jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says there were so many detours in Bridgeton Friday that some devoted locals were seen shopping at the Greater Bridgeton Amish Market. — Good afternoon! — We'll guarantee two things ahead: 1. Taxes. 2. Cold. — Is there an apple turnover shortage in Bridgeton? The Amish Market didn't...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says there were so many detours in Bridgeton Friday that some devoted locals were seen shopping at the Greater Bridgeton Amish Market.

--

Good afternoon!

--

We'll guarantee two things ahead:

1. Taxes.

2. Cold.

--

Is there an apple turnover shortage in Bridgeton?

The Amish Market didn't have any left Friday afternoon.

We have also been shut out at Century.

--

How much trouble is Shep from Greenwich facing by the doctor cutting out caffeine for four weeks?

Read on.

"By the way, I drink more coffee in a few hours than most of you drink in a week.

"I start at 2:30 a.m. and drink it all day.

"I can drink the blackest, nastiest coffee at 11 p.m. and lay down and sleep until 2:30 a.m. or so.

"By the time most get up, I have had three quarts or more. I never had a cup until I was 27. Love it black and nasty.

"Hancock's had a large pot they started on Friday. It would last the weekend. Monday, they threw it out. I would be there to get it.''

-- Shep

--

This month marks the 100^th anniversary of Einstein's theory of general relativity and, throughout the century, the theoretical physicist's brain has been the subject of  much awe, speculation and scholarly research.

A few years ago, Frederick Lepore, a professor at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, succeeded in unearthing images of Einstein's brain presumed lost for more than 50 years, which led to new discoveries about its makeup. 

Lepore is now writing a book about the strange afterlife of Einstein's brain, which includes an autopsy in which the organ was cut into 240 pierces, the hunt for the missing brain photos and what new findings may reveal about true genius.

--

A night of laughs for the cause of a lifetime, taking place at The Broadway Theater of Pitman on Friday, Jan. 8 featuring Stand Up Comics Artie Lange, Jimmy Graham, Tim Grill and Steve Trevelise.

Proceeds will help those that have a family member in recovery to cope with the day-to-day expenses of supporting their loved one in their struggle to free themselves from their destructive behavior.

The four comics performing have all dealt with the struggles of addiction.

--

Bridgeton Area Chamber of Commerce will host N.J. Assemblyman Louis Greenwald at its annual membership luncheon meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at noon, at Centerton Country Club.

Members of surrounding chambers and the public are invited to participate in this special meeting.

The cost to attend is $25 per person and registration in advance is required.  Call the chamber office at 856-455-1312 or register and pay via www.baccnj.com. 

--

"Do you know that by trapping a cat or cats, and sending it to the shelter, that with a feral cat you are actually killing it  

"Do you know that the statistics are only slightly lower regarding a free-roaming cat?

"Do you know that once all the cats in your area are trapped and removed, that you will get more to move in? Just because you trap and send them away does not mean you will not have cats in your yard.

"It's called the vacuum effect. Cats are there because the area is prime real estate. It has food water and shelter available. 

"The only way to help with the cats is thru TNVR.

"You stop the reproduction of kitten litters, and let the originals live their lives and die of natural causes.

"Get real, people. Get educated on the facts before you act. Have questions? Carolscatz will answer them.''

-- carolscatz.com

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where we need to organize Team Shep to get him through this surgery.

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says it was 22 years ago that we covered 44 Bridgeton Midget Football games in one season over the regular season and playoffs, with all teams making the playoffs. — Good evening! — "Visited with Coach Hogan today. "He's really excited about leaving the rehab center and coming...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says it was 22 years ago that we covered 44 Bridgeton Midget Football games in one season over the regular season and playoffs, with all teams making the playoffs.

--

Good evening!

--

Millville High School Coach Bob Hogan and his right arm. Go to https://www.gofundme.com/vpa4jbbg.
 

"Visited with Coach Hogan today.

"He's really excited about leaving the rehab center and coming home. Sandy and the boys are preparing for this new phase for the Hogan family.

"Your kindness during this first week of the Gofundme project has been greatly appreciated. We are halfway to our goal! God bless you for your well wishes, cards and letters.''

-- Ron Vinick

--

We would suggest a donation box at the Thanksgiving Day game, but we would bet the hierarchy wouldn't allow it because it makes too much sense.

--

The Bridgeton Police Explorer Post No. 700 Explorers were given prestigious recognition by Mayor Albert Kelly as he made an official proclamation during the last city council meeting.

These young men and women were recognized for their efforts and service to the City of Bridgeton by donating their time in offering crossing assistance, parking assistance, manned barricade posts and other duties for the city. 

--

Dear Community Partners:

Normally, when I write to you I am requesting your time and/or funding for assistance in addressing the needs of our community.

However, this time I am requesting your prayers for Bethany Grace Community Church and any assistance you may be able to offer.

In October, we had an engineer come out to inspect a concern that we had in our church building. This concern has now forced us out of our main building for the past month as we evaluated options.

We are now undertaking emergency repairs to the building to secure the walls and foundation. Out of an abundance of caution, we are unable to occupy the building and now must undergo $30,000 worth of repairs.

We are currently worshipping in our Fellowship Hall, where we are continuing our outreach and relief ministries to the community.

As you know, Bethany Grace Community Church occupies an historic building in the middle of the poorest neighborhood south of Camden. Three years ago, we faced a decision to leave the property and build a church on the outside of town or remain in the present property. We decided to stay.

We decided to not only stay in our location, but we decided to swing open our doors, arms, and hearts to a community that struggles in so many ways by working alongside you.

We prayerfully decided that we would be a "battleship church" in boldly addressing the needs of our neighbors. BGCC offers a food pantry, clothing closet, professional clothing closet, showers for the homeless, meals for the homeless and poor, Code Blue facilities, and so much more.

