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

« May 2020 | Main | July 2020 »

June 2020

The Philadelphia Union Foundation Virtual Fundraiser

The Philadelphia Union Foundation today announced a Virtual Fundraiser will take place on Tuesday, June 30th, at 7:00pm. Hosted by Union announcer, Kevin Casey, the fundraiser will feature player Q&A sessions, leadership discussions, silent auctions, prize draws and more. Tickets for the event will be $25 for a household ticket to the 75-minute event but fans may also purchase a $40 ticket that includes a raffle ticket for to win signed Philadelphia Union apparel. Fundraising from the event goes directly to the Philadelphia Union Foundation’s community initiatives under “Fight for Philly” which provide COVID-19 relief to those in need through PPE, meals and much more. On the evening, attendees will have the pleasure of engaging with team captain Alejandro Bedoya, Mark McKenzie, Kacper Pryzbylko, and Andre Blake via a live Q&A. There will also be a special leadership panel presented by Lincoln Financial featuring Union Head Coach Jim Curtin being... Read more →


Philadelphia Taxpayers Can Partake in the New Water and Sewer Rate Proceeding

PHILADELPHIA PA (June 26, 2020)--On May 20, 2020, the City of Philadelphia Water Department filed with the Department of Records and the Water, Sewer and Storm Water Rate Board (Rate Board) an Advance Notice of proposed rates and charges to implement the mandated annual adjustment to the Tiered Assistance Program Rate Rider Surcharge Rates (TAP-R) and to revise related water, sewer, and fire service connection quantity Gloucestercitynews.net files charges. The Water Department proposes to make such changes to rates and charges effective October 1, 2020. This Advance Notice initiates a TAP-R Reconciliation Proceeding under Section II.C of the Regulations of the Rate Board. The Water Department filed Formal Notice of the proposed changes on Monday, June 22, 2020. During the TAP-R Reconciliation Proceeding the Rate Board will determine the appropriate TAP-R riders based on the Water Department’s cost of the TAP program for lower-income customers. The Rate Board will hold... Read more →


Shaq vs Gronk Showdown Saturday Night  

Orlando, Florida – When Hall of Fame legend and four-time NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal and three-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski go head-to-head for a series of live-streamed entertaining challenges Saturday night, they will have peace of mind that their production sets have been disinfected and protected with the BIOPROTECTUs System products along with sanitizer for everyone’s hands. BioSupplies.com is the preferred partner of ViaClean Technologies, which manufactures the BIOPROTECT Hydrating Hand Sanitizer. Shaq’s Fun House vs Gronk Beach is being billed as a virtual party with a purpose. Shaq and Gronk will compete in six “epic” live challenges such as sports trivia, a game of horse, a lip sync battle, a cook-off, a chicken wing eating contest and jousting. The sports trivia segment will be presented by BioSupplies.com. The winner of each competition will earn a donation from the presenting sponsor of the segment to the charity of his... Read more →


CONSUMER ALERT: Health product claims and false guarantees

by Lisa Lake Consumer Education Specialist, FTC If you’re looking for help with chronic pain, you might come across over-the-counter devices promising powerful, drug-free relief. But sometimes device marketers make claims that are not backed by scientific evidence. A case in point: The FTC’s settlement with the company marketing a low-level light therapy (LLLT) device called Willow Curve. According to the FTC, Willow Curve’s ads claimed it was an FDA-approved, “clinically proven” treatment for chronic, severe pain and inflammation from serious conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, lupus, shingles, and bone fractures. But the FTC says the company lacks the scientific evidence to support these claims – and that Willow Curve is not FDA-approved. The FTC says the company also advertised risk-free, money-back guarantees for Willow Curve -- implying that people who returned the device would get a full refund. But some costs and fees were not refundable and the process... Read more →


NJ Legislators Add $7.7 Billion to State Spending Plan

This story was written and produced by NJ Spotlight. It is being republished under a special NJ News Commons content-sharing agreement related to COVID-19 coverage. To read more, visit njspotlight.com. JOHN REITMEYER | JUNE 27, 2020 [Updated: June 26, 2020] Lawmakers add money for higher ed, labor department tech problems, but keep Murphy cuts to property-tax programs; GOP members complain about rushed process Gloucestercitynews.net files Lawmakers are advancing a $7.7 billion supplemental spending bill that would fund state operations for another three months as New Jersey wrestles with the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic. The Legislature’s spending proposal makes modest changes to a budget plan drafted last month by the Department of Treasury after Gov. Phil Murphy and lawmakers voted to extend the current fiscal year by three months in response to the economic decline that followed lockdown orders called to stem the pandemic. But the supplemental bill sets the stage... Read more →


