ClearysNoteBook

Gloucester City Feral Feline Committee Needs your Help

    The Gloucester City Feral Feline Committee (G.C.F.F.C.), would like to thank those that are helping so far. We still have a long way to go.

    We would like to report that we have spayed/neutered 33 feral cats and we hope this is just the beginning.

    The G.C.F.F.C. would like to ask, as a community, to help continue this endeavor.

    We need volunteers of all sorts, not just working with the cats; so please, even if you are one to complain about the amount of cats roaming the city; you can volunteer.

    Our first public meeting will be held May 13, 7 p.m. at the courthouse building. We will be discussing the T.N.R. (trap, neuter, release) program; how and why it works best in solving this program. Please join us.

    Please keep in mind the new leash law that was past for the feline community.

    Statistics show that just one female cat, and her offspring, in a ten year period, will produce 450,000 cats roaming our city. So let's not ask how we got here, let's ask what we can do about it now.

    If you would like to report a hot spot (group of cats) or to volunteer, donate time or cat food, please contact G.C.F.F.C. at 856-456-3936.

Denise Rosenberg

G.C.F.F.C. Member

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

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.

Gloucester High Alumni member campaign director for Donna Ward for Congress

Hi Bill;

 

    We had a little correspondence a while ago in my quest to find a picture of the "Beefburger" in Brooklawn. Or was it the origin of the name "Hinky-dinks" for the proposed rail line that was never built and left its scar on Highland Park?

 

In any case, in recent weeks, a friend had decided to run for Congress, and asked me to manage her campaign. Knowing her core political beliefs, I accepted without hesitation, and am now the Campaign Director for Donna Ward for Congress (NJ District 1). Donna is running under Murray Sabrin's slogan of "Constitutional Republicans protecting the Liberty Platform".

PHOTO: DONNA WARD AND MURRAY SABRIN visit the Vietnam War Memorial in Gloucester City

 

It was a last minute decision on Donna's part, and our opponent, Congressman Frank LoBiondo, has at least $1.4 million in his campaign account, but we're undeterred. Donna thoroughly enjoys meeting and talking to people, understands the major issues and I know just enough about the process to be able to help.

 

    When Donna called and told me Dr Sabrin wanted to meet in Gloucester City, I was thrilled. I graduated GHS in '66, and though I've lived in a number of other towns and states, Gloucester will always be where I'm from. I don't know whose decision it was that we meet at the War Memorial, but it was, from where I stood, a good decision. I was a little surprised to find the WWI monument moved from its place on the opposite corner.

 

I was a 6th grade student at Monmouth Street School when it burnt down, and have always remembered the eagle atop the monument on the corner. 1st Congressional District candidate Fernando Powers was to meet with us as well, so Donna and I were a bit early and had time to sit and talk by the monument. For me, personally, the name on the memorial for Vietnam really hit home, having known a number of those listed.

 

    Dr Sabrin had said he was going to stop at the Gloucester City News after we had met, I hope you had a chance to meet with him. Having spent a considerable amount of time with him in recent weeks, I firmly believe he is exactly the kind of man that can understand the concerns of the people of Gloucester City and South Jersey, and express those concerns in Washington to the benefit of all of our futures.

 

Ron Brittin, GHS Class of '66

 

Campaign Director,

Donna Ward for Congress

www.donnawardforcongress.com 

In Response to They Saved, We Suffer

Re: They Saved, We Suffer

Bill,

This year it was $500,000 and I've never heard anyone say $600,000.  Also it was explained to the public exactly how this came about by me at a public meeting and in no way is anyone holding the police responsible.

Its cause is simple fiscal mismanagement, on the part of ex-governor Christie Whitman and unless our city fathers used this money for previous year’s property tax relief then they would also be responsible for the debt that now exists.

I had read the article the officer is referring to and it was the article used for reference in the explanation given to the public.

Mayor Bill James

They Saved, We Suffer!

Received via snail mail.....May 7, 2008

Bill,

At the last couple of (Gloucester City) council meetings I’ve heard Councilman Brophy and other councilpersons tell the public that one of the budget problems the city is having is a $600,000 increase in police pensions. I am a police officer and it infuriates me when I see our political leaders intentionally misleading the public like this.”

