October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, more than 280,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.
Deputy Director Jim Jefferson and the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners encourage all residents to stay proactive—schedule regular screenings, know the signs, and take advantage of available support and resources.
Learn more at: https://www.
Delaware drivers should have heightened roadway awareness as the days shorten and the deer mating season nears /Delaware DNREC graphic
Shorter Days and the Approaching Mating Season Mean More Deer Are on the Move, Particularly in the Predawn and at Dusk
Days are getting shorter, and for Delaware drivers, that means darker commutes in the morning and evening – even before clocks fall back in November. Shorter daylight hours also bring more encounters with white-tailed deer on roadways.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the Delaware Office of Highway Safety (OHS) within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security and Delaware State Police (DSP) urge motorists to start safe driving habits now, before deer activity peaks later this fall.
“With rut activity approaching, bucks (males) chasing does (females) will soon begin repeatedly crossing Delaware roadways, unaware of the danger they pose to themselves and to motorists,” said DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife biologist Sam Millman, adding that bucks will start expanding their home ranges as the rut nears. “That’s why starting in early October, we remind Delaware drivers to take extra precautions, especially when traveling on dark backroads and roadways lined by woodlands and forests, where white-tailed deer are more likely to cross.”
Deer rut, or mating season, runs from about mid to late October through late November and into December. But collisions are already happening, and drivers who build safe habits now will be better prepared when deer activity surges.
The average white-tailed deer in Delaware weighs about 140 pounds, but larger bucks can top 200 pounds or more, according to the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife. To put that in perspective, a deer-vehicle collision is equivalent to hitting a small top-load washing machine, or in the case of a large buck – a mid-sized refrigerator. Colliding with an animal that size can result in severe injury to those in the vehicle, while other motorists can become collateral damage and the vehicle itself may be totaled or need major repairs.
The latest figures from OHS confirm that most deer-vehicle collisions in Delaware occur between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m., and again between 5 p.m. and midnight. To date in 2025, there have been more than 923 deer-related crashes. OHS data also finds deer-related crashes to be most common in October, November and December, representing 47% of all Delaware vehicle-deer collisions from 2020 to 2024.
“During deer mating season, drivers must stay alert and avoid distractions such as using a cellphone while driving,” said Sharon Bryson, director of the Delaware Office of Highway Safety. “Staying focused on the road helps you react quickly if a deer crosses unexpectedly. We urge everyone to take extra care to arrive alive.”
In 2024, 1,873 or 94% of the 1,993 animal-related collisions investigated by the Delaware State Police involved deer. Of that number, 912 collisions occurred during the deer mating season. (Deer mating season is defined as October, November, and December.)
“As we enter this year’s deer mating season, Delaware drivers should be aware that nearly all of DSP’s animal-related crashes in 2024 involved deer,” said Lieutenant India Sturgis, Director of Public Information for the Delaware State Police. “Of those crashes, more than 900 occurred during the time of year when deer are most active. These numbers show how quickly deer activity can impact road safety. Drivers can reduce their risk by slowing down, staying alert at dawn and dusk and using high beams when it is safe to do so. Taking these steps will not eliminate every danger, but they can make the difference between a close call and a serious crash”
DNREC, OHS and DSP offer these safety tips to promote safe driving during the rut and all year long:
For more information on roadway safety, visit the www.arrivealivede.com/ website.
For more on white-tailed deer, visit the de.gov/deer webpage.
About DNREC
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control protects and manages the state’s natural resources, protects public health, provides outdoor recreational opportunities, and educates Delawareans about the environment. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife conserves and manages Delaware’s fish and wildlife and their habitats, and provides fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and boating access on more than 68,000 acres of public land. For more information, visit the website and connect with @DelawareDNREC on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter) or LinkedIn.
The Philadelphia Police Department and the Shooting Investigation Group is asking for the public’s assistance identifying the suspect depicted in the following video.
On September 21st, 2025, 39th District Officers responded to a 911 call for a large crowd and shooting at the-intersection of Bristol Street and Germantown Avenue. Responding officers located an 18 year old male suffering from two gunshot wounds to his left leg. The victim was later listed in stable condition.
Note: This video has no audio.
If you have any information about this crime or this suspect, please contact:
Shooting Investigations Group:
215-686-8270/71
DC 25-39-071202
For additional information and updates, visit https://www.phillypolice.com/
Workplace safety in Carrollton has become more than just keeping floors dry and exits clear—it’s about protecting employees, customers, and visitors from invisible health risks. While most businesses understand the value of a clean environment, there’s often confusion between cleaning and disinfection. These two practices sound similar, but they serve very different purposes. Knowing the difference can mean the distinction between a workplace that looks tidy and one that’s truly safe.
