Mullica Holiday Closings

Mullica Municipal offices will be closed Monday, January 2nd.

The Transfer Station will be closed Sunday, January 1st and Monday, January 2nd.

http://mullicatownship.org/

NJ Taxpayers paid $900,000 + In OPRA Lawsuits

×

×

TRENTON -- Gov. Chris Christie's administration's attempts to keep records out of public view cost more than $450,000 over the past two years, bringing the total since 2012 to more than $900,000, according to a report in The Record.

The report shows the amount New Jersey taxpayers are on the hook for to settle court cases in which the administration tried to stop records from being made public continues to climb as Christie prepares to enter his seventh year as governor.
Last year, records obtained by NJ Advance Media found the state paid $153,945 in 2015 to reimburse attorneys for members of the public and news organizations in seven open records request lawsuits.


The state paid more than $900,000 reimbursing plaintiffs' lawyers fees in dozens of record request cases that wound up in court from January 2012 through 2016, according to public records, a report from The Associated Press and the latest figure from The Record.


The more than $900,000 paid between 2012 and 2016 does not include other costs incurred by the state, including government lawyers' time.
The most expensive case involved the Second Amendment Society seeking firearms regulations, costing the administration $101,626, according to The Record.


In 2015, the largest reimbursement went to New York Public Radio, which received $69,445 in legal fees for a lawsuit that year challenging the state on a dozen OPRA requests.
The latest figures come nearly seven years after Christie delivered his inaugural State of the State address in January 2010 promising to usher in a "new era of accountability and transparency."

http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/12/christies_public_records_battles_cost_state_900k_r.html

In Your Town

Egg Harbor City
Three Kings Day: The Latino Club invites the community to its annual Three Kings Day celebration Jan. 7. A free toy distribution for children ages 12 and younger will be held from noon to 2 p.m. at City Hall, 500 London Ave. Adults must accompany children. Dinner with the Three Kings will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. at Local 331 Union Hall, 1 Philadelphia Ave. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. There will be food, music, raffles and entertainment. For information, call Dennis at 609-839-3840 or Hazel at 609-703-4288.


Mullica Township
Historical Museum display: The Mullica in the Pines Historical Society invites the community to view its School House Christmas exhibit through Jan. 7 in the Hilda Frame School on Nesco Road. Hours are noon to 2 p.m. Wednesdays and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free. For information, call 609-561-4034.

Other Town events at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/in-your-town/article_9e349f32-1c0c-575c-94b8-631ac04b0d69.html

Mullica Hearing Officer Appointment

TOWNSHIP OF MULLICA
RESOLUTION NO. 163-2016

APPOINTING PROPER
AUTHORITY AS A HEARING
OFFICER IN THE EVENT OF A CONFLICT PURSUANT TO N.J.S.A. 40A:14-
147 AND N.J.S.A. 40A:14-148, AND 

WHEREAS, there exists a need for Hearing Officer for the Township of Mullica and funds are available for this purpose; and
WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:14-147 and N.J.S.A. 40A:14-148, provide for appropriate authorities dealing with suspension and/or removal of members and officers, together with a Complaint and Hearing; and
WHEREAS,  from time to time a conflict may arise relative to the proper authority to hear said Complaint and conduct said Hearing pursuant to the above referenced statutes; and
WHEREAS, the Township of Mullica, in order to avoid the appearance, or, in fact, conflict regarding said proper authority has elected to appoint a proper conflict authority to conduct said hearings; and
WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law (NJSA 40A:11-1 et seq.) requires that the Resolution authorizing the award of contracts for “Professional Services” without competitive bids must be publicly advertised.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Township Committee of the Township of Mullica, County of Atlantic and State of New Jersey, that:
1.  The Township of Mullica Committee hereby appoints Steven Secare, Secare & Hensel, 16 Madison Avenue, Suite 1A, Toms River, New Jersey, 08753, as the proper conflict authority required under N.J.S.A. 40A:14-147 and 148.
2.  This contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a “Professional Service” under the provisions of the Local Public Contracts Law.
3.  A copy of this Resolution shall be published in the Hammonton Gazzette as required by law within ten days of its passage.

Adopted:  December 13, 2016

JAMES R. BROWN
MAYOR

ATTEST:
KIMBERLY JOHNSON
TOWNSHIP CLERK
December 21, 2016
Ptr. Fee: $21.70

http://www.hammontongazette.com/legals 

Mullica $250,000 Revaluation Appropriation

TOWNSHIP OF MULLICA
ORDINANCE NO. 15-2016

 

SPECIAL EMERGENCY
AUTHORIZATION TO FUND REVALUATION PROGRAM

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING SPECIAL EMERGENCY APPROPRIATIONS PURUSANT TO N.J.S.A. 40A:4-53(a) TO FUND THE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE EXECUTION OF A COMPLETE PROGRAM OF REVALUATION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR THE TOWNSHIP OF MULLICA, COUNTY OF ATLANTIC, STATE OF NEW JERSEY

NOTICE OF PENDING
ORDINANCE

The ordinance published herewith was introduced and passed upon first reading at a meeting of the Township Committee of the Township of Mullica, in the County of Atlantic, New Jersey, held December 13, 2016.  It will be further considered for final passage after public hearing thereon, at a meeting of said Township Committee to be held in the Municipal Building in said Township on January 10, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. and during the week prior to and including the date of such meeting, copies of said ordinance will be made available at the Clerk’s Office in said Municipal Building to the members of the general public who shall request same.
Whereas, the Township of Mullica, County of Atlantic, New Jersey (“Township”) has determined that it is necessary to prepare and execute a compete program of revaluation of real property for use by the Township Tax Assessor and the Atlantic County Board of Taxation; and
Whereas, the amount to be appropriated by the Township for the purpose described above is $250,000.00 which amount shall be deemed a special emergency appropriation as defined and provided for in the Local Budget Law, N.J.S.A 40A:40-1 et. seq; and
Whereas, it is the desire of the Township Committee to adopt an ordinance to create said special emergency appropriation.
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved by the Township Committee of the Township of Mullica, County of Atlantic, New Jersey, pursuant to Local Budget Law as follows:
SECTION 1:  There is hereby appropriated, pursuant to N.J.S.A 40A:4-53(a) the sum of $250,000.00 appropriated for the revaluation project, as further described in the preamble of this ordinance.
SECTION 2:  Said emergency appropriation shall be financed from surplus funds currently available or from borrowed funds, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:4-55; provided, however at least one-fifth (1/5th) of said amount shall be included in each succeeding annual budget until the appropriation has been fully provided for.
SECTION 3:  That a certified copy of this Ordinance as finally adopted, shall be filed by the Township Clerk with the Director of the Division of Local Government Services in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.
SECTION 4:  This ordinance shall be effective after final passage and publication as provided by law.

