The link between prescription drugs and heroin addiction is not debatable

SALEM -- Volunteers will help the Salem County Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services on Oct. 6 to leave door hangars on neighborhood doors to bring awareness to the link between prescription drugs and skyrocketing heroin abuse. 

"Knock Out Opiate Abuse Day," part of a statewide canvassing effort, will take place between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. 

"This is a critically important issue," said Freeholder Director Julie Acton. "The link between prescription drugs and heroin addiction is not debatable. We need to make people aware of this, and Knock Out Opiate Abuse is one way to bring prescription abuse to the forefront." 

Individual volunteers, various municipal drug alliances, and church groups have signed up to assist in leaving the door hangars. Special materials will be left with physicians and dentists in the county to make them aware of the need to prescribe safely. 

"Everyone is encouraged to join this grassroots effort to step out and inform those in your neighborhood. Opiate abuse is impacting lives and devastating families, we need to do something now," stated Bob Vanderslice, Chair of the Health and Human Services Department. 

If you would like to get involved, contact: Victoria Yuhasz, county coordinator at victoria.yuhasz@salemcountynj.gov or 856-935-7510, ext 8449. 

This item submitted by Brenda Banks for County of Salem.

The accident took place Tuesday morning on Almond Road near where it intersects with Edrudo Road, police said.

VINELAND - Authorities have identified the man killed while riding his bicycle early Tuesday morning.

Police said Willie J. Moye, 60, of Third Avenue in Vineland, died after being struck on Almond Road, just west of where it intersects with Erudo Road, according to police.

The accident was reported around 6:33 a.m.

Frank Lillia Jr., 46, of Gershal Avenue in the Norma section of Pittsgrove Township, was driving a 1994 Jeep Wrangler eastbound on Almond Road when the collision occurred with Moye's bicycle which was being driven westbound, police said.

Victim of fatal Pilesgrove crash identified

Moye was seriously injured and later died of his injuries, police said.

The accident remains under investigation by Officer Frederick DeMary of the Vineland Police Department's Traffic Safety Unit. 

The roadway was closed off for a time after the crash for the investigation.

Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow Bill Gallo Jr. on Twitter @bgallojr. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Children will learn with the help of high school students

WOODSTOWN -- Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District has openings available for the Woodstown High School Child Care & Development Lab which meets Tuesday through Thursday from 8:45 to 10:55 a.m. beginning Dec. 13 and ending May 17, 2017.

Children must be 3 years of age by Oct. 1, 2016 and must be completely toilet trained. The only cost to parents for the program is $40 per year for snacks. Parents must provide transportation to and from the program.

Children will experience one-on-one interaction and learning with the help of high school students, as well as social interaction with other preschoolers.

Interested parents should call 856-769-0144, ext. 66149 for an application or further information.

This item submitted by Lisa Blaney for Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District.

The tainted medicine was recalled on Sept. 26, 2012, but Inspira did not immediately pull all of the vials of the medicine from the shelves of its Vineland hospital's pharmacy.

VINELAND -- Inpsira Health Network has agreed to pay a $10,000 fine for failing to pull all of a recalled drug linked to a fungal meningitis outbreak from the shelves of its Vineland hospital pharmacy.

The action dates back to 2012 when methylprednisolone acetate, known as MRA, was recalled by the New England Compounding Center.

As a result, Inspira removed all 5mL vials of MRA from its pharmacy shelves, but not 1mL vials of the drug, according to a consent order signed by Inspira's CEO and the New Jersey State Board of Pharmacy.

It was because of that failure that the state sanctioned Inspira.

Fungal meningitis cases were reported across the country, including New Jersey and Cumberland County, from the batch of the tainted MRA, a steroid.

"Inspira Health Network is dedicated to providing safe, quality care for every patient," said Inspira Spokesman Paul Simon on Tuesday. "As outlined in the consent order, the network fully cooperated with the New Jersey State Board of Pharmacy's investigation to ensure our compliance with all regulations."

According to the state, Inspira said the drug manufacturer "made no mention of vial size, and based on the knowledge and past experience of the pharmacy staff, Inspira believed that only the 5mL vials of MPA were affected."

"As a result, Inspira removed and quarantined only the 5mL vials; the 1mL vials were neither checks for lot number nor quarantined."

From the time that the MRA recall was announced on Sept. 26, 2012 to Oct. 4, 2012, four patients at Inspira received injections of MRA, according to the state.

Inspira names builder for new hospital project

Those patients that did receive the recalled medicine were monitored to be sure they suffered no ill effects.

"Inspira notified and followed the patients as required by the Centers for Disease Control and New Jersey Department of Health guidelines to ensure they remained asymptomatic," Simon said.

Because of the incident, Inspira also agreed to new procedures to make sure all recalled medicines are pulled from its shelves in the future.

"As a result of the investigation, Inspira Health Network's Pharmacy Department implemented enhanced recall policies and procedures to ensure the safety of our patients."

Inspira has also agreed to pay $5,227.99 in costs associated with the state's investigation, according to the consent order which was signed this summer.

Clowns were once comic relief at the circus or on TV. Now, no one is relieved at how their often-creepy image is being used to validate threats against students.

Just when was it that clowns became an international symbol of fear that ignites  near hysteria from of a significant chunk of the general public? 

When Clarabell ("Howdy Doody") and Bozo ruled the baby boomers' TV airwaves, clowns were comic relief, and often friendly. Even Krusty, on "The Simpsons," was introduced as terminally cranky, not evil.

Most of today's high-school generation can't identify John Wayne Gacy Jr., the Midwestern serial killer whose day job was as a children's birthday party clown. Gacy's Chicago-area escapades ended in 1978. It's been 22 years since he was put to death for 12 of his 33 murders.

It's very young millenials, however, who are alleged to have been behind recent social media threats to do violence at school in the name of clowns.

Perhaps it is these entertainers' mixed image as providers of mirth, as well as mystery and mayhem, that makes 13- and 14-year-olds think it's acceptable to make death threats under cover of clowns. The incidents have spread like wildfire on the Eastern Seaboard recently, and just reached fever pitch in parts of New Jersey and Philadelphia. No less than the master of creepy fiction, Steven King, felt compelled to defend the white-makeup-wearing minority: "Most of em are good, cheer up the kiddies, make children laugh," he tweeted.

