ClearysNoteBook

Sunday: Sports Headlines

SPORTS

Sunday, May 11, 2008..............source www.nj.com

• Defense, pitching lead WD to 2nd round
MAPLE SHADE West Deptford High School senior Brett Henning couldn't strike out a single Pennsville batter in the opening round of the 35th Joe Hartmann Diamond Classic at Maple Shade Saturday afternoon.

• Minutemen slug their way to first-round victory
WASHINGTON TWP. After surrendering a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning, Washington Township High School sophomore pitcher Adam Warburton didn't break a sweat.

• Phils need to get on a Roll
Shortstop Jimmy Rollins returned to the Phillies' lineup on Friday night a month after he left it, and his teammates were no worse for wear.

• Rencher, Pitman dominate Palmyra Tourney
The Pitman High School softball team used three dominating pitching performances by Amanda Rencher and a powerful offense to take the Palmyra Tournament Saturday. The Panthers scored 35 runs and allowed only three to take the crown.

• Visit to Triple-A could help Howard
Only two things have prevented 2006 National League MVP Ryan Howard from becoming an Iron Pig this season: His résumé and the Phillies' record

source Google News

Sam Carchidi: Speeding up the fun at Hartmann Classic
Philadelphia Inquirer - Philadelphia,PA,USA
Sebra later transferred to Gloucester Catholic. He pitched for Texas, Montreal, the Phillies, Cincinnati and Milwaukee in a six-year major-league career ...

The True Top 20 Nicknames In Football History!

By Tim Aly Fletcher(Tim Aly Fletcher)
But drenching a kid with a sweaty jersey? That WAS plain Mean. John "Golden" Richards. I used to be a Cowboys fan. Until they got rid of #83 out of the University Of Hawai'i. Speed like he possessed doesn't grow on palm trees---it came ...
FLETCHCETERA - http://www.fletchcetera.com/

Area student-athletes give thanks to their moms for encouragement ...
Cherry Hill Courier Post - Cherry Hill,NJ,USA
On this Mother's Day, we give a few South Jersey high school student-athletes the opportunity to say "thank you" to their moms. John Maksin, 18, a senior ...
 

New Jersey boxer Denis Douglin wins National Golden Gloves ...

The Grand Rapids Press - MLive.com - Grand Rapids,MI,USA
by Steve Vedder | The Grand Rapids Press Press Photo/Adam BirdDenis Douglin of New Jersey, left, fights Allem Whitfield of Syracuse in the National Golden ...
 

 

 

 

Ocean City:Good Samaritan & Coast Guard Rescue Boater

Posted: 10 May 2008 12:46 PM CDT

OCEAN CITY, N.J. - A Good Samaritan and the Coast Guard rescued a sailor today after the sailboat he was on capsized Friday about eight miles southeast of Corson’s Inlet, N.J.

Rescued was Brian Mann, 57, of Edgartown, Mass.

Mann was discovered in a survival suit, sitting atop his overturned sailboat by the pilot of the Pulp Fishing, a recreational fishing boat. The Good Samaritan contacted the Coast Guard at about 9 a.m. today, who launched rescue boat crews from Coast Guard Stations Great Egg and Townsend Inlet, N.J.

The rescue crew from Station Great Egg arrived on scene, and took Mann back to their station in Ocean City, N.J., to awaiting EMS personnel.

Mann was examined and released by medical personnel at the station.

Mann was aboard his 31-foot sailboat transiting from Cape May, N.J., to Massachusetts when his boat capsized off the New Jersey Coast at about 6 p.m. Friday.

“Mann was wearing a survival suit and stayed with his boat, which greatly contributed to his survival,” said David Umberger, search and rescue coordinator at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia.

Mann is currently working with salvage crews from Sea Tow to develop a salvage plan for his boat.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

Note: The story below has been circulating the Internet over the pass month or so and I thought it would be perfect for today, Mother's Day. The author of the article is unknown.

I was looking for a photo to use with it and then I thought why not use a picture of our mother, Mazie (Tucker) Cleary who passed away in 1995.  I feel it is a nice tribute not only to our Mother but to all Moms throughout the world on this special day. Our Mom is up heaven now but how much I wish that she was here today so I could have just one more chance to tell her how much she meant to me.

Remember to give your Mom a Hug Today.....

We Love you Mom & Miss You...
Dolores, Georgie and Billy

 

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

After 21 years of marriage, my wife wanted me to take another woman out to dinner and a movie. She said, 'I love you, but I know this other woman loves you and would Love to spend some time with you.'

The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my Mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.

That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie. 'What's wrong, are you well,' she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news.

'I thought that it would be pleasant to spend some time with you,' I responded  'just the two of us.' She thought about it for a moment, and then said, I would like that very much.'

That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary. She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel's. 'I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed,' she said, as she got into the car. 'They can't wait to hear about our meeting.'

