GLASSBORO — Students named to the Principal's List and Honor Roll for the second marking period at the Thomas E. Bowe School: Principal's List Ghazi Jacob Alfakhouri, Jaina Denai Baptiste, Dominic Barr II, Rachel Carbonaro, Ryan Carter, Eleanor Hae In Chon, Tamara Lynn Cooper, Abigail Lee Crispin, Joanna Ruth Crispin, Rebecca Joy Crispin, Lucas Kenneth Daniel, David Earl Davis,...

 

GLASSBORO -- Students named to the Principal's List and Honor Roll for the second marking period at the Thomas E. Bowe School:

Principal's List

Ghazi Jacob Alfakhouri, Jaina Denai Baptiste, Dominic Barr II, Rachel Carbonaro, Ryan Carter, Eleanor Hae In Chon, Tamara Lynn Cooper, Abigail Lee Crispin, Joanna Ruth Crispin, Rebecca Joy Crispin, Lucas Kenneth Daniel, David Earl Davis, Carmen Ines De La Cruz Hofer, Emily Jean De La Cruz Hofer, Nicholas Joseph Delia, Gabriel Joseph Dempster, Julissa Lovette Diaz, Hannah Marie DiGiuseppe, Kadie Grace DiGiuseppe, Lucius James Dinzeo, Shaelyn Donnelly, Calista Jolise Dow, Jacob Tyler Fitzgerald, Mia Rose Galeone, Jaisohn Shyanne Gantt, Walter Phillip Garrison, Michael Thomas Graves, Madison Griffin, John Alexander Guerra, Kaylee Hartung, Alyssa Heisler, Brianna Danae Herner, Anna Holland, Drew Jackels, Katryn Jane Keating, Carter Foster Kensil and Jonathan Thomas Knorr,

Also, Tristan Andreas Kopp, Seth Brendan LaMar, Maya Lee, Julia Elizabeth Lipsett, Ciane Isabel Lopez, Jacob Lord, Sophia Austen Lund, Isabella Jessica Marini, Zaria Ophilia Marriott, William James McCulley, Madeline Joy McKinney, Clifton Cartrell Moore, Arleny Morales Alor, McKenzie Grace Mulch, Ryan Mullins, Zahira Navarro, Maura Teresa O'Brien, Madison Leigh Olsen, Jacob Anthony Ortzman, Atakan Mert Ozdemir, Andrew Petrany, William James Pinder, Isabella Sophia Profico, Madison Mae Putney, Gabriella Maria Randazzo, Conrad Brian Raynor, Samuel Brian Raynor, Zachary William Redondo, Nevaeh Sarae Rowe, Evan Alexander Salugao, Kai Alexander Salugao, Jillian Smith, Kevin Jay Smith, Kyle Solomon, Brenna Maren Somdahl-Sands, Ryland Joseph Stark, Emilee Hope Townsley, Samantha Grace Tranz, Douglas Adam Tranz Jr., Brice MaKenna Warren, Cameron Cheyenne West, Tayler Williams, Ahnyste Marie Woodson, Derek Wyllie, and Gavin Joseph Wyllie.

Honor Roll

Eligh Jovani Alavez Lopez, Nathan Amanatey, Julia Elizabeth Armenia, Kera Shane Bacon, Danielle Alexandria Ball, Dylan Alexander Barbour, Boston Barger, Vincent James Bognanni, Kameron Dallas Borger, Michael Francis Bozarth, Kevin William Briles, Marcus Jerrard Brown, Joshua Thomas Buff, McKenzie Rochelle Burgess, Jenna Christina Burke, Franchesca Isabella Carey, Dai'shy Carroll, Alice D. Carter, Adam Matthew Cerquoni, Dylan Henrrique Christ, Tavianna Patricia Clarke, Alexis Davis, Catherine Leontyne Davis, Simon Peter Dempster, Sandra Moena DeShields, Jayden Daniel DiPasquale, Michael Robert Dougherty, Victoria Isabelle Dow, Emma Duaime, Makenna Grace Eichfeld, Sabinne Elias, Eliana Celeste Ellis, Nyah Noela Ellis, Christian David Emick, Brandon Figueroa, Abigail Ellen Ford, Alyson Elaine Fornes, Mia Ann Fornes, Gianni Fowler and Sanaa Denise Fowler.

Also, Ethan Andrew Fox, Shayana Marie Frank, Jevon Anthony Gallon, Shakeem Curtis Gibson, Ken-nya Marie Glover, Emma Delaney Gorman, Charles Patrick Graves, Adam Gregory Gredzinski, Reice Paige Griffin, Joshua Anthony Guerra Guzman, Colin Daniel Hagerty, Shaliyah Vernell Hall, Connor James Hallahan, Ross Brodic Hare, Aaron Hart, Megan Hawks, Mishelle Hernandez, Yarimar Hernandez, Sanaa Monet Hester-Sharrock, Shane Robert Holshue, Julius Raymond Hughes III, Jonathan Ibarra, Ayanna Lynn Ann Irvin, Ashley Johnston, Madison Johnston, Lauren Kautz, Megan Elizabeth Keating and Daniel Ryan Keel.