Kimberly Johnson
Township Clerk
December 21, 2016

Ptr. Fee: $30.38

http://www.hammontongazette.com/legals 

Leatherhead Pub

SNJ Today

Main Street Minute's Jax Loder stops by a historic landmark that's transformed into the Leatherhead Pub and is setting Egg Harbor City on fire. More here: http://ow.ly/V8HT307sCun

Video
https://www.facebook.com/snjtoday/
 

Christmas Day 2016

Track Santa Live

Santa's on his way! Follow his journey across the world. (via NORAD Tracks Santa)

https://www.facebook.com/FoxNews/videos/10154927291516336/?hc_ref=NEWSFEED

Happy Hanukkah

Verizon Print Directories

News regarding your CenturyLink/Verizon print directory: Future directory deliveries may be reduced in certain areas, but are provided upon request. Free digital and printed versions of the directories are available at www.dexpages.com or by calling 800-888-8448.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/classifieds/community/announcements/notice/news-regarding-your-centurylink-verizon-print-directory-future-directory-deliveries/ad_c5b334c1-b844-51d5-8e90-f86468640286.html

NJSP Increasing Patrols

New Jersey State Police

State Police Increasing Patrols With Supplemental Details
Well, it appears as though Santa Claus won’t be the only one stepping it up this weekend. The State Police will have more than 80 additional troopers on patrol through the Christmas weekend.
The additional personnel will be patrolling from 6:00 p.m. Friday, December 23rd to 6:00a.m. Tuesday, December 27th. With an expected increase in holiday traffic, the supplemental details will put an emphasis on crash reduction and DWI enforcement.

Enjoy the holiday weekend, stay safe and avoid the naughty list at all cost!

If You See Somethnig, Say Something

New Jersey Office of Emergency Management added 5 new photos.

The New Jersey State Police is proactive and vigilant during the holiday season. Domestic and international attacks are constant reminders that we need whole community effort in preventing terrorism.
The Regional Operations Intelligence Center (ROIC) and partners, including the Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, Federal Bureau and Investigations, and New York Police Department, compile and analyze data and develop advisory and intelligence products to enhance situational awareness of threats to soft targets, Commercial Sector areas and Transportation Sector hubs. Since Thanksgiving the New Jersey State Police has been conducting daily Target Hardening Operational Response (THOR) deployments to various locations throughout the state. The operational strike team is made up of members from the Special Operations, Field Operations and Emergency Management Sections.

Locations are strategically planned and coordinated with local, county and federal law enforcement as well as members of the Private Sector. This includes but is not limited to locations within the Transportation Systems Sector such as mass transit terminals and ferries as well as various commercial facilities such as shopping malls, stadiums, and movie theaters. The objective is to enhance security for events and target harden critical infrastructure throughout the state. The deployment is supported by the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management (NJOEM) and the ROIC.
Remember...If you SEE something, SAY something!
Law Enforcement Officers are always on the lookout for any and all suspicious activity by air, land, and sea. However, members of our communities are the best defense against terrorism. You can anonymously report suspicious activity by calling 866-4SAFENJ (866-472-3365), dialing 2-1-1, or emailing tips@njohsp.gov.
Don't forget to download the FREE Safe NJ app at https://www.njhomelandsecurity.gov/safe-nj-app/
#ReadyNJ
#NJSP
#HolidaySafety
#SeeSomethingSaySomething

 Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/ReadyNJ and Instagram www.instagram.com/ReadyNJ

Education Foundations

Excerpts
Parents always have raised money to pay for extra items, such as awards, parties and field trips. But as budgets have grown tighter, schools are relying more on outside groups to provide not just the extras but items that once were part of the district budget.

 Education foundations are the Santa Clauses of many schools today, providing grants to teachers, scholarships to students and maybe funds for special field trips, speakers or assemblies.

The Mullica Township Education Foundation, started by Ralph and Donna Leek, supports field trips and scholarships but also purchased Smartboards and computers, spending about $45,000 on the technology, Superintendent Andrew Weber said.

Entire aticle at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/education/school-foundations-grant-teacher-wish-lists-bridge-budget-gaps/article_1c236023-935f-59fa-8f93-bc3936208a52.html

2 South Jersey Natives On Trump's Staff

Two people with strong ties to Atlantic County will play a major role in Donald Trump's presidency, spending most of their time in the White House while squeezing in visits to family and friends here.

St. Joseph High School graduate Kellyanne Conway, who went to high school in Hammonton and owns a Ventnor beach house, was appointed Thursday to be a counselor to Trump. Conway also ran Trump's presidential campaign.

Holy Spirit High School graduate and Atlantic City native Don McGahn will be Trump's White House counsel.

Entire article at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/south-jersey-natives-have-major-role-in-trump-white-house/article_c11067f5-8d24-532e-b209-ad647ea3947c.html

Mullica Senior Citizens Meeting At Noon

                                              Mullica Senior Citizens Meeting 
                                                December 21, 2016 at 12:00 p.m.
                                                          Hilda Frame School

Winter Solstice 2016

The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year in terms of hours of daylight. However, the solstice is a signal for more daylight to come in the following days, and it's one of the origins of the modern winter holidays.

"The winter solstice begins when the direct rays from the sun reach a point on the Earth, and that point is known as the Tropic of Capricorn," said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Bernie Rayno. "It is the beginning of winter for the northern hemisphere. Summer, of course, for the southern hemisphere, and it's also the shortest day of the year as far as sunlight is concerned."