There has been no increase in police pensions; the City is simply repaying a debt. They are in essence blaming the police officer for THEIR fiscal mismanagement when nothing could be farther from the truth.

Our current political leaders are not to blame for the problem but they sure as hell are to blame for the way they are handling it. They are turning the public against the police officers and using that to their advantage in current contract negotiations.

Other towns are laying off officers because of this.

The article attached explains everything and you can find it on the New Jersey State Police Benevolent Association (PBA) website. www.njspba.com. There are also contacts on that website you could reach out to for further verification if you wished.

I would like to know what Gloucester City did with all the money they did not contribute to the pension system for all those years. At least I would like to see our City leaders step up and accept responsibility for the fact that it was the City’s mismanagement of funds that led to this problem and not any increase in police officer’s pensions.

I know this isn’t a big deal to most people but it is to me and all other police officers in this state. I can’t get any answers but I thought maybe you could make it public.

You obviously have the juice to get answers and I like your style. You do a great job with your site and, as a city resident; I enjoy being informed so quickly.

I know it not a big story but whatever you can do, I sincerely appreciate.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Cop...............................

NOTE FROM BILL: I forwarded a copy of this letter to each member of council asking if they would like to respond.  Stay tune;  I will update the story as more information is received.

Related: Blue Line 

FROM THE DESK OF ROB NIXON

 

PFRS Pension Holidays and Local Governments - “They Saved, We Suffer”

 

From 1998 to 2007, local governments were given an unprecedented and lucrative opportunity to skip or reduce their required payments into the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System (PFRS).  At the height of the Pension Holiday from 2001 to 2004, local governments contributed only 12% of their required PFRS pension and ERI contributions.  This lack of funding not only crippled the health of the PFRS today but also has placed local governments in the situation of having to make up for this reckless practice now, much like the person who overspends on a credit card and who regrets it only when the bill arrives.             click here for the full report

Letters: Enjoyed Alumni Social

 Year after year, those faithful people who make up the GHS Alumni Committee, put together a terrific Spring Social and this year was no exception. It's always a fun event, giving Gloucester High Alumni an opportunity to get together and reminisce.

    This year, the theme of "Elvis Sings Again" really did bring back a lot of fond memories, and having "Elvis" there, live and in person, added to the excitement and "remember when" banter.

So, a huge thank you is due to Janet Bevan, Joe Devone, and all the rest of the committee who all put so much time and effort into making it happen. Every year you give us a chance to see old friends, relive some of those good-old-dancing-in-the-gym days, and, bottom line, had one heck of a night! Thank you!

Carol Ritchie (Class of '57

Letters: CITY EMT’S VERY PROFESSIONAL

Our family has needed our ambulance service two or three times in our life, and each time I know how grateful I am that we have such wonderful, professional men at our service.

  They put you at ease immediately and go right to their work in such a caring, but efficient manner.

  There are many towns without this service and I am very glad that we have our own Gloucester City ambulance with such compassionate professionals.

 

Mary Jane Nash, Gloucester City

Letters: POLITICAL COMMERCIALS IMPORTANT

  In Response to Bill Cleary's Cheers and Jeers column in the April 24 edition of the Gloucester City News – Jeers to Bill Cleary.

  You might not enjoy being informed about the candidates running for president, but many of us do. Some of us still believe in the political process and we should be championing it, not degrading it.

  You can tell a lot about your candidate by watching their commercials, and it is not always confined to their political promises.

  You can tell what kind of campaign they are running and if they spend more time attacking their opponent than on their own message.

  If you do not like the commercial, change the channel.

  It is one of the rights afforded to every television viewer who does not like what is on their screen.

Melissa McHugh, Gloucester City

NOTE FROM Bill:

Dear Melissa,.

We have been watching these so called "informative commercials" from the candidates for the past two years. If you and others like you don't know who you are going to vote for by now, then we are in big trouble. The last campaign report on what it has cost  the  three candidates over the past 24 months to run for office is nearing $400 million. I could think of so many other ways to spend that kind money instead of wasting it on bashing each other; how about you?