Let's hope that at least two South Jersey arrests announced Monday will stop the nonsense, which has put schools on unnecessary lockdowns, forced police to step up security and, in some cases, resulted in early dismissals and other class disruptions. Adults who run schools have no choice to react as if the threats are serious, given the vulnerabilities in an age of terrorism and truly disturbed, violent classmates.

A 13-year-old girl who attends Bunker Hill Middle School in Washington Township and a 14-year-old boy were picked up in connection with clown threats there. Police said the posts were at first broad in nature but later honed in on specific students. The 13-year-old, according to NBC10, told police she thought the messages would be "funny."

The copycat Instagram account posted several pictures of creepy clowns. (Photo provided)
 

Charges were also pending in Philadelphia against "phillyclown33," another 13-year-old girl. She and a friend referred to their clown threats to city schools as "pranks" not intended to cause harm to anyone.

How wrong the young "perps" are. They're still young enough to have their parents mete out appropriate punishment, should the justice system be too lenient due to their age. Any parent who fails, at a minimum, to deactivate these kids' smartphones, should be considered negligent.

As Frank Farley, a Temple University psychology professor, told 6ABC, these activities cross the line at which social media provocation ceases to be fun, like some stunt on "Punk'd" or "Catfish."

"I don't think pranks that threaten lives are innocent anymore," Farley said.

Whether such pranks involve clowns or not, that's a message that must resonate in thousands of local households where young teens and pre-teens reside. 

Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com

Kennedy's Dean Auer leads with more than $60,000 raised

Bob Shryock | For NJ.com 

With Kennedy's Dean Auer leading the way with more than $60,000 raised for the hospital's Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit, the annual "Dancing With the Gloucester County Stars" performance at Auletto's in Almonesson pushed the 11-year total closer to $2 million. At the current pace, the $2 million level could be attained by 2018.

Another enthusiastic packed house wildly supported the six dancers and their professional partners with Laura Trace earning the award for top individual performer. Laura's designated charity was West Deptford Little Theater.

Shirley Bierbrunner, who chairs the committee for the Greater Woodbury Chamber of Commerce sponsored event, received special recognition for her supreme efforts since year one. Phillies' PA voice Dan Baker and TV coordinator John Mondelli expertly manned their usual stations.

The totals:

Auer, $60,266; Michael Jones, Ballroom Dancing for a Better U., $35,625; Jodi Purvenas, Special Olympics, $23,491; Mary Schmidt Read, Adam Taliaferro Foundation, $19,632; Laura Trace, $13,552; Yvonne Giovannitti, United Methodist Communities  at  Pitman Manor, $11,174.

Michael Jones, "The Voice," wowed the crowd with his dance moves with professional partner Krystal Bradley. He was the first blind performer in event history.

-- -- -- 

Kate Cargill, president of the West Deptford Board of Education, expresses her sadness that the district's interim superintendent Bob Suessmuth died recently.

"Although Bob was with our district for just two and a half months, in that short time he impressed us all with his solid and steady professionalism, and endeared himself to us with his humor and passion for his work. Early on Bob expressed to us how happy he was to get the chance to work in West Deptford. I know I speak for the board when I say we were lucky to have him.

"Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go to to his family, his friends, and his colleagues who will surely miss him."

-- -- -- 

The 10th annual Ross Kupcha race will be held on Oct. 22, according to Gus Ostrum, advancement director at Gloucester Catholic High School.

"As always, the proceeds go back to helping needy families pay for tuition at Gloucester Catholic," Ostrum says. "Jack Heath and the race organizers do a fabulous job helping these families receive scholarship funds that go toward a Catholic education."

For additional information, call Heath at 267-716-7911 or e-mail him at coachheath@comcast.net.

-- -- -- 

Former South Jersey Times columnist Jim Six celebrated his 70th birthday in stellar fashion on Sunday at the Firemen's Museum in Mantua with Jim leading a session of musician friends in the crowd of about 100.

Jim has been battling health problems but was an upbeat and positive as always. The gathering included two former Gloucester County sheriffs and several dozen past newspaper colleagues and contacts hailing from several states.

-- -- -- 

The South Jersey Baseball Oldtimers hold their 48th annual hot stove banquet Wednesday, Oct. 26, 6 p.m. at St. Michael's in Gibbstown. The spaghetti dinner features ex-Phil announcer Chris Wheeler as guest speaker. Cost is $30 per person. Contact Dve Hitchner at 856-455-5168.

Bob Shryock may be reached at bshryock@njadvancemedia.com. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Capt. Stephen Jones is class act in dealing with media.

There were two memorabilia centers at New Jersey State Police Headquarters in West Trenton.

The official museum has vintage uniforms, guns, patrol Harleys and cruisers, exhibits on everything from the Lindbergh baby kidnapping to crime-solving sciences.

The unofficial memorabilia collection was the desk and workspace of recently retired Capt. Stephen Jones, 55, who was head of the State Police Office of Public Affairs.

If his name sounds familiar, it's because Jones was the guy behind the press releases, and the face at the microphones or in front of the cameras.

"Managing media is difficult," said Col. Rick Fuentes, who has been in charge longer than any previous state police colonel. "You need a seat-of-the-pants knowledge to balance the public's 'right-to-know' while protecting our interests, like ongoing investigations.

"Stephen brought our transparency to a new level and created a renaissance of social media," Fuentes said. "We get thousands of hits a day (on Facebook and Twitter), and it gets our stories and important information out to the public."

Jones said there's been more than one occasion when the posts "solved crimes."

"We put a suspect on our Facebook page and the calls start coming in," he said. "One guy said, 'I'll turn myself in, just get me off Facebook.' "

Nora Muchanic, a 30-year veteran reporter with WPVI-TV in Philadelphia, called Jones "the poster boy for police dealing with press."

"He showed it doesn't have to be an adversarial relationship," she said. "He was articulate and forthright. He told you what he could tell you - and what he couldn't - so you weren't hanging around all day hoping for information that wasn't going to come."

Some of those press dealings were easy. Jones has security lanyards from the fun events - things such as Pope Francis' visit in 2015 and the Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium a year earlier - when the state police handled much of the security.

Others were hard, such as line-of-duty deaths. Sean Cullen, Anthony Respa and Eli McCarson died in car accidents in the past two years alone.