Winter solstice 2016 in the northern hemisphere will occur at 5:44 a.m. EST on Wednesday, Dec. 21

http://abc7ny.com/weather/what-is-the-winter-solstice/1664384/

Manhunt For Wife Killer In NJ

Update 1/2/17 - Jeremiah Monell captured in Folsom
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/state-police-capture-jeremiah-monell/article_17b0c762-d145-11e6-b7ab-335d96674972.html 

A national search is under way for a suspected wife-killer Jeremiah Monell, 32, of New Jersey, who is wanted for the murder of his wife, Tara O'Shea-Watson, 35, also of New Jersey, according to the state police.
The manhunt began on Monday at 8:05 a.m. after troopers responded to a private residence on Raymond Drive in Commercial Township on a report of a woman who was dead, police said.

 O'Shea-Watson was a resident of Commercial Township and Monell is a resident of Cedarville. Upon arrival, troopers discovered the woman, O'Shea-Watson, unconscious and unresponsive. A preliminary investigation has determined that Monell murdered his estranged wife and is now on the run, police said.

He is a white male, 5 feet, 9 inches tall, approximately 140 pounds and was last seen driving a 1994 blue Chevrolet S10 pickup with New Jersey license plate X91GJV, police said.


Monell has been charged with murder and related weapons possession, with bail set at $1 million.
A truck matching the suspect's vehicle description was found in the Cumberland County woods later Tuesday:
 http://patch.com/new-jersey/oceancity/breaking-suspected-n-j-wife-killer-run-statewide-manhunt-underway

 Anyone with information about Monell's whereabouts is asked to contact New Jersey State Police Port Norris Station by calling 856-785-0036. Anonymous tips are accepted.
More photos at
http://www.nj.com/cumberland/index.ssf/2016/12/manhunt_underway_for_man_suspected_of_killing_his.html

Weiner Computer Search Warrant Documents

A federal court on Tuesday released the search warrant documents filed by the FBI to access a laptop used by disgraced ex-Rep. Anthony Weiner and his estranged wife, Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin, revealing new details about why the bureau revisited the email case just days before the presidential election.
The FBI’s earlier investigation found “27 email chains containing classified information” that were exchanged between Clinton and Abedin, and investigators wanted to see what was also on the Abedin-Weiner laptop, according to the government affidavit unsealed Tuesday. That laptop, the FBI noted, “was never authorized for the storage or transmission of classified or national defense information,” according to the application for the warrant, which was partially redacted.

Entire article at
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/12/20/fbi-warrant-released-in-clinton-case-revealing-extent-classified-info-on-laptop.html

21 page search warrant at
https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/3243397-FBI-SEARCH-WARRANT-CLINTON.html

Red Cross Blood Drive

The American Red Cross is asking that South Jersey residents add giving blood to their holiday check list this year.
Due to the holiday hustle, combined with colder weather, the Red Cross often sees a decline in blood and platelet donations this time of year. That's why they are urging eligible donors to make an appointment to help them meet the constant need for blood throughout the winter.
According to the Red Cross, they supply about 40 percent of the nation’s blood.


Egg Harbor City
12/22/2016: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 243 St. Louis Avenue
1/9/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Zion Lutheran Church, 312 Philadelphia Avenue

Hammonton
1/4/2017: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Hammonton Center for Rehabilitation & Healthcare, 43 White Horse Pike

 A full list of upcoming area blood donation opportunities follows below at link
http://www.snjtoday.com/story/34101088/red-cross-asks-residents-to-add-donating-blood-to-holiday-checklist?utm_source=SocialMedia&utm_medium=Google&utm_campaign=red%20cross%2012.20.16

New App For Environmental Violations

A new app allows members of the public to report non-emergency environmental violations to the state Department of Environmental Protection.

It uses GPS technology to pinpoint locations and allows users to submit photos, according to the DEP.

The pilot WARN NJDEP mobile application is in addition to the DEP’s telephone hotline, 877-WARNDEP, which has been in operation for many years.

 "This application gives the public a direct portal into reporting incidents ... effectively giving us more eyes on the ground while helping us to assign cases to the appropriate response agencies more efficiently,” said Bob Van Fossen, the DEP’s emergency management director.

 It lets the public easily report non-emergency environmental incidents, Commissioner Bob Martin said, including improper storage or disposal of waste, odor complaints, sewage leaks, smoke and dust complaints, underground storage tank incidents and wetlands- or stream-encroachment issues.

The app can be downloaded through Google Play, the Apple Store and the Microsoft app store. Enter “WARN NJDEP” in the search bar.

The app is not intended to report life-threatening and/or environmental emergencies. Those should be reported by calling 911, local police or the DEP hotline, according to the state.

 It also is not supposed to be used by regulated entities for fulfilling notification requirements to the DEP. Those entities must continue to use existing channels.

The DEP said its Communications Center receives tens of thousands of calls annually, ranging from nuisance wildlife complaints and wildfires to hazardous-material releases.

Users can provide their contact information, although they can also report incidents anonymously, as has been the case for years through the hotline, according to the DEP.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/business/now-there-s-an-app-to-report-environmental-incidents-violations/article_867f1f9a-fd73-58c2-8297-eafc0d117da2.html

Press Editorial
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/our-view-township-s-destructive-pond-draining-shows-what-dep/article_4eedfaa6-c5e7-11e6-b120-431f583bf5ca.html

Mullica Historical Society Meeting Tonight

 

MULLICA TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The next meeting will be Tuesday, December 20th, at 7:00pm, at the Hilda Frame School, Nesco Road, Nesco.

Come and check out our Schoolhouse Christmas Display, exhibit on display to January 7th. Thanks to all who supported the orange/grapefruit sale direct from Florida. See you Tuesday the 20th. Any questions call 609-561-4034

.Mullica in the Pines Historical Society Museum hours are every Wednesday 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  For more information contact (609) 561-4034.

Lawmakers Pull Newspaper Legal Ad Bill

Excerpts
TRENTON — A controversial bill allowing government agencies to post legal notices on their websites instead of in newspapers, a proposal that some said would limit government transparency, was pulled Monday after Assembly Democrats couldn’t find enough support during the final voting session of the year.

Supporters of the bill worked throughout the day to try to rally support for measure, including a three-hour-caucus meeting, to no avail. The Assembly was originally supposed to vote on the measure at 1 p.m. but it was pulled at 6:40 p.m.