What Effect did the Pandemic have on College Students' Mental Health

Of 2,500 student respondents, 75% feel more anxious or stressed, 57% said they lost their summer jobs and 90% want to return to campus in the fall CHICAGO, Illinois – (June 23, 2020) – A recent survey conducted by student housing developer, Core Spaces, of nearly 2,500 college students throughout the United States, reveals how Covid-19 has impacted them – including their mental state, sentiment about remote learning, personal and parents' finances and more. Core Spaces emailed the survey to student residents at 19 Core Spaces properties across 12 cities in 11 states. Responses were collected from June 2 to June 9. “These important survey results speak to a wide range of ways the pandemic has impacted our young people,” explained Marc Lifshin, founder and chief executive officer of Core Spaces. “Their responses provide valuable insight into how college students are hurting and what they want. More than ever, it's... Read more →


Fitness Expert Devon Levesque to Bear Crawl 26.2 Miles through New York City

Historic Marathon Ran On Hands and Feet To Raise Funds For FitOps Foundation To Help Veterans Become Elite, Certified Personal Trainers Devon Levesque, practicing a bear crawl image courtesy of FoxNews New York, NY – Devon Levesque, a renowned fitness expert, entrepreneur and Partner of Performix House, will be the first person to embark on the historic feat of “bear crawling” 26.2 miles. This November he will be taking on the incredible endeavor across the streets of New York City to raise funds for FitOps Foundation, a nonprofit organization which holds month-long “live on” camps to train and certify veterans to become elite personal trainers. “This will be my biggest fitness challenge to date,” said Devon Levesque. “I was inspired to bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention. A big driving force is my father who committed suicide when I was 16. Mental health is just as important as... Read more →


ELITE METHOD FILLS THE VOID WITH PRIVATE COACHING PROGRAM

NEW YORK -- Summer camps are canceling programs every day … Online school ends in June … And parents are struggling with children stuck inside and few outdoor activities to engage their interest. The solution? Elite Method, a concierge-style private coaching program that combines sports, fitness and social-emotional skills development through one-on-one sessions with highly trained coaches. This combination of both “mind and body” coaching has been proven to improve physical and mental health, cognitive abilities, self-esteem and social skills. Elite Method will get kids and teens outdoors after three months of stay-in-orders. It’s a much needed lifeline for parents worried about their children's physical and mental health. “We announced Elite Method in the spring, before the outbreak, but this crisis made our mission even more meaningful. Now it’s not just an option, but a necessity,” said Rachel Dube, a child development expert who created the program with her husband... Read more →


PATCO Weekday Service Will Increase Monday

Weekday Service Increases Again to Keep Pace with Increasing Ridership Demand Trains will operate every 10 minutes during weekday rush hours starting June 29 Starting Monday, June 29, 2020, PATCO will increase the frequency of weekday rush hour service with trains departing every 10 minutes instead of 15 minutes. The increase in service comes as ridership increases as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease in the Greater Philadelphia region. Ridership has increased to 18% of normal levels, up from 12% in the beginning of June and 8% from the start of the pandemic. PATCO will continue to monitor ridership and make additional, real-time service adjustments as necessary as ridership is expected to increase in the coming weeks as reopening phases continue. View the Schedule Schedule Overview Monday through Friday: 12:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. – Trains every 60 minutes. 4:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. – Trains every 20-30 minutes. 6:30 a.m.... Read more →


Camden County GOP Chair: Hirsh Singh Should Stop Confusing Voters

HADDON HEIGHTS (June 25, 2020)--– Camden County Republican Chairman Rich Ambrosino after receiving an image of a mailer sent by US Senate candidate Hirsh Singh called on the candidate to “immediately cease all attempts at confusing voters.” In the Singh campaign mailer the candidate writes, “As a patriot, if you have been hoodwinked into voting for Rik Mehta, it is your patriotic duty to contact your county clerk and request a duplicate ballot to vote for the only Conservative Hirsh Singh. Your duplicate ballot will replace your earlier ballot.” “In all my years participating in Republican politics this is a first! Singh is telling voters, vote early and if you change your mind, vote again. Al Capone would be proud.” Rich Ambrosino said, “I never thought I would live to see the day when a candidate for any office actually begged voters to change a vote they already cast.” Ambrosino... Read more →


Republican Women Set New Record for U.S. House Nominees

; A record 54 Republican women have secured nominations in races for U.S. House seats in the 2020 election, according to data collected by the Center for American Women and Politics, a division of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. The previous record of 53 was set in 2004. Thus far, 114 Democratic women have won nominations for House seats in 2020, still short of their record of 182 set during the 2018 midterms. Multiple women of both parties are competing in races from the June 23rd primary that remain too close to call, and primary races are yet to be held in 24 states, so these numbers are expected to rise. In other election news for women candidates, congressional and statewide primaries were held on Tuesday in three states: Kentucky, New York, and Virginia. Runoff congressional elections were also held in North Carolina and Mississippi. Full results... Read more →


Census Bureau: NJ Population Aging; 65 and Older Increased from 1.19 Million to 1.475 Million