Are you sure you don't live in Florida and maybe you are just visiting Gloucester City?  (Just kidding) I appreciate the fact that you would take your time to respond to my column. Sincerely I do. No doubt whatever I write I will not change your mind nor would you be able to change how I feel. So how about we agree to disagree and leave it go at that.

Related: A Few Thoughts....Enough, Enough, Enough

Letters: Mount Ephraim Residents Asked to Sign Petition to Stop Construction of New Firehouse

There is a petition circulating the Borough of Mt Ephraim regarding a $3 million project to purchase Fire Department property, demolish and re-build a new fire house on Bell Road. THIS WILL CAUSE YOUR TAXES TO GO UP!!!

This should not be able to proceed unless the tax payers have a say. That is the fair way a democracy operates.

You're Fire Department and Commissioners have flown under the radar on this and don't want you to know the facts.  Borough employees have lost jobs, benefits, and additional money...And while all this was being done they borrowed $3 million. And don't want you the tax payers to have a say or know.

And while all this is going on the Police Department gets threatening letters from an alleged fireman to leave them alone???

May 1st next town meeting 8pm all residents should attend support your town employees and let the commissioners know we run the town. 

It's your town you should have a say about how it is being governed.

Bob Medlar

E-mail referendum1@yahoo.com for additional information or signing locations.

ClearysNoteBook: Mount Ephraim $3 Million Fire Station Project ...

News/Sports/Commentary for South Jersey & Philadelphia area updated daily... The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessary represent ...
gloucestercitynews.typepad.com/clearysnotebook/2008/03/mount-ephraim-f.html - 99k -

Letters: I Don’t Care!

Letter from one 'Angry Woman'

'Are we fighting a war on terror or aren't we? Was it or was it not started by Islamic people who brought it to our shores on September 11, 2001?

Were people from all over the world, mostly Americans, not brutally murdered that day, in downtown Manhattan, across the Potomac from our nation's capitol and in a field in Pennsylvania?

Did nearly three thousand men, women and children die a horrible, burning or crushing death that day, or didn't they?

And I'm supposed to care that a copy of the Koran was 'desecrated' when an overworked American soldier kicked it or got it wet? Well, I don't. I don't care at all.

I'll start caring when Osama bin Laden turns himself in and repents for incinerating all those innocent people on 9/11.

I'll care about the Koran when the fanatics in the Middle East start caring about the Holy Bible, the mere possession of which is a crime in Saudi Arabia

I'll care when these thugs tell the world they are sorry for chopping off Nick Berg's head while Berg screamed through his gurgling slashed throat.

I'll care when the cowardly so-called 'insurgents' in Iraq come out and fight like men instead of disrespecting their own religion by hiding in mosques.

I'll care when the mindless zealots who blow themselves up in search of nirvana care about the innocent children within range of their suicide.

I'll care when the American media stops pretending that their First Amendment liberties are somehow derived from international law instead of the United States Constitution's Bill of Rights.

In the meantime, when I hear a story about a brave marine roughing up an Iraqi terrorist to obtain information, know this: I don't care.

When I see a fuzzy photo of a pile of naked Iraqi prisoners who have been humiliated in what amounts to a college-hazing incident, rest assured: I don't care.

When I see a wounded terrorist get shot in the head when he is told not to move because he might be booby-trapped, you can take it to the bank: I don't care.

When I hear that a prisoner, who was issued a Koran and a prayer mat, and fed 'special' food that is paid for by my tax dollars, is complaining that his holy book is being 'mishandled,' you can absolutely believe in your heart of hearts: I don't care.

And oh, by the way, I've noticed that sometimes it's spelled 'Koran' and other times 'Quran.' Well, Jimmy Crack Corn and-you guessed it-I don't care!!

If you agree with this viewpoint, pass this on to all your E-mail friends. Sooner or later, it'll get to the people responsible for this ridiculous behavior!

If you don't agree, then by all means hit the delete button. Should you choose the latter, then please don't complain when more atrocities committed by radical Muslims happen here in our great Country! And may I add:

'Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem' -- Ronald Reagan

I have another quote that I would like to add AND.......I hope you forward all this.