At Legacy Business Services, we work with Carrollton businesses every day to balance cleaning and disinfection properly. Here’s what you need to know.
Cleaning is the process of removing dirt, dust, debris, and visible contaminants from surfaces. It doesn’t necessarily kill germs—it reduces them by physically removing them along with impurities. Think of cleaning as the first line of defense in any commercial environment.
Examples of cleaning tasks in a workplace include:
When cleaning is done consistently, it improves indoor air quality, reduces allergens, and creates a professional appearance. However, cleaning alone does not fully protect against bacteria and viruses. That’s where disinfection comes in.
Continue reading “Disinfection vs. Cleaning: What Carrollton Businesses Need to Know for Workplace Safety”
The NFC East rivalry between the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants never disappoints.
Every season, this clash brings grit, history, and playoff implications. This time around, both teams enter the matchup with different storylines but one shared goal: to control the line of scrimmage and impose their will.
For bettors and fans alike, this Eagles vs Giants showdown promises plenty of intrigue, emotion, and value.
The Eagles come into this game as one of the NFC’s top contenders, built on balance, leadership, and continuity. Quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to evolve as both a passer and rusher, keeping defenses guessing with his dual-threat ability. His connection with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith remains one of the league’s most dangerous tandems.
The Giants, on the other hand, are still searching for consistency. Quarterback Jaxson Dart shows flashes of poise and athleticism, but the offense often struggles with protection and rhythm.
With running back Cam Skattebo healthy and the defense showing improved aggression under coordinator Shane Bowen, the Giants have the tools to make this contest competitive.
However, when it comes to momentum, the edge leans heavily toward the Eagles. Their offensive line dominates the trenches, and their defensive front punishes opposing quarterbacks.
If the Giants want to pull off an upset, they’ll need to play near-flawless football.
The Philadelphia Eagles vs New York Giants rivalry stands among the most storied in the NFL, with decades of drama, clutch performances, and unforgettable moments.
Historically, the Eagles hold the upper hand, especially in recent seasons, where Philadelphia’s dominance in the trenches and superior quarterback play have often dictated outcomes.
The Giants, meanwhile, have thrived in games where they’ve controlled tempo and forced turnovers.
Many past contests reveal a clear theme: the line of scrimmage decides everything. When the Eagles’ offensive front establishes control, Jalen Hurts, or Donovan McNabb before him, has had the time and confidence to exploit mismatches downfield.
Conversely, Giants wins often occur when their pass rush, historically led by Michael Strahan and Justin Tuck, successfully collapses the pocket and forces the Eagles into errors.
Turnovers have also shaped the narrative of this rivalry. The Giants’ 2016 win, for instance, hinged on two early interceptions, while the Eagles’ 2022 sweep showcased surgical efficiency and physical dominance. Big plays, whether DeSean Jackson’s “Miracle at the Meadowlands II” or Barkley’s breakaway runs, have repeatedly swung momentum.
Ultimately, success in this rivalry hinges on execution and poise. Whichever team imposes its style (power football or quick-strike explosiveness) usually walks away victorious.
Continue reading “Game Preview & Key Matchups: Eagles vs Giants”When it comes to achieving the perfect, smooth, and consistent grind, a weed grinder is an essential tool in any smoker’s setup. Whether you’re rolling or using Bongs, a good grinder ensures even burning, better airflow, and improved flavour. But with so many types on the market — from manual to electric weed grinders, and metal to acrylic — knowing what to choose can be overwhelming.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about grinder options, including materials, designs, and the top features that define the best weed grinder for your needs.
A weed grinder is a compact device used to break down dry material into finer, more manageable pieces. It typically consists of two or more interlocking sections fitted with sharp teeth that shred and grind your mix evenly.
Why does this matter?
Because a consistent grind gives you:
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a bong such a popular choice among enthusiasts, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — from what it is, to how to use one properly, and why it’s a staple in Australian smoking culture. Whether you’re new or just curious about the mechanics, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how bongs work and how to get the smoothest possible experience.
A bong is a type of water pipe designed to filter and cool smoke before it’s inhaled. Its basic design includes a water chamber, a stem, and a bowl. When you take a draw, smoke passes through the water, which removes ash and cools the temperature — creating a smoother, less harsh hit compared to other methods.
While simple in function, bongs come in countless variations. You’ll find everything from compact acrylic pieces to high-end glass bongs featuring percolators, ice catchers, and custom designs. These features enhance diffusion and cooling, giving users a cleaner, more enjoyable experience.