By deliberate choice, we keep a lean budget, believing that the money that comes into the church is God's and not our own. Therefore, we send the money out to the needs in our area and around the world.

The repairs will deplete our reserves, but we know they are necessary for the safety of the congregation and the community.

It is our privilege to serve alongside you in this community. While this community faces problems, it has the tremendous heart to not only confront them, but to overcome them together.

We are continuing the work that has been started and growing where we are planted. We covet your prayers and thank you for your support.

Blessings to you!

In Christ.

-- Pastor Rob Weinstein

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where there are several churches for sale in Bridgeton.

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says if anybody is talking about the new charter school in Bridgeton, we haven't heard it. — Good morning! — We'll get a lot closer to Code Blue tonight. It could go down to 28 degrees in some areas. Code Blue is activated when the temperature is 32...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says if anybody is talking about the new charter school in Bridgeton, we haven't heard it.

--

Good morning!

--

We'll get a lot closer to Code Blue tonight. It could go down to 28 degrees in some areas.

Code Blue is activated when the temperature is 32 degrees with precipitation and 25 degrees without.

--

Where are the street lights for Spruce Street in Bridgeton?

Never were?

Darkness breeds crime.

--

Vandals ruin softball field in Elmer.

At some point last week, someone tore up the outfield of the softball field with and an ATV and motorcycle.

As we all know, there are kids who use the trail and come down to the ballpark on a regular basis.

Someone must know who did all this damage. Please tell Elmer Little League so that we can have them charged for this crime and so we can have their parents pay for the repairs.

Thank you.

-- Pittsgrove Watch

--

Virginia has become the first state in the U.S. to be certified as effectively ending homelessness among military veterans.

By incorporating the principles of Housing First throughout the commonwealth, and providing support services to help veterans maintain stability, 1,432 homeless veterans have been housed since October 2014.

The state's governor, Terry McAuliffe, announced in a ceremony last week that there is more permanent housing for any other veterans who may be found to be in need, and officials are moving to address homelessness in the general public next.

"On a day when we remember those who fought and died for our nation, I am proud to proclaim that Virginia is leading the way in the fight to end veteran homelessness," said Governor McAuliffe.

"This successful effort will serve as the launching pad for our next goal of functionally ending chronic homelessness among all Virginians by the end of 2017."

-- GoodNewsNetwork

--

"BEN,

"Salem American Legion Post 75 is preparing for the 2016 session of the N.J. Legion's Boy's State program.

"In June of each year, selected eleventh grade boys from all across the state are sent to Rider College for an intensive, week-long course in citizenship, government and leadership, plus some sports and fun. This excellent program has been run since 1946. 

"My oldest son attended in 1985. Applicants are selected by the teachers and counselors at their respective schools.

"We want to send at least two boys each from Salem High School and Salem County Vo-Tech.

"The State Legion bears much of the expense of the program, and the cost to the local posts is $250 per student.

"Now we are seeking patrons for this very worthwhile effort.

"Sponsorship contributions are tax deductible and are made payable to the local Legion post. Anyone interested in helping us may call me at 856-469-3314.''

-- George Marshall

Legion Post 75

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where what do you do when your family doesn't want you to play youth basketball, even though you want to and somebody is willing to pay for it?        

Ken Frank writes that even the White House gay-marriage rainbow sends the wrong messages to terrorists.

To the Editor:

President Barack Obama is a blind guide with a muddled mind. 

Just before the Paris attacks, he assured us and the world that ISIS was contained and on the run. He has no conception of the visceral nature of our enemy. They are primal and will kill anyone to advance their sick ideology.  

How tone-deaf is Obama? The kind of symbolism exhibited when he bathed the White House in rainbow colors following the U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding gay marriage was a huge sign of weakness and capitulation in our enemies' eyes. 

This man's agenda even trumps common sense and safety. He and his administration refuse to use the words "radical Islam." How can you eliminate an enemy that you decline to identify?  

Obama prides himself on being the champion of culture change. However, his obsession with being in vogue is akin to rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic: The party lights are on, and the passengers are fussing over and with each other. Yet, trouble is afoot that threatens to disrupt or even terminate the voyage. Our captain fails to assess the situation honestly as we sail into the night. 

Obama is a finger-in-the-wind kind of manager.  He may be a counter-culture hero, but he's an awful leader. He's a blind guide indeed.

Ken Frank
Pitman

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

Airlines need renewed vigor, and the public's help, in turning away would-be terrorists. But speaking Arabic alone is not enough to trigger panic at the gate.

There isn't much about air travel these days to make passengers feel comfortable. Wide fannies are crammed into skinny seats. Legroom keeps vanishing, since jamming more rows into each plane means more profit for the airlines.

The carriers' general feeling seems to be: "You want comfort? Charter your own plane. Can't afford that? Shut up and be happy. By the way, that'll be $5 for that half-can of Coke." 

So, why would airlines bend over backwards to ensure a comfort zone for customers who don't like that some their fellow fliers speak to each other in Arabic?

The incident in question involves a pizza shop owner and his friend headed back to Philadelphia after a visit to family in Chicago. According to a report on NBC10, Mahir Kahlil and friend Anas Ayyad say they were prevented at the gate from boarding their scheduled Southwest flight because another passenger who heard them talking in Arabic was uncomfortable taking the same flight.

The Palestinian-born shop owners consider this to be "profiling," although the men were eventually allowed to board. But, that wasn't until after Kahlil called 911, and police arrived to question the pair.

Since when does one jittery English-speaking passenger get to say who may board who may not? 

In a time of ISIS attacks on Paris, and on a Russian airliner, no one wants to step on good citizens' renewed resolve to practice a sensible "see-something, say-something" mentality. No quarrel here with the "uncomfortable" passenger for speaking up.

