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Hall of fame nominations sought | Bob Shryock

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Glassboro High School is seeking nominations for its 2016 Sports Hall of Fame induction class.

HEADSHOTS Bob Shryock.JPGBob Shryock 

Marilyn Ramos, one of the most gifted and most competitive golfers in the region, has taken full-time residence in Florida, ending an era of dominance locally in the woman's game.

In his weekly newsletter to Pitman Golf Course players, PGA professional and course manager Orist Wells highlights Ramos. Her 2015 season was one of her best, featuring ladies' club championships at both Pitman and Running Deer. Her litany of winning also includes titles at the old Woodbury Country Club.

Wells' Q & A reveals Ramos has played the game nearly 50 years, averages three or four rounds a week, and her handicap index is currently 10.8. She said driving the ball represents the strongest part of her game.

Not many can match Ramos' hole-in-one output. She has eight, several of which she recorded at Pitman, where, almost a half-century ago, she learned to play the game.

A taskmaster, Marilyn told Wells she'd like to see the PGA and LPGA tours impose stiffer penalties for slow play.

She has played many of the world's great courses, including old St. Andrews and Merion, plus rounds in Hawaii, California and Arizona.

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Joe Schultes was a close friend and poker pal who was responsible for the building of the Woodbury World War II memorial on Evergreen Avenue in the city, earning him the initial Greater Woodbury Chamber of Commerce Founder's Cup.

A native of National Park, Joe played football at Woodbury High School in the 1940s, was the self-proclaimed No. 1 Notre Dame fan in captivity, and followed family members in their athletic endeavors. His son, Matt, one of the top QBs in Gateway history, currently is an officer in the Touchdown Club of Southern New Jersey.

The Wenonah resident passed away a few years ago, meaning he missed the athletic exploits of Gateway three-sporter MacKell Schultes, his granddaughter, leading scorer (nearly 20 points per game) and all-around standout for the Gators' girls' basketball team.

No one would have been prouder of her achievements than her granddad.

Joe was talking at poker about her abilities in all sports when she was just a toddler.

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Glassboro High School is seeking nominations for its 2016 Sports Hall of Fame induction class, which will be honored at  an October banquet and football game.

Glassboro HIgh alums and fans can secure nomination forms from hall of fame committee members or find them on the district website. Nominations are due April 30.

The hall of fame started honoring standout athletes, coaches and contributors about 40 years ago.

"The dinner is now a Glassboro tradition just as is the excellence in our athletes and athletic programs," says Dave Kalapos, committee chair.

Besides Kalapos, the committee includes Pete Calvo, Bill Clark, Bob Cleary, Jeff Cusack, Lou Fior, Gwen Haliburton, Joe Herrschaft, George Johnson, Ed Keith, June Longely, Jack McCulley, Barry Rappaport, Jody Rettig, Sean Redman, Dr. Danielle Sneathen, Charles Smith, and Anna Stewart Miller. The committee is seeking new members. If interested, call Jody Rettig at 856-652-2682.

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

Area organizations offer long-term and short-term bus trips

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Area organizations host bus trips

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Area organizations schedule bus trips:

ATLANTIC CITY -- Paulsboro Seniors have a bus trip to Resorts Casino the first Monday of every month and you don't have to be a senior to come. Resorts now has been remodeled and there is very little walking. Food and slots are right off bus parking area. Cost is $25 and you get $25 in slot money. Bus leaves at 12:30 p.m. from the Senior Center on Broad Street. Every trip has a $1 chance you can win a free trip for the next or cash. Call Janet at 856-423-0832.

MACKINAC ISLAND -- The Millville Senior Center will be traveling to Mackinac Island in Michigan from Sept. 11 to 17, 2016. Bus leaves from the Millville Public Library. Guided tour of Mackinac Island by horse and carriage, 500 locks cruise in Sault Sainte Marie,  Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Colonial Michillmackinac Park, Mackinac Island Ferry ride, to name just a few of the sites you will see. Six breakfasts and four dinners included. Cost is $599 per person, double occupancy for seven days and six nights. For further information and reservations contact Sylvia Stites at 856-825-6085.

SIGHT AND SOUND THEATRE -- St. Clare of Assisi Parish will be sponsoring a trip to Sight and Sound Theatre, Lancaster, Pa. on March 30 to see 'Samson.'  Ticket price includes, show, dinner, transportation and gratuities. Adults, $100, child (4-12) $60. For more information call Annamarie 856-952-1476 or Grace 856-371-0382. A $25 deposit is required, checks can be made payable to: St. Clare of Assisi Parish, 140 Broad St. Swedesboro, NJ 08085. Attention, Grace.

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Bus trip on April 30 to Washington, D.C. to Holocaust Museum and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. White House tentative (based on approval). Trip sponsored by Wesley AME Zion Church, 204 Sunset Road in Burlington. Departure at 6 a.m. Cost is $125 (children 12 and under are $65). Price includes lunch. Payment plan available. For further information call:  Josephine Adams 609-387-1465 or Geri Fields 609-706-1444.

NEW YORK CITY -- Ramoth Church (Vineland Nazarene, 2725 N. Delsea Drive in Vineland) is sponsoring a New York City Bus trip, Saturday, April 2. Depart from church at 8 a.m. and return at 8 p.m. Choice of drop off locations: Radio City, Central Park or Canal Street. Cost is $45 (non refundable) per person and includes transportation, coffee, donuts, water, snacks and driver gratuity, door prizes and movie on ride home. Contact, Shelly Peterson 856-358-9124 

HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE -- Incarnation Seniors are hosting a trip on March 15 to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse for lunch and a show ("Spreading It Around"). The cost is $85 dollars and the bus will leave the church parking lot at 240 Main St. in Mantua at 8:30 a.m. Contact Lou Mozer for reservations, 856-415-9348.

SIGHT AND SOUND -- Incarnation Seniors are hosting a trip to see the 11 a.m. show of "Samson" on June 2. Lunch at Shady Maple. Cost is $100. Bus will leave from Incarnation Church parking lot at 240 Main St. in Mantua at 8:30 a.m. Contact Lou Mozer for reservations, 856-415-9348.

 

Hospital heavyweights merging, report says

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Kennedy Health is in negotiations to merge with Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, according to a report on philly.com.

Kennedy Health is in negotiations to merge with Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, according to a report on philly.com.

Kennedy Hospital sign.jpg

The report cites unnamed industry sources, noting that officials from both entities declined to comment on the matter

Kennedy Health spokeswoman Nicole Pensiero reiterated that "no comment" when contacted Thursday afternoon.