 “I think it will come back in the first quarter of 2017 before they meet again in March,” Blum said. “By then we hopefully have the opportunity to get better data and had several meetings with other legislature that would hopefully be willing to partner with us to come up with a better deal.”

 (Christie's book deal pulled)
 The Assembly also pulled a bill that would have allowed Gov. Chris Christie to cash in on a book deal while in office and granted raises to staff members. Democratic officials said the bill will not be reconsidered.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/business/lawmakers-pull-controversial-newspaper-legal-ad-bill/article_1babe3d3-2321-5c20-84e9-f323a9fb3a63.html

Public Spanking
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/12/a_stinging_loss_for_a_bitter_governor_--_and_hopef.html

Related posts
http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/nj-legal-notice-bill-discussed.html

http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/christie-needs-law-change-for-book-deal.html

http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/christies-book-deal-could-cost-us-10.html 

Mullica Holiday Closings

 

TRANSFER STATION HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

The Transfer Station (dump) holiday closing dates will be as follows:
December 25th   AND December 26th    2016
January 1st AND 2nd    2017

Municipal Offices closed December 26th & 27th

http://mullicatownship.org/

Mullica Environmental Meeting Tonight

                      
                                             Mullica Environmental Commission Meeting
                                                         December 19, 2016 at 7:30 p.m.
                                                               at the Municipal Building

http://mullicatownship.org/

Verizon Cell Antennas Coming To Mullica

 

Presentation: Verizon Wireless / Mr. William Flanagan:

Mr. Flanagan, Tilson Tech., Project Manager. Mr.

Flanagan explained Verizon Wireless is planning to install small cell antennas throughout the area. He

explained this is a statewide initiative for installation of low powered nodes to new or existing utility poles in

the public right of ways. This process is to enhance its network for 2017 and is seeking the municipality’s

consent to operate within the right of ways. Ms. Siebold stated she reviewed the Resolution proposed by

Verizon and is requesting minor modifications. Mayor Brown reported on many of the main roads there are

smaller poles near the utility poles which is not at all aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Flanagan stated he is working

for Verizon Wireless and will check with Verizon regarding the poles. He indicated the antennas will be placed

on the large Verizon poles. He stated the antennas are very well powered and the distance between each other

are about 500-1000 feet. He stated the primary purpose is for areas that lack coverage. Mr. Silva suggested the

antennas resemble the poles. Mr. Flanagan stated this installation should take place within the next year. Mr.

Flanagan stated he will research the smaller poles and report back to the Governing Body. Mr. Silva asked

what the proposed coverage will be. Mr. Flanagan stated the goal is 100%. Mr. Silva requested free services

for our Police Department and Public Works. Mr. Flanagan stated he can ask.

Mayor opened to the public. Mr. Paulsgraf asked how many nodes are to be installed. Mr. Flanagan stated at

this time they do not know, at the most a half of dozen. 

 

http://ecode360.com/documents/MU0269/public/302311049.pdf 

 

 

Mullica Police Blotter 10/25 - 11/22

 

Department of Public Safety:

Mr. Silva reported the following stats from October 25-November 22: burglary

alarms 23, Chief notes there are not a lot of repeat offenders, but is researching it; assisting other agencies 6;

assistance from other agencies 33; bank bags 16; general complaints 11; disabled motor vehicles 8; domestics 7;

EMS calls 42; fire 6; firearm applications 23; mail transport 17; missing persons 4; motor vehicle accidents 16;

motor vehicle stops 158; property checks 349; sex offender registration 3; suspicious motor vehicle 13;

suspicious persons 6; traffic control 6; and warrant service 8. Mr. Silva reported on a resident who was recently

accosted in his driveway and acknowledged the Police Department on an outstanding job in apprehending the

suspects. 

 

http://ecode360.com/documents/MU0269/public/302311049.pdf 

 

 

Mullica - New 4 -Way Traffic Stop

 

Mullica Township Information

Effective December 14, 2016 there will be a 4-way stop at the intersection of Columbia Road – (County Route 658) and Moss Mill Road (County Route 561).  Please be cautious.

Fake News Fact Checkers

Excerpts
Just yesterday, Facebook posted the following press release to their website detailing their plans to use a "third-party fact checking organization," known as The Poynter Institute, to flag "fake news."  The role of the "fact checkers" will be to review news stories and flag anything they deem to be "fake" so that it can be deprioritized on Facebook's news feed.

Of course, that raises any number of questions including what will be deemed to be "fake news" (e.g. will dissenting opinions be deemed "fake") and who exactly gets to oversee such a powerful position that basically has been given carte blanche to censor media outlets of their choosing?  Surely such an organization would have to be an extremely transparent, publicly funded, bi-partisan group, right?
Well, not so much apparently.  A quick review of Poynter's website reveals that the organization is funded by the who's who of leftist billionaires including George Soros' Open Society Foundations, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Google, and Ebay founder Pierre Omidyar's Omidyar Network.  Well that seem fairly bipartisan, right? 
Read more at
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-12-16/george-soros-funding-facebooks-third-party-fact-checking-organization

EHC Lost White Shepherd / Lab Dog

Lost & Found Pets of New Jersey

Update 
 He was found tonight, he has passed, I would like to thank all those who helped us in trying to get him home and for all the prayers.

 · December 20 at 7:37am

 

Please spread the word! Blue was last seen in Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215.
Description: white shepherd/lab mix friendly neutered male 5 yr old, large,tall aprox. 70lbs, no collar on and no chip. went missing 12-10-2016 on the corner of s. Frankfurt ave & Duerer st. germania.in egg harbor city
Nearest Address: 320 S Frankfurt Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ, United States

https://www.pawboost.com/landing/pet/d48_KoXT45IQQE2p0D_yPl9ujawzunP4/lost-blue-egg-harbor-city-nj-08215?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=newsfeed+ad&utm_campaign=pawboost+alert

Santa's Coming To Nesco 12/19

Nesco Volunteer Fire Company

 

Monday night 12/19/16 approximately 6:15-6:30 Santa will be riding on this fire truck through parts of Nesco and Totem Village. Pass the word around.
 