It's the airline's response that should get more scrutiny. One at the gate, and absent any specific suspicious behavior, Arabic-speaking passengers have been vetted through the airline's security, federal watch lists and the Transportation Security Administration's physical airport screening.

That's exactly what the Southwest gate agents should have told the questioning passenger. (As in, "Thanks for your concern, but ..." ) Why on earth should it take  police intervention to interview Kahlil and Ayyad -- probably not for the first time as air travelers -- and reinforce their right to board?

MORE: Christie flight delayed for hours as passenger removed

According to the WCAU-TV report, Southwest issued a fuzzy response stating that "passenger safety" was important to the airline, and that the boarding delay lasted only 10 minutes. But the same thing happened last week to Arabic-speaking passengers on a Southwest flight to Houston. Four Arabic-speaking passengers were actually booted off of a Spirit flight in Baltimore. Those incidents, though, involved activity that raised concern: a loud seating dispute in one case; a mistaken report about viewing an ISIS video in the other.

Even Israel doesn't hassle its residents based on Arabic alone. How could it? More than 20 percent of Israel's population speaks the language. 

Let's be vigilant in these scary times, but let's stay sensible enough to know the difference between legitimate security and profiling.

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

Evans Neale called the South Jersey Times on Wednesday, when I was off, and reported the unthinkable to Jane Humes.

View full sizeFormer Rowan University geography professor Marvin Creamer, the only person to sail around the world without navigational instruments such as a compass or radio, speaks to a geography class at Rowan, Thursday, Sept. 19, 2012. The 30th anniversary of Creamer's trip is approaching and he shared the details of his trip with the students. (Lori M. Nichols | For NJ.com)

When I last interviewed retired Rowan University professor Marvin Creamer, arguably the world's greatest sailor, he recounted this encouraging information provided by his physician:

"He told me I have a good chance of becoming the oldest man in the world," Creamer said.

And as of this writing, Marvelous Marv remains on a pretty impressive pace.

He will turn 100 on Jan. 26, an ageless wonder  who could easily pass for a 60-year-old. Or younger.

"He's just an amazing guy," says close friend Ralph Harvey of Malaga, who attended the recent monument dedication to Creamer at Rowan and was enthralled by his 15-minute speech.

So recent reports of Marvin's passing were, happily, decidedly exaggerated.

MORE: Man who sailed the globe nominated by New Jersey Hall of Fame

Evans Neale called the South Jersey Times on Wednesday, when I was off, and reported the unthinkable to Jane Humes.

Times file photosThe Globe Star heads into port on May 20, 1984.

It was not good news.

It was announced in Neale's church that Creamer had "died recently." Dejected, I called Neale, who confirmed what he told Humes.

I was flabbergasted. Marvin wouldn't miss his 100th birthday party, would he? Not this way.

But wait. I made several calls, one to Rowan sleuth Joe Cardona, who was able  to determine that, in fact, Creamer was alive and well and living in his retirement home at Pine Knoll Shores, in the North Carolina Outer Banks.

If you've resided in Siberia for over 30 years, there's an outside chance the name "Marvin Creamer" escapes you.

MORE:  Professor tells of circumnavigating the globe by sailboat

From December 1982 to April 1984, he sailed the Globestar around the world without the use of navigational instruments in an historic and unprecedented feat. Can you top it? It may be the greatest personal achievement in Gloucester County history. The history of the world?

He's now lived an additional 31 years to tell and retell his remarkable story.

That's great news.

But now Marvin the indestructible can do you one better.

Bob Shryock may be reached at bshryock@njadvancemedia.com. Follow South Jersey Times on Twitter @TheSJTimes. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says it's all about expectations when Kevin McHale gets fired by the Rockets for losing four games in a row, but the Sixers haven't won since March and no one is on the hot seat. — Good afternoon! — One day, Thomas Edison came home and gave a...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says it's all about expectations when Kevin McHale gets fired by the Rockets for losing four games in a row, but the Sixers haven't won since March and no one is on the hot seat.

--

Good afternoon!

--

One day, Thomas Edison came home and gave a paper to his mother. He told her, "My teacher gave this paper to me and told me to only give it to my mother."

His mother's eyes were tearful as she read the letter out loud to her child: "Your son is a genius. This school is too small for him and doesn't have enough good teachers for training him. Please teach him yourself."

After many, many years, Edison's mother died, and he had become one of the greatest inventors of the century. One day he began looking through old family things. Suddenly he saw a folded paper in the corner of a drawer in a desk. He took it and opened it up. On the paper was written: "Your son is addled (mentally ill). We won't let him come to school any more."

Edison cried for hours and then he wrote in his diary: "Thomas Alva Edison was an addled child that, by a hero mother, became the genius of the century."

-- Debbi Boykin-Greenberg

--

"Whatever happened to men being men?

"How could you sit around all day and watch a woman work to keep the lights on?

"How could any man sit around waiting to get money from his woman and she's holding down the kids and crib! You been down all year, that's your fault! Get off the couch and go get any job!''

-- John Fuqua, Bridgeton youth activist

--

Warm a Heart will be hanging donated items at the Bridgeton Pocket Park, Laurel and Commerce streets, in time for the winter weather.

Children in Bridgeton are in need of warm winter accessories.

Last year, 150 people took refuge in a warming center when a Code Blue was issued.

Help keep the cold out for need in need by donating hats, scarves, gloves and mittens. No tears, holes, stains or discoloration.

Email swantracy@ymail.com with your donation information or if you want to hang the accessories in the picket park.

Drop off at Gateway Community Action Partnership, 110 Cohansey St., or make arrangements for pick-up.

-- Mayor Albert Kelly

--

Get out to and support Millville Senior High on Monday night and come watch the powderpuff game.