Also, Angel Robert Keifner, Armando Robert Keifner, Yusra Saif Khan, Emirhan Kir, Jason Alexander Kirby, Katelyn Kurke, Kelsey Kurke, Randolph Ivory Littles, Stefani Lopez, Kamiyah Shante Lott, Evan Jude Mack, Alyssa Madgey, EZavier Levar Mangum, Marissa Nicole Marchese, Emily Elizabeth Marshall, Emma Paige Mattox, Gage McAdarra, Nash David McArthur, McKenna McIlvaine, Jersei McLean, Jose Mejia Monroy, Benjamin A. Merritt, Skylah Marie Miano Hellyer, Lauryn Elizabeth Miller, Celeste Marguerite  Moravec, Layla Marie Muldoon, Morgan Murphy, Peyton Ella Ngo, Alexander Nop, Olawale Osinowo, Karma Samone Payne, Nila Payne, Hailey Marie Puglia, Bryson Cole Purnell, Farren Paige Purnell, Daphne Anahi Rauda, Nicole Rose Rementer and James M. Richardson.

Alyssa Ruth Riley, Alyssa Renee Rodriguez, Allison Marie Rorer, Lydia Ross, Anthony Ray Ross III, Ethan Zachary Roth, Alberto Ruiz Perez, Emma Elizabeth Russell, Jacob Ramirez Salgado, Jessica Jocelyne Salinas, Jonathan Xavier Santiago, Alondra Santiago-Chavez, Benjamin William Schwartz, Messiah Myangel Scurry-Thompson, Mariyia Nakayla Smith, Kayla Danielle Soucy, Logan Stockl, Claivon Samuel Suggs, Schalen KLamera Taylor, Ryan Connor Thomas, Hailey Marie Tongue, Jenna Torres, Lucas Torres, Jayden Lamarr Tossie, Jaden Jordan Tricoche, Desmond Ellis Vassell, Kimberly Shinia Vyent, John Emrick Wallace, Jamie J. Walton, Maceo Washington, Elijah James Whitaker, Kayla Grace Widmann, Jhamani Willis, Malachai Willis, Mya Willis, Jakarr Lee Wilson, Ella Katherine Wujick, Christopher Dean Wyllie, and Winson You.

This item submitted by the Glassboro School District 

Register today to run/walk for a good cause

The Third Annual NJ5K for Pulmonary Fibrosis Run and 1 Mile Walk in memory of James Lynam and Diane Reynolds Reichert will be held on April 24 at Washington Lake Park.

Pulmonary Fibrosis is a condition in which the lung tissue becomes thickened, stiff, and scarred making it difficult for the lungs to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. In the United States, IPF affects between 132,000-200,000 people. Sadly, an estimated 40,000 people die each year from the condition. To date, there is no cure.

The race will be at the Washington Lake Park in Washington Township on Sunday, April 24 at 9 a.m. On-site registration opens at 7:30 a.m. Last year approximately 200 people came and $9,000 was raised. The goal for 2016 is to draw more than 250 participants and raise $15,000. The race is rain or shine, T-shirts included with registration and medals for overall top three males and females. Medals are also awarded for first place in each age group (0-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+). Children and strollers are welcome. Registration is $25.

To register go: www.runtheday.com/registration/select_race_type/36217

To donate: www.runtheday.com/donate/donation_entry/36217.

Students named to the Principal's List and Honor Roll at Glassboro High School for the second marking period: Principal's List Dylan Acri, Kathryn Appleby Wineberg, Dalton Beato, Matthew Beltran, Ryan Brown, Tugce Cakir, Ian Carter, Sha'Lynn Clarke, Brandon Corson, Kristy Costa, Sophia D'Anna, Morgan Davis, Antonio DeAngelis, Taj DeFrance, Lenessa DeFrank, Cecilia DiAmbrosio, Sarah DiPietro, Alisha Donnell, Noah Dorfman,...

 

Students named to the Principal's List and Honor Roll at Glassboro High School for the second marking period:

Principal's List

Dylan Acri, Kathryn Appleby Wineberg, Dalton Beato, Matthew Beltran, Ryan Brown, Tugce Cakir, Ian Carter, Sha'Lynn Clarke, Brandon Corson, Kristy Costa, Sophia D'Anna, Morgan Davis, Antonio DeAngelis, Taj DeFrance, Lenessa DeFrank, Cecilia DiAmbrosio, Sarah DiPietro, Alisha Donnell, Noah Dorfman, Katrina Dowdy, Wayne Duffey, Juliana Elwood, Francesco Fazzolari, Holly Felker, Cassandra Ferrara, Brenden Finley, Julia Fisher, Molly Fitzpatrick, Bailey Fokin, Nicholas Gambino, Busra Gocmez, Colleen Grehlinger, Margaret Grehlinger, Daniel Guerin, Mya Hamwright, Sahar Hanif, Jacob Harrison and Kristopher Hartung.