We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady.

After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large and giant print. Half-way through the entrees, I lifted my eyes and saw Mother
sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips.' It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small,' she said.
'Then it's time that you relax and let me return the favor,' I responded. During the dinner, we had an agreeable conversation nothing extra-ordinary
but catching up on recent events of each other's life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said, 'I'll go
out with you again, but only if you let me invite you.' I agreed.

'How was your dinner date?' asked my wife when I got home. 'Very nice, much more so than I could have imagined,' I answered.

A few days later, my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn't have a chance to do anything for her. Sometime later, I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place Mother and I had dined. An attached note said: 'I paid this bill in advance. I wasn't sure that I could be there; but, nevertheless, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for your wife. You will never know what that night meant for me.
'I love you, son'

At that moment, I understood the importance of saying in time: 'I love YOU' and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve. Nothing in life is more important than your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off till some 'other' time.

Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back to normal after you've had a baby... somebody doesn't know that once you're a mother, 'normal' is history.

Somebody said you can't love the second child as much as you love the first ... somebody doesn't have two or more children.

Somebody said the hardest part of being a mother is labor and delivery....somebody never watched her 'baby' get on the bus for the first day of kindergarten... or on a plane headed for military 'boot camp.'

Somebody said a Mother can stop worrying after her child gets married...somebody doesn't know that marriage adds a new son or daughter-in-law to a
mother's heartstrings.

Somebody said a mother's job is done when her last child leaves home...somebody never had grandchildren.

Somebody said your mother knows you love her, so you don't need to tell her... somebody isn't a mother.

Pass this along to all the GREAT 'mothers' in your life and to everyone who ever had a mother.

This isn't just about being a mother; it's about appreciating the people in your lives while you have them... no matter who that person is!

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

Pittsburgh police dog mourned

http://www.pittsburghlive.com

More than 200 police officers and others from Pittsburgh and adjacent communities assembled today to say goodbye to Aulf, the Pittsburgh police dog killed in action during a shootout that left a Knoxville man dead.

At the end of the 40-minute service at the city police Training Academy in Highland Park, K-9 Sgt. Chris Micknowski asked for "a moment of reflection and prayer if you wish for all those who have been affected by this tragedy."

continue

Crime: FBI's Top Ten News Stories for the Week Ending May 9, 2008

Media Release        .................Related: Crime

1.   Boston: La Cosa Nostra Underboss and Associates Indicted

Carmen S. Dinunzio, underboss of the New England Family of La Cosa Nostra, and two associates were indicted on charges of conspiracy to bribe a state official. Full Story

2.   San Francisco: Radio Host Pleads Guilty

Radio station talk show host, Bernard V. Ward, pled guilty to distributing child pornography via the internet. Full Story

3.   Portland: Arrest in Mailing Communications Containing Simulated Biological Agent

David Albert Groves was arrested for mailing numerous threatening letters containing a powder substance. Full Story

4.   Boston: Guilty Plea in Theft of Military Items

Joseph Downing pled guilty to theft and attempted sale of stolen military items. Full Story

5.   San Antonio: CBP Officer Arrested for Accepting Bribes

Customs Border and Protection Officer Ramiro Villarreal, Jr. was arrested for accepting bribes for fraudulently making and delivering official travel documents. Full Story

6.   Anchorage: Former State Representative Sentenced on Public Corruption Charges

Victor H. Kohring, former member of the Alaska House of Representatives, was convicted on bribery charges, attempted extortion and conspiracy for soliciting bribes. Full Story

7.   Sacramento: Fake Vietnam Vet Pleads Guilty

Michael Allan Fraser pled guilty to violating the Stolen Valor Act. Full Story

8.   Phoenix: Contract Mechanic Indicted

James Williams, a contract mechanic employed at Customs, was indicted for stealing night vision goggles. Full Story

9.   Washington Field Office: Airline Executive Pleads Guilty to Price Fixing

The former highest-ranking Qantas Airways Limited cargo executive pled guilty to participating in a conspiracy to fix rates on international air cargo shipments. Full Story

10.  Los Angeles: Police Officer Sentenced for Civil Rights Violations

Former Long Beach police officer, Joseph Ferguson, was sentenced for his role in a series of home invasion robberies. Full Story

 

 

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST…………Gaijin Hell

Commentary by Hank F. Miller Jr. 

 

Gaijin Hell is where foreigners who brazenly violate the codes of Japanese society go. 

 In Christian-predominant Western society, even if you don't grow up in a religious household, you have likely grown up hearing the common threat "You're going to hell if you do that!" 

For example, if you try a trick on your neighbor, your mother might say, "You'll go to hell for that!"  

When I was growing up in Gloucester City, N.J. You could go to hell for almost anything, including using swear words or reading a dirty magazine. This comes from the belief that after you die; you either go to heaven or hell. Sinning will send you straight to hell. 

