Month: January 2026

Lawnside Churches Offer Service Project Before 3rd Annual King Day Commemorative Worship

In honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Mount Pisgah African Methodist Episcopal Church is hosting the third annual Martin Luther King Commemorative Service at noon on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Grace Temple Baptist Church, 15 E. Charleston Ave., Lawnside.

Before the worship service, the King Day committee invites the Lawnside community to participate in a project to clean and beautify Lawnside Park from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at 208 E. Charleston Ave. All supplies will be provided.

Keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. David Latimore, director of the Betsey Stockton Center for Black Church Studies at Princeton Theological Seminary, will address the program’s theme, “Unshaken: A Community Built to Stand.”  The center is named for the formerly enslaved Princeton woman, who once free, became a missionary in Hawaii, and founder of schools for Indigenous and Black children.

Continue reading “Lawnside Churches Offer Service Project Before 3rd Annual King Day Commemorative Worship” →

Philadelphia Police Seek New Leads on 20th Anniversary of Cold Case Killing of Local Nun

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Police Department and the Citizens Crime Commission are renewing their appeal for public assistance in solving a fatal hit-and-run cold case that claimed the life of a beloved community member two decades ago.

Last Friday, January 9, 2026, marked 20 years since Sister Paul Mercedes Perreca, IHM, was struck and killed while walking to church. Despite the passage of time, investigators remain committed to identifying the driver responsible and providing closure to Sister Paul Perreca’s family, friends, and former students.

Sister Paul Mercedes Perreca was a prominent figure in the local community, serving as a dedicated eighth-grade teacher at St. Martin of Tours School. Her death left a profound void in the parish and the lives of the many students she mentored.

Continue reading “Philadelphia Police Seek New Leads on 20th Anniversary of Cold Case Killing of Local Nun” →

When Is the Best Time to Schedule HVAC Repairs

As a homeowner, you understand the importance of maintaining a comfortable indoor climate, especially during the hot summer months and chilly winters. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a vital role in achieving this comfort. However, like any mechanical system, your HVAC requires periodic repairs to ensure optimal performance. 

Understanding optimal timing for system maintenance and repairs proves essential for preventing unexpected breakdowns and managing maintenance costs effectively. This knowledge becomes particularly essential during extreme weather conditions when HVAC system reliability directly affects indoor comfort and household energy consumption.

What Makes Rocklin’s Climate Unique for HVAC Systems?

Rocklin’s Mediterranean climate creates specific challenges for HVAC systems throughout the year. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter nights can drop below freezing. These temperature extremes place substantial demands on heating and cooling equipment, necessitating regular maintenance and timely repairs.

Environmental factors affecting HVAC performance include:

  • Seasonal temperature variations
  • Humidity levels
  • Dust and pollen concentrations
  • Extended operation periods
  • Local weather patterns

Scheduling repairs in spring and fall, addressing minor issues early, and choosing a professional service for can save time, money, and stress. By taking these proactive steps, you can extend the life of your HVAC system and maintain a comfortable home environment year-round. Consult this heating installation company.

When Do Most HVAC Problems Occur in Rocklin?

HVAC system problems typically follow seasonal patterns in Rocklin’s climate. Understanding these patterns enables proactive maintenance scheduling and prevents emergency repairs during peak demand periods.

Summer Season Challenges

Summer months bring increased cooling demands and system stress. High ambient temperatures and extended operation periods strain system components, particularly during July and August. Finding reliable HVAC repair becomes challenging during peak cooling season, emphasizing the importance of preventive maintenance.

Winter Season Considerations

Winter heating requirements stress different system components. Cold weather can affect heat pump efficiency and strain heating elements. Regular system inspection before winter ensures reliable operation during cold periods.

How Regular Maintenance Helps Extend HVAC Life?

Scheduling regular maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. When you invest in routine check-ups, you can detect problems early and prevent costly repairs. Here are some key maintenance tasks that contribute to a longer-lasting HVAC system:

Cleaning and Replacing Filters

Changing the air filters in your HVAC system is one of the simplest and most effective maintenance tasks. Clean filters help the system run efficiently by preventing dust and debris from clogging the airflow. It’s generally recommended to replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on your home’s air quality and HVAC usage.

Inspecting and Cleaning Coils

The coils in your HVAC system help transfer heat, so keeping them clean is essential for efficiency. Dust and dirt on the coils can reduce performance and cause the system to work harder, leading to potential issues. Cleaning coils at least once a year can help prevent this problem.