"Kennedy has nothing to report at this time," she said.

If the deal goes through, it would give Jefferson 2,487 licensed beds and $4 million in annual revenue, according to the philly.com story.

Kennedy Health has 607 beds across its three hospitals in Washington Township, Stratford and Cherry Hill. Kennedy reported $540 million in revenue in 2014 and employs 4,470 in its hospitals and other facilities.

Jefferson offers services at five primary facilities, including Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Jefferson Hospital of Neuroscience, both in Center City Philadelphia. In New Jersey, it operates Jefferson at Voorhees.

If the Kennedy deal goes through, it would be the latest in a series of Jefferson mergers.

Jefferson signed a merger agreement with Aria Health earlier this week, according to the Philadelphia Business Journal. Aria operates two hospitals in Philadelphia and another in Bucks County. Jefferson completed a merger with Abington Health in 2015, bringing two Montgomery County hospitals info the fold.

Kennedy most recently made news when CEO Joseph Devine announced his opposition to Rowan University's plans to sell land to Inspira Health Network for construction of a new hospital in Harrison Township, Gloucester County.

Devine argued that this location, roughly 6 miles from Kennedy's Washington Township hospital, would be harmful to Kennedy and put jobs at risk. After hearing from Devine, Rowan's board of trustees tabled the land sale and will revisit the subject in February.

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

Atlantic City preps for weekend storm flooding with row boats, high-rise parking

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Forecasters are warning about record-setting flooding along the Jersey Shore — with predictions for Atlantic City including high tides above 7.8 feet. Watch video

While the inland areas of South Jersey are worrying about how much snow is going to fall from Winter Storm Jonas, the Jersey Shore is more worried about how high the tide is going to be.

Forecasters are warning about record-setting floods along the Jersey Shore -- with predictions for Atlantic City including high tides above 7.8 feet.

In Atlantic City, Office of Emergency Management officials are preparing by securing parking for residents at The Wave parking garage, setting up an emergency operations center at Atlantic City Medical Center, taking down traffic lights before they are damaged by winds and talking to Bass Pro Shop about borrowing some row boats in case of flooding.

"We're jut trying to prepare for the worst and making sure we have assets in place," said Angelo DeMaio, Office of Emergency Management director for Atlantic City.

The possibility of shelters being set up at local schools is also being explored while officials have the chance to make plans.

Over at Lucy the Elephant in Margate, her caretaker Richard Helfant spent Thursday walking around the pachyderm and making sure she is sealed up.

"She's weathered much worse than this but we just need to make sure whatever we can do better secure her we do," he said.

In municipalities along the coast, Office of Emergency Management and Public Works crews have been meeting and following the forecasts -- attempting to plan for any eventuality.

The tide is expected to be at its highest Saturday morning around dawn, according to Cape May City Manager Bruce MacLeod.

Cape May is preparing by placing generators at police, fire and public works centers in the city.

"The beaches are a concern," MacLeod said. "If there's major erosion, and in some cases when that happens, it will create what is commonly referred to as scarping."

Scarping is when high cliffs are cut into the dunes by wind and water, which makes it dangerous for people walking there.

Ocean City officials have been warning residents about moving cars to high ground.

"We're anticipating that flooding will be the biggest impact," said Doug Bergen, spokesman for Ocean City. "The beach crews will be out and will push some sand on the dune path openings, which is customary for big tides."

At Grassy Sound Marina in North Wildwood, where a home fell into the sound during Hurricane Joaquin, Debbie Mooers and her husband Jim are glad that the boats are gone for the season. That frees them up to worry about their own boats and docks -- securing them from flooding and wind.

"For Sandy we had 60 boats in the water to take over of before we were able to prepare buildings," she said.

With everything secured, Debbie and her husband have nothing left to do but to wait it out and pray it turns out OK.

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Delaware Bayshore concerned more about winter storm flooding than snow

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While heavy snow and high winds are expected to be a problem, Delaware Bayshore communities worry about flooding caused by high tides. Watch video

.It's not just the foot and a half of snow expected to fall this weekend that officials in Cumberland and Salem counties are worried about.

Winter Storm Jonas combined with a full moon is expected to spell trouble in the vulnerable, flood-prone areas along the Delaware Bay and river.

"We're about as prepared as we can be," Downe Township, Mayor Bob Campbell said Thursday.

After seeing his Bayshore towns of Fortescue, Money Island and Gandy's Beach devastated by Superstorm Sandy, any weather event like the weekend winter storm that's bearing down on the region is a worry.

"I'm concerned about the tides, the full moon and the winds," said Campbell.  What's worse is there's the prediction that the storm surge produced by the storm might rival that from Sandy.

While dunes, berms and seawalls in the township have been repaired since Sandy, Campbell still worries about "weak links" along the shore let by homeowners who haven't repaired theirs.

He said officials spent Thursday afternoon photographing township beachfronts along the bay so if there is severe erosion, they will have documentation needed to apply for aid to rebuild.

Cumberland County Deputy Administrator Kim Wood said along with Downe Township, the Bayshore towns of Greenwich, Fairfield, Lawrence, Commercial and Maurice River will be watched.

"Tidal flooding is a big concern," Wood said.

Executive Director of Salem County Emergency Services Scott Haines said the threat of flooding appears it is not as great as originally thought, "but the high tides at 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday are our biggest concerns."

Pennsville Chief of Police Allen J. Cummings said along with the heavy snow he is expecting flooding in the township which borders the Delaware River.

Extra police will be on patrol this weekend, he said, to deal with storm-related issues.

Upriver in Gloucester County officials are also keeping an eye out for rising waters.

In Greenwich Township, where flooding is often a problem, the local government is keeping an eye on the impending storm and it's possible effects, even despite the forecasts that flooding will probably be isolated to the shore areas.

"I don't think we're going to get the flooding since it's mostly going to be on the ocean side, but there's probably going to be a problem with icing," Mayor George Shivery said. "But we've been through it so many times we're going to keep an eye on it ... on the sluice gates."

With 12 to 18 inches of snow predicted from the winter storm along with howling winds, the recipe is right for blocked roads and downed power lines.

Officials say they are ready.

"The Salem County Office of Emergency Management is working closely with the freeholders, county administration and the county Road Department to assure preparedness in advance of the storm," said Haines.

"We will continually monitor the weather and adjust plans as needed. If needed, the Emergency Operations Center will open in a limited capacity on Saturday morning and remain in service until the situation is resolved."   