EHC Christmas Parade Today

Celebrate Christmas on Philadelphia Avenue,
Egg Harbor City NJ
Put your float together, gather your family
and friends join us for a fun filled holiday event
Saturday December 17
Line up is at 5:30 @ 500 London Ave
(City Hall). Parade steps off @ 6
Bands, Firetrucks, Floats, Santa and more
OR
Get a spot early near the Grandstand in front of
Jonny Boys Sub Shop 246 Philadelphia ave.
Fom more information contact Christmasparadeehc@gmail.com or
Brain Beals 609-332-1425
https://www.facebook.com/events/682584361917366/ 

Tom Sandman Dead At 79

SANDMAN , THOMAS R., - 79, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 15, 2016 in Mullica Twp., N.J. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Madeline A. Sandman. He is survived by his daughter Madeline Gilanyi (Brian), grandchildren Amanda Baker (Vincent), Thomas Gilanyi (Julia), and Samantha Gilanyi, great grandchildren Alexander and Payton, and his beloved cats. Relatives and friends may call on Tuesday, December 20 from 10-11 a.m. at the Mathis Funeral Home, 58 N. Main St., Medford, N.J. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in Park View Cemetery (formerly known as Odd Fellows Cemetery), Medford, N.J. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Fund at The Nghiem Lab at University of Washington MerkelCell.org/donate.

(Former Mullica Township Zoning Officer and owner of Tom's Place on White Horse Pike )
 You may send your expressions of sympathy or comments to the below links

http://www.moorefuneralhome.com/home/index.cfm/obituaries/view/fh_id/14987/id/4040638

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Thomas-R.-Sandman-104255065

Obituary at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/obituaries/sandman-thomas-r/article_bf73552f-07d2-529a-8197-1f03a01deeb1.html

Real Estate Transactions 12/17

MULLICA TOWNSHIP

4636 Pleasant Mill Road, Brooks William J, Brooks Remedios S, Brooks Remi S to Renny Koseff LLC; 10/27/16. $135,000

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/business/how-much-are-homes-selling-for-near-you/article_193b2602-6ba1-54a3-b37d-bc7e03e88a8e.html

Legend Of The Winslow Blue Hole

A cold hand may reach up to greet you. Is it that of the Jersey Devil?

Located within the Pine Barrens of Winslow Township, New Jersey the Blue Hole (also referred to as The Devil's Puddle) is a mysterious body of water that remains cold (averages 50-58 degrees even in the summer months) no matter what time of the year and possibly houses the Jersey Devil himself. The blue water itself is very odd since most of the surrounding lakes are brown in color due to the bog iron and cedar water. The Blue Hole is possibly feed by groundwater as opposed to the surrounding streams.

The Blue Hole, alleged to be bottomless, is approx 70 feet across, almost perfectly round, there are no signs of life within the lake and it is always cold to the touch. Back in the 1930's it was a popular watering hole for the locals and there was a wooden bridge over the Great Egg Harbor River that was washed away in the 1940's or 1960's (depending on who is telling the story) by a storm.

True danger does lurk among the warnings of the Jersey Devil. The hole has become abandoned to the locals due to the fears that it is bottomless, the currents or the Jersey Devil will pull you down to your death. But there are several similar holes in the area and is plagued by quicksand due to the high water table levels in the area. Rumored to be bottomless, others state that the bottom is made up of "sugar sand" and has claimed many victims. Others state that when you stand near the hole, it is eerily quiet and no sounds can be heard at all. Except for BLAST!! shots fired from the nearby shooting range. The surface of this watery hole is insanely still.

Some say that the hole is bottomless, others claim they have attempted to measure its depth only to fail. Legend states that The Devil Himself uses this hole as his personal portal to Hell. Still others claim that there is an unusual amount of Jersey Devil sightings in this area.

Locals fear swimming here and tell the tales of bodies being pulled out of the hole with scratches on their backs and legs after something pulled them down to their watery grave. Legends and tales are in no short supply and state that whirlpools form and swimmers cannot escape its pull. One man was supposedly pulled from his icy grave with scratches on his legs and black empty holes where his eyes once were. Of course tales of occult activity has also been attached to the location.

 My personal opinion is that the Blue Hole is a pingo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pingo), left over from the Ice Age. This would explain the cold water along with why the color is clear as opposed to the murky cedar water of surrounding bodies of water in the area. Below is a picture of a pingo, not The Blue Hole.

New Jersey is full of strange surprises and the Blue Hole is no exception

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWykhEBv4Y0

Blue Holes can be deadly
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yompTVTPwl8

NJ Housing Market

A few areas of New Jersey have thriving housing markets. But many more do not — and they're dropping dramatically. 
 There's no better evidence of that than the below map provided by NJ Spotlight, which uses U.S. Census data to show the pain most homeowners are feeling as they watched their home values drop as much as 20 percent since their pre-2010 levels, when the Great Recession hit.

 The median decline in residential values in New Jersey was close to 11 percent.

Mullica Township has 2,478 housing units and has lost 24.98% of it's value from 2011 -2015 compared to 2006 -2010.  It is one of the hardest hit towns in N.J.  EHC was rated highest lost value in NJ at 26.65% 

 (see interactive map below at link).
http://patch.com/new-jersey/chatham/these-n-j-towns-home-values-dropping-rock-are-yours 

Christie's Book Deal Could Cost Us $10 Million+

The salary raises included in Christie's bill to allow him to get a book deal would cost the taxpayers of NJ $ 10 million + in 2017, $14 million + in 2018.

 More than 700 public officials may get raises, as part of proposed legislation that would permit Gov. Chris Christie to make money by writing a book while still in office.
http://nj1015.com/christie-book-deal-could-mean-raises-for-700-public-officials-costing-millions/

Related post
http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/christie-needs-law-change-for-book-deal.html

TRENTON — More than 700 public officials may get raises, as part of proposed legislation that would permit Gov. Chris Christie to make money by writing a book while still in office

Read More: Christie book deal could mean raises for 700 public officials, costing millions | http://nj1015.com/christie-book-deal-could-mean-raises-for-700-public-officials-costing-millions/?trackback=tsmclip

Christie's Twitter storm
http://nj1015.com/christie-goes-on-twitter-rampage-gets-torn-apart/

Related posts
http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/lawmakers-pull-newspaper-legal-ad-bill.html

Mullica Heroes

Mullica Township Police Department

 

On December 13th, 2016 The Mullica Township Police Department recognized Captain Brian Zeck, Sergeant Chris Silva and Mullica Township Resident Brian Beals for their life saving efforts when they responded to a call for an unresponsive person and CPR was administered. Due to their quick response and intervention that day, they were able to save the life of a fellow township resident. Congratulations and we thank you for your service.  