Juniors vs. Seniors.

The girls play the football and the boys compete in cheerleading.

You won't be disappointed.

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where the boys will get the pulled muscles.

The dead woman, Kawana S. Perry, left the vehicle her husband was driving and began walking around the roadway on Interstate 495 in New Castle, Delaware, and was hit.

NEW CASTLE, Del.  -- A woman who was walking in the lanes of Interstate 495 early Sunday morning was struck by a vehicle driven by a New Jersey man and later died, authorities say.

A Maryland woman died after being hit while walking in the lanes of Interstate 495 in Delaware. (File photo). 

According to Delaware State Police around 1:45 a.m., Kawana S. Perry, 30, of Colora, Maryland, exited the vehicle which her husband was driving and began walking southbound on Interstate 495 near the southern Interstate 195/295 split.

A 2010 Hyundai Elantra, being operated by John A. Hutt, 22, of Pennsville was traveling southbound on I-495 in the left lane and struck Perry with the left front corner of the car, throwing her onto the left shoulder, state police said.

Hutt stopped in the left lane of Interstate 295, authorities said.

Perry was taken to Christiana Medical Center in Newark, Delaware, where she was pronounced dead, according to police.

ALSO: 9-1-1- worker drove 14-year-olds on vandalism spree, cops say

The Delaware State Police's Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing the investigation into this incident. I-495 at the I-295 split was closed for approximately two hours while the crash scene was investigated and cleared, according to police.

Authorities said Hutt was wearing his seatbelt and was uninjured in the crash.

Police said it has yet to be determined why Perry got out and began walking on the roadway, but alcohol may have played a factor in Perry's actions, police said.

No charges were filed.

Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow South Jersey Times on Twitter @TheSJTimes. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says just because 651 students have applied to the new technical school in Cumberland County and the first class can only hold 200. — Good afternoon! — It's going to be beautiful on Thanksgiving Day. — At the All Sports Museum of Southern New Jersey on Burt Street...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says just because 651 students have applied to the new technical school in Cumberland County and the first class can only hold 200.

--

Good afternoon!

--

It's going to be beautiful on Thanksgiving Day.

--

At the All Sports Museum of Southern New Jersey on Burt Street in  Bridgeton:

In addition to hosting an induction ceremony for former Phillies slugger/outfielder, Greg " Bull" Luzinski on Saturday, April 9, at 11 a.m., there will also be an induction for former Philadelphia Flyers' center Rick MacLeish on Saturday, Jan. 23, also beginning promptly at 11 a.m.

The public is invited to help celebrate in all inductions held at the museum.

--

"That's about all I have left -- love and loyalty in my daughters and our fur family.

"Also a few friends I can count on one hand.''

-- Gloria Cortez,

Bridgeton south side activist

--

Shep hasn't lost his sense of humor yet, despite having to give up drinking gallons of coffee for four weeks prior to surgery.

--

Cleaning up a property in Salem City.
 

"The Saturday morning clean-up crew helped a new homeowner clean up their property in Salem.

"Thank you to all who helped.

"The new owners were very thankful.''

-- Matt Hassler

--

That's all it takes.

While others are complaining, others are working to make the neighborhood better.

--

They don't come any better looking that the three beauty queens who came to the 92.1 FM studio on Saturday to discuss their roles in Project Thanksgiving.

After being interviewed and showing their resolve in helping wipe out hunger, they spread out to Bridgeton and Mullica Hill to collect turkeys for Thanksgiving.

With them was Alex Kaganzev, who is Mr. Project Thanksgiving in South Jersey.

In previous years, Venice Italian Eatery in Pitman prepared up to 3,000 meals to be delivered to the hungry, and Bridgeton Councilwoman Gladys Lugardo-Hemple delivered 200 of them.

The eatery has since moved and was unable to provide accommodations this year.

But the turkeys keep coming as the crowd goes wild.

--

We expect to see these girls down the road in more pageants.

They are focused, and we need to copy the blueprint to get more kids to turn out the same way.

--

How much blame do you put on teachers for students failing?

If it's a lot, let's do a test.

We'll take all the teachers at Haddonfield High School, rated No. 2 in the entire state of New Jersey, and switch them with the Camden High School teachers. 

Camden High was ranked last among 339 schools in 2014.

At the end of one year, let's see how much the ratings have changed.

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where why don't the people who are the most critical of others in office run to replace them?

The fire was first reported around 7:15 a.m. It was declared under control shortly before 9 a.m., authorities said.

SALEM -- A fire ripped through a duplex on the city's north side early Sunday morning leaving heavy damage in its wake.

The first alarm was sounded around 7:15 a.m. for the blaze at the Victorian home at 293-295 Gibbon St.

Washington Fire Co. Battalion Chief John A. Pelura III classified the origin of the fire as "suspicious."

He said the home was unoccupied.

Flames were reported to have been shooting out of the upper stories of the home when the first firefighters arrived.

The top portions of the attic area appeared to be most heavily damaged with the flames eating through the east and west sides of the roof and through top windows at the top of the duplex.

ALSO: Chapter closed on murder case that prompted bloody Salem-Camden feud

The house is located where Gibbon Street dead-ends against the marsh. An empty lot between the site of the fire and the next-door house provided firefighters extra space to work from.

Pelura said no one was injured fighting the blaze.

The fire was declared under control shortly before 9 a.m.

As of Sunday afternoon, the cause of the fire had not yet been determined. Officials from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety were aiding in the probe.

Pelura said one of the duplex's side doors was open when firefighters arrived. It also appeared that work was being done in one side of the building.

Along with the Salem Fire Department,  among the others responding were the Pennsville Fire and Rescue Co. , the Fenwick and Elsinboro ambulances and Salem's Canteen 6.

Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow South Jersey Times on Twitter @TheSJTimes. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says if there is one person who can face a major setback head on — like a church that suddenly needs $30,000 in repairs — it's Pastor Rob Weinstein of Bethany Grace Memorial Church, 31 N. Pearl St., Bridgeton. — Good morning! — Oh, no! We know Pepi...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says if there is one person who can face a major setback head on -- like a church that suddenly needs $30,000 in repairs -- it's Pastor Rob Weinstein of Bethany Grace Memorial Church, 31 N. Pearl St., Bridgeton.

--

Good morning!

--

Oh, no!

We know Pepi Dragotta as both a long-time Midget Football coach. 

"Pepi Dragotta ... went into cardiac arrest on the soccer field while playing a parents vs. the kids game with his 8-year-old son, Hunter.

"Pepi is only 39 years old and is an amazing husband and father to his three beautiful children.

"Fortunately, lots of other parents were there so once they realized he had collapsed, they checked for pulse and started CPR immediately. EMS arrived and had to use the defibrillator on him while waiting for the ambulance. 

"Soon after, the helicopter came and he was airlifted to Cooper Medical Center.

"He is facing quadruple bypass surgery.

The goal is $5,000 with $2,275 raised in 22 hours.

Go to https://www.gofundme.com/x5bba22s?rcid=301ce08745ad437ea848c1ac376fa12b

-- Jennifer Cline Federico

--

Pepi Dragotta has touched a lot of lives both in Bridgeton and Pittsgrove.

Here is a chance to give back.

--

And speaking of Midget Football:

"You know you're in football country when the city midget league championship game is on TV and they have a band.

"Ronnie Marino always wanted the Junior High Band to play at our Bridgeton Midget Football games.''

-- Linda Solanik,

Bridgeton Midget Football

in Altoona, Pennsylvania

--

At the New Jersey Motorsports Park:

Turkey Scramble at Field of Dreams

Friday, Nov. 27
Open Practice Tracks/Trails
Gates open at 9 a.m.

Saturday Hare Scramble (Woods & Extended MX Track) Nov. 28

Note: This is a dead engine start race

Parade Lap(s) start at 8:30 a.m.

Classes, Times, Duration
Race 1, 25 minutes, 10 a.m. (Extended MX track only)
4-8 50cc race bikes
4-8 oil injected/shifter

Race 2, 30 minutes, 10:30 a.m.
7-11 65
7-12 Air cooled 0-110cc

Race 3, 30 minutes, 11:30 a.m.
10-15 85/150
12-15 air cooled 0-150cc
10-15 women beginner

Race 4, 30 minutes, 12:30 p.m.
All C
30+ Vet C
40+ Vet C
Women

Race 5, 45 minutes, 1:30 p.m.
All B
30+ Vet B
40+ Vet B
50+ Vet B

Race 6, 45 minutes, 3 p.m.
All A and AA
30+ Vet A
40+ Vet A
50+ Vet A

Saturday Hare Scramble on Extended Track and Trails
$10 Admission for racers and spectators age 12+
$5 for children 6-11
5 and under free
$35 for 50cc classes (30 minutes)
$35 for Youth classes (30 minutes)
$35 for C classes (30 minutes)
$35 for B, A, AA classes (45 minutes)
Sign up from 7 a.m. to 30 minutes before scheduled race start time.

Sunday Extended Track MX Race, Nov. 29
National and Vet Track combined into 2-plus mile MX Track
Regular classes and 1-moto race format

Practice starts at 8:30 a.m. and races begin at 10 a.m.

Classes & length of moto
A&B 20 minutes moto
All other classes 18 minutes moto

Sunday Motocross Race + Open Practice
Extended 2-mile track
Extended 1-moto format
$10 admission for racers and adults
$5 admission for children 6-11
Free for children 5 & under
$35 per race class.

--

"Last Thursday night, I was invited to attend the South Jersey Baseball Oldtimers Banquet that was held at St. Michael's in Gibbstown.

"About 100 loyal baseball fans supported the event and listened to Chris "Wheels" Wheeler give an update of Phillies past, present and future. It was a great time renewing friendships.''

-- David Hitchner,

Bridgeton Invitational Baseball Tournament

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where between the Invitational and All Sports Museum of Southern New Jersey, Dave Hitchner is a busy man.

Eagles cheerleaders perform during game against Buccaneers.

PHILADELPHIA -- The 2015 Eagles Cheerleading squad performed during a 45-17 Eagles loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday afternoon.

Buccaneers rookie quarterback Jameis Winston threw for 246 yards and five touchdowns while Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez finished with 261 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions.  

MORE: Eagles' good, bad and ugly from loss to Tampa Bay

The next time the squad takes the field will be on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 1 p.m. as the Eagles host the Buffalo Bills. 

Look for photo galleries of the squad and the game action throughout the season on nj.com.

Tim Hawk may be reached at thawk@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @photogthawk. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Salem County Rewind offers a unique look back at Salem County history through photographs and news items from a century ago.

In this feature, which appears each week, we present a vintage photo of Salem County (along with a large number of other vintage Salem County photos in our accompanying gallery), and Salem County history tidbits.

SALEM COUNTY PICTURE FROM THE PAST

This vintage photo from Salem County shows the north side of East Broadway in downtown Salem. Unlike many of the photos we share with you, this one is actually dated 1905. That's 110 years ago. While more than a century has passed since the photo was taken, possibly from the balcony of the Nelson House on the south side of the street, some of the buildings still stand today. At far left is the Union Fire Hall which today is the Salem City Fire Museum. Next to that is the Dunn Building which is still there. Among the others seen in the row, some have been replaced and others remain in a renovated or decaying state. (File Photo)

SALEM COUNTY HISTORY

Looking back 100 years ago in Salem County for this week in 1915, these news items were included in the Salem Standard and Jerseyman. They appear throughout the week today in print in the Times in our Salem County History feature.