Checking the Thermostat

A well-functioning thermostat ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently. Regularly checking the thermostat settings and recalibrating it as needed can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home.

Inspecting Ductwork

Leaky or damaged ductwork can cause your HVAC system to lose efficiency. It’s important to have your ducts inspected periodically to ensure they’re sealed properly, which helps maintain good airflow and even temperatures throughout your home.

Incorporating these maintenance tasks into a yearly schedule, particularly during the spring and fall, can help prevent emergency repairs during the peak seasons.

Why Should You Schedule Off-Season Repairs?

Strategic maintenance timing provides significant advantages for Rocklin homeowners. Understanding these benefits helps optimize repair scheduling and maintenance budgeting.

Off-season advantages include:

  • Reduced service costs
  • Shorter wait times
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Comprehensive service availability
  • Preventive maintenance opportunities

Planning repairs during off-peak periods ensures thorough service and cost-effective maintenance.

How Does Preventive Maintenance Affect Repair Timing?

Regular preventive maintenance reduces repair needs and ensures your HVAC system runs smoothly. Spring maintenance prepares your cooling system for summer, while fall maintenance readies your heating system for winter. During these checks, technicians inspect and clean your system, identify potential problems, and make repairs before extreme weather arrives. 

This proactive approach optimizes system efficiency, prevents mid-season failures, and minimizes repair needs, keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills low.

What Are Emergency Repair Indicators?

Understanding emergency repair indicators helps homeowners distinguish between urgent and routine maintenance requirements. Prompt attention to serious problems prevents system damage and ensures continuous operation.

Critical warning signs include:

  • Unusual operational sounds
  • Complete system failure
  • Electrical problems
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Safety concerns

Immediate professional attention to these issues prevents further system damage.

How Should You Choose Service Timing?

When selecting a service time, consider multiple factors that impact repair quality and cost. Strategic scheduling optimizes service availability and pricing. To make an informed decision, evaluate current system performance, weather forecasts, budget constraints, service provider availability, and maintenance history. 

By carefully considering these factors, you can determine the optimal repair timing, ensuring superb service quality while minimizing costs and disruptions to your daily routine.

What Preparation Steps Improve Repair Efficiency?

Proper preparation enhances repair service effectiveness and reduces completion time. Understanding preparation requirements helps homeowners facilitate efficient repairs.

Essential preparation steps include:

  • System monitoring
  • Documentation of problems
  • Area Accessibility
  • Filter replacement
  • Debris removal

These preparations help technicians diagnose and address problems efficiently.

Conclusion

The best time to schedule HVAC repairs in Rocklin is during spring and fall when weather conditions are mild and service demand is lower. Planning and maintaining a regular service schedule can help you avoid emergency repairs during peak seasons. 

Remember that while timing is important, addressing serious HVAC issues promptly is necessary regardless of the season. By following this guide, you can keep your HVAC system running efficiently year-round while minimizing costs and inconvenience.

Center City Restaurant Week Begins on Sunday

Explore Philadelphia’s world-class dining scene during Center City District Restaurant Week (CCDRW). Beginning Sunday, January 18 through Saturday, January 31, over 120 restaurants across Center City will offer exclusive menu discounts, with three-course, prix-fixe dinners available for just $45 or $60 and two-course lunches for $20. 
Learn More

Coughlin Takes Oath for Historic Fifth Term as New Jersey Assembly Speaker, Reaffirms Commitment to Affordability 

Craig J. Coughlin on Tuesday took the oath of office for his historic fifth term as New Jersey’s General Assembly Speaker, calling on the Legislature to build on its previous accomplishments in the new session by focusing on issues that matter most to New Jersey residents.  

“The hope of a new Legislature, the promise of new members and the renewed opportunity to do good for the people of New Jersey. It’s something we all get excited about,” said Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex) as he addressed those gathered for the Assembly Reorganization Ceremony at the Trenton War Memorial. “Together, we have tackled the state’s toughest challenges, worked to make New Jersey more affordable, and stood up for workers and our shared New Jersey values.”

Speaker Coughlin will preside over the 80-member Assembly. Fifty-seven Assembly Democrats, including 12 new members, were sworn in today into the 222nd Legislative Session. Democrats now hold the largest majority they have had in the Assembly since Watergate and have held the majority since 2002. 