By Kim Jarrett | The Center Square (The Center Square) – New Jersey’s population has more gray hair than it did nine years ago, according to figures released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of residents older than 65 increased from 1.19 million in 2010 to 1.475 million in 2019. The number of residents 45 and older increased from 3.6 million to 3.9 million between the same time period. Gloucestercitynews.net files Nearly 44 percent of the Garden State’s population is older than 45, up from 41 percent in 2010. The state’s under-18 population decreased from two million to 1.95 million. The total population number for New Jersey for 2019 was about 8.9 million, down by about 4,000 people from 2018. New Jersey mirrors the rest of the U.S. population which is also getting older, according to the Census Bureau. “The first Baby Boomers reached 65 years old in 2011,”... Read more →


Mariann J. Corcoran of Gloucester City, St. Marys Grammar School Cafeteria Worker, GHS Alumus

Gloucester City - On June 23, 2020. Age 91. Born in Malaga, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Edward B. and Louise Ann (Tomensky) Hill. Beloved mother of Kevin J. Corcoran (Luanne) and Janice Judge (Robert); loving grandmother of Jeffrey Judge, Jennifer Steinberg (Evan), Steven Corcoran (Fallon), Nicole Corcoran; great grandmother of Nolan Samuel Steinberg; sister of Edward Hill (Sharon), Louise Kohler (Edward) and Carol Branson (Jim). Mariann was also predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Samuel F. Corcoran. A longtime resident of Gloucester City, she was a graduate of Gloucester High School. Mariann worked for 28 years as a cafeteria worker in the St. Mary’s Catholic Grammar School. She was a longtime member of St. Mary’s Church, member of the community choir in Gloucester City and she was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Giese #439. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on... Read more →


Gale Ann Sweda, age 62, Holiday Inn Express General Manager

Surrounded by her loving family, at home, Gale passed peacefully on June 22, 2020 at the age of 62. Born in Pottsville, PA on May 28, 1958 to the late Irvin and Kathryn Kehler (nee Else). Loving mother of Tiana Sweda (Jonathan), PJ Sweda (Elizabeth), Kaylee Sweda (Maurice) and the late Matthew Sweda. Cherished grandmother of Colby Sweda, Kierrah Lopez and Jayce Lopez. Also survived by many loving brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. Gale worked many years as the General Manager of the Holiday Inn Express in Stroudsburg, PA. At her request, services will be private. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Gale Ann Sweda. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →


The Center for American Women and Politics Releases Database of Women Elected Officials

The Center for American Women and Politics (CAWP), a unit of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University, is proud to announce the launch of the online CAWP Women Elected Officials Database, a first-of-its-kind tool for exploring and analyzing women's current and historical representation in the U.S. political system. The CAWP Women Elected Officials Database includes every woman officeholder in U.S. history at the federal, statewide elected executive, and state legislative levels. This tool expands on the officeholder database that CAWP has long kept and shared with researchers, and, crucially, transforms it into a searchable, online format for public access. The CAWP Women Elected Officials Database contains entries for more than eleven thousand women officeholders dating back to 1893 when the first woman was elected to statewide office. Its features include: Detailed information on women officeholders nationwide, including their officeholding history, party identification, and, when available, information about their... Read more →


Katherine Kennedy, on June 24, 2020, of Runnemede. Age 68.

Beloved daughter of the late Stephen and Gertrude Kennedy. Devoted mother of Kimberly Meglino, Lawrance S. Meglino (Dana), and Tara Meglino. Loving grandmother of Brooke, Kurt, Marisa, Lawrence Jr., Taryn, Domenic, Allanah, Braydon, and Tayne and great grandmother of Jelani and Amelia. Dear sister of Stephen Kennedy III, Patricia Robinson, John Kennedy, Michael Kennedy, and David Kennedy (Marie). Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her ex-husband, Lawrence A. Meglino. Katherine loved working with children, especially those with autism. She was an avid church goer who also taught Sunday school. There will be a viewing from 2pm to 4pm Tuesday afternoon at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral service 4pm at the funeral home. Interment is private at the request of the family. Read more →


Congressman Norcross Favors George Floyd Justice in Policing Act

WASHINGTON, DC (June 26, 2020)--– U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) voted yes to H.R. 7120, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which passed through the House of Representatives this evening. This transformative legislation reimagines the culture of policing in America with unprecedented reforms to build greater trust between law enforcement and our communities. “I stand with my community and all those around the nation calling for justice following the senseless murder of George Floyd, along with real, meaningful change to the American policing culture and an end to systemic racial injustices,” said Congressman Norcross, a sponsor of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. “I’m honored to have sponsored this legislation and thank the Congressional Black Caucus for their leadership in advancing a bill that delivers the reforms needed to address systemic racism and save lives, while ensuring bad actors are held accountable.” Norcross continued, “Back home in Camden,... Read more →