"Our Public Works and Road Department have completed their storm preparation and our county is ready if we receive the anticipated storm," said Salem County Freeholder Ben Laury.

Crews were scheduled to put down brine on county roads, evacuation routes and roads that lead to the hospitals Thursday and Friday ahead of the storm.

"We have full capacity of salt in our main and satellite locations if the need should arise," county freeholder Director Julie Acton said.

In Cumberland County, all county roads have already been brined, Wood said, and the salt supply is full.

The Sheriff's Department will have its four five-ton emergency vehicles ready for staging throughout the count and will assign five Humvees to Sheriff's Officers Friday so they an move essential personnel as needed, Wood said.

Wood said emergency management and other county officials were meeting late Thursday and would meet again Friday to finalize plans for the snowstorm this weekend. The same scenario was to play out in Salem County.

Joe Delmar, spokesman for PSEG Nuclear said the storm isn't expected to have any impact on the operation of its three nuclear plants in Lower Alloways Creek Township.

"We continue to monitor the weather conditions and have implemented the next phase of our severe weather guidelines. Based on the current forecast, we do not see any potential challenges to our operations," Delmar said.

Delmar said the company's main concern is the safety of its workers at the site of the plants in Lower Alloways Creek Township and keeping walkways and parking lots clear of snow. Some designated employees may be asked to stay overnight, but a final determination on that won't come until Friday.

An army of workers will be on hand to keep the Delaware Memorial Bridge open through the nor'easter, according to Delaware River and Bay Authority Spokesman Jim Salmon.

The twin spans, a key link on the Northeast Corridor, would only be closed if sustained winds exceed 50 mph or extreme ice conditions form, Salmon said.

DRBA employees will also be clearing and treating bridge approach roads, lots and roads at its two Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminals and its five regional airports.

Word of other closings ahead of the storm are already coming in.

Salem Community College officials announced the school would be shut down Saturday and Sunday.

Word also came that the Cowtown Farmers Market in Pilesgrove Township, which rarely is closed by the weather, won't open this Saturday.

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

Take this week's New Jersey news quiz

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Do you have a perfect score in your this week?

Time to see how well you know New Jersey news that doesn't involve the coming winter storm. Answer the seven questions below, which are based on popular NJ.com stories from the past week. Once you're done, share your score in comments to see how you stack up with other NJ.com users. Have you got a perfect score in you this week?

John Shabe may be reached via jshabe@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter and find NJ.com on Facebook.

 

Feds probe fatal Bridgeton police shooting, official says

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Two federal agencies have reportedly launched a probe into the two Bridgeton officers who were cleared by a grand jury last year. Watch video

NEWARK -- Despite a grand jury's decision late last summer not to indict two Bridgeton police officers in the December 2014 fatal shooting of Jerame Reid, two federal agencies have launched an investigation into the case, Bridgeton City Mayor Albert Kelly confirmed on Thursday.

Jerame Reid - File Photo.jpgPictured is Jerame C. Reid, 36, of Bridgeton - the man who was fatally shot by Bridgeton police officers Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014, at the intersection of Henry Street and South Avenue, following a motor vehicle stop. 

"I'm aware there's a federal investigation, but not having reviewed everything, it would not be appropriate for me to comment at this time," Kelly said.

In an email obtained by NJ Advance Media, Thomas Eicher, chief of the criminal division in the U.S. attorney's office wrote to two community leaders saying, "Our office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have opened an investigation into the facts and circumstances of the shooting death of Mr. Reid."

The email, sent on Dec. 29, was addressed to Walter L. Hudson, chair of the National Awareness Alliance, and Larry Hamm, chair of the People's Organization For Progress, both of whom have been advocating on behalf of the Reid family. The two men said Eicher had been in contact with them over the past couple of months, keeping them informed of any developments.

Eicher, in the email, added: "As I mentioned in our meeting in September, we will notify the family of the results when the investigation is completed. If there is any new information that you or the family want to be considered in this investigation, please contact me."

Hamm said he was very surprised to hear that the FBI and U.S. attorney's office had initiated an investigation.

Reid, 36, was shot and killed on the night of Dec. 30, 2014, by Bridgeton police officers Braheme Days and Roger Worley during a traffic stop.

The two officers are still on paid administrative leave, according to Bridgeton police Chief Michael Gaimari, who was not aware of a federal investigation.

It is unclear if the officers will return to active duty.

In late August, about a week after a Cumberland County grand jury declined to indict Days and Worley, Reid's family, Hudson and Hamm called on the U.S. attorney's office to launch an investigation.

"We had several discussions over the course of about one or two months," Hudson said.

Then, in September, Hudson, Hamm and members of Reid's family met with Eicher and investigators at the U.S. attorney's office in Newark to discuss the matter.

Hamm and Hudson were both surprised how knowledgeable the officials were with the Reid case.

"They were very in tune with what was going on," Hudson said.

Recalling portions of the meeting, Hudson added: "When Larry and I were speaking, they would finish our sentences for us. So we left with a good impression that they ... had done their homework."

Investigators told them they'd keep in contact and let them know about any further developments, Hudson said.

But the extent of the investigation and where it will ultimately lead remains unclear.

Hamm said he would like to know whether the investigation that was cited in the email was an official probe or merely a preliminary investigation.

Will Skaggs, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office, declined to comment, saying that as a matter of office policy, he would "neither confirm nor deny" that an investigation had been launched.

As for the FBI's involvement in the matter, Special Agent Mike Whitaker, a spokesman for the FBI Newark Division, said the agency would also "neither confirm, nor deny" an investigation that "may or may not" exist.

Though Hudson and Hamm were enthused by the letter, they nevertheless remain skeptical that something would ultimately come of an investigation.

They both had hoped for an indictment in August and, like many in the community, they were disheartened by the grand jury's decision.

"As an advocate, I always hold a certain amount of reservation because my main concern is what will the results be," Hamm said.

Reid's mother, Shelia Reid, of Newark, was a little more skeptical of what will result. She said she spoke over the phone with one of Eicher's associates about two weeks ago, and though she too believes this is a positive step in ultimately obtaining justice for her son, she was cautiously optimistic at best.

She said the associate also told her that they possibly would have a status on the federal investigation at the end of the month.

"They are investigating, but I'm still waiting for an answer," Shelia Reid said, adding, "If he doesn't give me an answer soon, we will be protesting in front of the federal building."

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

DRPA finds new ways to lose public confidence | Editorial

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The handling of a proposed $40,000 raise for the CEO suggests that the port authority's culture hasn't improved much.