Also, Logan Healy, Angelina Hodson, Ronald Hubbs, Noah Johnston, Gianna Jordan, Alex Jurich, Andrew Kautz, John Thomas Kelly-Keifer, John Kenney, Sarah Kerr, Alyssa Kurke, Lauren Lightcap, Megan Lord, Christopher Maldonado, Maciana Mazzeo, Vito Mazzeo, Sarah McWilliams, Jonathon Meddick, Osazee Nosa, Luis Oscar Nunez Pacheco, Dursun Ortak, Christian Outlaw, Gulden Ozdemir, Dyone Payne, Ava Powell, Dominick Profico, Emily Provine, Alex Resnik, Ashley Rey, Solana Reyes, Megan Ritter, Neil Schoenfeldt, Steven Selfridge, Ryan Sgro, Joanna Short, Cody Shute, Keri Straub, Michael Turner, Anthony Ungrue, Anthony Valerio, Erin Van Dexter, Brianna Vanartsdalen, Giovani Velez, and Ahmed Younas.

Honor Roll

Rachel Adams, Samuel Adams, Jonathan Ammaturo, Katherine Amrhein, Imani Anderson, Nicholas Angelucci, Courtney Aravanis, John Archibald, Cody Beato, Olivia Beltran, Macala Beltran, Givonna Boggans, Terrell Boggans, NyAsia Brackett, Hunter Briggs, Crystal Brown, Brianna Bryant, Jayson Buff, Jessica Burke, Marceline Byrer, Brianna Cabezas, Kaylee Campbell, Anthony Carite, Sharita Carr, Robert Carter, Tiffany Chandler, Khayri Coe, Cheyenne Colna, Roy Cook Jr., Michael Cosentino, Frederick Costa Jr., Marysa Dais, Adrianna D'Amico, Rabia Danyaro, Tayler Davis, Dylan DiPatri, Casey Donovan, Jacob Dorfman, Briani Downes, Robert Elentrio Snoke, Tyler Estes, Christian Figueroa, Erin Finley, Brianna Fiorentino, Arielle Fithian and Alayna Fleming.

Also, Lateesha Fooks, Kyra Franklin, Gabrielle Galeone, Eric Gilbert, Ibrahim Gocmez, Sefa Gocmez, Wilberto Gomez, Jared Gonzalez, Mariah Graves, Amaya Gregg, Jeda Gregg, Jordan Hammond, Mathew Hanson, Brielle Hewes, JaZahn Hicks, Brenna Higgs, Peter Hodson, Mara Holt, Dezmen Horne, Carmelo Ibarra Jr., Jamir Jenkins, Anita Jenkins, Amoni Jennings, Jasmine Johnson, Alizsa Johnson, Connor Johnston, Gianna Joie, Marc Jurek, Bianca Jurek, Jonathan Kenish, Dominique Khieu, Tiahjzah King, Batuhan Kir, Acosta Kittles III, Athena Le, Mikaela Lovell, Gregory Maccarone, John Maldonado, Savannah Markert, Trinity McAllister, Treron McBride, Alex Melchor and Veronica Menna.

Also, Brandon Miles, Tyra Minatee, William Mintz, Taylor Moore, James Moore, Keisy Morales Alor, Kyree Myers, Destiny Nesmith, Caleb Nicholson, Only Noel Otero, Robert Norton, John Oberkehr, Hannah O'Brien, Shyenne Ojeda, Collin Oncay, Meredith Owen, Devin Patterson, Claudia Perez, Gwendolyn Polillo, Devon Pritchett, Bhoumin Puwar, Joshua Pyronneau, Shelby Richardson, Marlena Richeal, Madison Ridge, Ryan Ristine, Chelcie Rodriguez, Dayanara Rodriguez, Tiara Rogers, Brandon Roland, Gabriela Ruiz Perez, Vincent Russo, Radja Salvador, Nathan Samuels, Matthew Schillaci, Noah Schmidt, Nicole Schmittinger, Daniel Schmittinger, Asher Schools and Nicholas Silvestro.

Also, Arjun Singh, Dylan Skidmore, Jacob Smith, Alexis Snead, Jakob Snyder, Quinlan Somdahl Sands, Kim Speller, Nyyanda Stevens, David Still, Angel Stroman, Pariti Sutaria, Tanner Tohanczyn, Ryan Toppi, Claire Torowus, Rebekah Toy, Salvatore Tranchina, Kendyl Tranchina, Katie Tritto, Kevin Troy, Devin Ungrue, Jacob Uscilowski, Natalie Vazquez, Jayonna Wallace, Alexis Wallace, Jonathan Wallace, Olivia Warlow, Conor Warwick, Bryce Washington, Maxwell Wickel, Alexander Wickel, James Wilcott III, Keshon Williams, Alexis Willoughby, Alexia Winder, Micaela Woerner, Payton Wolf, SaNiyah Wright, Nimra Younas, Kayla Young, and Robert Zoroiwchak.

This item submitted by the Glassboro School District

Valerie Galzerano writes that a newly approved loophole for trappers needs to be closed.

To the Editor:

When a parent tells a child, "You can't have that chocolate bar because I don't want you eating candy," but then the child sneakily eats a chocolate bar with peanuts -- rationalizing that it's not the same thing as a "chocolate bar" -- the child would  probably still get in trouble, right? 

Apparently, the New Jersey Fish and Game Council never learned that lesson.

When the state attorney general, in 1985, said that the state's ban on hunters' and trappers' use of leghold traps on small animals was  "absolute," "unambiguous," and applied to all "technical modifications," he meant it. Unfortunately, last year, council authorized the use of "enclosed foothold trap," which goes against the 1985 policy as well as the legislative intent of a 1984 law. These are still leghold traps.