Josephine R. Mehrer, of Barrington, formerly of Gloucester City

On June 16, 2020. Of Barrington and Formerly of Gloucester City. Josephine was born in Mt. Holly, NJ to the late Howard and Susan (Collins) Roberts. A homemaker she was the wife of the late, Vaughn F. Mehrer who died in 2005. She is survived by her sons, Russell Mehrer (Barbara), Howard Mehrer (Karen), Joseph Mehrer (Dina); grandchildren, Angelea, Frank and Katelyn, and her great grandson, Jayden. Burial will be private at the family’s convenience. There will be no visitation or service. Contributions may be made in memory of Josephine to the: Furrever Friends Rescue & Volunteers, Inc., P.O. 141, Woodbury, NJ 08096. Please write: Josephine Mehrer in the memo. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME: Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →


Saturday's Powerball Jackpot $42,000,000

Thousands of New Jersey Players Win Prizes TRENTON (June 25, 2020) – The winning numbers for the Wednesday, June 24, drawing were: 15, 22, 27, 33, and 46. The Red Power Ball number was 23. The Multiplier number was 03. 15,593 New Jersey players took home an estimated $91,710 in prizes ranging from $4 to $300. The Powerball jackpot rolls to $42,000,000 for the next drawing to be held Saturday, June 27, at 10:59 pm. Read more →


Tune in Today to Gov's Awards in Arts

Trenton, NJ: — On Friday, June 26th at 5pm, the annual New Jersey Governor’s Awards in Arts Education program will celebrate its 40th Anniversary virtually. Tune in to the NJ Governor's Awards in Arts Education's YouTube channel at 4pm to watch the LIVE virtual Red-Carpet Countdown hosted by 2020 Award recipients Jocelyn Jeffries and Jasmine Livingston followed by the virtual award ceremony starting at 5pm. The prestigious Governor’s Awards are hailed as the highest honor in arts education in the state by national and statewide arts organizations. Initiated in 1980 to promote awareness and appreciation of the arts, the awards recognize the creativity, talent, and leadership of those impacting arts education in the region. The virtual award ceremony will include a welcome from Governor Phil Murphy. Teaching artist Queen Nur will emcee the awards from the steps of the War Memorial in Trenton, NJ. The event will also include remarks... Read more →


Should Christopher Columbus Statue Remain in Place at Marconi Plaza?

Christopher Columbus Monument and Railing Sculpture of Nina Pinta and Santa Maria in Marconi Plaza source Wikipedia PHILADELPHIA PA (June 25, 2020)--Like many communities across the country, Philadelphia is experiencing a reckoning about the legacy of systemic racism and oppression in this country. Part of addressing that history is putting a spotlight on what historical figures deserve to be commemorated in our public spaces. One figure that has come into question is Christopher Columbus and the statue erected in his honor that sits in Marconi Plaza on South Broad Street. Christopher Columbus became a symbol of Italian communities’ contributions to U.S. history, but scholars and historians have uncovered first-hand documentation establishing that his arrival in the Americas also marked the beginning of the displacement and genocide of Indigenous people. In recent weeks, clashes between those individuals who support the statue of Christopher Columbus in Marconi Plaza and those who are... Read more →


NJ SIERRA CLUB: More Problems with Holtec at Oyster Creek Decommissioning

Ocean County Superior Court Judge Francis R. Hodgson has issued a temporary order of restraint to Holtec, stopping all decommissioning activities at Oyster Creek Nuclear Generating Station. Lacey Township, the community where the nuclear plant is located, filed a complaint against Holtec International and Holtec Decommissioning International in late May. Holtec is also under criminal investigation by the NJ Economic Development Authority for misrepresenting information on its 2014 tax credit application. “There are serious concerns with the Holtec and the decommissioning of Oyster Creek. From the beginning of their deal with Exelon, we were troubled by the lack of transparency and public input. Now Judge Hodgson has shown that these concerns are true. Holtec doesn’t want to show Lacey Township their site plan or what they’re going to do on the site. We need the plant to be decommissioned safely and quickly, and Holtec isn’t proving to be up to... Read more →


Are Mail-In Ballots A Good Idea? Morris Twp. Ballots Burned After Mail Truck Catches Fire

photo courtesy of Postal Times MORRIS TOWNSHIP NJ--A mail truck in Morris Township caught fire on Saturday and some vote-by-mail ballots being delivered to voters were destroyed, the New Jersey Globe has learned. The U.S. Postal Service notified Morris County election officials on Monday morning that an undetermined number of ballots were burned. These were ballots being delivered to voters and not completed ballots on their way to the Board of Elections, although it’s not immediately clear if the letter carrier picked up any returned ballots prior to the fire. Election officials are in the process of determining how to send out replacement ballots. It’s not immediately clear if the post office knows exactly which ballots were on the truck. The postal employee driving the truck was not injured. CONTINUE READING AT » New Jersey Globe Read more →


Down The Shore: Plastic Bags Cannot Be Part of Your Recycling Waste Stream

AVALON, NJ--The Avalon Department of Public Works reminds you that plastic bags cannot be part of the recycling trash stream in Cape May County. This County participates in single stream recycling, where all clean recyclables can go into one container. However, if your container contains plastic bags, it will not be collected by Avalon’s trash and recycling contractor. And, if you put a bag full of recyclables into the regular trash can, it creates two issues for the Borough. First, the Borough pays for additional tonnage fees as these recyclables are counted as trash. Second, our recycling numbers go down, which impacts the amount of recycling grants the Borough receives. Never put plastic bags in your recycling container. And, if you visit the Avalon Courtesy Trash and Recycling Depot at 15th Street and Dune Drive, thank you for doing so. But, please do not put your recyclables into a plastic... Read more →