Jones wrote the press releases when troopers made big drug and weapons busts, and when troopers fell on the wrong side of the law.

"We have to try to be transparent," Jones said. "All of law enforcement is moving in that direction. We do good things but, like any big agency, we're going to have people who mess up."

And, of course, there is the inevitability of the media fixating on the mess ups.

The state police high-speed escort of exotic cars down the Garden State Parkway dominated the headlines as "Death Race 2012" in April of that year. Six months later, when the state police made 250 emergency rescues from the Seaside Heights vicinity during the brunt of Hurricane Sandy, there was nary a word.

Jones understands that's just part of the game.

"My frustration level (with the media) is very low," he said. "Generally, people in the media have been receptive to good stories."

Jones' story of how he became a trooper is a pretty good one in itself.

He did not come from a law enforcement family and wasn't a criminology major. He studied communications and TV production at Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) and was working in public information for a South Jersey utility.

But, as a spiritual man, he said he reached a point where he wanted to make changes in his life.

"I prayed for discipline and God chuckled and said, 'Okay, I'll put you in the State Police Academy,' " Jones said.

God's instrument in this was Jones' neighbor in Williamstown, state trooper Bill Addis.

"He told me these stories and I thought it was a pretty cool job," Jones said.

Jones took the test and passed by half a point. Then came the physical challenges and he did surprisingly well.

"I wasn't an athlete in high school," he said. "But I trained a little by doing the shuttle run in the street in front of my house."

Jones spent the early part of his career deep in South Jersey, patrolling the towns along the Delaware Bay, and then was assigned to the auto unit in North Jersey. In 1999, he led the investigation into the state's motor vehicle division that exposed a license-selling operation to illegal immigrants. After 9/11, he tracked the fraudulent licenses of some of the hijackers.

Jones hit the mandatory retirement age recently and now his 21-year career has come to an end.

As he packed up his desk last week, his pride about the force was apparent. He filled a few cardboard boxes with vintage uniform patches, patrol signs, commemorative coins, ash trays, coffee cups, a trooper bobble head and toy cruisers.

He had a half-dozen "G Men & Heroes of the Law" bubble gum cards from 1936, so well-preserved, you can still smell the candy's sweetness on them. Two brass safely patrol badges from 1940s. And an old comic book about the Lindbergh baby.

Some of the coins in the commemorative collection were his idea.

"He wanted to do a series of eight copper coins of state police history," said Mark Falzini, archivist at the museum. "So I found the old photographs for the designs."

The result were coins on the first superintendent Col. Norman Schwarzkopf; the motorcycle, mounted and K-9 divisions; the first barracks; and others.

Such was Jones' reverence toward state police history.

And now he is part of it.

Mark Di Ionno may be reached at mdiionno@starledger.com. Follow The Star-Ledger on Twitter @StarLedger and find us on Facebook.

Boys and girls records at N.J.'s championship XC courses

Harry Walker writes that most pet animals do not live a dog's life.

To the Editor:

Regarding the recent article "Pair of Rutgers law professors call pet ownership  immoral, form of torture:"

Rutgers professors Gary Francione and Anna Charlton write that owning pets is enslavement.

I think they've got it backwards. The owners are enslaved by their pets. 

I discussed this with our 9-year-old Shih Tsu, and she said she'd rather endure enslavement than be free and have to provide for herself all the comforts she enjoys, er, endures: a warm bed, belly rubs, daily roast beef and cheese rollups, etc.  

Our 23-year-old kitty's response was : "Whatever - what's for lunch?"  

The rights and privileges that freedom provides go hand-in-hand with obligations and responsibilities:  These include an obligation to provide for one's self, and the responsibility to be a contributing, law-abiding member of society -- and to raise his or her kids to do the same. 

Our pets have not yet evolved to that point.  Unfortunately, neither have some people.

Harry Walker

Pitman

Elect responsible Cumberland freeholders

To the Editor:

Taxes are too high, our streets are crumbling and businesses are closing. 

We hear this all the time in Cumberland County, and we need freeholders who will take action and get things done. That's why I am running for freeholder.

I am currently a Deerfield Township committeeman. I am a fourth-generation farmer and the owner of Sparacio Farms, a strawberry and vegetable farm in Rosenhayn. I am also a volunteer fireman there.

After high school, I enlisted in the Air National Guard. In 2014, shortly after filing to run for Deerfield Township Committee, I was informed that I would be deployed overseas. I proudly served my country and was successful in my first run for elected office. I currently hold the rank of master sergeant in the National Guard, and I am employed a firefighter at Atlantic City International Airport.

I am proud to run on the Republican ticket with incumbent Freeholder Tom Sheppard, who has voted against tax increases and has always put Cumberland County residents first. 

I have a deep love for my country and my community. I vow to fight to lead our county in a more productive and safer direction. I hope all voters will vote for me and Tom Sheppard on Nov. 8.

Joseph V. Sparacio

Rosenhayn

Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com

45 local artists crafted some amazing carvings

SALEM -- Meals on Wheels' Giant Pumpkin Carve benefit was a success, drawing about 3,600 people to the Salem County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept. 24. Funds for about 6,000 meals resulted from the event.

"Attendance was impressive again this year. We reached about 75 percent of the financial goal with all pre-event donations and proceeds from attendees," said Meals on Wheels' executive director Peg Marshall. "Marshall said. "Our deepest gratitude goes out to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, and donated to make this year's Giant Pumpkin Carve truly wonderful."

Spectators casted votes for their favorite magical pumpkins displayed in two barns. About 45 local volunteer artists crafted some of the most amazing carvings on 65 pumpkins as they competed to take home a prize. Nearly 120 volunteers as well as many non-profit community organizations assisted throughout the event this year. 

In her remarks to staff and volunteers before the event opened, Stacy Dempsey, chair of Meals on Wheels' Board of Trustees stated, "We rely on the generosity of the public and private donors to ensure our program continues to supply good nutrition and safety checks to area seniors and disabled residents. Thank you for all you are doing with the 20th Giant Pumpkin Carve to support the mission of Meals on Wheels in Salem County."

"Best of Show" was awarded to Delsea Schaffer of Carneys Point, for her creation, "The Fountain", featuring two tiers of water falling through three carved pumpkins. "Best Youth" was a tribute to wildlife entitled, "Turtle," carved by Khali Corbin of Pennsville. Kirsten Engstrom of Woodstown and owner of Zeus Creative Services, won "Best Professional Artist" category with her rendition, "Sugar Skull." Refer to the list for additional winners. 