Never say that Camden County Freeholder Jeffrey L. Nash went to law school for nothing. In fact, if Hillary Clinton becomes president, Nash could trade one of the current hats he wears -- Delaware River Port Authority vice-chairman -- for a perfect job in the new administration.

He could be in charge of parsing First Husband Bill Clinton's words, should the former president get into Monica Lewinsky-type trouble again.

Here's Nash's defense of a $40,000 raise that the DRPA's board of

PATCOjpgA PATCO train pulls into the station in Collingswood. The rail line is operated by the Delaware River Port Authority. (Alex Young | For NJ.com) 

commissioners wants to give CEO John Hansen, after less than two years in the title:

"It's not a raise per se," Nash said at the board's Wednesday meeting, explaining that the bump would raise Hansen's pay to the same amount as his CEO predecessor. "(Hansen's) earning the same amount of money he was making in his former title." 

Admit it. Doesn't it sound similar to Bill Clinton's infamous "It depends on what the meaning of the word 'is' is..." answer to a question about whether he'd had improper relations with Lewinsky?

When is a raise not a raise? When "is" means something other than "is," we suppose.

Maybe Hansen, after just 22 months on the job, deserves a salary exactly equal  to what John Matheussen was earning ($219,474) after 11 long years as CEO.  

It's true that Hansen, who served the DRPA for years as chief financial officer, received no raise in his $180,081 salary in March 2014 when "CEO" was added to his duties -- and no raise since. But leave it to the DRPA to turn this into a public relations and public accountability mess. In the end, the board tabled the raise.

A "raise" is a "raise." To say otherwise is disingenuous. DRPA Chairman Ryan Boyer tried to make the same distinction as Nash, but without Nash's rhetorical elegance.

And why was Hansen's raise tabled? It hadn't been approved by the DPPA's labor committee, something that is supposed to occur before the full DRPA board votes on a pay increase.

Has this bi-state agency has learned nothing after it was criticized repeatedly for not following its own rules and polices -- or lacking clear policies?

Nash tried to make the scuttled vote a moment of DRPA purity:

"This raise did not go through the process, and one of the great things we've accomplished over the last several years is that we do have transparency," he said.

So how did the raise get on the full-board agenda in the first place?

It will take much more work to convince bridge toll payers and PATCO riders that the DRPA is a bastion of "transparency." This week's events hindered that goal, rather than helping it. Perhaps Gov. Chris Christie, who once advocated substantial DRPA reforms, will revisit his more recent and complete disinterest in changing how the place operates.

Gallery preview 

Little league sign ups, Friends of the Library, Bayshore volunteering: BEN Column, Jan. 22

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The column that says we were due to pay for those warm December days.

The column that says we were due to pay for those warm December days.

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Good morning!

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Code Blue remains active through Sunday.

BEN LOGO.jpeg 

Bridgeton's warming center is located at Bethany Grace Community Church at 31 North Pearl Street.

Vineland's warming centers are located at the First Presbyterian Church at 800 East Landis Avenue from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and at Church of the Resurrection at 8th and Wood streets for overnight hours.

Millville's warming center is located at Central Baptist Church at 9 North 2nd Street.

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"Can you give a shout out to hunters that are missing their furbabies to please come for them before they get hurt or killed by a vehicle? The temps are also dropping and it's too cold for furbabies to be outside plus they need food and water."

- Gail Ward

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"Hey Everyone, (Jack Hummel) got his hip replaced today and he is doing fine. Should be back to it in no time."

- Courtnee Hummel, Jack's daughter

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The 68th Millville Elks Annual Sports Frolic is scheduled for Feb. 1 at the Millville Elks Lodge.

The event includes a social period from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and a dinner at 7 p.m.

This year's special speaker is Mitch "The Wild Thing" Williams.

Awards will be handed out for Old Time Athlete/Service to Youth.

Tickets cost $30 and can be bought by calling Rob at 609-247-4402, Kevin at 609-805-3013 or Elks at 856-825-9854.

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Looking for a job? There is a job fair at the Holly City Family Success Center on Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, call 856-794-8282 or visit www.accustaffing.com.

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Registration is coming up for West Cumberland Little League at 469 Greenwich Road.

Registration is scheduled for Feb. 2, Feb. 9 and Feb. 16 from 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. It's also scheduled for Feb. 6, Feb. 13 and Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Parents should bring proof of residency, birth certificate and health insurance information for their child. Registration costs are $75 for the first child, $65 for the second child, $55 for the third child and free for the fourth or more child. T-ball is $55 per child. There is also an additional $35 refundable volunteer check per family.

For more information, visit www.wcllnj.org or the West Cumberland Little League Facebook page.

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"Bayshore Center at Bivalve announces its annual volunteer training program for individuals interested in learning the ins and outs of sailing and maintaining the 1928 oyster schooner, the A. J. Meerwald. BCB also trains volunteers as museum docents, oral history interviewers and educators for their Delaware Bay Museum & Folklife Center. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the center and also help with basic administrative and facility maintenance tasks."

- Chase Jackson

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The training is scheduled for Feb. 13 at 9.m. at the Bayshore Center at Bivalve at 2800 High Street Port Norris.

For more information, contact Chase Jackson by calling 856-785-2060 ex: 108 or email volunteer@bayshorecenter.org.

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"All sorts of books, tapes and videos will go on sale Saturday, Jan. 30, the first day of the Friends of the Bridgeton Library Used Book Sale.

"Beginning at 9 a.m. on Jan. 30, the sale, in the Library located at 150 E. Commerce St., will continue into the next week from Tuesday, Feb. 2 through Saturday, Feb. 6.

"Sales hours correspond with the library's hours: 10 to 8 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 9 to 5 on Friday; and 9 to 4 on Saturdays.

"All children's books will sell for 25 cents each; magazines will be 10 cents each; paperback books, 50 cents each, hardcovers, $1 each, videos, $1 each; and large coffee table type books are between $2 and $5 each depending on size and condition.

"The week following Feb. 6, all material still remaining will go on sale for two bucks a bag.

"Proceeds from the sale help the Friends group support Library activities and the purchase of new media.

"The Friends each year provide funds for Children's Library programs, computer maintenance, and book and other media purchases."

- Friends of the Bridgeton Library

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MY KIND OF TOWN: Where, if you're not friends with the library, who are you friends with?

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Did I lose my chance at a Hollywood connection? | Bob Shryock

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I'm 77 now so it appears the Gish girls represented my one chance at connecting with big-as-life Hollywood folks.