'If we ever forget that we're One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.' Also by... Ronald Reagan

One last thought for the day:

In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the Anti-American sentiment and negativity, we should remember England's Prime Minister Tony Blair's words during a recent interview When asked by one of his Parliament members why he believes so much in America, he said: 'A simple way to take measure of a country is to look at how many want in.. And how many want out.'

Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you:

1. Jesus Christ
2. The American G. I.

One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.

YOU MIGHT WANT TO PASS THIS ON, AS MANY SEEM TO FORGET BOTH OF THEM.

AMEN!

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

Submitted by Hank Miller

 

Gloucester City: Kudos to Michael Dick

 In this day and age of frustration, locally and throughout the world, we need to know that there is hope and success.

    The word artisan "a skilled professional manual worker" fits the description of our homegrown Gloucester City man. He has made one of his dreams come true.

    His name is Michael Dick and he now lives in Florida. He has his own construction company. He returns to Gloucester City on occasion and makes sure he completes work for his grandmother and mother.

    I think that if Michael Dick had been around when Humpty Dumpty fell, he would put him back together again.

    Thank you, Mike for helping me with my special circumstances.

Rae Whelan, Gloucester City

Gloucester City : Lions Club Appreciates Resident’s Generosity

    I would like to personally thank you from the bottom of my heart. On Friday, April 4 the Gloucester City Lions Club held their annual coin toss and because of your generosity it was a great success.

    The money we raise goes towards prescription eye exams and glasses for those who cannot afford them.

    The Gloucester City Lions Club also does the eye screenings at Cold Springs School and St. Mary's School. We support both the Girl's Softball and Boy's Little League, the list goes on.

    Because of you our club continues great success.

    Bring your appetite on May 4 to Gloucester High for our annual Chicken BBQ.

William C. Stevens, President

Gloucester City Lions Club

Letters: What is Happening to Our City?

Dear Bill and Gloucester City Mayor and Council

 

What is the ordinance on dog barking? Or noise in general at night?   

 

I like to see an article on neighbor etiquette with a focus on being considerate after a certain hour with music and/or dogs barking; some people in our City have a serious lack of respect for the people in their neighborhood.

 

What is the law regarding RV's being stored in a back yard?  I think they can only be there for so long and I will assume that someone cannot live or party in one on a nightly basis?

 

I live on Powell street and there is a house with an RV in the back yard and I have watched people partying/living out of an RV in their back yard for about a week? 

 

Signed What is Happening to our City?

 

Gloucester City: CLEAN-UP DAY A SUCCESS

 The Mayor and City Council of Gloucester City would like to thank all the people who participated in our annual Clean-Up Day held on April 5 in Gloucester City.

    Almost 300 people from 20 different groups, picked up 500 bags of trash, tires, clothing, etc., from Market Street, the High School, Martin's Lake, Miller's Pond, the railroad tracks, parks, playgrounds, and the ball fields.

    These individuals and groups worked hard and should be commended for their volunteerism and community spirit. There will be a follow-up Clean-Up Day in October.

    The number of groups and individuals are too numerous to mention and their dedication to this community is appreciated. Also this year, we would like to thank the additional groups and individuals who responded to the article in this newspaper.

    Some people from outside of the community called in, signed up and participated alongside our residents.

    We would also like to thank the various city departments, committees, and employees who participated in this event.

    Gloucester City continues to move forward and we say "Thank you for a job well done!"

Mayor William P. James,

City of Gloucester City

Letters: Please Support the Fair Share provision in the Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act

Hi Bill,

Last night, we scored a huge victory for the American taxpayer. Thanks to your calls and signatures and our advocacy, the Contracting and Tax Accountability Act made it to the House floor and passed with strong bipartisan support.

We've cleared the first major hurdle in our fight this tax season to ensure that federal contracts go to responsible companies that pay their taxes. That bill now moves to the Senate where my colleagues tell me that opposition from companies such as KBR (remember them from last week?) will be even tougher.

But first, there's another chance -- in the next 24 hours -- to deliver another blow to tax-dodging contractors by closing down their offshore tax havens.

Please call your representatives today and tell them to support the Fair Share provision in the Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act.

http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/tax-simplification?id4=ES

Last week, we told you about Kellogg, Brown, and Root, the Halliburton spin-off that employs the majority of its workers through shell companies in the Cayman Islands -- and avoids millions in payroll taxes.