 

Mullica Committee Meeting Tonight

  
                                                   TOWNSHIP OF MULLICA
                                                     COMMITTEE AGENDA 
                                                       DECEMBER 13, 2016 
                                                                7:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

SUNSHINE LAW 

FLAG SALUTE 

ROLL CALL

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:   11 / 22 / 2016

PRESENTATION:  LIFESAVING AWARDS

PUBLIC DISCUSSION RELATING TO AGENDA ITEMS

FIRST READING:   Ordinance # 14-2016 / Ordinance to accept Block 11118, Lot 2

                               Ordinance # 15-2016 / Special Emergency Appropriation /  Re-valuation

COMMITTEE REPORTS

CORRESPONDENCE

OLD BUSINESS:
A.      Resolution #158-2016 / Reject Emergency Generator Bids
B.      Resolution #159-2016 / Verizon Wireless Consent

NEW BUSINESS:
A.      Resolution #160-2016 / Authorizing Land Sale / Block 3034, Lot 12
B.      Resolution #161-2016 / Support Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2016
                                                Year End Holiday Crackdown
C.      Resolution #162-2016 / Appoint Temporary Part-Time Building Maintenance
                                                Worker / John Conover
D.     Accept Resignation Tom Carl / Planning Board & Rent Control
E.     Appoint Rent Control Member / Unexpired Term / Trudy Shivers
F.      Accept Resignation / Officer Joseph Farina II

PAYMENT OF BILLS

PUBLIC DISCUSSION

EXECUTIVE SESSION     Resolution ES #21-16

APPROVE EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES:    11 / 15 / 2016; 11 / 22 / 2016

ADJOURN

http://ecode360.com/documents/MU0269/public/301466189.pdf 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax Maps indicate that  Block 11118, Lot 2 is 5235 Reading Ave
                                  Block 3034, Lot 12 is 4031 Adams Circle

NJ Legal Notice Bill Discussed

 Excerpts
NJ Lawmakers are fast-tracking a bill that could “punish” New Jersey newspapers, one source told The Record on Saturday. The bipartisan measure would scrap a decades-old state law requiring municipalities and counties to publish legal notices in printed newspapers — a source of revenue for New Jersey’s flagging newspaper industry.

 Democratic leadership was poised to advance the bill scrapping the legal notice provision for newspapers.
Asked if Christie insisted on the bill eliminating the legal notice provision for newspapers — as payback for the critical coverage he’s endured over the past few years — Sweeney sidestepped the question.
“I don’t want to punish newspapers. I have a great relationship with newspapers,’’ Sweeney said, but he added, “Most people read from the Internet. They don’t buy newspapers right now. It is not being fast-tracked.”


Sweeney gave voice to critics of the legal notice requirement, who say the law is obsolete and out of touch with the reading habits of modern readers. Towns could save money, they say, by posting notices on their websites. But  New Jersey newspapers, including The Record, derive revenue from the legal notices — advertisements for public meetings, bid opportunities and other official business — and their bottom lines would be hurt if municipalities and counties were instead required to post those notices only on their websites. Several publishers testified against that plan when it was considered by the Legislature in 2011. It was pulled.


Newspaper industry officials quickly launched a lobbying effort, armed with some of the same arguments used to defeat the measure five years ago: that the promised savings have never been properly analyzed, that hackers could easily penetrate town websites and alter documents, and that it could lead to the loss of 200 to 300 newspaper industry jobs and force weekly papers to close.


“We are very concerned; it appears that the legislative leadership is in sync on this, and we don’t have the full picture on what was going on behind the scenes,’’ said George White, executive director of the New Jersey Press Association. “The concept of allowing governments to fulfill a legally required public notification mandate by self-posting on their own website is a public policy fiasco.”
Some lawmakers don’t see why there is suddenly such a big rush. Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, D-Teaneck, opposes scrapping the legal notice requirement

Entire article at
http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/columnists/charles-stile/2016/12/12/christie-pens-new-chapter-deal-making-democrats/95359606/


Press Editorial
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/opinion/editorials/christie-sneak-attack-tries-to-politicize-newspaper-legal-ads/article_befa859d-a1e8-5518-93e7-ef4aecf0abee.html

So how much would it save, in the end? Probably nothing. The last time the boys in the back room tried to pull this stunt, in 2011, the Legislature's own research arm said it might not save a dime - and could even increase local costs. That may explain why no other state has done this.

http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/12/christies_revenge_kill_the_press_editorial.html

Update - Bill pulled until next year
http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/lawmakers-pull-newspaper-legal-ad-bill.html

Victoria Pilallis R.I.P.

PLEASANTVILLE — An Egg Harbor City woman was killed Monday morning when her car crashed into a bus on the Atlantic City Expressway, State Police said Tuesday.

Victoria Pilallis, 27, died after her Honda Accord collided with an NJ Transit bus at mile marker 3.6 in Pleasantville just before 5 a.m.

No other serious injuries were reported. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

NJ Transit said the bus, which was on the 507 Line, had dropped off its last passenger and was headed to the garage when the accident occurred. The bus driver was not injured.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/state-police-identify-woman-killed-in-atlantic-city-expressway-crash/article_ae8fc3ab-b4ce-537e-a74c-a2622d7a6b8b.html

Pilallis, , Victoria Virginia , - 27, of Mullica Township, passed away Monday, Dec. 12, 2016. Tori was a passionate singer, avid softball player, and aspiring business woman. She had a love for her sisters, family, friends, and Sweetwater River Deck community.