*

Paul Erhardt at 193 East Broadway in Salem is selling new Victrolas ranging from $15 to $200 -- cash or on time. He also carries 3,000 records in stock.

--

Some say the sweet potatoes and yams from this season's crop are especially tasty.

--

More ladies around the county are being spotted behind the driver's wheel of automobiles.

--

Additional train cars loaded with coal have made their way from the mines to Salem County towns as merchants continue to lay in extra stock for the upcoming winter.

ALSO: Salem's historic Mt. Pisgah A.M.E. Church marks 215 years

Gunners are saying they are having better luck with fowl than with deer in their outings.

--

We have heard of some from the county who will take work during the Christmas season with the large Philadelphia department stores.

--

Many area farmers, now that the season is over, are picking up extra money with a side job at the DuPont Powder Works.

Bill Gallo Jr. may be reached at bgallo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow South Jersey Times on Twitter @TheSJTimes. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Maybe it's enough to have a safe place to be, decent nourishment for the body, love to nourish the soul, and honest work to nourish the mind.

Mayor Albert Kelly 

By Albert B. Kelly

If you're reading this, then you know we're looking up the barrel at another Thanksgiving Holiday, a time of the year when we pause, reflect, and maybe cultivate and nurture a sense of gratitude, the giving of thanks, for people and things in our lives. 

If that fails, there's always eating like a gluttonous Roman while watching football and then shopping 'til you drop, secure in the knowledge that you've done your part to ensure that retailers the world over get off to a good start on fourth quarter earnings.

It's certainly hard to drill down on Thanksgiving and get intimate with the real meaning of the holiday when stores are pushing us out the door to start Black Friday on Thursday. That's why recently I was pleasantly surprised to learn a few things about the country of Bhutan. 

I'd never heard of Bhutan before and except for an article by journalist Madeline Drexler from a publication called "Tricycle" that a friend shared. I would still be in the dark about this country of 742,000 at the eastern end of the Himalayas.

According to the piece, Article 9 of the Bhutan Constitution says, "The State shall strive to promote those circumstances that will enable the successful pursuit of 'Gross National Happiness.'" Imagine that.

To me, living in a country and culture that measures success and the good life in materials things (think Gross Domestic Product or GDP), seeing "Gross National Happiness" enshrined in a constitution is kind of surprising...but in a good way.

Of course that leads to the question of how a person defines "happiness" and how you would go about measuring how much of it you actually had once you got around to defining it. But to me, it seems a good thing to wrestle with because it makes you think about what you really value in life.

In visiting Bhutan and speaking with its residents, Madeline Drexler noted in her article that when it came to defining happiness, there was something of a difference between older rural citizens and younger urbanized residents.

Older villagers pointed out that as long as they had food, water, fire, and shelter they had what they needed and happiness was more about compassion and being good at heart. In contrast, younger Bhutanese struggle with unemployment, drug abuse and related issues of modern life much as we do.

MORE: Homeless need to stop using ambulance as taxi service

It wasn't always that way in Bhutan. Over the last few decades, modernity changed everything. My guess is that urbanization and material growth, stuff most young Bhutanese are expected to embrace, changed expectations and assumptions and when that happens, the difference between wants and needs gets fuzzy.

This fuzziness between wants and needs happens all the time. It's why holidays get commercialized and monetized, why many measure happiness by the amount of stuff they have, why the average family carries thousands in credit card debt, why shopping is an addiction for some, why a 2-year-old iPhone is no longer adequate.

It is worth noting that also enshrined in their constitution, Bhutan requires that no less than 60 percent of the land must remain under forest cover (what we call open space), there is no capital punishment, there are roughly 16 recognized holidays and "domains" like good governance, balanced use of time, cultural and environmental preservation are the support beams that hold up the framework for "Gross National Happiness."   

They may not always achieve their goals and they have problems to be sure, but the idea that these things, above purely material stuff, is the constitutional soil to cultivate the idea of national happiness -- what we might call quality of life -- it gives them a good filter to distinguish the important from the unimportant

My take away, as we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas beyond, is that happiness, like thankfulness, is easier to come by if not tied to material prosperity. Sometimes it's enough to have what we truly need, which is often far different than what advertisers say we need.

Maybe it's enough to have a safe place to be, decent nourishment for the body, love to nourish the soul, and honest work to nourish the mind.

If there's anything more, maybe it's having ample opportunities to do kindnesses to others as a way to nourish the spirit. Thankfulness, at least the kind that sticks around for a while, comes from within and it's hard to measure, whether in Bhutan or here in in Bridgeton. Here's to a Happy Thanksgiving.      

Albert B. Kelly is mayor of Bridgeton. Contact him by phone at 856-455-3230 Ext. 200.

Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times atletters@southjerseymedia.com

Woodstown High School's Class of 1960 celebrated its 55th reunion at the Creekside Inn  in Woodstown. In 1960, Democratic U.S. Sen. John F. Kennedy is elected over Republican U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon, to become the second youngest man to serve as president of the United States. Lucille Ball filed for divorce from Desi Arnaz after 19 years of...

Woodstown High School's Class of 1960 celebrated its 55th reunion at the Creekside Inn  in Woodstown.

In 1960, Democratic U.S. Sen. John F. Kennedy is elected over Republican U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon, to become the second youngest man to serve as president of the United States. Lucille Ball filed for divorce from Desi Arnaz after 19 years of marriage and Elvis Presley returned home from Germany, after being away on military duty for two years. U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Civil Rights Act of 1960 into law. MGM's "The Wizard of Oz" was rerun on CBS only a year after its previous telecast, thus beginning the tradition of annual telecasts of the film. The American Football League is established as a rival league to the NFL. The Dow Jones hit a high of 685 and the cost of a new home was $12,700 and the average income was $5,315. A gallon of gas was 25 cents and a new car cost $2,600. 