You called your representatives and as a result, the Fair Share Act was included in a bill that passed out of committee and awaits a vote on the House floor tomorrow.

Many of us are rushing to file our returns today, but KBR isn't -- since they dodge taxes by offshoring. Between now and tomorrow we will be going toe-to-toe with the largest contractor in Iraq. With your calls, we can get the votes we need to close their $100 million a year loophole and score another victory for the public interest.

Please call your representatives today and tell them to support the Fair Share provision in the Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act.

http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/tax-simplification?id4=ES


Sincerely,

Allison Cairo
NJPIRG Executive Director
AllisonC@njpirg.org
http://www.NJPIRG.org

Letters: Tell your representatives and senators to co-sponsor the Fair Share Act

Hi Bill,

Last week, on April Fools' Day, we told you about government contractors that trick American taxpayers out of billions of dollars by not paying their taxes -- and what we're going to do about it. We've received almost 4,000 signatures to help push our bill forward. Thanks for your help.

Of course, we all know that it's against the law to dodge taxes -- whether you're John Doe or John Doe Enterprises. That thought might be on your mind as you hurry to file your taxes before the deadline.

Kellogg, Brown, and Root (KBR), a spin-off of Halliburton isn't worried about the deadline. The contractor avoids paying taxes by pretending to be a foreign company (1), even though they provide essential government services to our troops in Iraq.

Click here to tell your representatives and senators to co-sponsor the Fair Share Act, to end this still legal practice.

http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/fair-share?id4=ES

KBR is by far the largest private contractor operating in Iraq, receiving an estimated $16 billion a year in defense contracts that they've never had to compete for, and last month it was revealed that they've been avoiding paying taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment benefits for years.

KBR pays employees through two shell companies in the Cayman Islands, posing as a foreign company while receiving enormous contracts from the U.S. military.

Incredibly, KBR acknowledged using these tax tricks, claiming they "keep war costs down." This from the same company that the Pentagon says has overcharged the government for $279 million in unsupported and questionable expenses. (2)

So, the lead contractor in Iraq receives billions in no-bid contracts, grossly overcharges the government, and uses shell companies to avoid paying millions in taxes and benefits for its employees? Where's the punch-line?

The Fair Share Act, recently introduced in Congress, would prevent government contractors from using offshore tax havens to avoid paying taxes. We need to show Washington that, this tax season, Americans expect tax-dodging contractors to be held accountable for their tricks.

Click here to tell your representatives and senators to co-sponsor the Fair Share Act.

http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/fair-share?id4=ES

Thank you in advance for taking action,

Allison Cairo
NJPIRG Executive Director
AllisonC@njpirg.org
http://www.NJPIRG.org

1. Read the Boston Globe story that blew the top off the KBR-Cayman Islands connection: http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2008/03/13/bill_would_close_offshore_loophole
   
2. More info on KBR overcharges: http://www.contractormisconduct.org/index.cfm/1,73,222,html?CaseID=34

Letters: Are Some Gloucester City Board Members Still Being Pushed Around by Supt.?

Dear Bill,

When Paul Spaventa was named our new superintendent I was excited about the things which were to come.  I have seen him at many basketball and football games this year, during his short tenure as superintendent.  However I am hearing that behind the scenes in the role as administrator things are not getting any better.  Dr. Stansky ruled the board with an iron fist, and our board, our elected officials did whatever she told them.  It appears the same is happening with Mr. Spaventa. 

Early this year he changed the way the board votes.  Board members are no longer allowed to take their folders home with them, instead they have to give them back to Mr. Spaventa at the end of each meeting.  His office is now responsible for creating the agenda.  I was under the impression that the Board of Education ran the district, and the Superintendent answered to them not the other way around. 

What is the leadership of the board doing, it seems like only a handful of the board members are doing their job.  In addition I have heard that Mr. Spaventa is firing the solicitor, only to replace him with a firm that represented the Mount Holly School District.  The only problem is that this particular firm is so large the board will not have the same lawyer every month but different people.  How is this beneficial to our district, as we are poised to lose the "Abbott" title, and will have to increase taxes to run the mandated state programs which we have in place because of the "Abbott" title? 