HEADSHOTS Bob Shryock.JPGBob Shryock 

The Gish sisters were a famed early 20th Century acting duo and Lillian was best-known of the two, deftly making the successful transition from silent flicks to the talkies. But nowhere on the resumes of Lillian nor Dorothy does it point out that their distant nephews include yours truly, Bob Shryock.

How quickly they forget.

I mean if I'm a far removed 88th nephew of the Gish sisters what does that make my mom?

You wouldn't know and likely wouldn't care if I'm related to the Gishes, but you also would have trouble refuting the news. Mom told me about the relationship. The Gish girls were somehow related to the Elden clan and mom grew up an Elden. They reportedly made the foray into town a few times, on visits, but never came to 705 E. Main to see me and, as far as I can recall, never sent me $5 for my birthday or, for that matter, provided free movie passes.

I don't include Lillian nor Dorothy in my family genealogy, either, not that it's a case of sour grapes or anything.

I'm 77 now so it appears the Gish girls represented my one chance at connecting with big-as-life Hollywood folks.

That's unless you count the late Art Vallee of Woodbury and Vallee & Bowe fame who drew Donald Duck and other cartoon characters for Walt Disney when Disney burst on the scene and who was later a movie bit player who won an audition for a lead role which went eventually to Burt Lancaster. Vallee, Perry Como's best friend, didn't lose the part; he forfeited it to Lancaster to come home to Gloucester County and get married.

I ghosted a book for Art, one of the true gentlemen and classy guys I've met.

Besides the Gishes and Art Vallee, the closest I've gotten to movie greatness is Joanne Woodward, who spent some time in Gloucester County in 1971 filming an imminently forgettable flick, "They Might be Giants," at the then soon-to-open Pathmark in Woodbury Heights.

The best feature of the movie likely was that Woodward's co-star was George C. Scott. But, unlike Woodward, Scott was barely visible in the county for filming.

I had my photo taken with Woodward in 1971, spiffy in my corduroy jacket and sporting deep sideburns, and had one "date" with her, sharing a burger and fries at the Woodbury Heights McDonald's. Alas, then her husband, Paul Newman, came to town.

Managing editor at the time, I had written a Page One story about the movie stars coming to the county so Joanne - we were on a first-name basis - intervened for me and I was permitted to watch wild store scenes being shot and reshot at Pathmark.

Most of the scenes didn't get off the cutting room floor.

And my outside shot at a Hollywood bit part never materialized.

The United States Air Force is hiring

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U.S. Air Force hiring

Tech Sgt. Waylon Hobbs.jpgTech Sgt. Waylon Hobbs  

Air Force recruiter, Tech Sgt. Waylon Hobbs is responsible for inspiring, engaging and recruiting future airmen to deliver airpower for America in the Gloucester and Salem County areas.

The Air Force Recruiting Service is hiring thousands of new Airmen. An emphasis is on recruiting people with no prior military service into one of about 150 enlisted career fields and prior service experience in special operation career fields.

Air Force immediate opportunities:

  • Linguist
  • Pararescue
  • Combat Controller
  • Special Operations Weather Team
  • Tactical Control Party Team
  • Explosive Ordnance
  • Security Forces, and more.

The Air Force recruits to retain, so it recruits the brightest candidates possible, and provides them with tough, highly technical training that gives them the right skills to sustain the combat capability of America's Air Force

The mission of the United States Air Force is to fly, fight and win. Tech. Sgt. Hobbs is assigned to the Air Force recruiting office at 9 S. Broad St. in Woodbury. For information about Air Force benefits and opportunities, call,  856-845-1800 or visit www.airforce.com. 

Poll: Will the winter storm wallop New Jersey or not? Tell us what you think

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Last year's snow storm that wasn't has got everybody skeptical this time around.

For most of this week, we've been hearing weather forecasts for a winter storm bringing blinding snow and damaging wind to many parts of New Jersey this weekend. Damaging coastal flooding is also forecast for the Jersey Shore.

Do you think the storm will be as bad as forecast, or did last year's predicted snowstorm that didn't happen leave you a little bit skeptical about this weekend's weather? Upvote the memes below that sum up your prediction for the weather this weekend.

John Shabe can be reached via jshabe@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter and find NJ.com on Facebook.
 

Police identify N.J. prison inmate killed in van crash

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The crash took place on Route 55 around 1:43 p.m. Thursday. A prison van hit the rear end of a tow truck.

MILLVILLE -- New Jersey State Police have identified the inmate killed in a state prison van crash Thursday as Jerry Siracusa, 44, from Elizabeth.

jerry siracusa.jpgBayside State Prison inmate Jerry Siracusa, 44, from Elizabeth was killed in a crash Thursday. (New Jersey Department of Corrections) 

Siracusa was killed and five other people were injured when the Department of Corrections van in which he was a passenger crashed into the rear end of a flatbed tow truck on Route 55.

The cause of the accident which took place in the southbound lanes of Route 55 at Milepost 24.9 at 1:43 p.m. remains under investigation, according to Sgt. Jeff Flynn, state police spokesman.

The others injured were identified as Senior Correction Officer Michael Rodriguez, 45, the van driver and Senior Correction Officer Gregory DuBois, 43, who was in the passenger seat.  The other inmate hurt was Raul Salazar, 30, of Ewing.

The driver of the flatbed truck was identified as Bruce Hall, 27, of Bridgeton and his passenger was King Williams, 67, of Millville.

According to Flynn, the preliminary investigation shows that the Department of Corrections van with the four men aboard struck the rear of the flatbed tow truck in the right hand travel lane of Route 55.

The impact pushed the flatbed truck, which was transporting a vehicle, across the let southbound lane and off the left side of the roadway, Flynn said.

The corrections officers and the transport van were all based at Bayside State Prison in Leesburg in Maurice River Township, according to Matthew Schuman, spokesman for the Department of Corrections.

It was not immediately known where the prisoners were being transported from.

Siracusa, who was being held at Bayside, had a long state prison record dating back to 1993, officials said. He was incarcerated for drug offenses, theft and and parole violations through the years. He was serving his latest sentence for drug offenses and resisting arrest, authorities said.

After Thursday's crash, Siracusa was taken to Inspira Medical Center Vineland where he was pronounced dead, authorities said.

Rodriguez, DuBois and Salazar were all airlifted to AlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City.

Hall and Williams were taken to Inspira Medical Center Vineland.

Conditions of the injured were not available Friday.