Fortunately, the Legislature has the chance to tell the council and the Division of Fish and Wildlife that what they've done is wrong. Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR)11, sponsored by Ray Lesniak, D-Union; and ACR25, sponsored by Assemblyman Troy Singleton, D-Burlington; would nullify any regulation allowing traps of the steel-jaw leghold type. 

An identical measure passed swiftly in the Assembly during the last session, but stalled in the Senate.

It is now up to Senate President Stephen Sweeney to urge Sen. Bob Smith, the chairman of the Senate Environment Committee, to finally post the resolution for a hearing. This will offer the opportunity to, once and for all, ban the use of these cruel and inhumane devices.

Valerie Galzerano

Vineland

Enjoy an fun evening of food and music for a good cause

GLASSBORO -- A Voice for Paws' 1st annual "Wags 'n' Whiskers Dance Party"  fundraiser is set for Saturday, April 16 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Masso's Crystal Manor, 210 Delsea Drive South (Route 47), in Glassboro.

This fun-filled gala will feature a fabulous food buffet, beer and soda. The band Goodfellas will provide live oldies music for dancing, and there will be a cash bar, raffles and a basket auction. Tickets are $35 each available in advance.

Enjoy a fantastic night to support a great cause. Call 609-217-4980 or order online at www.avoiceforpaws.org.

A Voice for Paws Inc. is a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization based in Gloucester County, whose mission is to improve the lives of companion animals in and around Gloucester County through TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), spay/neuter assistance and education. A Voice for Paws' goal is to decrease euthanasia rates and increase adoption from shelters and rescues, while promoting responsible pet ownership through education and community outreach.

This item was submitted by A Voice for Paws. 

Principal lies on bed of nails for students

FRANKLIN TWP. -- Franklin Township Public School District students at the Caroline L. Reutter School participated in an assembly focused on physics and sports science presented by the Liberty Science Center.

Presenters demonstrated Newton's Laws and cause and effect using sports equipment.

Students learned how a pitcher makes a baseball curve and volunteers joined in a momentum race.

The highlight of the assembly was the school's principal, Theodore Peters, lying on a bed of nails to support the laws of physics in front of the students.

This items was submitted by the Franklin School District.

Video of a woman walking along the highway at night prompted ghost stories on social media. Watch video

WASHINGTON TWP. -- A young woman spotted walking in the dark along Route 55 earlier this week was a teen runaway from a local facility, police confirmed Friday.

A passing motorist shared video of the pedestrian dressed in white on Facebook, sparking theories ranging from it being a runaway to a ghost. She appeared to be wearing a white dress, a veil and carrying flowers, witnesses reported.

Facebook user Bill Hand posted the video early Tuesday morning. He said the woman was walking on the shoulder of Route 55 northbound before exit 56 in Deptford Township.

"Somebody please give me a reasonable explanation for this so I can sleep again," he said in his post, which has been shared more than 2,100 times on Facebook.

Hand said he contacted police immediately after seeing the woman.

Washington Township police confirmed the teen had walked away from Robin's Nest, a children's services organization, and was later located. After she was positively identified and officials confirmed she was not injured, she was returned to the facility. She has left Robin's Nest in the past, police confirmed. 

Philly radio personality Big Daddy Graham spotted the pedestrian and was clearly rattled by the experience. In audio posted to YouTube from his radio program, the Wenonah resident spoke about passing the woman on Route 55 as he approached exit 53.

"I look to my right and in the dark there's somebody ... in a wedding dress and a wedding veil, carrying flowers," he recounted. "Let me tell you, it freaked me out."

Graham flagged down a state trooper a short distance away, he said. As the trooper pulled up, he asked Graham, "Is it about somebody in a wedding dress? We're on it." 

With that, the trooper zoomed off and was joined by another as they headed back toward the area where the pedestrian was reported, Graham said.

Apart from what is seen in the video, police could not confirm if the teen was wearing a wedding gown or carrying flowers.

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

Chevrolet-Cadillac of Turnersville donates money/equipment to local leagues

WASHINGTON TWP. -- In the spirit of community collaboration and teamwork taught through youth sports, Chevrolet-Cadillac of Turnersville is supporting Washington Township Youth Baseball through the Chevy Youth Baseball Program. This sponsorship will include both monetary and equipment donations during the 2016 youth baseball season. 

Chevy Youth Baseball is a grassroots initiative that establishes a positive relationship between local dealers and the communities they serve. The sponsorship is a part of Chevrolet's nation-wide commitment to support youth sports, one community at a time. Chevrolet-Cadillac of Turnersville will donate equipment to the league which may include: equipment bags, baseballs, softballs, catcher's gear, ball buckets, umpire's equipment, coach's kits, break away bases, bat racks, batting tees and first aid kits.

Thanks to Chevrolet-Cadillac of Turnersville and other participating area Chevrolet dealers, youth baseball participants will have a chance to attend a youth clinic with local professional baseball coaches.

"We are looking forward to a great season with Washington Township Youth Baseball that will be filled with exciting games and an enhanced experience for the teams through the equipment and cash donations" Marsh Chambers, of Chevrolet-Cadillac of Turnersville said.