“There is truly no greater calling than service to your neighbor and today, we honor your service and your decision to stand for office,” said Speaker Coughlin. “Personally, I am looking forward to working with you and learning from you because New Jersey needs—and I want—to benefit from all the unique life experiences in this room.”

In his speech, Speaker Coughlin reflected on some of the major achievements that have occurred under his leadership, including a focus on making New Jersey more affordable while also meeting financial obligations.

“We created the Stay NJ program, a truly transformative program that will bring property tax relief to our seniors and keep them right here in New Jersey where they belong, we cut taxes 24 times, we expanded family leave, we revised the minimum wage, we passed an equal pay act to ensure women were paid the same as a man,” said Speaker Coughlin. “And we did this while securing nine consecutive credit rating increases, and keeping our promise to teachers, firefighters, police officers, and public workers by making five consecutive full pension payments—something thought to be unachievable.”

He called on Republicans and Democrats to work together to find common ground.

“What makes me most proud of the Assembly is how we operate and who we are as people and advocates,” said Speaker Coughlin. “We’ve made it clear Trenton is not the same as Washington. We can work without insults; we can debate without rancor.”

You can read Speaker Coughlin’s prepared remarks here.

Assembly Democrats also selected Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald (D-Burlington, Camden) to serve an eighth term in this leadership position. Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) returns to her position of Speaker Pro Tempore, and Assemblywoman Linda Carter (D-Somerset, Union) will again serve as Majority Conference Leader.

“As my children look toward starting families of their own, I worry that the opportunities I had are slipping out of reach for their generation. Every parent wants to give their children a future that is brighter and more full of promise than the one we had,” said Majority Leader Greenwald. “We must bring the American Dream back within reach of every single New Jerseyan—not just those at the very top. They’re counting on us, and I know we won’t let them down.”

The following Assembly Democrats were sworn-in. New members are noted with an asterisk (*).

  • Legislative District 2 – Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan*
  • Legislative District 3 – Assemblyman Dave Bailey, Jr. and Assemblywoman Heather Simmons
  • Legislative District 4 – Assemblymen Dan Hutchison and Cody D. Miller
  • Legislative District 5 – Assemblymen William F. Moen Jr. and William W. Spearman
  • Legislative District 6 – Majority Leader Louis D. Greenwald and Assemblywoman Melinda Kane
  • Legislative District 7 – Assemblywoman Carol A. Murphy and Assemblyman Balvir Singh
  • Legislative District 8 – Assemblywoman Andrea Katz and Assemblyman Anthony Angelozzi*
  • Legislative District 11 – Assemblywomen Margie Donlon and Luanne M. Peterpaul
  • Legislative District 14 – Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo and Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy
  • Legislative District 15 – Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Assemblyman Anthony S. Verrelli
  • Legislative District 16 – Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Assemblywoman Mitchelle Drulis
  • Legislative District 17 – Assemblymen Joseph Danielsen and Kevin P. Egan
  • Legislative District 18 – Assemblymen Robert J. Karabinchak and Sterley S. Stanley
  • Legislative District 19 – Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez
  • Legislative District 20 – Speaker Pro Tempore Annette Quijano and Assemblyman Ed Rodriguez*
  • Legislative District 21 – Assemblyman Andrew Macurdy* and Assemblyman Vincent M. Kearney*
  • Legislative District 22 – Majority Conference Leader Linda S. Carter and Assemblyman James J. Kennedy
  • Legislative District 25 – Assemblywoman Marisa Sweeney*
  • Legislative District 27 – Assemblywomen Rosaura “Rosy” Bagolie and Alixon Collazos-Gill
  • Legislative District 28 – Assemblywoman Cleopatra G. Tucker and Assemblyman Chigozie U. Onyema*
  • Legislative District 29 – Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor Marin and Shanique Speight
  • Legislative District 30 – Assemblyman Alexander “Avi” Schnall
  • Legislative District 31 –Assemblyman William B. Sampson, IV and Assemblyman Jerry Walker*
  • Legislative District 32 – Assemblyman Ravi S. Bhalla* and Assemblywoman Katie Brennan*
  • Legislative District 33 – Assemblymen Gabriel Rodriguez and Larry Wainstein*
  • Legislative District 34 – Assemblywoman Carmen T. Morales and Assemblyman Michael Venezia
  • Legislative District 35 – Assemblymen Al Abdelaziz and Kenyatta Stewart*
  • Legislative District 36 – Assemblymen Clinton Calabrese and Gary S. Schaer
  • Legislative District 37 – Assemblywomen Shama A. Haider and Ellen J. Park
  • Legislative District 38 – Assemblywoman Lisa Swain and Assemblyman Chris Tully