GTPD Consumer Tip: Home Pool/Hot Tub Safety

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ--The American Red Cross reports that 69% of young children who drown were not expected to be in or near water. Learn how to reduce the risks: Top Things to Know Secure your pool with appropriate barriers. Designate a water watcher, and stay in arm’s reach of young children. Install anti entrapment drain covers and safety release systems to protect against drain entrapment If a child is missing, check the water first How to Create a Safer Home Pool or Hot Tub Secure Your Pool When Not in Use: Completely surround your pool with four sided isolation fencing with a self-closing and self-latching gate that is out of reach of a child. For above ground pools, secure, lock, or remove steps, ladders, and anything that can be used for access when the pool is not being actively supervised by an adult. Install a secondary barrier such as door... Read more →


The Green Phase in Philadelphia Coming in July

Philadelphia is on track to enter the green phase of reopening in early July. Our strategy is working: Daily case counts are falling, residents are wearing masks, and the number of patients hospitalized with the infection is steadily dropping. When we begin the green phase, not all activities can restart right away. Philadelphia will still restrict some activities that are allowed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and we’ll have stricter guidance for some of the newly reopened activities. As Philadelphia Public Health Commissioner Dr. Tom Farley said, “We may be tired of the pandemic, but the virus is not tired of us.” COVID-19 is not gone, so we must reopen with care. Read more about our progress in the Reopen With Care report. New for yellow phase These activities can resume on June 26, while Philadelphia is still in the yellow phase: Residential swimming pools and private swim clubs Zoos... Read more →


Buy Instagram comments and other must-know tips for web designers to increase visibility

(Gloucestercitynews.net)(June 26, 2020)--There is a veritable sea of talent out there as far as web designers are concerned, with carefully crafted websites and domains. The competition is fierce out there, and to make it big. It would help if you thought outside the box, which is going to increase your visibility. The following post is about the tips you need as a designer, to integrate your passion with your social media to raise awareness and profile for your concern. A brief intro about the use of Instagram for business - Buy Instagram comments Instagram has slowly evolved into something more than just the beautiful feed of personal moments and selfies. Business people and entrepreneurs are now crafting Instagram profiles that showcase their talents, abilities, and skills to the world to develop a niche. This community is what drives the business concern at the end of the day. While it is... Read more →


Help COVID-19 contact tracers, not scammers

June 25, 2020 by Shameka L. Walker Attorney, Division of Consumer & Business Education, FTC After nearly three months of stay-at-home orders, America is starting to open up again. Contact tracers, the folks who work for state health departments to try to track anyone who may have been exposed to COVID-19, are an important part of our road to recovery. But some scammers are pretending to be contact tracers so they can profit off of the current confusion. They’re trying to steal your identity, your money – or both. Luckily, there are ways to tell the difference between a real contact tracer and a scammer. A contact tracer might get in touch to discuss results of a test you know you took, or because someone you’ve been in contact with tested positive. Depending on how your state has set up its program, legitimate contact tracers may call, email, text, or... Read more →


Good Bye to Our Old Friend, Common Sense

Editor's Note: This has circulated on the internet for 20 years if not longer. It has been attributed to several internet sites along with the London Times. The earliest we can find is in 1998 on Lori Borgman website. and also to Lori Borgman, author, columnist, and speaker. In these troubling times the words below seem more appropriate than anytime in our history. ~ Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as: image courtesy of https://depositphotos.com/ Knowing when to come in out of the rain; Why the early bird gets the worm; Life isn't always fair; And maybe it was my fault. Common Sense lived by... Read more →


Mechanicsburg Man Sentenced to Probation and Fined for Structuring $2M in Cash Deposits

HARRISBURG –The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kenneth Hoffman, age 57, of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, was Gloucestercitynews.net files sentenced on June 23, 2020, by United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner to two years’ probation and to pay a $9,700 fine for structuring cash deposits. According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, between 2014 and 2017, Hoffman deposited over $2 million in cash into various bank accounts which were just below $10,000 to avoid having his cash deposits reported to federal authorities. Judge Conner recognized the remedial steps Hoffman took since the IRS began their investigation in 2017. When the IRS initiated the case, Hoffman worked closely with outside professionals to reform his business practices. In addition, he has filed amended returns with appropriate taxing authorities to remedy prior deficiencies. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney... Read more →


Pew Study: WHO ARE THE PROTESTORS? Majority are White and Democratic

William E. Cleary | CNBNews (photo courtesy of The Philadelphia Inquirer) (Gloucestercitynews.net)(June 25, 2020)--The Pew Research Center released a survey today regarding the people who are participating in the Black Lives Matter protests taking place in major cities throughout the country in the past month. According to the study only 17% of the protestors are black Americans. Hispanic Americans account for 22% of recent protest attendees. When it comes to the share of protesters who are Asian the number is 8%. The survey reveals the majority of the protestors or 46% are white. About four-in-ten (41%) of those who say they recently attended a protest focused on race are younger than 30; among all U.S. adults, 19% are in this age group. In turn, those ages 50 and older are underrepresented among the protesters, while those ages 30 to 49 represent a similar share of those who have attended a... Read more →


Do sportsmen really need sports glasses? 