In addition I also heard from a board member that the superintendent wants to let go of Dr. Carl Vitola at the end of the school year.  From personal experience Dr. Vitola has always been there for Gloucester City over the years especially for the children and I do not understand why Mr. Spaventa wants to let go such a fine individuals like Dr. Vitola and Lenny Wood.

I am concerned about these developments and I hope the leadership of the board and those members who refuse to represent the public realize the decisions which they are making.  We all were able to see firsthand what happened when we tried this with Dr. Stansky, we need to learn from our mistakes, and not repeat them.



Sincerely,

Concerned Resident

Gloucester City: I need your vote for School Board

  My name is Jim Everett and I am up for re-election for the Gloucester City school board. I am asking everyone to come out and vote in April. I am up for a one year term, and I would really like your vote, I am also doing a write in for the three-year term.

   We really need to have the right people in place when it comes to dealing with the many changes that we have faced with the state, we have a budget of almost 43 million dollars and it needs to be spent where it will do the best for out children. We have some members on the board that just want the everyday status quo, and it cannot be that way.

   I have been on the board two times now and I think I have shaken some things up and I want to keep doing it because then I know I am doing what I have been put in office for. Don't get me wrong there are some good people on the board. But we can be better. With the way the state is funding us it makes it very hard to start with new people all the time.

   I have said all through the year that I would not vote for letting teachers go due to the budget. So far this year we have been told that there will be no layoff's, but maybe there will be some scaling back of programs, and we would have to find the money in other area's to keep them running.

   So I would like for everyone to give me a chance to come back to the BOE and keep up the fight to make things right for our children, after all they are the one's that count. But we also need to have good teachers, too, and we have to always be open with the public. That is something that hasn't always been. After all it is your tax dollars..and you should know where and how it is being spent.

   Once again, please come out and vote and I would love to have your vote. Remember I am running on the ballot as a one-year term but I am also running as a write in for the three-year term so please make your votes count.      

Thank You, Jim Everett (BOE)

A Walk for Gina, Sunday, April 6th

Sunday, April 6th, there's going to be a walk in Gina Durham's name. This is a girl I knew from college with one of the biggest personalities you can imagine.

Her two roommates, Nikki & Carlotta, were also some very special ladies to me ... and they miss Gina terribly - everyone that knew her does. It's shocking when anyone our age passes, but Gina was a person who was really positive, really active and had a lot left in her life to accomplish ... and she had to die due to some horrible accident.

The walk is to raise funds for a group she was very involved in that is starting a scholarship in her name.

Registration is at 11am outside Big Blue, I believe, at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. There's going to be all sorts of activities too (not just walking!), so the time that this will be over is pretty much unknown.

I know a lot of you didn't know her, but know this walk is for a good cause and in memory of a great person. If you can come out, it'd be great!

~Jen Wesh

and sometimes an angel's will to be among us is so strong that God can not keep her in heaven,
so she comes to Earth and touches our hearts...but leaves us much too soon

http://cbs3.com/local/Atlantic.Cit.Gina.2.638782.html

Letters: The Joke is on Us!

Hi Bill,

April Fools' is a day of pranks, fibs and tricks. But for thousands of federal contractors that don't pay their taxes, every day is April Fools'. And the joke is on us. 

This April Fools' Day, we can make sure the joke is on them. Click here to take action:
http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/accountability?id4=ES

While we pay our fair share of taxes, private corporations that receive millions, sometimes billions, from the Pentagon and other federal agencies have left the public with a $7.5 billion dollar tab in unpaid taxes and employee withholdings.(1)

In some cases, CEOs and VIPs have collected taxes from their employees but used the money to pay off gambling debts, buy luxury cars and homes, and even, to purchase a sports franchise. That's no laughing matter. 

This month, a NJPIRG-backed bill, the Contracting and Tax Accountability Act, will be taken up in Congress. It would permanently prevent companies with a history of tax delinquency or fraud from receiving major federal contracts. It's common sense. But given the political influence of the contractors, it won't pass without public pressure.
   