Northern Liberties & Fishtown Team Up For Philadelphia’s First-Ever Dry January Bar Crawl

** More Than Two Dozen Bars, Restaurants, Breweries, Distilleries, Wineries and More Offer Specially Priced Mocktails & NA Drinks **

PHILADELPHIA, PA  – Dry January in Philadelphia is getting a neighborhood-wide upgrade as the Northern Liberties Business Improvement District and Fishtown District join forces for the first-ever Northern Liberties & Fishtown Dry January Bar Crawl, taking place Saturday, January 17 and Sunday, January 18, 2026. Spanning both vibrant neighborhoods, the two-day crawl will feature more than two dozen participating bars, restaurants, breweries, wineries, distilleries and hospitality spots, all offering creative, specially priced mocktails, zero proof cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the weekend. Participating locations will host Dry January–friendly happy hours, with many running from 11:00am to 4:00pm and Noon to 5:00pm, plus select earlier and later offerings depending on the venue. Designed to celebrate mindful drinking and our city’s growing zero proof beverage scene, without sacrificing fun, flavor or social connection, the crawl invites guests to explore Northern Liberties and Fishtown at their own pace – no tickets, wristbands or check-ins required. The event is also to inspire people to not just enjoy zero proof options during January but year-round. Thank you to promotional partner Aversa PR & Events.

Continue reading “Northern Liberties & Fishtown Team Up For Philadelphia’s First-Ever Dry January Bar Crawl” →

Ernest K. Marden, 70 of Audubon

On January 8, 2026, at the age of 70. Of Audubon. Formerly of Haddonfield and Collingswood. Predeceased by his wives, Donna Marden (nee Savage) and Michele Burch; daughter, Jennipher Marden and his parents, Ernest D. Marden and Anne M. Marden (nee Brown). Survived by his siblings, Timothy Marden (Patty), Robert Phelps (Pat Rutherford), Nancy Smith (Arthur) and Michael Phelps; grandchildren Noah and Elijah, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Saturday afternoon, January 24th, 2026 from 1 to 2:30 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City, where his funeral service will be celebrated at 2:30 PM. Interment will be private in Lakeview Memorial Park, Cinnaminson. 

Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Ernest K. Marden. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries may be made through: McCann-Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Ernest K. Marden, please click here to visit our sympathy store.

Federal Court Terminates Multiple Sections of Consent Decree as NJDOC  Achieves Key Reform Milestones

On January 12, 2026, the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey granted a  joint motion to terminate six critical sections of the federal consent decree overseeing the New Jersey  Department of Corrections (NJDOC). The order recognizes that the State has successfully implemented and  sustained sweeping reforms in areas ranging from high-tech surveillance to prisoner privacy and staff training. 

The motion, filed jointly by the United States Department of Justice and the State of New Jersey, marks a turning  point in the oversight process that began in 2021. The Court found “good cause” to end federal monitoring in  these specific areas based on the Department’s documented progress. 

“Today’s ruling is a powerful testament to the tireless dedication of our staff and our unwavering commitment  to upholding the safety and constitutional rights of every person in our care,” said Commissioner Victoria L.  Kuhn, Esq. “With 12 of the 17 sections now terminated, we have proven that these reforms are not just checklist  items, but are fundamental to our daily operations. While we celebrate these milestones, we remain focused on  completing our obligations and ensuring these standards serve as the permanent foundation for the NJDOC.” 

Since 2021, the NJDOC has undergone a comprehensive transformation to meet the rigorous standards of the  Federal Monitor. Key successes cited in the motion to terminate include: 

• Modernizing Surveillance & Safety: The Department invested $1.6 million in a state-of-the-art camera  system. Beyond hardware, the NJDOC fully implemented body-worn cameras for staff and established  strict weekly inspection protocols and video retention rules to ensure accountability. 

• Enhanced Training Standards: A new, federally approved training plan was launched, delivering trauma informed and gender-informed instruction to custody staff, civilians, and volunteers. This includes  practical, scenario-based training to ensure safety and dignity standards are applied in real-life  situations. 

• Protecting Privacy & Dignity: Physical upgrades have been completed across facilities, including the  installation of privacy stalls for changing and confidential booths for legal and personal phone calls.  Policies now mandate trauma-informed strip search practices and expanded “cover-up”  announcements. 