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

With snow now falling in South Jersey, officials say they've prepared all they can

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The first snow from what is expected to turn into a blizzard has begun falling in South Jersey Watch video

Officials from the three southwestern expected to bear the brunt of this weekend's snowstorm say they are as prepared as they can be.

"I've done all I can do," said Mayor Bob Campbell of Downe Township, the Delaware Bayshore area devastated by Superstorm Sandy and now threatened by a fresh round of damage from predicted weekend flooding. 

"It's wait and see," Campbell said Friday afternoon.

Cumberland, Salem and Gloucester counties are expected to see a foot and a half of snow and endure blizzard conditions, according to the latest forecasts. 

Just after darkness fell Friday, snow began falling steadily in the southernmost areas.

By 7 p.m. the quick-falling show had already covered roadways in Salem County.

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for Salem, Gloucester and Cumberland counties, all effective through Saturday.

One of the biggest fears is flooding from the storm.  Moderate flooding is expected with waves on the Delaware Bay forecast to be four to eight feet high on top of the unusually high tides during the storm and full moon, officials say. 

While there might be a lull in the storm Sautrday morning and a brief changeover to rain, still 10 to 16 inches of snow is expected in parts of Cumberland County.

The Bayshore area of Cumberland County, specifically Fortescue, was among the first there to see substantial snowfall Friday and road crews were out.

The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office has staged its five-ton high wheeled vehicles in Millville, Mauricetown and Delmont for use in transporting essential personnel or getting through floodwaters, officials said. 

"If people need to be on the road, motorists are encouraged to keep a safe distance behind the snow plow trucks," said Cumberland County Deputy Administrator Kim Wood. "This is an important safety measure motoring public as well as for the operators of the snow plows."

Cumberland crews plenty of salt on hand, Wood noted. 

In Gloucester County, road crews have been busy for several days preparing for the storm, according to Vincent Voltaggio, county engineer and director of public works. 

"We've been brining the roads for the last three days," Voltaggio reported Friday morning. "We had four trucks out brining all 412 miles of county roads."

Plows and salt spreaders have been attached to trucks and crews are ready to tackle the snow. The county will have about 40 trucks out plowing and salting over the next several days.

"All the trucks are getting loaded and we're ready to go," Voltaggio said.

The Salem County Department of Emergency Management issued a simple message late Friday: If you are not required to work, make every effort to stay at home and indoors.

Officials said latest indications are that an 18-inche snowfall should be expected along with high winds creating blizzard conditions.

Another important note was that residents should be calling to check in on relatives or neighbors who are homebound or elderly and also have their own family prepared on what to do if there is a power outage.

Freeholder Director Julie Acton said the Road Department has finished salt brining all roads to county hospitals and had salted intersections of county roads.

"We ask our residents to make safety a priority and stay off roads to allow the snow plows an opportunity to clear the roads," Acton said.

The biggest fear in the most rural areas was a loss of power. For the past two days long lines at gas stations included many seen filling gas cans for generators. 

While most in South Jersey worried about the snow, Campbell said he was most concerned about flooding. The nor'easter and the full moon were expected to produce unusually high tides.

And it won't just be Cumberland officials watching the rising waters. Tidal areas in neighboring Salem County and upriver in Gloucester County are also subject to flooding.

Campbell said he's been told that the storm surge could rival that seen during Sandy, 

He said most of the beach front residents in Downe Township  have decided to ride out the storm.

Should flooding become severe, Campbell said emergency responders are ready.

"We will go door to door physically to make sure people are safe," the mayor said.

Staff Writer Matt Gray contributed to this story.

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

What are our housing options as we age? | Your Legal Corner

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Housing options can vary greatly and significantly impact finances.

victoria dalton horizontalVictoria Dalton
 

An important component of any estate plan is deciding where one will live.  Housing is one of life's basic necessities.   While many people will not make the connection between their housing choice and their estate plan, the smarter choice is to consider your options.   Depending on what stage you are in your life, your housing options can vary greatly and significantly impact your finances.

In his famous book entitled, "You Can't Go Home Again," Thomas Wolfe describes the nostalgic feeling of returning to your hometown after being away for a long time.  That feeling is quickly replaced with frustration.  While most of the buildings are still the same, many of the people are no longer there or have different memories.  Things that you thought were permanent have changed as time marches on.  

The same is true with your housing choices as you progress through the different seasons of your life.

Family Home

When we get married and start our family, one must decide whether they want to live in the biggest house they can afford or whether they want to live in a smaller home based primarily on how much room they really need.  While there is no right or wrong answer, each choice may have consequences as to where you will live in the next phase of your life.

For example, for the family living in the comfortable two-story colonial home with full basement, will you want to continue living in that home when the kids grow up and move out?  Or will you decide to downsize and move to a smaller 1- story home that is more manageable?

Alternatively, if you start out in a smaller home without the trappings of a larger home, you may realize that you don't need to downsize even after the kids have grown and moved out.  

Many families opt out of home ownership entirely and simply rent an apartment, townhome or single family home. 

There are no right or wrong decisions; it is simply a matter of choice based upon your current comfort level and the preparations you make for down the road.

Age Restricted Communities

One thing is certain; there are many different housing choices, as we get older.  One choice is the "adult" or "over 55" communities.  These communities cater to active adults who are healthy, independent and interested in the social benefits of living among people with similar tastes and lifestyles. These communities have a common preference of not having young people reside in the development.  It is important to check on the regulations as to what exactly is permitted in these communities.

Assisted Living

Many families pursue other housing options when one of the family members needs help on a regular basis.  Depending on the type of help needed, one option to consider is assisted living.  Most assisted living facilities help people stay as independent as possible while providing them the necessary help they may need which can include bathing, dressing, housekeeping, meal preparation or medicine management.

Nursing Homes

These facilities provide skilled nursing care for older individuals.  Many facilities have doctors on staff and provide around the clock care. Services may also include different professionals including speech, occupational or speech therapists. Depending on the facility, the quality of care can vary greatly among facilities.

Importantly, if you are considering an assisted living or nursing home, visit several as cost and services vary.  Be sure to talk with staff and residents to get a clear picture of how things are in a particular facility.

So when revising an estate plan, don't forget to consider your present living situation, and any future housing preferences you may have!

 Till next time, God bless, keep smiling, when Your Legal Corner will discuss  "Immigration." Victoria M. Dalton is a dedicated Family/Elder Law Attorney with the Law Offices of Hoffman DiMuzio. Email correspondence to vdalton@hoffmandimuzio.com or call 856-845-8243.