The process behind how a bong works is surprisingly straightforward yet effective. When you ignite the material in the bowl and inhale through the mouthpiece, the smoke travels down the stem and into the water chamber. The bubbling action you see is the smoke being filtered through the water, which helps trap heavy particles and cool the temperature before you inhale.
This filtration process doesn’t just make the smoke smoother — it also enhances the flavour and helps reduce throat irritation. That’s why many experienced users prefer bongs over dry pipes or papers.
Continue reading “The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Using a Bong”If you’ve ever found yourself mid-session with a missing or damaged cone piece, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common small parts to lose, and knowing how to make a temporary replacement can save the day.
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand what a cone piece is, how it works, and why it’s better to buy a proper one once you can. This guide will walk you through the basics, DIY alternatives, and the safest long-term options available from your trusted bong shop.
A cone piece (sometimes called a bowl) is the detachable section of a bong or pipe where you pack and light your material. When you inhale, the smoke travels from the cone through the downstem and into the bong’s water chamber before reaching your mouth.
They come in different sizes, shapes, and materials — with glass cone pieces, brass cone pieces, and ceramic cone pieces being the most common. The right type affects everything from airflow to flavour and heat distribution.
Even experienced users occasionally need a quick fix. Maybe your glass piece cracked, or you misplaced it during cleaning. While nothing replaces a properly fitted, heat-resistant cone, it’s possible to make a temporary one safely using materials you might already have at home.
However, it’s crucial to avoid anything that can release toxins or melt under heat, such as aluminium foil, plastic, or pen barrels. These DIY fixes might seem convenient but can be harmful if used improperly.
If you’re in a pinch, here’s a safe and simple method to create a functional replacement cone piece using metal or glass components. This setup is only for short-term use — ideally until you can order a proper one online.
Look for a small metal socket or nut (like those used in toolkits). Choose one with a narrow opening that can hold your material but still allow airflow. Avoid any piece with coatings, paint, or rust.
You’ll need something to hold the socket in place on your bong or water bottle (if using a temporary DIY bong). A short length of steel tubing, glass stem, or even a cleaned metal pen casing (with no plastic parts) can work. Insert the nut securely on top.
If you’re using a regular bong, make sure the size of your makeshift cone fits snugly into the downstem joint. You can wrap a little heat-resistant tape around the base for a better seal, but avoid any adhesives that might burn.
Before lighting anything, draw through the bong to make sure air flows smoothly. If it feels too tight or loose, adjust the fit or hole size.
Rinse your DIY cone thoroughly with warm water and ensure it’s dry before use. Even small traces of oil or debris can affect the flavour and safety of your session.
This setup will get you by in an emergency — but remember, it’s temporary.
Homemade solutions might work once or twice, but there’s no substitute for a quality-made glass or brass cone piece. Factory-made options are heat-resistant, durable, and designed for optimal airflow — ensuring you get the best experience every time.
Premium cone pieces are also easier to clean and come in universal joint sizes (typically 14mm or 18mm), which makes them compatible with most bongs. A proper fit means no leaks, no residue buildup, and a smoother hit overall.
For example, a glass cone piece preserves flavour and is easy to maintain, while a brass cone piece offers durability and longevity. Many enthusiasts even keep a few spare pieces on hand just in case one breaks or goes missing.
Whether you’re using a glass or metal cone piece, regular cleaning keeps your sessions smoother and your bong performing at its best. Here’s how to do it properly:
Cleaning once a week can extend the life of your cone piece and prevent unwanted flavours or airflow issues.
Even though it might be tempting to use whatever’s nearby, avoid materials that can melt, emit fumes, or warp under heat. Here’s what not to use:
Always prioritise heat-resistant metals or glass over these alternatives.
Like any frequently used part, cone pieces wear down over time. Look for signs like:
If any of these appear, it’s time to upgrade. Replacement pieces are affordable and easy to find through reputable Australian retailers like Bong Empire.
A. Yes — as a short-term fix, a clean steel socket can work, but make sure it’s uncoated and properly fitted. Replace it as soon as possible with a purpose-made piece.
A. It depends on your preference. Glass offers better flavour and a cleaner look, while metal is more durable and travel-friendly.
A. Yes, the most common sizes are 14mm and 18mm. Always check your bong’s downstem joint size before buying.
A. Ideally after every few uses — residue builds up quickly and can affect taste and airflow.
Knowing how to make a cone piece can be a lifesaver when you’re in a bind — but it’s always best to invest in a high-quality, purpose-built one for long-term use. The difference in safety, performance, and flavour is worth it.