When Westerners come to Japan, we find things are different, perhaps even liberating.  

We no longer have to worry about the threat of going to hell because in Japan, it is not considered a sin to drink too much, read a porno magazine or take someone to a love hotel. But Westerners be warned! In Japan, there is still a large threat of going to hell: 

"Gaijin hell."  

Gaijin Hell is where foreigners who brazenly violate the codes of Japanese society go.  

You know who I'm talking about. Yes, I may even be talking about you, if you were here! 

How do you know if you're headed straight for Gaijin Hell or not? 

Take this quiz.   

1. You're getting ready to leave the house for the office in the morning. You've just laced your shoes and you're headed out the door when suddenly you realize you forgot your keys. 

You:

A. Take off your shoes and walk inside to retrieve the keys from the table. 

B. Leave your shoes on figuring that just this once it won't matter if you enter the house with your shoes on. After all, you can see the keys sitting on the table just two steps away, 

Not only that, but you're in a hurry and have to catch the train. 

 

C. You leave your shoes on and craw over to the table on your hands and knees, careful to not let your shoes touch the floor. 

If you choose B, you're going to Gaijin Hell. Absolutely never ever, under any circumstances, better or worse, for richer or poorer, wear your shoes inside the house. 

 

2. You're in the bank becoming increasingly frustrated with the antiquated banking system in Japan. First, you've had to come to the bank in person to verify an incoming foreign bank transfer into your account, Second, you've been told you can't have your salary automatically deposited into an account where you can withdraw those funds from abroad. And to top it all off, you forgot to bring your inkan or name chop with you for verification of who you say you are. 

You: 

A. Maintain decorum at all times no matter how frustrated you get. 

 

B. Storm out of the bank, grumbling, wallowing in self-pity and licking your wounds as you leave. 

 

C. Give the teller a piece of your mind and tell her how ridiculous the bank is being, how much easier and more efficient it is in your country, and finish it off with a lecture on how Japan is never going to make it in the international banking world unless it changes its antiquated ways. 

 

3. A Japanese friend stops by your house. As per Japanese custom, you put on some coffee and serve something to eat. Luckily, you have two pieces of chocolate cake in the refrigerator. 

Standing there looking into the refrigerator, you realize one of the pieces is larger than the other.  

You:

A. Give the bigger piece to the guest. 

 

B. Ask the guest to choose which piece he wants, with the hope that he will be polite and take the smaller piece, leaving the bigger piece for you. 

 

C. Cut the larger piece down to the same size as the smaller piece and stuff the cut off bit into your mouth while he is not looking. 

 

D. Serve the smaller piece to the guest and leave the bigger piece in the refrigerator for later, so he'll never know you took the larger piece. 

If you choose A, you're hell-bent on going to Gaijin Hell. But don't worry. Once you get to Gaijin Hell you'll find most of your gaijin friends there because there's a little bit of the devil in all of us. 

 

Warm Regards from Kitakyushu City, Japan 

 

Hank F. Miller Jr. 

 

Chuckle for the Day, submitted by Cathy Gottert

source unknown.......
A frog goes into a bank and approaches the teller. He can see from her nameplate that her name is Patricia Whack.

'Miss Whack, I'd like to get a $30,000 loan to take a holiday.'

Patty looks at the frog in disbelief and asks his name. The frog says his name is Kermit Jagger, his dad is Mick Jagger, and that it's okay, he knows the bank manager.

Patty explains that he will need to secure the loan with some collateral.

The frog says, 'Sure. I have this,' and produces a tiny porcelain elephant, about an inch tall, bright pink and perfectly formed.

Very confused, Patty explains that she'll have to consult with the bank manager and disappears into a back office.

She finds the manager and says, 'There's a frog called Kermit Jagger out there who claims to know you and wants to borrow $30,000, and he wants to use this as collateral.'

She holds up the tiny pink elephant. 'I mean, what in the world is this?'

(you're gonna love this)

The bank manager looks back at her and says...

'It's a knickknack, Patty Whack. Give the frog a loan, His old man's a Rolling Stone.'


(You're singing it, aren't you? Yeah, I know you are........)

Never take life too seriously!

Related: More Chuckles

Barbara (nee Hillman) Lauria, of Fayetteville, Tennessee, GHS Alumni Class of 1976

Barbara A. Lauria

 

Barbara (nee Hillman) Lauria of Fayetteville, Tenn., born in Gloucester City, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2008 at the age of 50.  Mrs. Lauria was employed by Publix Supermarket.

Barb graduated from Gloucester City High School, class of '76.  She was a cheerleader from 7th grade through 12th grade.  She played varsity hockey all four years of high school.  She had the lead in the musicals for three years starting in 10th grade. 

She was preceded in death by her father, William H. Hillman.

Mrs. Lauria is survived by her husband, Joseph Lauria of Fayetteville, a stepdaughter, Amber Lauria and a granddaughter Adrianna of Unionville, NY.