A Visitation will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17th at 1:00 pm at Wimberg Funeral Home, 400 Liverpool Ave, Egg Harbor City 609-965-0357 with a memorial service starting at 3:00 pm. For condolences and directions, please visit wimbergfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cherry Hill American Little League Softball Team, to support the young girls and organization she loved and proudly coached. www.facebook.com/challsj

Entire obituary at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/obituaries/pilallis-victoria-virginia/article_3c08c26e-0d03-5a67-a45c-a05bc3e1d831.html

 

NJ State Trooper Frankie Williams R.I.P.

Funeral  Procession on Atlantic City Boardwalk
https://www.facebook.com/6abcNoraMuchanic/videos/10154203687565875/

 More than a thousand law-enforcement officers came to show their support, standing five deep, shoulder-to-shoulder on the Atlantic City Boardwalk Monday, forming a wall of blue that stretched for blocks.

 Williams, 31, was killed in a head-on collision while on patrol on Route 55 in Millville Dec. 5.

 http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/over-come-to-boardwalk-hall-to-say-goodbye-to-a/article_30c4fee2-1043-51be-a1e8-ad9be8eecade.html

Christie Needs Law Change For Book Deal

Gov. Chris Christie has found an opportunity to earn lots of money — and he's reportedly coaxing lawmakers to change a law so he can do it.
Christie reportedly is working with New Jersey legislators to revise a state law that bars him on cashing in on a book deal while in office.
Christie is in talks with top Democratic and Republican lawmakers to change a law this month to allow him to cash in with an undisclosed book deal, according to The Record, citing sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity.


The deal would let Christie profit from a book while also pushing forward a plan to increase lawmakers' staff salaries, according to the report.


New Jersey state law says a sitting governor is barred from receiving or agreeing to receive "any compensation, salary, honorarium, fee, or other form of income from any source, other than the compensation paid or reimbursed to him/her by the state for the performance of official duties."
NJ Advance Media noted two years ago that the same proposal was quietly being discussed.

 "It's being talked about. I'm not going to deny it's being talked about," Assemblyman Declan O'Scanlon, a Republican from Monmouth, told reporters. Earlier that same year, Assemblyman John Burzichelli, a Democrat from Gloucester, sponsored a similar bill that stalled.

Entire article at
http://patch.com/new-jersey/tomsriver/christies-next-job-move-could-make-him-rich-hes-trying-change-n-j-law-do-it

Related post
http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/christies-book-deal-could-cost-us-10.html

Mullica 2017 Assessment List

TOWNSHIP OF MULLICA
ASSESSOR’S NOTICE

Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 54:4-38, notice is hereby given that the Assessment List of the Township of Mullica for the Tax Year of 2017 is available for inspection by any taxpayer on December 28, 2016 or on any other business day of the Township and may be inspected in the office of the Assessor, 4528 White Horse Pike, Elwood, New Jersey 08217 during normal business hours of the Township.  The normal business hours of the Township are from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
The Assessment List may be inspected by any taxpayer to ascertain the assessed valuation of their property for the 2017 Tax Year.

Gerard P. Mead, CTA
Tax Assessor
Township of Mullica
Pub. Date: December 7 & 14, 2016
Ptr. Fee: $8.37

http://www.hammontongazette.com/legals 

New Kessler Surgery Center

 HAMMONTON — According to representatives of Community Healthcare Associates LLC (CHA), which owns Kessler Medical Arts Complex located at the former Kessler Memorial Hospital on the White Horse Pike (Route 30), a surgery center with four new operating rooms will be available for operations within a 60-day time period. The surgery center is called Ambulatory Surgical Pavilion of New Jersey, according to an ad placed in this week’s Gazette by CHA.

“We’re looking to recruit additional surgeons from the local region who would be interested in operating out of a community-based surgery center. We don’t believe there is a surgery center within a half hour of us,” Community Healthcare Associates LLC member E. Stephen Kirby told The Gazette.

The ad in this week’s Gazette reads as follows: “The Ambulatory Surgical Pavilion of NJ is a State Licensed Ambulatory Surgical Center. With four operating rooms, it will be committed to providing patients with the highest level of care in the fields of minimally invasive surgery, including but not limited to pain management, orthopedic surgery, spinal surgery, plastic surgery, hand surgery, podiatric surgery, nerve reconstruction, oral surgery, and other ambulatory care procedures.

Anyone interested in working at or with the new surgery center should call 567-6800 to schedule a tour, the ad said. The surgery center is looking to hire locally, Kirby said.

According to Kirby, the operating rooms and associated space for offices and waiting rooms will take up approximately 14,000 square feet of the 99,000-square-foot facility, which has 80,000 square feet of usable space, Kirby said,

Kessler Memorial Hospital closed in March of 2009 and has been vacant since, with the exception of a satellite emergency department that AtlantiCare operated at the location before moving to a new facility in 2011.

Kirby said he looked forward to seeing the surgery center open at Kessler Medical Arts Center and said more tenants will be opening at the location in the coming months.

“More than $2,000,000 has been invested in the buildout for the surgery center alone. The final equipment decisions for the surgery center will be made by the surgeons who operate the facility. We know that there is going to be a sleep center in the facility as well. Construction is progressing on the sleep center right now. A free-standing reference laboratory is also in negotiations as well as other tenants,” Kirby said,

For more information about leasing space at Kessler Medical Arts Center, contact Community Healthcare Associates LLC at info@cha-properties.com or by calling (973) 429-7900.

http://www.hammontongazette.com/news1 

Dale Tyrone Davis R.I.P.

Davis, Tyrone Dale , - was born on September 04, 1953, and transitioned from this life to eternal rest on December 06, 2016. "FOOTS" as he was called by his Local 415 Brothers was born to Margaret Wilcox and Charles Moore in Philadelphia, Pa. He was baptized in Jesus Name and began his faith walk at Shiloh Pentecostal Assembly and later attended Opened Door of Faith Center ; where he continued to be dedicated and faithful unto the Lord as a servant, under the pastorate of Rev. Joe Mason , who became his confidante. Tyrone served as a Reservist in the Air Force, during the Viet Nam War and was released with an honorable discharge. He retired from Local 415 after 30 years of service. Tyrone attended Atlantic Community College majoring in History, and was well abreast of political science and everyday news! Tyrone could be harsh in his delivery, yet truthful and fair. "TY" loved jazz and quartet music and western movies. Tyrone was an avid Chess Player

 Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 14, 2016, at 10:00AM, at Opened Door of Faith Center 416 Darmstadt Ave., Mullica Township, NJ 08217; where family and friends may view from 9:00-10:00AM. Interment: Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Egg Harbor Twsp, NJ 08234. Professional services are by Serenity Funeral Home, LLC 414 South Main Street, Pleasantville, NJ 08232 (609) 383-9994
Entire obituary at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/obituaries/davis-tyrone-dale/article_22ff0882-e1c2-5a9c-9bc0-4c3b9c033c68.html

Wrestling Signups

Mullica Twp. Parents

 

Mullica rec w/ CCHS wrestling are holding sign ups for 1st -8th grade who want to try wrestling. Practice is at Cedar Creek Aux Gym. cost $45. spread the word!