The 2016 program will provide assistance to approximately 300 organizations in the Northeastern region and Chevrolet dealers will contribute over $450,000 in monetary and equipment donations.

This item was submitted by Chevy Youth Baseball Program.

Orchard Valley Middle School principal named district director of secondary education

By Jan Giel

Steve GregorCOURTESY PHOTO 

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP -  The Washington Township Board of Education has elevated Orchard Valley Middle School Principal Steve Gregor to the role of District Director of Secondary Education. OVMS Principal since Feb. 1, 2013, Gregor will move to the Eileen Abbott Central Administration Building and assume his new responsibilities on July 1. He will assist in curriculum development and implementation in grades 6-12 and will report to Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Jack McGee.

"Dr. Gregor is very qualified for this promotion," McGee said. "He has a diverse background of experiences that translate very well to the responsibilities associated with the Director of Secondary Education..."

Prior to his leadership role at OVMS, Gregor served as the district's social studies supervisor since 2004. He earned his doctorate degree in Instructional Technology and Distance Education from Nova Southeastern University, after completing his dissertation on "Social Networking: Closing the Achievement Between Regular and Special Education Students," in April 2014.

Gregor is a 1981 graduate of Valley Forge Christian College, where he earned a bachelor's of arts degree in education. He completed a master's of arts degree in social studies in 1989 and earned his supervisor's certificate from Rowan University in 1995. Additionally, Gregor earned his principal and school administrator certificates, along with a master's of arts degree in educational leadership, from Thomas Edison State College.

Gregor began his career in education as a teacher of geography, world history, United States history, civics and German at Camden County College from 1984-89.  He spent 1989-2004 as a world and U.S. history teacher at Washington Township High School, earning Teacher of the Year distinction in 1995.  In addition to his high school teaching and supervising roles, Gregor, a Washington Township resident, continues to serve as an adjunct instructor with Microsoft Office Applications and with Rowan University, where he developed the syllabus for the school's History through Technology course work.

Jan Giel is Student Registration, Data and Information manager for Washington Township Public School.

Joseph P. Owens, the publisher and executive editor of South Jersey Times, will be leaving March 31.

Joseph P. Owens, publisher and executive editor of South Jersey Times. (Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media)
 

HARRISON TWP. -- Joseph P. Owens, the publisher and executive editor of South Jersey Times, will leave the organization at the end of the month, it was announced this week.

Owens' position as publisher and executive editor was eliminated as part of a restructuring this month, according to an internal announcement.

His final day will be March 31.

Owens has worked as an editor and reporter for more than 30 years. He was editor and VP/content at The Express-Times in Easton, Pa., where he helped lead the launch of lehighvalleylive.com. 

Prior to that, he served in various jobs at the Times Herald, Norristown, Pa., including managing editor, reporter, sports editor and columnist. He started his newspaper career in 1978 as a 15-year-old copy boy at the now-defunct Philadelphia Bulletin.

He moved to South Jersey in 2012.

South Jersey Times moves to Mullica Hill

"I'm extremely grateful to all the people who have worked to achieve so much success here over the last four years," Owens said. "I'm also thankful for the many people in the community I have met and worked with throughout South Jersey and beyond."

A native of Philadelphia, Owens is a graduate of De Sales University in Center Valley, Pa. He has been the recipient of numerous journalism awards presented by regional and state newspaper associations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The staff serving South Jersey Times earned more than a dozen awards from the New Jersey Press Association this year. 

St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Swedesboro celebrated its 35th year of holding Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.

SWEDESBORO — A large crowd gathered at St. Clare of Assisi Parish Friday to participate in the 35th annual Stations of the Cross.

This religious event is held at numerous Catholic churches on Good Friday as a way to remember the events surrounding Jesus' death on the cross. The Swedesboro Parish forgoes the comfort of staying inside their church and instead holds a procession outside.

The day seemed mired with clouds and scattered showers early on, but as members of the community began showing up the weather began to clear.

"The sun came out. He put his rays on his parade, you know, and that's just what we needed to have — just a beautiful day with a beautiful gathering," said Deacon Joe Garrozo, a clergyman of St. Clare of Assisi Parish.

The event began in front of the church on Broad Street where a cross was carried to the front of the group of about 150 members of the community. The parade continued on for one mile, making a full circle back to the church, and made 14 stops along the way.

At each stop, or station, a member of the clergy would lead everyone in a reading that recounted the events of Good Friday according to the Christian faith. They then held a prayer and before continuing their march in song, they'd switched out members of the community to carry the cross. Some local residents make it a point to participate and carry the cross every year.

"I've been doing it for 35 years," said Luis Luna of Woodbury.

Luna explained that his father brought him to the very first Stations of the Cross in Swedesboro and has participated every year since. He has even continued the tradition with his own family as well.

The participants who carried the cross varied not only in age and gender but in numbers as well. Christie Kennedy, a resident of Swedesboro, took a turn in carrying the cross with her two elementary-aged children. Her hope in having them participate was that it would be a learning experience.

"I feel that it's a nice way that the kids can really understand what Easter is about," explained Kennedy. "You know, I think it's kind of an abstract idea for them and for them to actually hold the cross it makes it a little more concrete that this is what Jesus did so many years ago. "

At the procession's end, an invitation was extended for anyone in the community to return to St. Clare of Assisi Parish for other services in observance of Easter.