Pictured, first row, Faye (Hannah) Crispin, Anne (Hitchner) Skinner, Marcel (Hymer) Lewis, Linda (Foote) Cunard, Irene (Smith) Jones, Janet (Schober) Reed, Gerry (Cartella) Spuler, Eileen (Hackett) Blum, Bonny Lea (Flitcraft) Sheffield, Janet Nichols and Joyce (Simons) Guillano.

Second row, Bob Duffield, Jim Eller, Augusta (Mehaffey) Sukeforth, Abby (Hart) Burk, Mary Beth (Sickler) Gannon, Joy (Radcliffe) Gemberling, Judy (Ferguson) Hemple, June (Foote) Ostrum, Margaret (Hall) Norton, Karen (Helget) Caltabiana, Carol (Lovell) Penn, Beverly (Steward) Wordsworth, Judy (Seagraves) Butler, Pat (Ceasar) Pierce, Joyce (Skinner) Miller, Kathy (Hutchinson) Delaney, Roy Williams, Joan (Hannah) Banick and George Marshall.

Third row, Melvin Mixner, Art Dawson, Clyde Keaton, David Michael, Paul Duffy, Buddy Heil, Lilton Turner, Frank Powell, Donald Skinner, Ken Wilson, Richard King, Walter (Sonny) Foote, Doug Clark, William Scurry, Ronald Nipe, Richard Blum, David Harvey, Alan Newkirk and Bill Chew.

 

Under the sponsorship of the Woodstown Rotary Club, the Salem American Legion Band will present its Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the Salem County Vocational Technical High School, 880 Route 45, Woodstown. The band is under the direction of Patricia D. Bullock. The program will begin with "O Come All Ye Faithful" which includes antiphonal trumpets...

Under the sponsorship of the Woodstown Rotary Club, the Salem American Legion Band will present its Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the Salem County Vocational Technical High School, 880 Route 45, Woodstown. The band is under the direction of Patricia D. Bullock.

The program will begin with "O Come All Ye Faithful" which includes antiphonal trumpets and trombones. This is followed by the beautiful "Panis Angelicus" performed by the brass section of the ensemble. Two traditional Christmas numbers will be signed by flutist Alicia VanCleve who will be accompanied by the band.

Vocal soloists include Ron Bascone singing "Blue Christmas" and Ken Dennis singing "Christmas From the 50's." Peg Wills will surprise and delight the audience with a comic Christmas number. The audience will be asked to join in singing a medley of traditional Christmas Carols. The program will conclude with "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson and "Sounds of Christmas" arranged by John Wasson.

The concert is free and open to the public. Ample parking is available at the school and the building is handicapped accessible. For additional information, call 856-935-0293.

 

sc

Michael J. Napuda has joined the law firm of Masten and Ray of Pennsville in the general practice of law. Napuda initially will concentrate in the fields of municipal, county and governmental law, and in the matrimonial and criminal areas. The old-line firm represents Pennsville Township, The Pennsville National Bank and Penn Bancshares, together with a wide range of...

Michael J. Napuda has joined the law firm of Masten and Ray of Pennsville in the general practice of law. Napuda initially will concentrate in the fields of municipal, county and governmental law, and in the matrimonial and criminal areas.

The old-line firm represents Pennsville Township, The Pennsville National Bank and Penn Bancshares, together with a wide range of general practice including workmen's compensation and automobile negligence. It currently consists of three attorneys, Donald L. Masten, Walter J. Ray, and Karin M. Wood.

Napuda graduated from George Mason University in 2011 cum laude with a degree in finance and from Widener University School of Law in Wilmington, Delaware, cum laude with a Juris Doctor in May 2014. Prior to joining Masten and Ray, he interned with the Delaware Office of the Attorney General and the Salem County Division of the Superior Court.

Napuda grew up and still resides in Pennsville. He is the son of James and Lori Napuda and grandson of George Napuda and Thomas and Joan Caulfield and fiance of Tomi Pangburn.

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com Web: nj.com/ben Cellphone: 856-237-6645 U.S. Army: RA13815980 The column that says the last time the Sixers won a championship, they had Dr. J and Moses Malone, and how far away are they from matching that feat again, if not this year? — Good afternoon! — "Thank you to Christine Tolbert and everyone that stopped by to see us...

 

jhummel@njadvancemedia.com

Web: nj.com/ben

Cellphone: 856-237-6645

U.S. Army: RA13815980

The column that says the last time the Sixers won a championship, they had Dr. J and Moses Malone, and how far away are they from matching that feat again, if not this year?

--

Good afternoon!

--

"Thank you to Christine Tolbert and everyone that stopped by to see us at the Code Blue/Celebrating Our Veterans donation drive and also to Plowman's Windows & Doors for hosting the event. in Millville.

"I also want to thank Bacon School for their donations, as well!''

-- Derick I. Glenn,

Celebrating Our Veterans

--

Somebody called Salem's Matt Hassler an awesome leader for the way he pulls people together.

Here was his response:

"I will take the compliment. However, I have said it before I will say it again. 
I am more of a coordinator. 

"You guys are great to work with. 

"We are serving a greater cause. 

"Thanks for the inspiration and motivation.''

--

More than one-third of all food produced worldwide is wasted each year?

That's hard to do.

We really have to work at it, don't you think?

--

Sitting by the side of the road in Greenwich Township, perhaps waiting for the person who left him there to return.
 

"This dog was sitting by the side of the road in Greenwich Township on Stathems Neck Road near Gumtree Corner.

"He had a dog bowl near him. Info was sent to me by a friend to post. Taken to the Cumberland County SPCA.''

