginia. related category chuckles Related articles Sandy victims still freezing their butts off in Obamaville Obamaville: Minorities Hardest Hit by Bloomberg Soda Law and Post Office Cuts Grammys 2013: Jack White Drops F-Bomb During 'Love Interruption' Performance Saturday Slump News in Obamaville Read more →


Camden County Freeholder Board Weekly Update released Feb. 11

Local High School Students Show Consumer Savvy Students from Audubon High School, Haddon Township High School and Winslow High School tested their knowledge of consumer laws and regulations while familiarizing themselves with their rights in the marketplace for the annual Consumer Bowl competition, which took place this past Wednesday at the Camden County Boathouse at Cooper River. Presented by Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez and the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services and the New Jersey Office of Consumer Affairs, the event was moderated by Camden County Sheriff Charles Billingham and judged by Freeholder Deputy Director Ed McDonnell and Freeholder Ian Leonard. Click here to see photos and read the full story Camden County Celebrates Black History Month with Poetry, Music, Movies The Freeholders and the Cultural and Heritage Commission at Camden County College are presenting a wide-range of events this month to celebrate Black History Month. From a tribute... Read more →


Triton Sex Case: Two former Triton teachers and Principal plead guilty | cnbnews.net

(cnbnews.net)Two former teachers and the former principal of Triton Regional High School in Runnemede, implicated last fall in a sexual-abuse case, pleaded guilty Monday to official misconduct and failing to report the incidents to authorities. The teachers, Jeff Logandro, 32, and Dan Michielli, 27, both of Blackwood, were accused in October of having improper personal and physical relationships with female students between November 2011 and June 2012. Logandro and Michielli each agreed to 30 days of detention - which could be house arrest - and will be sentenced to one to five years of probation in March. Each admitted Monday that he "cultivated and engaged in an improper relationship" with a student. As part of their plea agreements, more serious charges of criminal sexual contact and endangering the welfare of children were dropped. A charge of sexual assault against Michielli also was dropped. Cases remain open against Martinelli, 28, of... Read more →


Verlander says no to World Classic

ORLANDO, Florida (AFP) February 11, 2013, 5:43:59 PM EST Ezra Shaw/Getty Images/AFP/File Major League Baseball right-handed ace pitcher Justin Verlander, pictured here on October 28, 2012, said Monday that he has turned down an offer to join the United States team at next month's World Baseball Classic. Major League Baseball right-handed ace pitcher Justin Verlander said Monday that he has turned down an offer to join the United States team at next month's World Baseball Classic. Verlander, the 2011 American League Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Award winner as best pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, said he did not feel his arm would be ready for competition in early March when the US team begins play. "I don't want to have to feel rushed to catch up to where I need to be," Verlander said. Verlander threw 266 innings last season, including a playoff run that saw the Tigers... Read more →


Catholic League: Pope's Legacy is Secure

English: Pope Benedict XVI (Photo credit: Wikipedia) February 11, 2013 Bill Donohue offers seven good reasons why the pope’s legacy is secure: Religion for Pope Benedict XVI is as much a public issue as it is a private one. In 2008, he warned American bishops against “the subtle influence of secularism,” holding that “any tendency to treat religion as a private matter must be resisted.” The pope made it clear that religious freedom was not only a God-given right, it was “the path to peace.” He knew religion could be abused, leading even to violence. His much misunderstood 2006 Regensburg University lecture was really about the uncoupling of religion from reason (reason not united to faith also leads to violence). The pope reached out to dissidents on the right and the left, seeking to bring them to communion. Not all his efforts succeeded, but his attempts were noble. No one... Read more →


Playing Favorites: Off-track wager site will pay off in Gloucester Township | courierpostonline.com

Every Friday, retired buddies Mario Chiodi and Joe Boulden visit Favorites at Vineland, an off-track wagering parlor. This summer the pair will have a betting facility much closer to home when a new wagering site gallops into Camden County. Penn National Gaming Inc., of Wyomissing, Pa., recently signed a lease with the owners of the building that formerly housed the Stone Grille eatery in Gloucester Township. Penn plans to open the betting facility by Labor Day. The 15,000-square-foot building, with its existing bar, kitchen and dining areas, made the acquisition a good bet for Penn, said Chris McErlean, the company’s vice president for racing. “We’ll be doing some renovations, but there won’t be a whole lot of physical changes to the building,” McErlean said of the site, at 1300 Blackwood-Clementon Road. The OTW will be called Favorites at Gloucester Township. “We’re looking to change the model (for OTWs) in Gloucester... Read more →


Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame to Induct 15 New Members!

February 10, 2013 Press release Former Paulsboro standout football quarterback Kevin Harvey and former Clayton High School basketball star Al Anderson will be among the 15 new inductees to the Gloucester County Sports Hall of Fame during the 33rd Annual Induction Banquet on March 19, 2013 at Auletto’s Caterers in Almonesson, the Executive Committee has announced. This year's inductees also include: Harry Dilks (Pitman); Fran Iacovone (Gloucester Catholic); Ryan Knight (Delsea); Fred Powell (Williamstown); Laura Goetz-Quirk (Gateway); Ruth Lockbaum-Cibo (Glassboro); Tara Harris-Marker (Deptford); Dave Smith (West Deptford); Dom Antonini (Rowan University); Sam Muni (Washington Twp.), David Maxwell (Washington Twp.), Tom Reim (Woodbury), and Dennis Burlingame (Kingsway). Tickets for the 33rd Annual Banquet are available by calling Hall of Fame President Gus Ostrum at (609) 502-0424. Kevin Harvey (Paulsboro) Harvey is considered one of South Jersey's greatest quarterbacks, setting passing, scoring and rushing records for the Red Raiders, who dominated Colonial... Read more →