Real Estate Transactions 12/10

MULLICA TOWNSHIP

5120 New Hampshire Ave, Cole John Moore, Cole Dustin, Southern Specialty Prop LLC to Boehmer James, Boehmer Alexandra; 10/17/16. $322,000

4192 Pleasant Mills Road, Oudemans Peter, Howell Amy B to Purcell Paul A, Purcell Mary Patricia; 10/17/16. $360,000

4049 Adams Circle, Freddie Mac, Servicelink, Chicago Title Ins Co, Fannie Mae to R And I Const LLC; 10/17/16. $34,000

606 Fifth Ave, Rodriguez Pedro to Garrison Kevin T, Bansback Megan; 10/17/16. $156,500

2670 Green Bank Road, Hagaman Pearl, Steiber Helen to Braun Charles R, Braun Charles; 10/20/16. $130,000

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/business/how-much-are-homes-selling-for-near-you/article_7fe7a531-34d8-52b1-b2ac-aab0abb23b0a.html 

Mullica Found Dog

Mullica Township Police Department

 

Update - Tucker has been reclaimed : )
 

***FOUND DOG*****

This friendly lab was found in the area of White Oak Cricle around 12pm. If this dog belongs to you or you know the owner please contact the Mullica Township Police Dept 609-652-2037.
 

Breakfast With Santa Saturday

Egg Harbor City
Breakfast with Santa: The Kiwanis Club and Knights of Columbus will hold a Breakfast with Santa from 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 10 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 243 St. Louis Ave. Tickets are $5 for adults and children ages 7 and older. Younger children are free. RSVP by Dec. 3. For information, call Betty Wenzel at 609-965-3380.

Hammonton Christmas Parade Saturday

http://gadfly01.blogspot.com/2016/12/kellyanne-conway-to-lead-hammonton.html

Code Blue Weather Alert

The cold is coming a little early to South Jersey this year, and communities with homeless populations are preparing for an early shot of arctic air.

With temperatures expected to drop well below freezing over the next several nights and even lower wind chills, Atlantic City and Bridgeton have each issued code blue alerts from Friday night through early Sunday.

The National Weather Service is predicting wind chills to drop as low as the teens Friday night.

The National Weather Service is predicting another blast of arctic air later next week  future code 

This weekend's cold is expected to ease by Sunday night and Monday, as rain is forecast to arrive early next week.
Entire article at
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/get-ready-for-a-cold-weekend-in-south-jersey/article_ab51fde2-699f-57b8-86f8-195f62619c14.html

 

John Glenn Has Died At 95

WASHINGTON (AP) — John Glenn, whose 1962 flight as the first U.S. astronaut to orbit the Earth made him an all-American hero and propelled him to a long career in the U.S. Senate, died Thursday. The last survivor of the original Mercury 7 astronauts was 95.

Glenn died at the James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, where he was hospitalized for more than a week, said Hank Wilson, communications director for the John Glenn School of Public Affairs.

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/ap/washington/former-astronaut-us-sen-john-glenn-of-ohio-has-died/article_744c01d2-85a5-5a1a-b1d0-e13b325ae4d8.html

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/ap/national/former-astronaut-us-sen-john-glenn-has-died-at/article_573ae1be-9ee8-5e5a-a373-0302678da957.html

New Atlantic County Veteran's Museum

Local veterans and their families packed the new Atlantic County Veterans Museum Wednesday morning to get a first look at the progress the county has made on transforming the old Estell House into a tribute to all those who served in the nation’s military.

The museum, which will officially be open to the public in the spring, features artifacts and replicas from every American war and is organized chronologically throughout the building. It also gives a history of a Revolutionary War battle fought in the county and highlights veterans from the area.

Veterans in attendance were impressed by the work that has been done and are looking forward to the project’s completion next year.

“It’s absolutely fantastic, you can see it took a lot of work,” said Charlie DeSantis, a Korean War veteran from Northfield. “It’s a nice memorial for the veterans.”

The work on the museum began in 2013 and cost $2.4 million in capital investment money and state grants, according to county executive Dennis Levinson.

Levinson said that he envisions resident and tourist appeal and students from county schools taking field trips there to appreciate the history that the museum captures.

The Estell House was built in 1832 by Daniel Estell, a former landowner and businessman whose grandfather fought for the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War. The building is listed on the state and national register of historic places and was remodeled in the 1920s by Rebecca Estell Bourgeois Winston.

Bourgeois Winston lobbied the state to make Estell Manor its own municipality in 1924.

Now, the building will serve as a historical reminder of the sacrifices made to keep the United States free.

“This has turned out to be a miracle.. as far as I’m concerned,” said Dick Squires, chairman of the museum’s committee. It’s my feeling that every school should send their class for at least one hour to see the history of veterans in Atlantic County.”

But there is still work to be done. Officials are still sorting through donated artifacts and deciding where to display them. They are also in contact with Stockton University about possibly hiring student interns to help with research.

“We’ve taken out all the things we’ve been storing and tried to sort them and figure out the best way to tell put it into historical context, said Cindy Mason-Purdie, administrator of the Atlantic County Office o Cultural and Heritage Affairs. “Many of the items need more research and just a little bit more background. We don’t want to just take an item and put it on display without truly understanding what it was.”

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local-veterans-get-first-look-at-new-atlantic-county-veterans/article_984b8cc0-eda5-5653-9bab-083a18b46948.html