Anthony Medina may be reached at amedina@njadvancemedia.com. Follow South Jersey Times on Twitter @theSJTimes. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

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

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

CHEERS: To actress Jane Seymour and a local charity that received a donation from her charity last week. Seymour visited Pitman to deliver a $5,000 donation from her Open Hearts Foundation to Katelyn Darrow and her Angels of God Clothing Closet. Angels of God provides clothing, food assistance and other necessities to area families facing hardships. Darrow began her charity when she was just 12 years old and continues this work even while she attends college. The goal of Seymour's foundation is to recognize people who have overcome personal challenges and are now helping others. Darrow and her family are shining examples of what it means to give back to your community.

JEERS: To an outrageous video posted on social media and the disturbing reaction to it. We refer to a video posted to Facebook earlier this week showing a man beating the heck out of a teenager. West Deptford Police are investigating the case but no charges have been filed. They say the video was shot in January in National Park, that the teen was not seriously injured and that both parties are cooperating with police. It's hard to imagine how someone would not be charged in this case, but the social media reaction to this matter has been -- as usual -- fierce. Many have called for the beater to face every form of violent retribution and some have even posted personal information about him online. Let's allow the police time to conduct their investigation rather than handing out mob justice. The video is disgusting and an explanation is required. Let's not take a terrible incident and compound it with even more mindless hatred.

CHEER to calling in the cavalry. Liam Lindsey always wanted to become a police officer. Flanked by Gloucester Township Mayor David Mayer and police Chief Harry Earle, the 7-year-old honorary member of the township force who is battling leukemia can cross that one off his to-do list. Gloucester Township didn't stop at giving little Liam a hat and other token gifts. No, they let him help with a fictional car stop, don SWAT close-quarters police gear, sit in the driver's seat of a fire truck and more. This 7-year-old who shows up for kindergarten the day after a chemotherapy treatment is as tough as nails, just like his teacher said he is. He'll make a great police officer one day.

JEERS to muzzling the underdog. Alex Law seems to have a problem with the people putting his name on the ballot. The 24-year-old progressive running against U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross is suing the Camden County Clerk's Office over what he calls "secret" ballot practices. In short, he swears the clerk's office won't accurately explain how and where candidates names end up on the ballot. A Camden County spokesman decried Law's lawsuit, calling it "frivolous" and a "publicity stunt." We sided with that spokesman in this same space last week when he challenged another lawsuit and used much the same reasoning but this time, we think Law deserves his day in court.

CHEERS: To reliving those happier days. Lots of things have disappeared from the New Jersey landscape over the years that brought joy to our lives, but in Vineland one experience from the past is still alive -- the drive-in movie theater. The Delsea Drive-In was built in 1949 and closed in 1987, but was brought back to life in 2004. The theater, on Delsea Drive, is open for the season offering first-run films and a concession stand filled with movie-time treats.

JEERS: To betraying a special trust. A Lower Alloways Creek man last week in Superior Court admitted he sexually assaulted a little girl, 3. Rick Gazzola, who had been a teacher at the Salem Middle School, will be sentenced to eight years in state prison at his next court appearance, scheduled for June 2. Sadly, Gazzola was a friend of the victim's family, someone apparently who was trusted. As part of the plea deal reached in the case, the New Jersey teaching license held by Gazzola, 45, must also be surrendered.

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

Stores within the area of the Cross Keys Commons shopping center were evacuated.

WASHINGTON TWP. -- A discovered suspicious beeping device shut down a South Jersey shopping center Friday night, authorities said.

Washington Township Police and emergency personnel responded around 9 p.m. to the Cross Keys Commons shopping center near Route 42 for reports of a suspicious device.

Officers blocked off the area in order to safely investigate the device, which police described as "having a loud beep."

The Gloucester County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit, as well as the prosecutor's office also responded to the scene.

Coast Guard looks for missing boaters

Stores within close proximity were evacuated, police said, and no injuries were reported.

The device was actually a theft deterrent device from one of the retail stores in the shopping center, police said.

Authorities followed all precautions to handle the situation.

Brittany Wehner may be reached at bwehner@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @brittanymwehner. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Anytime someone takes a photograph or video of a person with their intimate parts exposed without their consent, he or she commits a crime.

Victoria Dalton 

This week Your Legal Corner discusses "Privacy, the Internet and You." 

Let's face it. Each of us increasingly utilizes the Internet. In many ways, it's our new town center. We do our banking, talk to our friends and go shopping. However, just as we need to safeguard our wallet and lock our car to protect our valuables, we must also protect ourselves when we are online.

While most of us would never walk naked down the middle of the street, recent incidents underscore how precarious our privacy can be online. 

Erin Andrews, a sports newscaster, was awarded $55 million when she was secretly filmed in her hotel room, which was then posted online. Similarly, Hulk Hogan, a former pro wrestler, was awarded $115 million after he was secretly filmed having a tryst with his best friend's wife which was posted online.

These incidents received much attention because they involved public figures, but the dangers are just as real for everyone else. 