Also survived by her mother, Earlene Hillman; brothers, Gary, John, and William and wife Kelly, Hillman; sisters, Eileen and husband Thomas Burman, Elaine Hillman, and Kathy Bricker; nephews, Paul, Joel, Scott and Drew Hillman, Brian Bricker (all from New Jersey).

And Michael Koutney from Fayetteville, Beau Schollian and Tanner Partee both from California; nieces, Deborah Stone (Godchild), Katie and Emilee Hillman, Jessica Bricker, Michelle and husband Ryan Osborn, also Christine Kratz of Fayetteville and Jade Partee of California; great-nephews, Rylee and Colin Osborn and Jacob Kratz; and great-niece, Callie Kratz of Fayetteville and many aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held from 10am on Saturday, May 17, 2008 at The Holy Spirit Episcopal Church, Browning Road, Bellmawr, NJ.( right off the Blackhorse Pike). A Memorial service will follow.

Memorial donations can be sent in Barbara's name to: Wings of Love 5 Prospect Road Fayetteville, Tenn. 37334.

 

Department of Defense Media Release: Eight Soldiers Die Between May 2 and May 7

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

May 8^th, 2008

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died May 7 in the Sabari District, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when their vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device.

             Killed were:

 

            Spc. Jeremy R. Gullett, 22, of Greenup, Ky., who was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.

 

            Staff Sgt. Kevin C. Roberts, 25, of Farmington, N. M., who was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.

 

May 8^th, 2008

DoD Identifies Marine Casualties

 

            The Department of Defense announced today the death of four Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 

            Lance Cpl. Casey L. Casanova, 22, of McComb, Miss.

 

            Cpl. Miguel A. Guzman, 21, of Norwalk, Calif.

 

            Lance Cpl. James F. Kimple, 21, of Carroll, Ohio

 

            Sgt. Glen E. Martinez, 31, of Boulder, Colo.

 

            All four Marines died May 2 in Al Anbar province, Iraq, supporting combat operations.  They were assigned to the Combat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1^st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

 

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

 

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 

            Spc. Alex D. Gonzalez, 21, of Mission, Texas, died May 6 in Mosul, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered small arms fire and a rocket-propelled grenade attack. He was assigned to the 43rd Combat Engineer Company, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.

 

            Pfc. Aaron J. Ward, 19, of San Jacinto, Calif., died May 6 in Al Anbar, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit came under small arms fire while conducting cordon and search operations. He was assigned to the 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, Fort Lewis, Wash.

Related: Our Men and Women in the Military

Related: The Ultimate Sacrifice

 

Ride PATCO to Riversharks Games And Receive Discounted Admission

Media Release May 9

   Attention sports fans! Baseball season is here. PATCO and the Riversharks have teamed up once again to offer PATCO riders discounted admission to games.

Fans can take advantage of this offer by riding PATCO to the game and presenting their PATCO ticket or FREEDOM card at the ticket office for a $3 discount. PATCO offers free parking at seven of its New Jersey Stations. Exit at PATCO’s City Hall or Broadway stations for a short walk to the stadium.

For questions or information about PATCO call (856) 772‑6900 or (215) 922‑4600 or visit our website at www.ridepatco.org.

In addition to PATCO, the Delaware River Port Authority owns and operates the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry and Betsy Ross bridges, the RiverLink Ferry System and Philadelphia Cruise Terminal.

Letters to The Editor: Re: Breakfast Club Thrown A Curve

Writted By Daisy Daily CNB Gossip Columnist

May 8 issue of GCN

I was sad to hear this article was misconstrued by some readers.  The story was simply written to entertain and my friend, Bill Cleary, a very gifted and talented writer, had no intention to defame the good name or reputation of The Dining Car Depot.

Couldn't the readers see by the pen name Daisy Daily the story was done as a satire?   

Each month, a men's breakfast club enjoys the food and hospitality given them by The Dining Car Depot and fully intends to return.  I for one was happy to open my local paper and thoroughly enjoyed reading such a humorous story and that's exactly what it was, a fictional story, even I knew that.         