With your help, we'll get the bill to the floor and end the April Fools' Day prank that thousands of delinquent government contractors have been playing on taxpayers like us.

Urge Speaker Pelosi to put the bill up for a vote by clicking here:
http://www.uspirg.org/action/tax-budget/accountability?id4=ES


Sincerely,

Allison Cairo
NJPIRG Executive Director
AllisonC@njpirg.org
http://www.NJPIRG.org

(1) To read the GAO report on federal contractor abuse of the federal tax system go to: http://www.uspirg.org/collateral/gao-contractor-tax.pdf

 

 

Letters: 29 States Have Introduced Bills to Regulate Toy Safety

Hi Bill,

Twenty-nine states have introduced bills regulating toy safety standards because lawmakers don't think the federal bill is moving quickly enough or is strict enough. For example, Connecticut is working to adopt a stronger lead standard. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that the government's doesn't protect kids.

States are also pushing for stronger labeling standards and trying to close a loophole that allows items in a voluntary recall to remain on store shelves. Massachusetts has banned the sale of children's jewelry containing lead. Last summer California passed a ban on phthalates, which will go into effect next January and as a result, a ban on phthalates is included in the Senate version of the Product Safety Bill.

In early March, the Washington State Senate approved the strictest toy safety rules in the nation. Just last week, fearing that the governor would actually sign such a strong bill, representatives from Mattel and Hasboro flew out to meet with her. The toy manufacturer's trade group, the Toy Industry Association, claims that the new rules would make it impossible to sell toys in that state. Our analysis: Baloney. What next? Seatbelts will bankrupt the automotive industry?

-To read the article "States alter rules of game on safety for toy makers," click here.
-To read the article "Toy-safety debate continues," click here. To read the editorial "Gregoire should not bow to toy company threats," click here.
-To call Gov. Christine Gregoire (Wash.) and ask her to pass the Children's Safe Products Bill, click here.
-To read about lawmakers in Connecticut who organized a toy-testing program with middle school children, click here. To email Connecticut legislators and ask them to pass their toxic toys bill, click here.

News you don't want to toy with...

Finding non-toxic toys
PBS's NOW shares advice on how to limit children's exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, such as phthalates.

Attorney General hotline set up to address dangerous kids' products
Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan urged parents to call her office's product recall hotline (888-414-7678) if they need help identifying dangerous children's products that may be in their homes.

Senate Debates Possible Ban on Phthalates in Toys
California was the first state to ban toys and child-products that contain more than trace amounts of phthalates. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (Calif.) is looking to expand the ban nationally as part of the Senate CPSC bill.

Plastic Easter Eggs linked to lead paint
In tests directed by Ashland University professor Jeffery Weidenhamer, his students found high levels of lead in paint in 13 out of 45 items. The biggest lead hazards were found in Easter egg spinning tops, plastic Easter eggs that typically are filled at home with treats, bunny hair clips and chick-style sipper cups.

Reebok fined $1 million for deadly lead charm
Two years after a Minneapolis boy swallowed part of a charm bracelet given away with a pair of athletic shoes and died of lead poisoning, the shoes' maker, Reebok, has agreed to pay the government $1 million to settle allegations that it violated the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.

Mega Brands recall 2.4 million magnetic toys
Mega Brands recalled MagnaMan action figures and Magtastik and Magnetix Jr. Pre-School magnetic toys . They said the magnetic parts could be swallowed or inhaled by children.

State health council ban trinkets containing lead
The Massachusetts Public Health Council voted unanimously to ban the sale of children's jewelry containing lead. The ban will go into effect in June.

Washington State Senate OKs nation's strictest toy safety rules
Despite last-minute intensive lobbying efforts by the toy industry, the state Senate on Friday approved the strictest toy safety rules in the nation with a 40-9 vote.