(Gloucestercitynews.net)(June 25, 2020)--Today, almost everyone who picks up a ball, bat, racket or club can see sports glasses, whether they play in the major leagues or the Little League. Fortunately, coaches, parents, and players now realize that there are many ways to pay for sports glasses. The risk of eye damage is reduced or eliminated, and the performance of players is improved by the fact that they are beautiful. Today, many clubs do not allow their members to participate without wearing the appropriate glasses. Initially, there was some resistance from children to "look funny" when wearing protective glasses. Today, sports glasses are an integral part of everyday life, and by far the way bicycle helmets have become the norm. Children and adults also love the image given by the use of protective glasses: it shows that they mean business on the playground. If you are not wearing safety glasses, consider... Read more →


Down The Shore: 53 Year-Old-Man Killed in Crash on White Horse Pike, Investigation Underway

MAYS LANDING (June 20, 2020)--- An investigation is underway after a 53 year-old Mays Landing man was killed Friday night in a crash on the White Horse Pike, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner announced. An initial investigation by the ACPO Crash Investigations Unit determined that Taquaysha Bell, 28, of Trenton was traveling westbound on the White Horse Pike in a 2010 Chevy Silverado. At 11:07 p.m., near the intersection of Moss Mill Road, Bell crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a 2003 Honda Civic, operated by Michael Luko Sr., who serves as an officer with the New Jersey Human Services Police Department and was traveling home from work. Following the crash, Officer Luko was transported to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center – Mainland Division where he was pronounced deceased at 12:22 A.M. Bell was also transported to ACRMC – Mainland Division for treatment and a blood sample was taken... Read more →


NASCAR RELEASES INVESTIGATION RESULTS

By Staff Report NASCAR.com June 25, 2020 at 12:49 PM NASCAR President Steve Phelps detailed Thursday afternoon via teleconference findings from NASCAR’s internal investigation into the noose found in the garage stall of No. 43 driver Bubba NASCAR has released a photo of the suspected 'noose' found in Bubba Wallace's garage stall at Talladega on Sunday that at was investigated by the FBI as a possible hate crime before being revealed to be an innocent garage door pull rope that had been in use for at least a year Wallace at Talladega Superspeedway last weekend. A photo of the noose was released by the sanctioning body earlier Thursday, one day after an FBI investigation concluded that no federal hate crime was committed against Wallace, who is Black. “Upon learning of and seeing the noose, our initial reaction was to protect our driver. We’re living in a highly charged and emotional... Read more →


Mother Teresa Catholic School Movie Night

KING OF PRUSSIA PA--The Mother Teresa Regional Catholic School community in King of Prussia (Montgomery County) are celebrating the end of the school year by hosting a park & view family movie night fundraiser in the school parking lot. Friday, June 26, 2020 7:30 p.m. (Entry Opens) Movie to Begin at Dusk Mother Teresa Regional Catholic School 405 Allendale Road King of Prussia, PA 19406 (Montgomery County) Saturday, June 27, 2020 7:30 p.m. (Entry Opens) Movie to Begin at Dusk Mother Teresa Regional Catholic School 405 Allendale Road King of Prussia, PA 19406 (Montgomery County) The movie night includes the option for per car general admission and family packs which include car admission and concessions including hot dogs, popcorn, and soft drinks. The drive-in movie night at Mother Teresa Regional was imagined by the school community as way for families to gather while respecting social distancing guidelines during the COVID-19... Read more →


Virtua Memorial Hospital’s Special Care Nursery

Receives National Recognition for Excellence The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses has awarded the gold-level Beacon Award for Excellence to the Special Care Nursery at Virtua Memorial Hospital in Mt. Holly, NJ. This award recognizes caregivers who utilize a consistent and systematic approach to evidence-based care that improves patient outcomes. “While health systems across the world have faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Virtua has never faltered in providing its patients with quality care,” said Pamela Gallus, assistant vice president for maternal-child services at Virtua Memorial Hospital. “This prestigious recognition showcases our commitment to our tiniest patients, and also shines light on the amazing professionals who treat each family with knowledge, expertise, and compassion.” Virtua Memorial’s Special Care Nursery is one of only 10 neonatal units in the country — and one of three in New Jersey — to receive this three-year award. The nursery had previously earned... Read more →