Janet Bevan, Gloucester City

 Related:  Breakfast Club Articles/Photos

Crime/FBI Files: HUMAN TRAFFICKING, Today's Slave Tradei

05/09/08

A Western man negotiating for a young Thai girl (far right), who clutches the arm of her trafficker. After settling on a price, the man left with the girl, and the trafficker left with her payment. Photo courtesy of the U.S. State Department. In 1999, a teenage girl was taken from a Haitian orphanage and smuggled—using phony documentation—into Miami, where she was forced to work as a domestic servant for up to 15 hours a day, seven days a week. She was never paid, not allowed to go to school, occasionally beaten, and subjected to other inhumane treatment. After suffering for nearly six years, she managed to escape in 2005. This March, justice was finally served when three of her captors were convicted in the case. This is just one of hundreds of heart-breaking human trafficking cases the FBI investigates each year, in conjunction with local, state, and federal partners such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Our Legal Attachés stationed in embassies around the world also support our investigations that have an international nexus—which many do—by coordinating with our global partners. Using a multi-pronged strategy, we address human trafficking by: Participating in joint law enforcement task forces (there are up to 30 such task forces around the country right now); Using intelligence to identify traffickers and gain insights into how they conduct their operations (i.e., finances, logistics); Looking at possible human trafficking elements in cases initially identified as human smuggling, Internet crimes against children, and/or sex tourism matters; and Perhaps most importantly, working closely with trafficking victims—many of whom don't speak English—to enlist their help in prosecuting their captors AND to make sure they get the support they need to cope with the horrors they've been through and get back on their feet. Training is another important aspect of how we address the human trafficking problem. In many instances, local police officers are the first ones on the scene in a suspected case, and it's important that they know what to look for. Bureau agents who have worked a lot of these cases can offer their own expertise and experiences to state and local officers at regional training sessions.  And as more states pass their own anti-trafficking legislation (27 so far), additional human trafficking cases will be prosecuted locally, so it's even more important that local police departments fully understand the crime. The majority of victims in FBI human trafficking cases are woman and young girls from Central American and Asian countries. They are primarily forced into the commercial sex industry and, like the young teen from Haiti, domestic servitude. Men and boys are typically victimized in the migrant farming, restaurant, and other service-related industries. However, there are an increasing number of young males being forced into the commercial sex industry as well. But not all of the victims of human trafficking in the U.S. are foreign nationals; some are American citizens or residents. For example, an Anchorage man was found guilty in February of recruiting young women—mostly runaways from other parts of the country—to work for him as prostitutes. He controlled them by getting them addicted to crack cocaine, confining them to a small closet for days at a time, and beating them. If you believe someone you know might be a victim, contact your local FBI office or the Department of Justice trafficking hotline at 1-888-428-7581. Resources:    - FBI Human Trafficking webpage - Human Trafficking: FBI Initiatives - Human Trafficking: An Intelligence Report

Benefit for Karen Young & children, Thursday, May 22 at O'Hara's

Any local businesses who would like to donate  please e-mail Lisa Parry, lparry@alicecostello.com

Crime: Area Car Wash Franchise Charged With Harboring Illegal Aliens

MEGS 2008 Season Dedicated to Founder Frank Corson

Photos By Bill Bates PROUDLY POSING - From left MEGS Player & Dedication Originator Taylor Gavin, MEGS President Shawn Heslin, and the Corson Family and their children. Frank's wife Mary Corson is holding the basket of flowers (center) as each one of her children are holding their commemorative softball plaques behind her. By Bill Bates Mount Ephraim NEWS Correspondent  Saturday, April 19 the Mount Ephraim Girls Softball (MEGS) held their opening day activities.  The day was also reserved to honor MEGS founder Mr. Frank Corson. Opening Day was dedicated to a man who not only lived in Mount Ephraim for 47 years, but was also very active in the community. He served as President of MEPRI for over 10 years, and Captain of the Mount Ephraim Ambulance Squad (MEPRI EMS) for over 20 years.   SPECIAL PLAQUE - Each of Frank's children; Debra, Patricia, Barbara, Denise, and Kirk received a special commemorative Softball Plaque engraved with the dedication date as a keep-sake of this special day. Frank was remembered and honored as the Originator of the Mt. Ephraim Girls Softball League. Back in 1972, being the community minded person that Frank was and the father of four girls, his idea turned into and is still known today as a well ran softball league and organization that Frank was proud of. Not only was Frank the founder of MEGS, but was also President of the league for 14 years. Frank's idea, commitment, and dedication is alive today in each and every player and parent who are apart of the league. In remembrance of Frank, MEGS invited his family to thank them for allowing their father and husband for taking the time and the effort in starting the fine league of the Mount Ephraim Girls Softball some 36 years ago. Each of Frank's children; Debra, Patricia, Barbara, Denise, and Kirk received a special commemorative Softball Plaque engraved with the dedication date as a keep-sake of this special day. Frank's loving wife Mary received a special basket of flowers. The flowers and commemorative plaques were presented by MEGS players Gabrielle Crain, Julie OʼBriwn, Leah Bocchicchio, Holly Fitzgerald, Cassidy Chambers, and Mackenzie Seymour. The idea of dedicating the 2008 Season came about when MEGS player Taylor Gavin read an article in the NEWS on the passing of Frank Corson and found it heartwarming that Frank was the founder of the league she played on. Taylor wrote a letter to the President of MEGS asking if they could dedicate the season in honor and remembrance of Frank. Current MEGS President Shawn Heslin gladly accepted the idea and the planning started from there. When asked what the dedication day meant to him, MEGS President Shawn Heslin said "It was a wonderful day to honor a man who started this league from the ground up." Shawn further added "Taylor Gavin is a wonderful asset to our league and her idea and efforts will be always be remembered." Taylor's father, Chris Gavin added "Having the Corson family here today shows them we are grateful and not only means a lot to them, but to us as parents of these girls who are able to be a part of this league because of their father and husband's efforts for so many years."