Please note that Your Legal Corner was created to provide educational article about the law and is not legal advice.


Drifting snow causes treacherous conditions in Gloucester, Cumberland

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A lull in the storm came Saturday morning, but conditions were expected to worsen.

Gloucester County spokeswoman Deb Sellitto didn't mince words Saturday morning.

"People need to stay off the roads. It's very important to let the plows do their jobs," she stressed.

After delivering South Jersey half of its expected one-two punch, this weekend's winter storm prompted officials across the region to report conditions of varying severity.

Sellitto said sections of Wolfert Station and Cedar roads as well as Route 322 in Mullica Hill were impassable.

"The winds are creating drifts," she said, also offering snow accumulation estimates of between 9 and 13 inches across Gloucester County.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Mount Holly, snowfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour were expected throughout the rest of the day and into the overnight hours.

There were "very minimal" power outages Saturday morning, she said. "Hopefully that doesn't increase as the wind increases," Sellitto said.

In Salem County, where officials also urged residents to stay off the roads, emergency services director Scott Haines said blowing winds and continued snowfall were the primary concerns come Saturday morning.

"We have to worry about power outages," said Haines, adding that his team is monitoring expected overnight conditions "as closely as we can."

Haines reported no large power outages across the county and just a handful of accidents involving vehicles sliding off roadways, which were being addressed as of 9 a.m.

"Because of the blowing winds, it's very difficult to calculate for our area," Haines said when asked if a snowfall total had been tallied up yet.

Down in Cumberland County, where flooding in the Bayshore region was on residents' minds, deputy administrator Kim Wood said word hadn't come in yet on how places like Downe Township fared.

"We had a quiet night," said Wood, adding that motorists "heeded the warnings and stayed off the roads."

Additional updates were expected, but Wood said those who staffed the county's 9-1-1 center overnight needed to sleep during the storm's Saturday morning lull so they could get back to work later in the day as things intensified.

"The roads are in bad shape because of the wind," she said, noting that no major power outages had been reported.

As for accumulation, Wood said Cumberland County could see another 7 to 9 inches before the storm is over.

"I'm hopeful that's not the case," she said.

Camden County officials echoed Sellitto when it came to people thinking they could hit the road on Saturday.

"With winter storm Jonas bringing more than a foot of snow already, residents need to stay indoors and not travel on the roadways. We have more than 100 vehicles clearing 1,200 lane miles of roadway who have had great success in light of the challenging conditions," said county Freeholder Susan Shin Angulo.

"The success of our operation is based on how effective we can be with the limited time we have as snow quickly accumulates. Our drivers have had to stop several times to tow and push people out of intersections, which is a good thing, but drags on our efficiency, especially with the high winds," Angulo added. "That said, everyone should stay home, rent a movie, be with your family, but do not drive your car."

The Camden County Emergency Operations Center expects wind gusts, downed trees and power outages to become a concern as the second act of the weekend winter storm gets under way.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia is on track to receive its average annual snowfall total in this weekend alone.

According to figures from the NWS, Philadelphia averages 22.4 inches of snow each year. According to estimates as of Saturday morning, the city could see anywhere between 17 to 23 inches.

The NWS data, which was calculated from the average accumulations between 1981 and 2016, shows Philly receives 3.4 inches in December, 6.5 inches in January and 8.8 in February.

Greg Adomaitis may be reached at gadomaitis@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregAdomaitis. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Salem County Veterans Corner: What should a vet do in a medical emergency?

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In the time of an emergency, there are certain rules that veterans must remember.

By Joseph J. Hannagan Jr.

At some time in your life, you, as a veteran, may need emergency care. This article will help explain just what the Veterans Administration might be able to do for the veteran when it is not possible for the veteran to go to a Veterans Administration Medical Center during an emergency.

hannagan.jpgSalem County Veterans Affairs Officer Joseph J. Hannagan Jr. says veterans need to know certain rules when they go to a hospital. (File Photo) 

In case of an emergency, the veteran should go to the nearest hospital that has an emergency room. If you are in an ambulance, the paramedics will usually take you to the closest emergency room in the case of a true medical emergency.

Here are some answers to questions veterans may have in the case of an emergency:

* What is an emergency?  A medical emergency is an injury or illness that is so severe that without immediate treatment, it threatens your life or health.

* How do I know that my situation is an emergency? Your situation is an emergency if you believe your life or health is in danger.

* Do I need to call the VA before I can call an ambulance? No, you do not!

* When should I contact the VA regarding an emergency room visit? You, your family or the hospital staff should contact the nearest VA Medical Center as soon as possible, preferably within 72 hours

* Must I receive advance approval from the VA before they admit me to the hospital?

If the admission is an emergency the answer is "No."

* If a VA bed is available, and I can be safely transferred, do I have to move to a VA hospital? Yes, if you want the VA to continue to pay for your care. If you refuse, the  VA will not pay for further care.

* If I am admitted to a hospital as a result of an emergency, how much will the VA pay? That depends on your VA eligibility status. The VA may pay all, some or none of the charges.

* For service-connected health problems: The VA must be notified within 72 hours that a VA medical facility was not feasibly available and that medical services made were provided in a medical emergency.

* For non-service connected health conditions: A veteran must be enrolled in the VA health care system, the veteran has received health care services from VA within the last 24 months or the veteran has no health insurance

* How do I know if I have a service-connected condition? This refers to an illness or injury that incurred in or aggravated by military service has a disability rating by the VA.

* How long do I have to file a claim for reimbursement for emergency medical care? You must file quickly for non-service connected the time limit is 90 days.

* Will the VA pay for emergency care outside the United States? The VA will pay for emergency care outside the U.S. only if the veterans' emergency is related to a service-connected condition.

Information in the column was taken from Veterans Administration publications.

Joseph Hannagan Jr. is Salem County Veterans Affairs Officer. Veterans can contact Hannagan at his office by calling 856-339-8603, via cell phone at 609-774-7450 or via email at Joseph.Hannagan@salemcountynj.gov

Cheaper tuition and losing a landmark | Cheers and Jeers

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Every Saturday, the South Jersey Times cheers those who make our area a better place in which to live and jeers those whose actions merit derision.