DODGERS, YANKEES, ASTROS STILL HEAVY FAVORITES TO WIN WORLD SERIES

Shortened 60-game season, universal DH, and regionalized schedule shifts odds across Major League Baseball, according to TheLines.com (LAS VEGAS) — The Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees, followed by the Houston Astros, remain the three clear favorites to win the World Series after Major League Baseball announced the opening of its shortened 2020 season, according to TheLines.com, which tracks odds in the U.S. regulated sports betting markets. Baseball announced Tuesday that it will push ahead with opening its 2020 season on July 23 — a season that will feature 60 games in 66 days for each team and a bevy of rule modifications, including adding a universal designated hitter. Each team’s schedule will be significantly regionalized, too, adding a significant wrinkle in how the season plays out. Legal sportsbooks have continued to shift their futures odds during the postponement — significantly in some cases — including at DraftKings... Read more →


Good News? Dangerous tick-borne bacterium extremely rare in New Jersey

by Rutgers University Three American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis): two females and one male. Credit: Jim Occi/Rutgers University-New Brunswick There's some good news in New Jersey about a potentially deadly tick-borne bacterium. Rutgers researchers examined more than 3,000 ticks in the Garden State and found only one carrying Rickettsia rickettsii, the bacterium that causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever. But cases of tick-borne spotted fevers have increased east of the Mississippi River, and more research is needed to understand why, according to a study in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Rocky Mountain spotted fever from infection with Rickettsia rickettsii can involve blood vessel damage, gangrene and organ failure. It was rare in the United States and limited to the Mountain states until the beginning of this century. Since then, the mid-Atlantic states have seen a steep increase in spotted fever cases that are associated with a lower risk... Read more →


GTPD Alert: Graffiti Thief Signs His Name on Crime

(Gloucester Township NJ)(June 24, 2020)--On Wednesday April 15 at approximately 1131 AM, the Gloucester Township Police Department (GTPD) responded to the Camden County Regional Emergency Training Center located on Woodbury Turnersville Road for a burglary and theft. It was discovered that on 04/14/20, a suspect unlawfully entered the Emergency Training Center buildings, stole various emergency training equipment, and spray painted the building with graffiti markings, causing significant criminal mischief damages. After committing these felonious acts, the suspect went across the street and purposely caused additional criminal mischief to a motor vehicle by using a sharp object to damage the tires. Detectives from the GTPD Criminal Investigations Bureau – Criminal Investigations Unit (CIU) processed the crime scene and located significant evidence. Detectives discovered that the suspect stole the training facility flashlights, radios, and various emergency equipment, causing $35,000.00 in losses. The suspect also poured cleaning solution on electronic equipment and used... Read more →


Consumer Alert: Gloucester Township Police Fireworks Safety

(Gloucester Township, NJ) (June 24, 2020)--Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades and fireworks. The National Safety Council advises everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, and not to use any fireworks at home. They may be legal but they are not safe. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2018 five people died and over 9,100 were injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for 36 percent of the estimated injuries. Similar to 2017, nearly half of the estimated emergency department treated, fireworks-related injuries were to individuals younger than 20 years of age. And while the majority of these incidents were due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, an estimated 33% were from less powerful devices like small firecrackers and sparklers. Additionally, fireworks start an average of 18,500... Read more →


Consumer News: EPA Marks National Pollinator Week

Administrator signs first-ever pollinator proclamation for the agency in its 50-year history PHILADELPHIA (June 24, 2020) — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler has signed a proclamation designating the week of June 22 as National Pollinator Week. Administrator Wheeler is the first EPA Administrator to make such a designation – joining leadership from the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), all 50 Governors and hundreds of governments and organizations around the world. “EPA is committed to protecting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds which sustain the majority of our food supplies,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Cosmo Servidio “I am proud to work with our local, state and federal partners in reaffirming our commitment to promoting pollinator health which also means protecting human health, the environment and our nation’s food supply.” Three-fourths of the world’s flowering plants and about 35 percent of the... Read more →


Bigger Jackpots Coming to Jersey Cash 5

Big Changes Include $100,000 Starting Jackpots, Later Drawings Give More Time to Get in the Game TRENTON (June 24, 2020) – The New Jersey Lottery is refreshing Jersey Cash 5 starting June 29 with a new draw time, more numbers to choose from, and bigger starting jackpots – increasing from an estimated $75,000 to a guaranteed $100,000! In the enhanced Jersey Cash 5 game, players will select five numbers from 1 to 45 for a chance at the new higher jackpot pool. Currently, players choose five numbers from 1 to 43. Additionally, the New Jersey Lottery evening drawings are moving from 7:57 p.m. to 10:57 p.m. daily. New Jersey Lottery Executive Director James Carey announced that starting June 29 Jersey Cash 5 will be drawn later in the evening, alongside Pick-3, Pick-4, and Pick-6, to allow players more time and opportunity to get their tickets for their favorite games. “The... Read more →


TSA updates two-year roadmap to address current global risks and threats to nation’s transportation systems 

WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published an outline of key objectives to continuously improve security and safeguard the nation’s transportation systems. TSA Administrator David Pekoske presented his new objectives intended to guide the agency and its workforce over the next two years on managing new global security risks to safeguard all modes of transportation. The “Administrator’s Intent 2.0,” addresses tangible security threats across seven broad categories: insider risk, surface transportation, checkpoint strategies, workforce support, cybersecurity, outcome-oriented policy management, and utilization of TSA’s security authorities. “I am proud of the hard work and achievements TSA has made over the previous two years as a result of the first Administrator’s Intent released in 2018, and am confident in our dedicated professionals as we reprioritize our efforts on emerging threats,” Administrator Pekoske said. “Administrator’s Intent 2.0 builds upon the successes achieved to date and acknowledges the agility and adaptability necessary in... Read more →


FTC, SBA warn companies about SBA loan promises

by Shameka L. Walker Attorney, Division of Consumer & Business Education, FTC The latest recipients of government warning letters are six companies that said they could speed U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans for businesses struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. The letters – from the FTC and the SBA – direct the companies to remove all false claims from their websites immediately. According to the FTC and SBA, the letter recipients may be misleading consumers that they are affiliated with the SBA or about their role in helping businesses get SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. As a result, small businesses that applied for the loans through the listed websites may be left empty-handed. The agencies said one or more of the companies might be misleading small business owners by: Using the SBA's name or official logo on their websites; Promising easy applications and quick approvals; Telling... Read more →


College Kid Returning Home? How Families Can Stay Safe During Pandemic

As off-campus leases end this summer, more college students and new grads will head home, potentially bringing coronavirus with them. A Virtua Health expert – and dad of a returning college student – offers advice. (Marlton, N.J.) As college students and new graduates return to their family homes, this would normally be a happy time for many parents. But today, that pleasure is dimmed by concern that their loved one might unknowingly bring the coronavirus home, too. Moreover, even after the initial risk has passed, families may struggle to keep everyone healthy and happy for the long haul – especially as states start to re-open. Dr. James Sekel, lead physician at Virtua Primary Care - Washington Township, offers tips for families in these situations. In fact, the father of two has personally faced this issue when his older son came home from college. “The biggest challenge was early on. The... Read more →


Top 10 Free Agents at the end of the 2019/2020 Season

(Gloucestercitynews.net)(June 25, 2020)--The second half of the 2019/2020 season was interrupted by the Coronavirus pandemic but nothing has stopped the transfer rumors. Most of the top leagues are finalizing their campaigns and players are already making summer moves. Well, there are plenty of high profile players whose contracts run out at the end of this season. Let us look at the top 10 free agents at the end of the 2019/2020 season. 1. Edison Cavani The Uruguay international has had a remarkable spell in the PSG and has been pivotal since his signature for the Paris side in 2013. Cavani caught the eye of the French heavyweights after a brilliant stint in Napoli where he saw the back of the net for more than 30 times in three consecutive seasons. He is still one of the top-rated strikers considering he has since scored 200 goals for PSG in 300 appearances.... Read more →


Gravitas Ventures Offers North American Audiences Insightful Journey into “The Prison Within”, Powerful Documentary

(Los Angeles, CA—June 24, 2020) As global demonstrators stand united demanding police and prison reform “The Prison Within” from filmmaker Katherin Hervey, is an extraordinarily well-timed documentary that offers a powerful and thoughtful alternative to our current systems of justice. Through the crushing stories of survivors of violent crimes and men incarcerated for murder, viewers witness redemption and healing inside California’s San Quentin prison. “The Prison Within” takes viewers on a profound exploration of the unmet needs of victims, the vulnerable, and the marginalized within our criminal justice system. The film expands on the inherent injustices of the racially-charged United States legislations that Ava DuVernay’s groundbreaking “13th” laid bare for global audiences. Hervey goes beyond why and howthe system is inadequate, deftly exposing the torment experienced by people on both sides of prison walls. Through personal stories illustrative of the systemic injustices that perpetuate cycles of violence and trauma, this... Read more →


Guest Opinion: Judicial Watch Statement Regarding Supreme Court Ruling Protecting Obama ‘DACA’ Program

‘[A]n effort to avoid a politically controversial but legally correct decision’ – Justice Thomas (Washington, DC) – Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton made the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling against the Trump administration’s effort to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The Supreme Court undermined the Constitution today. Obama’s decision to provide amnesty for hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens under the DACA program was unlawful, and the court interfered with the President Trump’s duty and absolute right to rescind it. Chief Justice Roberts and his liberal colleagues ruled that it is illegal for President Trump to end an illegal Obama program. This is the Alice-in-Wonderland approach to judicial decision making. Chief Justice Roberts also joined the decision earlier this week that changes the meaning of sex in nation’s major civil rights law. Threats to the rule of law come not only from rioters and... Read more →


Abby Colen , formerly of Philadelphia

On June 4, 2020. Age 69. Born in Philadelphia, PA on December 13, 1950 to Roy and Rhoda Colen. Survived by brother, Carl. Interment was held privately. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Abby Colen. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City Ph: 856-456-1142 Read more →