The Annual NJ Law Enforcement Memorial Service May 20th

source http://www.njspba.com/

The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police in conjunction with the New Jersey Chiefs of Police Foundation will host the 24^th Annual New Jersey Law Enforcement Memorial Service, on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 beginning at 11:00 am.  The highly emotional ceremony will held at the historic Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove, New Jersey - 
click here for all the information

Related: Blue Line
 

Gloucester Catholic's Calzonetti heading to Dominican College.

source Google

Calzonetti settles on hoops for college
Gloucester County Times - NJ.com - Woodbury,NJ,USA
By Robert Edwards The 2008 Gloucester County Times boys basketball Player of the Year, Gloucester Catholic High School's Mike Calzonetti, has committed to ...

Notebook: NJSIAA sites favorable for South Jersey
Asbury Park Press - Asbury Park,NJ,USA
By Stephen Edelson • STAFF WRITER • May 9, 2008 Take a quick look at the sites for Monday's NJSIAA Central-South Jersey Group Sectionals, and it appears the ...

MHS back in Classic
The Bridgeton News - NJ.com - Bridgeton,NJ,USA
Millville qualified as an at-large team for what is regarded as the unofficial championship of South Jersey. The conference leaders from throughout South ...

Cory Communications Snags Honors for Rapid Growth
Phone Plus - Phoenix,AZ,USA
Haddonfield, NJ-based agent Cory Communications has been named one of the top 25 fastest-growing companies in South Jersey by researchers at the Rohrer

Local rookie QBs getting first tests
Philadelphia Daily News - Philadelphia,PA,USA
The last thing I'm thinking about is the play I just completed," said Flacco, a South Jersey native from Audubon High. "This is a new offense for me,  

Big catch for Lions
Columbus Ledger-Enquirer - Columbus,GA,USA
He leads the American Indoor Football Association with 62 catches for 759 yards. He's also second in the league with 16 touchdowns. ...
 

A Few Thoughts…… We can sink or swim on the outcome!

By Rich Luongo

editorial_66431@verizon.net 

She was the darling of the Democratic Party. She was going to break down barriers. The first woman to make a serious run for the presidency. Hillary Clinton was a shoo-in.

Then comes Barack Hussein Obama. A lot of people never took him seriously. Young. Upstart. No diplomatic or international experience. What does he know about running a $2 trillion corporation called the USA? Nothing.

Well, guess what? Hillary's fighting for her life. Obama is attracting lots of people who ordinarily would go for Clinton or play the race card: they would be against a black man.

All of that has faded away and Obama is this close to getting the Democratic nomination. If he does, that would be the breaking down of a very huge barrier. And if elected president, all barriers are gone.

In the meantime, Hillary is being told — in no uncertain terms — to get the hell out of the race. You're not going to make it. She has no intention of dropping out, though. She says she'll stay until the convention.

What this will do, really, is divide the Democratic Party with the Super Delegates undecided, in some instances, as to whom to back. And the Republicans can sit back and smile and assume John McCain will make it.

Well, you know what assuming does to you and me. We can't be that positive that McCain will be elected or that Obama will be the candidate. Things can change drastically before and during a political convention. What could probably happen is what happened between Kennedy and Nixon in 1960: Kennedy won the Electoral College but only got 120,000 popular votes. It could happen again between McCain and whoever gets the Democratic nomination. The winning candidate may not be that popular and could have a lot problems with the Congress.

And let's not forget: Whatever a presidential candidate promises are only empty promises. Nothing happens unless the Congress lets it happen. The Constitution provides that the president carries out the laws passed by Congress and to be commander-in-chief of the armed forces. That's it. Those are his or hers only constitutional duties.

If the newly-elected president wins a small portion of the popular vote — or doesn't win the popular vote at all but is still elected — the new president could find it difficult with the Congress to get anything done.

Kennedy had problems. His major bills got passed only after his death because Lyndon Johnson was probably the most powerful politician in Washington with half the Congress members owing their jobs to him. So it was easy to get Kennedy's laws passed because LBJ wanted them passed.

Again I say this is probably the most important presidential election in the past 60 years. We can sink or swim on the outcome. And I can't swim.

The author is a former editor of the Haddon Herald, a feature editor for The Collingswood Retrospect. He was also adjunct teacher at Camden County College. Presently he is a freelance writer for a number of newspapers in the Philadelphia/South Jersey area.