CHEERS to making the best of the very worst situation. It's almost been one year since "Alex" Rojas-Garcia lost his life to a shooting in North Philadelphia. His mother, a city woman whose turned a radio show into an outlet for fellow survivors, and father, a Gloucester County resident and NAACP official, are turning their pain into progress. On Saturday, the two planned to gather with fellow activists and survivors to call on the office of Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney to establish a city outlet to assist people who now have to move on without their loved one. It can't be easy to do what Rojas-Garcia's parents have done in the past 12 months, but they're not alone. A helping hand reaching out in the darkest of times must mean the world to someone who has just laid their loved one to rest.

JEERS to dollars and sense. We've met John Hanson and we think he's a nice and rather helpful guy. Further, we think that being the face of a bi-state authority that, for the most part, is best known for taking your money after crossing one of four bridges across the Delaware River can't be easy. We didn't revel when a $40,000 salary bump to adjust for his transition from CFO to CEO was tabled Wednesday -- it's still going to happen after proper procedure is followed. Hanson's salary currently stands at $180,081 and the adjustment that's coming his way will bring the total pay to just above that of his predecessor. Here's what we're trying to say on behalf of the people who've paid toll collectors in change before: $220,081 is obscene.

CHEERS to a great idea that could launch many careers. Gloucester County is teaming with Rowan College at Gloucester County to establish an interesting internship program that will mean a free education for 20 students. Under the plan, students who enroll in the program will pursue an associate's degree while interning with a county department that aligns with their major. As long as the students stick with it and fulfill their interning requirements, all tuition and fees are waived. Partnerships like these could be the future of affordable education in New Jersey. The county also benefits, because this could create a pipeline of talented future county employees. This is a promising concept that will likely lead to similar arrangements with private business, too. 

JEERS to losing a landmark. Fire early Monday morning ravaged the historic Hillcrest Tavern on Broad Street in Bridgeton. The tavern and its Coach Room restaurant had long been a popular gathering spot. Right across the street from the Cumberland County Courthouse, the Hillcrest was a popular watering hole for politicians, lawyers, teachers and residents from the city and neighboring towns, even from Salem County. The memories are many. The fire was so devastating that the building was razed. The cause is still under investigation.

CHEERS to those who are making a difference.  The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards and Scholarship Breakfast at Salem High School Monday served not only to keep Dr. King's memory alive, but to recognize three individuals who are following his example by working to better the lives of those in their community. Salem City Councilwoman Ruth Ann Carter, Salem community volunteer and supporter Matt Hassler and Minister Horace Kinlaw, who works with the youth of Ranch Hope as pastor. The event itself is also helping to make a difference: Proceeds from the breakfast go toward student scholarships. 

JEERS to alarming allegations involving a registered sex offender. Abdul Stanback, 37, of Paulsboro is sitting in jail after his arrest last month on charges of sexual assault. Stanback was convicted of sexual assault in 2002 and is registered as a Tier 2, moderate risk, offender. He was indicted last week on charges that he violated conditions of his previous sentence. The alleged violations of his sentence occurred between June 2013 and July 2015. Yet, he was free on Dec. 11, 2015, when he allegedly broke into an East Greenwich home and sexually assaulted someone described by police as a former acquaintance. The violations described in the indictment include failing to report to his parole officer, failure to reside at a parole-approved address, purchase of illegal narcotics, and failure to attend counseling and submit to drug testing. With these allegations against him, it's hard to understand why Standback would have been free to commit the alleged December crime. Shouldn't he have been jailed if authorities believed he violated so many terms of his prior sentence?

If you know of someone or something you would like to nominate for a cheer or a jeer, please send the information to sjletters@njadvancemedia.com

S.J. officials prepare for weekend blizzard's final act

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South Jersey officials touched base to make sure everything was in its place for the final act. Watch video

County officials and department heads from across South Jersey checked in with each other Saturday afternoon and made preparations for remainder of this weekend's blizzard.

Having already weathered the storm Friday into Saturday, it was time to make sure everything was in its place for the final act.

"People should stay off the roads," Gloucester County spokesperson Deb Sellitto reiterated Saturday afternoon, having said much the same at 9 a.m. when roads were impassable and plow crews were fighting to keep up.

According to unofficial estimates from the National Weather Service (NWS), the Williamstown section of Gloucester County received the most snow accumulation at 13 inches. Washington Township, at 6.8 inches, was on the low end as of the NWS' afternoon update.

Sellitto said some county roadways were still impassable. The county public works crew retired for the day at 4 p.m. and a "skeleton" crew would work the overnight shift before the department came back full-force at 6 a.m. Sunday.

In Salem County, Freeholder Director Julie Acton reported that Saturday's condition warranted a conference call involving the county's office of emergency management, roads crew, health and human services, the sheriff's department, the prosecutor's office and more.

"We encourage everyone to stay off the roads, if possible, this allows our road crews to continue to keep up with the storm and clear the roads," Freeholder Deputy Director Dale Cross said. "The concern now is the snow drifts from the wind, but I am confident our county road department will continue doing a great job. Residents should report any loss of power to your utility provider."

According to the NWS, Pennsville received the highest snowfall accumulation with 11 inches. In Mannington, some snow drifts more than 5 feet were reported and scanner reports indicated a few ambulance drivers encountered impassable roads.

Salem County's road department has been at work since Friday night and was set to cease operations at 5 p.m. Saturday before hitting the streets again at 3 a.m. Sunday.

As of noon Sunday, the road crew consisting of 18 county vehicles and 25 contractors plowed more than 1,900 miles.

Flooding, which was also of concern in neighboring Cumberland County, did not pose a major threat in Salem County. This was far from the case across Cape May and Atlantic counties, where it was "worse than [Hurricane] Sandy," according to some business owners.

Kim Wood, Cumberland County's deputy administrator, offered Saturday afternoon that drifting snow was a major concern across the county in the Bayshore region.

"Flooding has occurred and Mayor [Bob] Campbell [of Downe Township] reports that the bay almost topped the bulkhead in Fortescue, but did not," Wood said in an email. "In addition to Downe Township, flooding issues have also been reported in Maurice River, Commercial and Greenwich townships"

The next high tide was expected to come in at 9 p.m. Saturday. According to the NWS, Vineland received the most snow in Cumberland County with 10.2 inches.

Wood noted that as of 10:20 a.m. Saturday, Atlantic City Electric was reporting 332 outages out of the utility company's 36,020 customers.

"Weather is forecasted to deteriorate this afternoon as the storm wraps back around, Wood said. "Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Most available resources are already in operation to fight the storm."

Greg Adomaitis may be reached at gadomaitis@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregAdomaitis. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Here's what every county in N.J. looked like during historic storm

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Photos, videos and more from around the state

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