-- Gail Ward

Lost and Found Pets in Cumberland County NJ.

--

Who does this?

Maybe a person who can no longer afford to take care of their pet and who can't afford to turn it in to the SPCA.

--

Ask for help.

--

Girl Scout Troop 54120 is collecting donations for the Cumberland County Homeless Shelter.

The items should be travel size when possible to fit in a bag that will be assembled in a kit by the girls for the residents. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 19. However, we will be glad to accept items, of any size, at any time for the shelter.

The current drop off location is Paula Austin State Farm, Carll's Corner. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but closed for lunch from 1 to 2 p.m.

Items needed are: Band-Aids, bar soap, chap stick, comb, conditioner, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, girls hair bands, hair brush, hand sanitizer, hand towel, hand wipes, hand/body lotion, shampoo, soap container, toothbrush, toothbrush holder, toothpaste, travel tissues, washcloth.

When appropriate the items should be for a man, woman or child.

Additional items that will also be welcomed are diapers any size, twin sheets, blankets, pillows, pillowcases and laundry detergent.

The girls have a goal to assemble 75 kits for the residents, 25 for men, 25 for women and 25 for the children. In addition, they have designated money from last year's cookie sales to apply toward any additional items that may be needed.

Please share this post with your friends and family. One item from each person can make a huge difference in someone's life that is less fortunate. Thank you!

-- Girl Scout Troop 54120

--

"Bridgeton Midget Football League wants to thank everyone who came to this week's fundraisers. 

"Saturday's paint party was held at Cafe Antonio's. All who attended had lots of fun.

"Who knew we had so many artists?!''

--

MY KIND OF TOWN: Where how are we coming with the new bleachers for Salvy Blandino Field?

A Penns Grove man was charged with robbery and simple assault after he allegedly stole an iPhone from a store and assaulted an employee as he fled, township police said.

LOGAN TWP. -- A Penns Grove man was charged with robbery and simple assault after he allegedly stole an iPhone from a store and assaulted an employee as he fled, township police said.

Tyquan Gary, 28, of Penns Grove, was charged with robbery and simple assault after he allegedly stole an iPhone from a store and assaulted an employee as he fled, Logan police said. (Salem County Correctional Facility)
 

Tyquan Gary, 28, is accused of stealing an iPhone 6s valued at $700 from Mobile Works on Beckett Road on Oct. 30.

He was arrested several days later with the help of Penns Grove police and placed in Salem County Correctional Facility on $10,000 full cash bail.

In other Logan police news:

• Police charged a 21-year-old West Deptford woman will harassment following an investigation at a Bridgeport residence on Oct. 31. She was processed and released pending court.
• Police investigated a road rage incident in which a Logan man was allegedly threatened by another man following an event on Village Center Drive. Police spoke with those involved and neither chose to pursue charges.
• Police investigating a property dispute on Veterans Drive charged a 30-year-old Penns Grove man with possession of marijuana on Nov. 2. He was also found to be wanted by the Gloucester County Sheriff's Department. He was placed in Salem County Correctional Facility.

MORE: N.J. man charged in bank robberies denied bail cut

• Several windows and sections of fence were reported broken on Abbey Lane on Nov. 2. Damage was estimated at $350.
• Kennard Carr, 36, of Clayton, was charged with theft of moveable property and unlawful taking of a means of conveyance after he allegedly stole a 2004 Chevy Malibu from a co-worker while working on Heron Drive. The unoccupied car was later recovered by Woodbury police. Bail was set at $15,000, but Carr remained at large as of this report.
• Someone broke into a home on Route 322 by breaking out a bedroom window, the victim reported to police on Nov. 6. Nothing was reported stolen.
• Police charged a 46-year-old Logan Township man with driving while intoxicated following a complaint of an erratic driver on Paulsboro Road on Nov. 7. He was processed and released pending court.
• A filing cabinet and antique wardrobe were reported stolen in a home burglary on Route 322. The crime was reported Nov. 10.
• Police charged a 22-year-old Woolwich man with shoplifting from Rite-Aid on Village Center Drive on Nov. 11. The man allegedly attempted to steal two items valued at $24 by concealing them in his sweatshirt. He was processed and released pending a court appearance.
• A Logan woman told police that an acquaintance stole several checks from her, forged her signature and cashed them in amounts totaling $4,000. Police are investigating the case.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

 

Elaine Lore writes to say she is ashamed of the hate being spewed by some of those seeking the presidency.

To the editor:

I am so ashamed of my America or, should I say, certain portions of it.  There is so much hate being spewed forth in the name of keeping us safe, so much so that it has even permeated those seeking the highest office in the land.  How sad. 

We need to really reassess what made our country great.  Perhaps we need to seek out the elder members of our society to speak out about their ancestors coming here as refugees and also how they remember the mistakes made by our country when we acted out of fear and misunderstanding of the danger we faced. 

We all need to take a hard look in the mirror to see if this is really the America we want,  constantly acting out of fear and exuding such hatred toward people for no fault of their own.  For those who want to label and limit who is accepted based on religion, we must acknowledge that when we start questioning anyone's motives based on religious affiliation, we are diminishing our own Christianity.

If one feels that we shouldn't rescue any of these people, then why not just drop a bomb on Syria and call them all 'collateral damage.' How absolutely inhumane!  We could get rid of ISIS and everyone else in one fell swoop. 

Democracy is messy, slow and expensive, but isn't it the grounds on which our country was founded? There are thousands of groups in this country that are fronts for different kinds of hate. Is this the America we want?

It would be most enlightening if everyone were to read the editorial in the South Jersey Times from Nov. 19 outlining the long process involved in accepting refugees into the United States. I commend the Times for publishing this editorial.

Elaine H. Lore

Pitman, NJ 

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