Related: A Few Thoughts

The author is a former editor of the Haddon Herald, a feature editor for The Collingswood Retrospect. He was also adjunct teacher at Camden County College. Presently he is a freelance writer for a number of newspapers in the Philadelphia/South Jersey area.

Related: A Few Thoughts

TWO ROWAN ATHLETES SELECTED FOR ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT

Media Release, May 9     Related: Rowan

GLASSBORO, NJ – Rowan University had two spring athletes that were selected to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District teams. Second baseman Joe Franceschini was named to the Academic All-District II baseball second team and outfielder Heidi Smith was chosen to the Academic All-District II softball second team.

The members of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) by districts selected the Academic All-District teams. The first team selections advance to the national ballot for Academic All-America honors.

To be nominated for the Academic All-America program, a student-athlete must be at least a sophomore with a 3.2 or higher cumulative grade point average (GPA) and be a starter or significant reserve. The District II College Division consists of all non-NCAA Division I colleges and universities in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia and the District of Columbia.

Franceschini (sr. Toms River, NJ/Toms River E.) is a biological science major with a 3.58 GPA.He is a member of the University’s biology club. Franceschini is hitting .362 with 42 hits in 116 at bats. He has contributed with 37 runs scored and 12 RBIs. His 35 walks and .554 on base percentage is first on the team. Franceschini was a member of the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) All-Conference first team.

Smith (so. Hainesport, NJ/Rancocas Valley Reg.) is majoring in health and exercise science and she has a 3.36 GPA. She leads the team with a .408 batting average, 60 hits, 37 RBIs and 16 doubles. In addition, Smith has scored 32 runs and has a .612 slugging percentage. She was named to the NJAC All-Conference first team and the Louisville Slugger/National Fastpitch Coaches Association East All-Region first team.

The Rowan baseball team has a 30-12 record while the softball team is 31-10 overall. Both teams advanced to the NJAC Championship Tournaments. The softball team received an at-large bid to the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament. The selections for the NCAA Division III

Baseball Championship Tournament will be announced on May 12.

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DRPA CELEBRATES NATIONAL BIKE TO WORK WEEK

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, is encouraging people to ride their bicycles to work during National Bike to Work Week May 12-16.  The Delaware River Port Authority is supporting this worthwhile effort by extending Walkway Hours on the Ben Franklin Bridge.

     On Monday May 12^th, Thursday May 15^th and Friday May 16^th the South walkway will be open until 8pm.

     On Tuesday May 13^th and Wednesday May 14^th when the Camden Riversharks will be hosting the Long Island Ducks, the South walkway will be open until 10pm or 30 minutes after the last out

     The Ben Franklin Bridge Walkways would normally close at 7pm.               

      The Delaware River Port Authority is a regional transportation and development agency.  DRPA owns and operates the Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry and Betsy Ross bridges, PATCO, the Philadelphia Cruise Terminal and the RiverLink Ferry.

5th annual James"Zonk" Rodgers Softball Game, June 1st

5th annual James"Zonk" Rodgers, Gloucester Catholic vs Gloucester High softball game to be played on June 1, 2008 at 4 pm at the Brooklawn American Legion field.  One Senior Student from each school will receive a portion of the total funds.  Contact Steve Cowgill at 856 873-3413 or 856 456 8281.

Letters: the United States is Still the Best Place in the World

So the United States, the greatest country the Earth has ever known, is ruined? Well, I have a news flash for all who feel that way. Times have been tough before and the hard work, resolve and confidence of our population have always pulled us through.

Remember the negative impact of 9/11? Do you also remember how the United States bounced back? This country is at 95 percent employment. This is virtually full employment. Almost the same percentage of people holding mortgages are making their payments on time.

Spending money

The "volatile" stock market is still high and, yes, the U.S. dollar is struggling. But when it does, it bounces back stronger than ever. The economy in the toilet? Every time I go to Sam's Club or ShopRite I am happily amazed at the number of people including myself who are spending money. The parking lots at shopping centers are always filled. Are people just in the stores looking? No, they are making purchases.

The war in Iraq is going a lot better than the mainstream, agenda-driven news media (ABC, NBC, CBS, MSNBC, CNN) would have all of us believe. The surge is working, despite U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., and her "willing suspension of disbelief" aimed at Gen. David Petraeus last September.

The brave soldiers, the war dead and injured are the stiff price paid to protect this country and maintain our freedoms. God bless them for their volunteered service and their families who sacrifice all for the vast majority of this nation and nations abroad in the name of freedom and liberty. Their lost lives will not be in vain.

Enemies and allies

I want to see a list of the countries that hate us. Print it as soon as possible for all to see. That list would contain the names of countries who are our enemies. How about a list of the countries that are joined with us. Our standing in the world is higher than ever, since the United States always is at the vanguard of good against evil. Is that the reason so many of our enemies hate us? Imagine if all those countries joined with us to defeat the terrorists and radical Islam.