Invasion of Privacy

Anytime someone takes a photograph or video of a person with their intimate parts exposed without their consent, he or she commits a crime of the third degree that carries up to a five-year jail term.  Further, if the photo or video is published without your consent, it is a separate third degree offense and also carries a fine of up to $30,000.

Recently, 20 teenagers in a Cape May county high school and middle school were charged after they passed around naked photos of female students via text and social media.

Identity Theft

The Internet was established to be a clearinghouse of ideas.  People are free to express their ideas, communicate with others and advocate their opinions.  However, there are limits to our First Amendment rights when someone impersonates someone else.

It is a criminal offense to impersonate another, assume a false identity or obtain personally identifying information pertaining to another person and using that information to obtain a benefit, services or avoid a debt.  Depending on the amount involved, the offense ranges from a disorderly person's offense to a second-degree crime.

Importantly, beware of scams, keep updated anti-virus software as well as firewall software to discourage individuals from stealing your personal information.  If your identity is stolen, please make sure you contact your local police department and file a report.

Privacy versus Convenience

According to a study by Pew Internet and American Life Project, as of May 2013, over 91% of adults own a cellphone.  As technology advances, cellphones become more sophisticated.   They carry our contacts, calendar, messages and personal information.  New applications for our cellphones continue to make our lives more convenient.  However, there is a tradeoff.  

Technology advances make it increasingly easy to rely upon our cellphones.  However, more and more personal information is being stored on our devices.  This trend jeopardizes our privacy and places our personal information at risk.

As we did before there were computers, we must safeguard our information as much as possible as criminals will follow us to steal our identities.

Till next time, God bless, keep smiling, when Your Legal Corner will discuss "Summer and child custody modifications."

Victoria M. Dalton is a dedicated Family/Elder Law Attorney with the Law Offices of Hoffman DiMuzio. Email correspondence to vdalton@hoffmandimuzio.com or call 856-845-8243.

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

Thanks, Burger King, for honoring the 'dog.

My eating habits have never been anything to boast about. Preferred foods include anything off the menu at McDonald's, French fries with brown gravy, chocolate ice cream by the gallons, and any candy bar that doesn't have coconuts as a center.

But there's one underrated item that merits space today because the good people at Burger King have had the common sense to add it to their menu.

Bob ShryockTimes file photo 

That would be the good old all-American hot dog with optional fixins. I'll tell you how far back in time I go with them.

My hometown was bereft of good restaurants. The best, near the center of town, was the Famous Texas Lunch, where a pretty good slab of meat loaf, mashed potatoes and corn cost you a mere 55 cents. The townies converged on the "Famous," open 24 hours, in the wee small hours of Sunday morning after a night of drinking National Bohemian Beer.

My friend, Nick "The Greek" Papitous, owned and operated the "Famous" for many years. He became somewhat famous himself for his wacky preparation of hot dogs for the weekday luncheon crowds.

Nick's hot dogs were the best I've ever had, especially when hot mustard, finely chopped sweet onions and his special secret sauce were applied. Nick never divulged his recipe for the sauce so for the last 60 years I've been tinkering with mine.

Stone-faced and wearing a white T-shirt, Nick began his noontime ritual. He prepared several dozen dogs on a large grill that sat in the restaurant's bay window. Then, 1-by-1, he began transferring the cooked dogs to his right arm until he had a dozen or so lined up. Using his left hand to complete the balancing act, he began lathering the dogs with the mustard, onions and secret sauce. He placed them on a tray, then began reloading while the street gawkers, their daily luncheon treat finished, went inside to buy one. Or three. And they were worth every penny of the 15 cents Nick charged.

I left home at age 18. When I returned, Nick had sold the business but his hot dogs were resurrected at John Wallace's Kitchen at the same location - sans Nick. I'm guessing the secret sauce wasn't as good.

At Gettysburg College, where I matriculated, a hot dog specialty restaurant near center square wasn't quite up to par with Nick's, but wasn't a bad runnerup.

Nick's dogs, incidentally, were affectionately nicknamed "Growlers" because of the scary gurgling noises that were centered in your stomach every time you ate one.

Growlers would top my menu. But not just one.

I'd also feature Bob's Fried Chicken, Blistering-Hot Chili, Hamburger Hoagies, Chicken-Fried Steak With Milk Gravy, and wings.

You know, all the healthy stuff.

Anyway, kudos to Burger King for honoring the dog. The other night my wife brought home two, loaded.

But, she said, there was no Nick the Greek around to prepare them. And, alas, no secret sauce.

John McBride doesn't understand another writer's attempt to link a teachers' union with abortion policy.

To the Editor:

It was painful to read Gerald Keer's recent convoluted, apples-and oranges letter, "Do N.J. teachers promote 'War on Infants'?"

This was an awkwardly put-together commentary against abortion, but it made no sense to me. (Keer wrote that the New Jersey Education Association backs Democratic state Legislature candidates who support  public funding for Planned Parenthood.) 

Planned Parenthood does indeed help facilitate abortions, but the last time I looked, abortion is legal. In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court made it a point to state that fetuses are not human beings and abortion is not "murder."

So, where is the "war on infants" that Keer accuses the teachers and Democrats of participating in? I don't agree with those who say that the GOP has declared a "war on women" because many Republicans oppose what Planned Parenthood does. I also understand and respect Keer's opinion on abortion, but he has used the accusation against the Republicans to rationalize an argument against Democrats that can't possibly be true. 