Winners of the 2016 Pumpkin Pageant were escorted throughout the event to greet attendees: Marlena Harvey of Mannington, age 13, Pumpkin Queen; Savannah Sakaguchi of Carneys Point, age 12, Pumpkin Princess; and Pheobe Ogbin of Pennsville, age 7, Junior Princess.  Along with eight previous winners of the Pageant, the young ladies entertained attendees with various performances on the stage.  The Salem County K-9 Association provided an educational demonstration of their highly trained team of dogs for the crowd gathered there as well. About 15 children participated in a costume contest.

Three hayrides traveled throughout the fairgrounds, adding a fall atmosphere to the festivities. The fifth annual Fall Farmers Market featured 28 local businesses with an assortment of artwork, crafts, jewelry and produce. Bakers from the Fenwick Grange brought their best homemade baked goods to sell in support of Meals on Wheels. A pumpkin pie eating contest drew rounds of applause from attendees who watched 12 contestants devour freshly baked pumpkin pies. Pony rides were available for a free-will donation.

The "Monster Mash" dance contest, now a tradition for attendees, was led by a volunteer "witch" with the help of Jason Reese, owner of DJ Hybrid.  Children created crafts supported by volunteers of the Fenwick Grange and were entertained with a wide range of activities throughout the festival.      

Meals on Wheels welcomes feedback and/or participation in the 2017 Giant Pumpkin Carve committee to help keep the format fresh and the flow of activities enjoyable for everyone. To join the planning committee or to volunteer at the 21st Annual Giant Pumpkin Carve scheduled for Sept. 23, 2017 at the Salem County Fairgrounds, call 856-935-3663 or visit www.scmealsonwheels.org/events.

2016 Winners

Pumpkin Carve Winners

• Best of Show: No. 7 "The Fountain" by Delsea Schaffer of Carneys Point
• Scariest: No. 17 "Piranha Pit" by David Dorrell of Pilesgrove
• Funniest: No. 26, "Better Late Than Never" by Doug and Kevin Frank of Woodstown
• Prettiest: No. 25, "A Flower" by Hannah Ayars of Salem
• Best Youth Under 18: No. 5, "Turtle" by Khali Corbin of Pennsville
• Best Professional:  No. 16, "Sugar Skull" by Kirsten Engstrom of Woodstown
• Board of Trustees Choice: No. 9: "The Delivery Man" by Katie Bitter of Salem and No. 49 "Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin," by Tracy Johnson of Alloway

Pumpkin Pageant Winners

Pumpkin Queen, ages 13-16:

Queen: Marlena Harvey of Mannington, age 13

Pumpkin Princess, ages 9-12:

Princess: Savannah Sakaguchi of Carneys Point, age 12

First Runner Up: Juliane Parks of Pennsville, age 11

Junior Pumpkin Princess, ages 5-8:

Junior Princess: Pheobe Ogbin of Pennsville, age 7

First Runner Up:  Rylie Halter of Pennsville, age 8

50/50 Giant Pumpkin Raffle Winner:

George Wright, Ticket 586: $1,802.50

Pumpkin Pie Eating Contest Winner

Joel Dempsey of Woolwich Township

Haunted Hole-in-One Winner:

Rachel Holley of Penns Grove

This item submitted by Peg Marshall, Meals on Wheels of Salem County.

Cumberland County officials arrested 21 people in an investigation into a drug and gun trafficking ring.

BRIDGETON -- After an investigation spanning several months, Cumberland County authorities arrested 21 people allegedly part of a drug and gun trafficking organization.

The bust, called Operation That's All Folks, yielded nine handguns, one rifle, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, prescription drugs and $12,428. The 21 arrests were made between Sept. 28 and Oct. 4 by officials.

Involved in the investigation was Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Bridgeton Police Department, Cape May County Prosecutor's Office, Cumberland County Sheriff's Department, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office, Millville Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Vineland Police Department and Cape May County Mainland/Island Tactical Teams.

Multiple indicts in alleged Cumberland County drug ring

The following individuals were arrested in Operation That's All Folks:

- Kenneth Harden, 30, of Barbara Terrace, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs with the intent to distribute, drug possession and possession with intent to distribute. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bail.

- Andrew Harris, 29, of Wheaton Avenue, of Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possession drugs with intent to distribute. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

- Gerald Butler, 27, of South 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of a handgun, unlawful selling of firearm, drug possession, drug possession with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during a drug offense and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bail.

- Shamar Cotto, 21, of Gould Avenue, in Bridgeton, was charged with unlawfully selling firearms and unlawful possession of weapons. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

- Markese T. White, 27, of North 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with unlawful possession of weapons, unlawful selling of firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia and drug possession with intent to distribute. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $115,000 bail.

- Adam Yurdock, 23, of North 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with possession of a firearm while committing a drug offense, drug possession, drug possession with intent to distribute, possessing a firearm during a drug offense and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bail.

- Antwaun Coursey, 23, of Pampylia Avenue, in Bridgeton, was charged with possession of a handgun without a permit and conspiracy to sell a firearm. He was held in Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail.

- Ashley Neal, 29, of South 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with drug possession and drug possession within 500 feet of public housing. She was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

- Rafael Gonzalez, 22, of South 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with possessing a firearm while committing a drug offense, drug possession, drug possession with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bail.

- Phillip Jones Jr., 18, of South 3rd Street, in Millville, was arrested for an outstanding warrant out of Millville Municipal Court for $1,000.

- Saleek Thomas, 23, of Coombs Drive, in Bridgeton, was arrested for two outstanding warrants from Bridgeton Municipal Court for $751 and $550.

- Marcell White, 28, of South Burlington Road, in Bridgeton, was arrested for violating a drug offender restraining order and for an outstanding Burlington County warrant. He was held on $25,000 bail.

- Dion Jamison, 26, of North 2nd Street, in Millville, was arrested for two outstanding warrants from Bridgeton Municipal Court for $750 and a Glassboro Municipal Court warrant from $550.

- Tiffany L. Parker-Alexander, 29, of South 4th Street, in Vineland, was charged with possession of a stun gun. She was also arrested for outstanding warrants from Vineland Municipal Court for $1,501 and Pennsville Municipal Court for $550.