The Recall Roundup (click here for a more complete list of recalled toys)
- Plush Rocker Toys Recalled By Tek Nek Toys Due to Fall Hazard
- Avon Products Recalls Plush Warming Polar Bears Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
- Educational Insights Recalls Ring Toss Games Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
- Downeast Concepts Inc. Recalls Water Bottles Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
- Plan Toys Inc. Recalls Toy Penguins Due to Laceration Hazard
- Hobby Lobby Stores Recalls Easter Egg Containers and Spinning Egg Tops Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
- Toy Puzzle Vehicle Sets Recalled Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard; Sold Exclusively by QVC
- Galison/Mudpuppy Recalls Wire Bound Journals and Calendars Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
- MEGA Brands Recalls Magtastik and Magnetix Jr. Pre-School Magnetic Toys ; Ingested Magnets Pose Aspiration and Intestinal Hazards
- MEGA Brands Recalls MagnaMan Magnetic Action Figures ; Ingested Magnets Pose Aspiration and Intestinal Hazards
- Battat Recalls Additional Magnetic Construction Sets ; Ingested Magnets Pose Aspiration and Intestinal Hazards
- Toy Sundae Sets Sold at Target Recalled by Battat Inc. Due to Choking Hazard
- Toy Airplanes, Cars, and Motorcycles Recalled by S.U. Wholesale Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
- Ellaroo Recalls Infant Sling Carriers Due to Fall Hazard

Sincerely,

Peggy Lo
Toy Safety Online Organizer
PeggyL@pirg.org
http://www.toysafety.net

Letters: Fighting the Chemical Industry

Hi Bill,

Thanks to a little March Madness magic, thousands of people have helped out our campaign to pass a strong chemical security bill in Congress. It's time for you to join the team.

So far, in the NCAA tournament, there have been buzzer beaters and major upsets. It's the kind of tournament that makes you root for the teams like Davidson and West Virginia. As we face Duke (Energy), Dow and ExxonMobil and the other powerful special interests opposing our bill, we feel the same kind of underdog solidarity.

Our bill already has 19 co-sponsors. We want a sweet 16 more by the end of the tournament -- and we'll need the full-court press to make it happen.

Please take a second to put the full-court press on Congress:
http://www.njpirg.org/action/toxics/sweet16?id4=ES

On this bill, just like so many others, we're facing off against a powerhouse -- the chemical industry. If passing this bill is like winning the NCAA tournament -- we are the Cinderella team that goes on to upset the #1 seed.

Now that we've come this far, we need your help to move a strong chemical security bill to the final four: approval by two key committees in both the House and Senate.

Please take action on the campaign today.
http://www.njpirg.org/action/toxics/sweet16?id4=ES

To stay updated on the progress of the bill as it moves through committee, besting the chemical industry in every underdog match-up it faces, visit our website at http://www.njpirg.org/issues/njpirgs-toxics-free-future/safer-alternatives?id4=ES

Thanks in advance for taking action,


Allison Cairo
NJPIRG Executive Director
AllisonC@njpirg.org
http://www.NJPIRG.org

ONLY IN NEW JERSEY: Sick of Listening to Whiny Public Employees

I swore I'd stop writing letters to the editor because of all the sheep voters in this state, but I have to respond to the letter writer.

This writer needs to be enlightened. In 2007, the U.S. Department of Labor released results of a recent study showing that for the first time, public sector employees' salaries (with their benefits packages) surpassed private sector salaries (including their benefit packages). New Jersey has 51 state/county employees per 1,000 people; by comparison, Kansas has four public employees per 1,000.

I am sick of listening to whiny public employees with their recently given health-care-for-life bonanza complaining that their jobs may be cut. It's about time. No job is for life. In the real world, people change jobs and retrain all the time due to changing corporate policy in response to shifting market and economic conditions and still must save for their own retirement and health care.

New Jersey is positioned to become the first state to go bankrupt due to its socialist policies practiced over the last 50 years. How did I ever survive growing up in this state in the 1950s when there were no 1,000-person departments, bureaus, administrations or offices catering to every possible whim or need?

Ridiculous tax increases are forcing people from their homes statewide due to adherence to the archaic "home rule" mentality. Other states learned long ago that consolidation and/or regionalization of services is the only way to stay solvent. They also do not allow double taxpayer-funded pensions.

We can eliminate two-thirds of the Motor Vehicle Commission with national ID cards that have embedded computer chips. All applications could be conducted online.

MICHAEL BURNS

Re: The Monies Stolen from the Gloucester City Little League

To the residents of Gloucester City