Don't forget the absolute worst president of my lifetime, one-term Democrat Jimmy Carter. And speaking of terrorists, the former president met with the exiled former leader of the terrorist group Hamas in Syria. What an embarrassment to this nation. Just like House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and her visit to talk to the enemy last year, Democrats will do anything they can to make the Bush administration look bad, even if it means meeting with our enemies. How proud they must be.

Gasoline prices are higher than ever. Because of the environmentalist lobby, headed by such groups as the Sierra Club, we cannot take advantage of our own natural resources. There are vast oil fields off the shores of Florida and California, in the Rocky Mountains and in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). But because of environmentalists, oil companies cannot drill there.

Powerful

I listened recently to a radio interview with a former Missouri congressman who stated the environmentalists won't let us drill for oil in this country. It is wonderful that a small group of people is holding up our country. But this nation can use food (corn) for fuel (ethanol).

Look what that idea has done to food and milk prices. Look what higher fuel costs have done to truckers who deliver the same. Great idea, huh?

I say keep up the good work, President Bush. He and Vice President Dick Cheney have run rings around defeatist, appeasing Democrats. You know the ones who ran on a platform in 2006 of ending this war, but when they got to Congress they don't have the votes or the guts to defend it. I believe that's what they hate most about this administration.

I believe the majority of the people in the United States, though they hate the thought of war, love the idea of continued freedom for all, strength in our military and prosperity for those who will work hard to attain it.

By MICHAEL KAZMAR

Gloucester City.

IF YOU CARE ABOUT NEW JERSEY'S BEARS, DON'T FEED THEM

Media Release May 7

TRENTON - Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson today reminded New Jersey residents to take simple precautions with food storage and garbage disposal to discourage black bears from becoming a nuisance near homes and stores.

"Black bears' extraordinary sense of smell gets them into big trouble in some communities. Bears can't resist an easy meal, so avoid tempting them with unsecured garbage cans or Dumpsters, bird feeders, pet-food bowls left outside or even stale bread scattered on the lawn," Commissioner Jackson said.

Feeding bears either deliberately or unintentionally by carelessly leaving out food or garbage can have serious consequences for residents, their neighbors and the bears. Bears that learn to associate food with people readily become a nuisance, are more likely to damage property or exhibit aggression, and usually are destroyed to protect the public.

In New Jersey, it's illegal to feed black bears, and violators face a penalty of up to $1,000 for each offense.

For the second consecutive year, state conservation officers this spring are canvassing communities to boost public awareness about New Jersey's bear-feeding ban and to make sure residents and business owners are doing all they can to avoid problems. 

Incidents involving garbage, bird feeders and nuisance behavior account for an overwhelming majority of the bear complaints reported to Wildlife Control professionals in the DEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Along with properly storing garbage, residents should avoid putting out bird feeders. Instead, consider attracting birds to backyards with nesting materials and birdhouses.

Though most of New Jersey's black bears live in the northwestern portion of the state, sightings have been reported in all 21 counties. Sightings in residential areas are not considered a problem, if the bears are exhibiting normal behavior and are not creating a nuisance or threatening public safety.

"A bear spotted roaming in a community in most cases will move right on through without incident," Commissioner Jackson said.

Beginning this month, bears begin breeding, and male black bears typically roam long distances in search of mates, increasing the likelihood of encounters with residents unaccustomed to seeing the animals.

Residents who suddenly encounter a bear should remain calm. Do not feed the bear, and do not run. Make sure the bear has an escape route. Avoid direct eye contact, back up slowly and speak with a low, assertive voice.

To minimize the potential for encounters with black bears near homes, residents are advised to take the following precautions:

* Never feed a black bear.

* Use bear-resistant garbage containers, if possible. Otherwise, store all garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids and place them along the inside walls of your garage, or in the basement, a sturdy shed or other secure area.

* Put out garbage on collection day, not the night before.

* Wash garbage containers frequently with a disinfectant solution to remove odors. Draping rags soaked in bleach over your garbage bags also helps to eliminate odors.

* Avoid feeding birds, especially if you live in an area frequented by bears. If you choose to feed birds, do so during daylight hours only, between December 1 and April 1, when bears are least active. Suspend the bird feeder from a free-hanging wire, making sure it's at least 10 feet off the ground. Bring the feeder indoors at night. Clean up spilled seeds and shells daily.

* Do not place meat or any sweet foods in compost piles.

* Clean up after pets. If you feed them outside, remember to pick up any leftover food and remove bowls after they have finished.

* Clean outdoor grills thoroughly after each use. Grease and food residue can attract bears.

* Report bear damage, nuisance behavior or aggressive bears to the local police department or to the DEP's hotline at 1(877) WARN DEP.

To learn more about New Jersey's black bears, visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/bearinfo.htm. In addition to brochures and other information about living with black bears, the DEP provides free bear education seminars to schools and civic organizations.

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