- Kayla M. Groff, 26, of Pleasant Drive, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Joshua D. Phillips, 32, of South 2nd Street, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Krista J. Rinaldo, 32, of Cedar Street, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Shane Berry, 23, of Brown Street, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Terri Simon, 41, of Battle Lane, in Millville, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Kevin J. McCarthy, 26, of Dolly Drive, in Vineland, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

- Christopher J. Applegate, 34, of Route 77, in Elmer, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs and released on a summons.

Two other suspects were arrested on Sept. 13., Tamora D. Richardson, 28, of North 4th Street, in Vineland, was charged with conspiracy to possess drugs, conspiracy to sell a firearm and selling a firearm. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $75,000 bail. Juan R. Velazquez, 26, of North East Avenue, in Vineland, was charged with conspiracy to sell a firearm and selling a firearm. He was held in the Cumberland County Jail in lieu of $85,000 bail. 

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

The accident happened on Interstate 295 in Pennsville at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday

 

PENNSVILLE TOWNSHIP -- One person was killed Wednesday evening after a tractor-trailer flipped over and landed on another vehicle, authorities said.

The accident occurred in the southbound lanes of Interstate 295 in Pennsville around 6:15 p.m., according to State Police. 

The accident closed the highway heading south for more than six hours.

State Police Trooper Lawrence Peele said the trailer section of the truck overturned near milepost 1.2 on the highway and landed on the front-end of a Nissan pick-up truck, trapping the driver inside. 

The driver, who has not been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene, Peele said. The tractor-trailer driver was uninjured.

Police were diverting traffic to Route 130. Peele said the highway would reopen by 1 a.m.

State Police are investigating the cause of the accident.   

Craig McCarthy may be reached at CMcCarthy@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @createcraig. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

The people and events that shaped Garden State history.

Welcome to the October installment of "This Month in N.J. History."

The gallery, which supplements our regular vintage photo galleries, is intended to offer a look at some dates that have historical significance in New Jersey.

MORE: Vintage photos around New Jersey

We will highlight topics such as politics, music, literature, sports, crime, entertainment and weather that made national news. Also, look for stories that made local news and the birthdays of New Jerseyans who made an impact in the arts, the military and space exploration.

If there are dates you don't see on our timeline but believe should be remembered, let us know in the comments section.

And, be sure to enable captions for the gallery so you can read all the information associated with each day in New Jersey history.

Here are links to previous "This month in N.J. history" galleries:

September       August       July

Greg Hatala may be reached at ghatala@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregHatala. Find The Star-Ledger on Facebook.

Here's a roundup of recent home sales in Cumberland, Salem and Gloucester counties.

South Jersey Times 

CARNEYS POINT TWP.

-- 334 S. Johnson St., Terry L. Gary, executrix, to Timothy R. Pankok for $124,900.

CLAYTON

-- 10 Fisler Dr., Paula Sweeten to Sheila M. and Christopher S. Rowand for $150,000.

COMMERCIAL TWP.

-- 1659 North Ave., Gilbert C. and Melissa Langlois III to John Lombardo Sr. for $111,000.

DEERFIELD TWP.

-- 365 Morton Ave., Dewayne D. and Yesina Robinson to Franklin S. Bacon for $253,000.

DEPTFORD TWP.

-- 453 Dogwood Dr., Calatlantic Group Inc. to Sharon Colangelo for $225,000.

-- 1018 Sussex Road, Jason J. and Kristen A. Wilson to Nicole Petrone for $173,500.

-- 204 Sickle Lane, Phyllis K. Chew to Crystal Lynn Keim for $135,000.

ELMER

-- 253 Broad St., Barbara Ranieri, executrix, to Robert and Joan Fisher for $50,000.

GLASSBORO

-- 218 Laurel Ave., Laura Lee and Aaron Harding to SJDCCO LLC for $100,000.

HARRISON TWP.

-- 304 Windsor Road, Brian and Lora Betz to Steven S. Simmons for $378,650.

HOPEWELL TWP.

-- 608 Shiloh Pike, Bruce T. and Zina L. Peterson to Preet Brothers Realty LLC for $375,000.

MILLVILLE

-- 700 Sparrow Lane, Landmark Development No. 4 LLC to Clavin Guilford for $172,000.

-- 443 Debbie Lane, John J. and Leslie Sluka to Frank and Jane Magazu for $160,000.

-- 506 Dock St., Fannie Mae to Tanja Hageman for $42,900.

-- 428 Carolina Lane, Willie J. Rivera and Christina Rivera-Rodriguez to Emmett McCoy Jr. for $215,000.

Woolwich property sells for $355K

MONROE TWP.

-- 912 Hampton Way, Independent Investors to Charles Faust for $72,750.

-- 1011 New Brooklyn Road, Jiva Holdings LLC to Elnese A. Smith for $179,900.

-- 1453 Glassboro Road, Kyle Diemunsch and Lea Lauletta-Diemunsch to Brett Hannah Holdings LLC for $370,000.

-- 46 Glasgow Road, Ryan D. and Holly Schureman to Carolina Monteiro and Catherine Monteiro for $235,000.

PENNS GROVE

-- 19 Pearl St., Castle 2016 LLC to Santiago Torres for $15,200.

PENNSVILLE TWP.

-- 85 Kansas Road, Fannie Mae to Dyani Davis for $25,100.

-- 9 Finns Lane, David M. and Shannon M. Cornette to Michael P. and Jessica L. Miller for $136,900.

-- 7 Lenape Dr., Keith and Melanie Elizabeth Wyckoff to Steven C. Dorazio for $165,000.

-- 17 Grove Road, Fannie Mae to Jennifer Zullo for $114,000.

PITTSGROVE TWP.

Gershal Ave., 1031 ESI EAT II LLC to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for $438,000.

SALEM

-- 392 Magnolia St., Patricia D. Crist, executor to Ralph and Susan Caione for $25,000.

-- 74 to 76 Hubbell Ave., Patricia D. Crist, executor to Ralph and Susan Caione for $30,000.

-- 40 Union St., Patricia D. Crist, executor to Ralph and Susan Caione for $25,000.

-- 37 to 39 Union St., Patricia D. Crist, executor to Ralph and Susan Caione for $30,000.