• Preventing Retaliation: To ensure a culture of safety, the NJDOC established robust monitoring systems to protect those who report sexual abuse or harassment. Ongoing education—including monthly staff  newsletters and prisoner education programs—reinforces confidentiality and reporting protections.

• Expanding Language Access: For Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals, the NJDOC introduced new  forms of identification to help staff instantly recognize language needs. The Department also ensured  that all disciplinary hearings include full interpretation and translated documentation. 

• Commitment to Transparency: The NJDOC has maintained a high standard of public accountability by  holding semi-annual public meetings, publishing regular compliance reports, and maintaining full  cooperation with the Federal Monitor. 

On November 18, 2024, the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey granted a joint motion to  terminate six substantive sections of the 2021 Consent Decree overseeing the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility.  The motion ended federal oversight in areas including: Prisoner Supervision, Prisoner Education, Reporting  Allegations of Sexual Assault, Response to Allegations of Sexual Assault, Physical Plant, and Implementation. This  request was granted based on the facility’s ability to achieve and maintain “substantial compliance” for at least one year, as verified by five separate reports from the Federal Monitor.  For more information on the Settlement Agreement and Monitor Reports can be found here:  https://www.nj.gov/corrections/FederalMonitorReports/index.shtml.

Team Boxing League Brings Season IV National Tryouts to Bally’s Atlantic City

Bally’s Atlantic City will become the epicenter of competitive boxing when Team Boxing League (TBL) hosts official Season IV national tryouts from noon until 9 p.m. from Friday, Jan. 16 through Sunday, Jan. 18 in the Traymore Ballroom. The three-day event will welcome elite amateur and professional fighters from across the country, all  competing for the chance to earn a coveted spot on a Team Boxing League roster.  The event will be open to the public, giving boxing fans a front-row opportunity to witness top-tier athletes in action firsthand.

Continue reading “Team Boxing League Brings Season IV National Tryouts to Bally’s Atlantic City” →

South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas Offer Winter StormTips

Winter is here and, as storms move in, South Jersey Gas and
Elizabethtown Gas, subsidiaries of SJI, provide tips aimed to keep customers safe through the winter
season.
“We think it’s important to be proactive by offering our customers tips on how to plan for winter
storms,” said Craig Stewart, vice president, safety and shared services, SJI Utilities. “As a trusted
community partner, our customers need to be aware of how they can protect themselves and their
families this winter season.”
South Jersey Gas and Elizabethtown Gas offer the following tips to help customers prepare for the
possibility of winter storms.
Prepare your home:
 Insulate your home to prevent heat loss and drafty areas.
 Keep extra blankets, flashlights, water, and a supply of non-perishable food readily available.
 Have a generator on standby, but keep it outdoors.
Clear the area around your gas meter:
 Check your gas meter, especially after storms, to ensure it’s free from debris, ice, snow, or other
blockages.
 Gently remove snow buildup around and on top of the meter using a broom or your
hands—avoid using a shovel, as it could damage the meter.
 Prevent ice from accumulating on the meter by ensuring that gutters or other sources of dripping
water are not directed at it.
 Ensure that paths to the meter are free of obstacles, such as snow piles.
Clear snow safely:
 When shoveling snow, take breaks to avoid overexertion.
 Push snow instead of lifting it, and avoid twisting your back while shoveling.
 Use a snow blower with caution, and keep hands and feet clear of moving parts.
 Prepare for power outages:
 Charge your electronic devices and have extra batteries on hand.
 Keep a supply of bottled water in case pipes freeze or the water supply is interrupted.

Be safe and smart with natural gas:
 While natural gas lines are underground and generally well-protected, they can still be damaged
during severe weather events. However, if your gas lines or service is disrupted, follow these
safety tips:
o Never attempt to turn your gas off or on by yourself.
o Knowing the location of your natural gas meter during an emergency will be helpful if a
South Jersey Gas or Elizabethtown Gas technician needs to quickly access it.
o If you smell natural gas — which has been treated to smell like rotten eggs —
immediately leave the area without using any electrical switches, appliances, phones, or
creating any source of ignition. Once at a safe location away from the building, call 911
and then contact South Jersey Gas at 1-800-582-7060 or Elizabethtown Gas at 1-800-
492-4009. Do not re-enter the premises until authorized by emergency responders or
utility personnel.

For more safety tips please visit  South Jersey Gas – Committed to Safety or Elizabethtown Gas –
Committed to Safety.