To answer Keer's question, the proper time to prosecute the killing of a child is when the law says it's the proper time -- not when he and the Republicans say it's time. 

John McBride

West Deptford Township

It's a novel idea for civic boosters to admit that a town has a surplus of empty shops, but doing so has paid off for a New Jersey municipality.

It frequently has been said that the first step to overcoming a problem is to admit that you have a problem.

Most often, the phrase is associated with drug and alcohol self-help programs. It also can apply to broader pursuits like business difficulties or having trouble mastering educational concepts. Yet, there's one place where problems is are too rarely acknowledged: our downtrodden downtown commercial districts.

You'd expect folks who hang on and operate stores along down-at-their heels main drags to display optimism about their location. We need involved owners who talk up their towns. It's what civic business groups and chambers of commerce thrive upon. So, why mention anything but the modest successes, even when they're strongly outnumbered by vacancies, in trying to attract stores and offices to fill empty spaces?

Well, for one thing, putting a too-sunny tint on the current viability of a business district can gloss over the need for active solutions. This fosters complacency, as well an unrealistic view from the surrounding community that everything is OK.

Main Street Vineland has a contrary notion that involves lifting the rose-colored-glasses a little. On April 6, the group is hosting what it plainly describes as a vacancy tour for real-estate brokers and business developers. After lunch and a description of an improved future for Landis Avenue, those assembled will be shuttled around to inspect the boarded-up storefronts.

In other words, the group's leaders are not shying away from the fact that there are multiple vacancies. More than a dozen properties will be showcased.

Main Street Vineland hosted a similar tour a year ago, and organizers say it paid off. Several of the properties that were shown in 2015 have since been leased.

We can think of other small downtowns that are not in as good a shape as Vineland's, and wonder why local governments and civic groups haven't taken a similar tack. Yes, Woodbury, Salem, Paulsboro, Penns Grove and Bridgeton, we're talking about you. For sure, professionals and service groups in these towns keep trying to quietly attract replacement businesses. Sometimes, though, you have to go big to be noticed.

Vacancy tours don't have to dwell on the negative. In Vineland, Main Street has developed a fact sheet about each property, with information about incentives that qualified newcomers can tap. Think of it as the commercial version of "staging" to show off a residential property for maximum interest. This has become a cottage (pun intended) industry for marketing homes.

Thanks to Main Street Vineland, as well as tour sponsors Foundation Title LLC and Frank Conroy's Farmers Insurance office, for an idea that is working well. If you can get budding entrepreneurs to take a look, then say to themselves, "I can imagine my shop in this space," the battle is on the way to being won.

There are more than 700 Wawas in six states, and every single one is adding staff.

WAWA, Pa. -- If you ever wanted a job at Wawa, now's your chance. 

The convenience store chain announced last week it's launching a hiring surge this spring to fill more than 5,000 new part- and full-time positions.

According to a media release, every single one of the chain's more than 700 stores, in six states, will be bringing on new customer service staff in March, April and May ahead of its busier summer months. 

"As we continue to expand and grow, we're excited to fill these 5,000-plus positions with people who will quickly become part of the Wawa Way. We're specifically looking for individuals who want to join our team for the busy summer season and as well those who might be interested in the start of a fulfilling career at Wawa," said Wawa's Manager of Talent Acquisition Dave Filano in a written statement.

Anyone interested in the positions are encouraged to apply online at www.wawa.com. After applying, candidates can also attend one of the open houses being held at more than 100 different Wawa locations in March and April. Applicants can meet management, get a free coffee and learn about the job. Open houses will be announced at individual stores with signs.

Wawa, which already employs more than 26,000 in its stores, touts its employee perks, including competitive salaries, benefits, tuition reimbursement opportunities, growth opportunities, and an employee stock ownership plan. The company states 60 percent of its management-level employees started off as customer service associates. 

The Easter weekend event takes place in Wildwood each year.

WILDWOOD -- More than 1,500 wrestlers from up and down the East Coast competed in the "War at the Jersey Shore" National Youth Wrestling Championships in Wildwood Friday and Saturday.

The competition, hosted by the Atlantic Coast Wrestling Association, was held at the Wildwoods Convention Center.

Wrestlers from Pre-K to 12th grade battled it out in the Combined War -- girls and boys competing together -- with Tot, Bantam, Midget and Junior divisions in the morning sessions. The afternoon sessions featured the Intermediate and High School divisions. There were also girls-only matches.

The two-day event is held on Easter weekend each year.

For results, visit www.flowrestling.org.

Lori M. Nichols may be reached at lnichols@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @photoglori. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.

Kingsway Church gave kids a chance to hunt for 25,000 eggs on Saturday in Glassboro.

GLASSBORO -- Kingsway Church held its first Easter egg hunt on Saturday morning.

The event was held at New Street Park in Glassboro and featured 25,000 eggs.

Kids scrambled to scoop up the goodies as parents took photos and cheered them on.

The church, which is based in Cherry Hill, held two Easter egg hunts Saturday. The other took place at Cherry Hill High School West.

To learn more about the church, visit them online.

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