-- 62 Fifth St., Patricia D. Crist, executor to Ralph and Susan Caione for $25,000.

-- 215 Wesley St., Wilmington Trust National Association to Thomas Nunes for $8,000.

STOW CREEK TWP.

-- 865 Columbia Highway, Amanda F. Sawyer to Michelle D. DiMatteo and Dana W. Ford for $155,000.

UPPER DEERFIELD TWP.

-- 30 Partridge Court, Melissa R. and Thomas C. McMahon Jr. to Joe Anthony Rozier for $250,000.

-- 3 Henry Dr., Geraldine Rilley to Yun Lin for $319,000.

VINELAND

-- 2224 Brookfield St., Lindsay and Sean McCarron to Tracy D. Robertson for $245,000.

-- 1321 Kirkwood Dr., Beth A. and John F. Kennedy to Alexander Acosta for $205,000.

-- 2413 Madison Ave., Jeanne and William Bertoia to Barbara A. and Richard M. Pescatore for $575,000.

-- 719 Broadway, Abel Martinez Leon to Liesler Perez for $154,000.

-- 3154 Daldon Lane, Christopher Albrecht to Ana Z. Colon for $175,000.

-- 5171 Delsea Dr., John D. Shelson to Holly Anne Shelson for $87,000.

-- 1429 Woodland Ave., Brunos Foreign Car Service Inc. to 1429 Woodland Avenue LLC for $225,000.

-- 3362 Burnt Mill Dr., Jose Luis and Selenia Aires by attorney to Michael S. Wright for $185,000.

-- 1230 Holmes Ave., Anthony H. and Kathleen M. Vastano to Daniel and Misha E. Masino for $215,000.

-- 2253 Palermo Ave., Anthony J. Bacigalupo to Eric and Luz M. Gonzalez for $186,000.

WASHINGTON TWP.

-- 1608 Hawthorne Court, Michelle A. Burke to Danielle Marie Procopio for $150,000.

-- 2102 Tanglewood Court, ACDC Property Management LLC to Laura Hilyard for $147,000.

-- 83 Bells Lake Dr., Elizabeth S. McCalley to Francis X. Fisher III and Gabriel A. Fisher for $200,000.

WENONAH

-- 8 N. Marion Ave., Francis V. and Mary A. Clementi to Mary Elizabeth and Cameron Poore Cote for $325,000.

WEST DEPTFORD TWP.

-- 335 Coventry Court, Shore Management Co. of Delaware Valley Inc. to James P. Alexander for $98,950.

WESTVILLE

-- 235 Delsea Dr., Fannie Mae to Kellyanne Lunn and Courtney Lunn for $75,000.

WOODBURY HEIGHTS

-- 225 Cherry Ave., Ian and Shannon Enders to Brian Cross and Jessica Ryan for $202,500.

WOODSTOWN

-- 226 Borton Dr., Timothy Hunt Sr., Timothy Hunt Jr. and Marissa Hunt to Thomas B. Aitken and Tiffany M. Giacoboni for $199,000.

WOOLWICH TWP.

-- 801 to 808 Lexington Mews, Rayken Development LLC to JPO Lexington LLC for $240,000.

-- 226 Juniper Lane, Jared W. and Heather L. Camlin to John E. and Megan C. Zentz III for $280,000. 

South Jersey Times may be reached at sjnews@njadvancemedia.com. Follow us on Twitter @theSJTimes. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

The state's helicopter service hasn't operated in South Jersey since July 1.

It's been three months since the state-funded SouthSTAR helicopter has been grounded, leaving private medical helicopters to airlift seriously injured patients in the southern part of the state.

But three South Jersey legislators are arguing that the state's Department of Health should find a way to restart the service -- ended when no hospital wanted to staff the helicopter -- since New Jersey residents are still paying for it.

"Justifiably, our constituents take issue with not only the loss of service, but by the continuance of a state-imposed surcharge on motor vehicle registrations that is dedicated to this service to which they are no longer entitled to simply due to living in the southern part of the state," the 9th District Republican legislators wrote in a letter to Department of Health Commissioner Cathleen D. Bennett.

Sen. Chris Connors and Assembly members DiAnne Gove and Brian Rumpf penned the letter in September. They noted that their constituents are concerned that ending SouthSTAR service will impact emergency services in their area, despite the number of private helicopters operating there.

Why South Jersey Medevac stopped flying

The funding generated by the surcharge -- $22 million in 2015 -- means someone flown by SouthSTAR won't have to pay a cent.

If they are flown by a private helicopter, which all South Jersey residents now are, they are on the hook for whatever the hospital bills them for the ride. It can be thousands, according to multiple media reports.

Department of Health spokeswoman Donna Leusner said officials are "currently reviewing options" regarding SouthSTAR. She reiterated that the helicopters run by private hospitals are "abundant" and very capable of airlifting patients there.

"No medical calls have gone unanswered," she said.

The abundance of private helicopters is the main reason SouthSTAR is grounded, according to the hospital that used to run it.

For 28 years the state has operated NorthSTAR and SouthSTAR helicopters, as well as the communications system that dispatches and coordinates all emergency airlifts, whether by public or private helicopters. It is funded by a $3 surcharge on motor vehicle registrations.

New Jersey State Police provides the pilots, and hospitals submit bids every three years to staff the aircrafts with nurses and paramedics.

The hospital that always staffed the South Jersey aircraft was Virtua, but the health system did not submit a bid this year, saying it was no longer financially feasible to provide the service.

In a statement, the hospital said that the competition from private helicopters decreased SouthSTAR's flights from an average of 75 a month 10 years ago to around 14 a month in the first quarter of 2016. Without patients to fly, the hospital does not get the funds earmarked by the state for the service.

Leusner said the Department of Health has not received any other applications to staff SouthSTAR.

NorthSTAR continues to operate, which the 9th District legislators say means their constituents are being "underserved and treated disparately."

Hospital-run helicopters fight over air space

"There is a compelling argument that the SouthSTAR service is more critically needed in South Jersey given South Jersey's more rural geography," Connors, Rumpf and Gove wrote. "Helicopter transport may be in greater demand for persons requiring emergency medical care on account of the greater distances to medical facilities as compared to the northern part of the state which is more urbanized."

Leusner said that it is incorrect to say that South Jersey residents are paying but not receiving services, since their $3 fee goes to fund the communications system that dispatches private helicopters to emergencies everywhere.

However, patients in North Jersey who are airlifted by NorthSTAR will still not have to pay for it because the program funds cover their costs. In South Jersey, a free, life-saving ride is no longer an option.

Asked about that disparity, Leusner said, "The Department of Health does not regulate prices."

She also said she could not comment on whether the proliferation in private helicopters would affect the state's decision to continue operating NorthSTAR.

Private helicopters are not eligible for the funds generated by the surcharge.

Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

A ceiling collapse at the Salem Middle School caused students to be moved to four other locations in Salem City.

SALEM -- It could be spring before Salem Middle School students, displaced after a ceiling collapsed, may return to their classrooms, officials say.

"I would like for them to return back tomorrow," said Salem School District Superintendent Dr. Patrick Michel.

But Michel said Wednesday there is still a long road ahead until everyone from the middle school is under one roof again.

The students and staff were split up and moved to four city locations once it was determined the building on New Market Street wasn't safe.

The fallen ceiling was discovered on Sept. 19 in Classroom C-11.  That room, like others in the school had been outfitted with drop ceilings during renovations over the past decades that were attached to the original plaster and lath ceilings.

The collapse brought down about half of the ceiling in the room -- the drop ceiling along with a section of the original ceiling.

Students who had used that space and neighboring classrooms were moved, the superintendent said.

Engineers, building code officials and education officials all came together to assess the situation and deemed there was an "imminent hazard" to students and staff and they should be relocated, Michel said.

"We are not taking a risk with our children," he said.

The middle school building was built in 1912, according to records at the Salem County Historical Society, and served as Salem High School until the early 1970s.

As the need for space crew, wings were added to the original school around 1930, including the left wing where the ceiling collapse took place in the third-floor classroom.

When the decision was made on Sept. 23 to relocate the 375 students and 30-plus staff members the search began for local space to accommodate them.

The task involved city, state and county officials along with local business leaders. Michel praised the efforts of those who mobilized and took part in moving furniture and equipment from the middle school to the new teaching locations.

"It really warms by heart to see people come together for a common cause for our kids," Michel said.

Middle school students were out of class for three days until their temporary quarters were ready.

Here's how the school's students were relocated: Third graders went to the John Fenwick Academy, the district's elementary school on Smith Street; students in grades to 4 to 6 were sent to Fenwick Plaza on the corner of East Broadway and Walnut Street; seventh graders are in basement space at the Finlaw Building on East Broadway and eight graders are now at Salem High School on Walnut Street.

The job now, Michel said, is to get a firm assessment of what needs to be done to make the middle school safe for use.

The drop ceilings will need to be removed and the condition of the original plaster and lath ceilings they are attached to will need to be assessed. It's from there that decisions will be made on how what type of repairs would be required -- and how long it could potentially take.

Michel one tentative estimate from a building official was that it could be March before the school is back in order.

Along with finding space and moving furniture, there are other concerns still being addressed. Breakfast is being brought in for students in the Fenwick Plaza and Finlaw Building. The food now consists of cold items, but Michel hopes to begin providing hot meals.

There's also the matter of technology. Work is still underway to hook up computers.

Michel said staff "is improvising" the best they can, but "this is not a good situation."

State legislators from the Third District have also become involved in doing what they can to see the situation is resolved.

"We have been reassured by both the Department of Education and the School Development Authority that all resources will be brought to bear to bring that building back into service -- unless it can't be fixed," said Assemblyman John Burzichelli, D-3^rd Dist. 

Burzichelli said everyone involved in getting the students relocated and back to learning deserve credit.

"You never see this sort of thing coming, it was a complete surprise," the assemblyman said. "To react so quickly with such great community support to get the kids situated is pretty impressive."

Pumpkin is excellent for soups, cakes and pies

By Lorraine Kiefer

When the Frost is on the Punkin

 By James Whitcomb Riley

When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock, 
And you hear the kyouck and gobble of the struttin' turkey-cock, 
And the clackin' of the guineys, and the cluckin' of the hens, 
And the rooster's hallylooyer as he tiptoes on the fence; 
O, it's then's the times a feller is a-feelin' at his best, 
With the risin' sun to greet him from a night of peaceful rest, 
As he leaves the house, bareheaded, and goes out to feed the stock, 
When the frost is on the punkin and the fodder's in the shock...

When I was a kid I always remember my Dad and others saying "when the frost is on the pumpkin" and I think of it each fall when I see a frost on the pumpkins that sit along my walk and at the shop. Well I googled this and found the poem When the Frost is on the Punkin by American poet James Whitcomb Riley.

I have always loved pumpkins and have grown, used and written about them all throughout my life. I love the big lumpy bright orange Boston marrow pumpkins best and always get them for pie pumpkins for the shop and for me to cook. I use to grow them, but the last few years deer and or wood chuck have chewed into the ones in or around my garden. I did get a bin of them for the nursery and will pick out the biggest to cook and freeze for use all winter.

A new pumpkin for us this year is the Rouge vif d'Etampes (Cucurbita maxima). This is an old French heirloom once the most popular pumpkin in France and Europe. Pumpkins originated in the Americas with the oldest seeds from 7000 BC found in Mexico. Burpee seeds in the 1800s introduced them to Europe and this one became popular in Paris during 1880s. The name translates as "Deep Red" because when ripe the flesh is a deep color. It is  also known as "Cinderella Pumpkin" since the pumpkin turned into a coach in the fairy tale. This pumpkin is large and somewhat flattened with a ribbed look. People like its deep red/orange  color and it is excellent for soups, cakes and pie. I look forward to having a few on my cement bench and step along with the Boston marrow. I will spray with bleach or hot pepper to keep the squirrels from eating them!

Pumpkins are great for soups, cakes or pies or decorating for fall.Lorraine Kiefer 

You can save the seeds to plant next year when you cut your pumpkin.  Dry on a towel and then pack in a paper bag with date and name. Do not leave where a mouse can eat. Plant pumpkins in early July as they must have warm soil and hot temperatures in which to grow. Soak the ground twice a week, leaving a hose or drip line near the base of the plant. Try not to sprinkle the foliage as sometimes they get a fungus if too wet. Remember bees are needed for this and all other vegetables to take the pollen from one bloom to another so fruit will form.

I love reading about pumpkins and saw just recently that pumpkin puree mixed in with dog and cat food helps the pet with digestive problems. You have fiber when you cook and puree -- skin and all. 

Save leftover Halloween pumpkins to cook. If you have too many or they are getting mushy, they make great chicken food for November and December as they help maintain egg production. 

The native Americans used pumpkins well and even had medicinal uses to rid the body of parasites and other ailments. There is much information on the internet about this and also the story of the origin of the jack o lantern. Visit, www.hauntedbay.com.

I always teach a class on making a centerpiece in a pumpkin, although we once used a fresh pumpkin, now we use a ceramic. I will also serve my homemade soup and pie at an Oct. 25 class. Call 856-694-4272 to register or visit, www.tripleoaks.com.

To make a pretty centerpiece in a pumpkin, first cut the top from the pumpkin, remove the seeds and rinse the pumpkin with bleach. Place a wet piece of floral foam (oasis) in the opening of the pumpkin with at least 1-inch of the foam above the opening. This is so you can hang leaves, berries and other materials over the edge.  Pre cut blooms and allow them to sit in water and floral life to drink for several hours before placing in the foam. Grasses, pods, berries, colorful leaves and other natural foliages found in the garden work well.

Arrange the grasses, or other tall materials in the center for a centerpiece or in the back if it is to be a one sided arrangement. Place brightly colored mums, marigolds, carnations,dahlia and other fall blooms in a pleasing pattern, add berries, leaves, and other fall botanicals in an eye-catching manner. I like to add some extra long cinnamon sticks, a gingerbread man or two, an apple and even an artificial monarch butterfly. The arrangement will last for days, longer if you are careful to add water to the foam daily. To prolong life store in a refrigerator or cool porch or garage at night. Do not allow to freeze!

A delicious, creamy pumpkin soup can be made to serve from a pumpkin. Hollow out a pumpkin, keeping the top for a lid. Pour hot water in before serving the soup to make the container warm. Drain and fill with pumpkin soup. To make this look really festive first place the pumpkin in the center of the table or on a serving tray. Surround it with boxwood or arborvitae, then add heads of mums, berries, tiny gourds, persimmons, nuts berries from pyracantha, deciduous holly berries, cones, pods and any other colorful plant. I love to tuck in some bright leaves here and there to make this look like a lush botanical wreath. Serve the soup from this and top each bowl with a bright orange nasturtium if you still have them!

This is how I cook pumpkins the easy way 

Cooking pumpkins is easy if you cook with skin on. This is the healthiest way to use pumpkin as the fiber and many vitamins are in the skin. First scrub and cut out large hard blemishes. Then cut into medium size pieces. Put a little water on bottom of large heavy soup pot or Dutch oven, and steam until the pumpkin is soft. Drain most of water when cooked, but allow some to help the blender or food processor pulverize the pumpkin, skin and all. The skin is full of vitamins and fibers and should be used. Some people put the pumpkin through an old-fashion food mill with a crank handle; this works well and takes out some of the skin, but still retains a bright color and good flavor.

Easy Pumpkin Soup 

Be sure to serve in a hollowed out pumpkin, a favorite for fall events at our house  

About 8 cups chicken broth into which 3 Tbsps. flour has been whisked 
3 large potatoes chopped into bite size pieces 
4 carrots sliced small
2 peeled turnips (optional)
1 medium onion chopped small 
8 Tbsps. butter (1 stick) do not substitute
2 cups pumpkin (cooked or canned) or butternut squash
1 Tbsp. salt (less or more to taste )
1 generous handful of fresh chopped parsley to garnish 
1 tsp. nutmeg
Dash of white pepper
2 cups light cream, half and half or evaporated milk

Saute onion, carrots and potato in butter till light golden, add chicken broth, simmer until soft, add pumpkin and stir. Put in food processor or use hand emulsifier, add rest of ingredients and allow to simmer. Serve in a hollowed out pumpkin that has been warmed with hot water.

Sprinkle the soup with nutmeg, toasted pumpkin seed hearts or sunflower seeds and finely chopped parsley. Serve piping hot. This has become a holiday tradition in our house.

Lorraine Kiefer is the owner and operator of Triple Oaks Nursery in Franklinville. She can also be reached by e-mail at Lorraine@tripleoaks.

You don't have to be on the recruiting board of a Top 25 power to be a good football player.

If you live in South Jersey, your town may be on this list.

Nearly 1-in-4 women and 1-in-7 men are a victim of domestic violence

WEST DEPTFORD -- Senate President Steve Sweeney, Assembly Deputy Speaker John Burzichelli, and Assemblyman Adam Taliaferro are highlighting October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and encouraging residents to learn more about domestic violence prevention and the services offered by the State of New Jersey.

Domestic violence is defined as violent or aggressive behavior meant to establish control and fear in another individual. These behaviors include physical abuse, emotional abuse, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, threats, intimidation, economic control, child abuse and/or neglect.

"Nearly one-in-4 women and one-in-seven men are a victim of domestic violence," said Senate President Sweeney. "Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides an opportunity to educate the community on an issue that affects so many individuals."

 An increase in awareness for domestic violence in recent years has led to a growing number of resources to provide advocacy, counseling, and support to victims of domestic violence. The New Jersey Division on Women offers numerous programs and services to assist victims and provide information to the community.

"The Division on Women and the Office of Domestic Violence Services offer a variety of resources for victims of domestic violence," said Deputy Speaker Burzichelli. "There are programs in all 21 counties that offer services including a 24-hour hotline, counseling, legal advocacy, and community education."

"The New Jersey State Domestic Violence Hotline is a confidential, 24-hour service that provides crisis intervention, information, and referral services to domestic violence victims," added Assemblyman Taliaferro.

In addition, the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) works with state agencies to advocate and assist survivors of domestic violence. The NJCEDV offers 30 domestic violence programs statewide to individuals from all backgrounds and communities. These programs provide residential services, crisis services, individual counseling, outreach, advocacy, and legal advocacy services.

The New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline can be accessed toll-free at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233). For more information on the Domestic Violence Services offered by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families' Division on Women, visit http://www.nj.gov/dcf/women/domestic.

This item submitted by the Third District Legislative Office of New Jersey.