Schaer Introduces Bill to Establish Statewide Holistic Defense Model

(TRENTON) — Seeking to improve efficiency across New Jersey’s justice system, Assemblyman Gary Schaer is advancing legislation to establish a statewide model of the holistic defense initiative, a proposal designed to deliver better outcomes for individuals and communities.

The bill would codify the New Jersey Holistic Representation Model of a successful pilot program currently operating in Atlantic, Hudson, and Monmouth counties, expanding integrated legal and social support services for individuals represented by the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender.

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Franklinville Man Sentenced to 40 Years in 2022 Bar Shooting

Walter Gilliano, 28, of Franklinville, was sentenced to 40 years in state prison Thursday by the Honorable Roger Lai for first-degree murder and related weapons charges stemming from the 2022 shooting of Chad Stuart in the parking lot of a Franklin Township bar.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in open court: On Sept. 24, 2022, officers from the Franklin Township Police Department arrived at Villari’s Sports Bar for reports of a gunshot wound. The victim, Chad Stuart, 31, of Clayton, was lying on the ground with a gunshot wound to the head. Gilliano told officers he had shot Stuart. The investigation revealed that Gilliano and the victim had argued in the parking lot after the bar closed. The defendant then got into his car and drove away only to return a few minutes later with a gun. An eyewitness told police that Gilliano pointed the gun at the victim and shot him. The victim was transported to the hospital where he died from his injuries.

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I-295 southbound/Al-Jo’s Curve to be closed and detoured tonight in Bellmawr, Camden County

The I-295 southbound ramp to Route 42 southbound and I-295 southbound, also known as Al-Jo’s Curve, is scheduled to be closed and detoured tonight as the Direct Connection project advances in Bellmawr, Camden County. In addition, the I-76 eastbound Exit 1A to I-295 southbound is scheduled to be closed and detoured Friday night.

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Preservation New Jersey Upcoming Programming Alert

May 7, 2026 @ 7:00pm
Q&A with PNJ – Using Drones to Document Historic Properties
Virtual

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Concetta “Connie” Benham, 83, of Bellmawr

Surrounded by her family, on May 4, 2026, Connie passed suddenly, at the age of 83. (nee Marena). Of Bellmawr. Formerly of Mt. Ephraim.

Loving wife of 40 years to the late Howard W. Benham, Jr. Loving mother of Derek Benham (Janice) and Lisa Peters. Cherished grandmother of Bryce Benham, Hailey Peters, Shaun and Luke Maloney. Predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Dorothy Marena.

Connie was a graduate of Audubon High School, class of 1960. She worked many years as a secretary at RCA in Camden, where she would meet her husband, Howard.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewings on Monday evening, May 11th from 6 to 8 PM and again on Tuesday morning, May 12th from 9 to 10 AM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 851 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday morning, May 12th at 10:30 AM at St. Joachim Parish: Annunciation Church, 601 W. Browning Road, Bellmawr. Interment will follow in New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.

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Colors Abound as Spring Blooms in Delaware

Delaware comes alive every spring. The reemergence of life and color after months of cold and gray are a welcome relief that serve as a poignant reminder of how cyclical nature is. While the First State is small, it’s got plenty of beautiful outdoor spots replete with trees, bushes and flowers to dazzle the eye. Check them out in this photo essay from Outdoor Delaware.

The post Colors Abound as Spring Blooms in Delaware appeared first on DNREC.

GTPD Dog Walker Watch and Bike Rodeo At Timber Creek Dog Park- Free Event!

Suspect Charged After Highway Patrol Officer Shot During North Philadelphia Traffic Stop

The Philadelphia Police Department is providing an update on the investigation into the shooting of a Highway Patrol officer that occurred Monday evening in North Philadelphia.

Authorities have identified the suspect as 26-year-old Rashid Walker. Walker has been officially charged with Violations of the Uniform Firearms Act (VUFA) following the incident in the 2400 block of North 17th Street.

The investigation began at approximately 7:40 p.m. on May 4, 2026, when Highway Patrol officers conducted a vehicle stop. As an officer performed a safety frisk of Walker, who was a passenger in the vehicle, the officer felt a handgun inside Walker’s jacket pocket. At that point, the firearm discharged, striking the officer in the upper right leg.

The wounded officer was rushed to Temple University Hospital by fellow personnel and remains in stable condition.

Walker was taken into custody at the scene, and the firearm was successfully recovered.

The Homicide Division continues to lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the discharge.

Get a Copy of the Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing

Fishing Season is Here!

The Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing includes everything you need to know about fishing and crabbing in Maryland in 2026, including rules, license information, tips, free fishing opportunities, and more.Access the guide where it’s most convenient for you:Paper copies are available at:DNR Licensing and Registration Service Centers Sport License agents Your local tackle shop Online you can find:A downloadable and printable PDF of the printed guideThe rules and information on the eRegulations website

Virtua Health & POWER 99 Radio to Host Free Health Festival

All are welcome to a free health festival on Saturday, May 9, hosted by Virtua Health and POWER 99 FM.

The We❤️Health Fest will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at Virtua Primary Care – Camden, located at the Oliver Station community at 1800 Davis Street. The building is next to the Ferry Avenue stop of the Patco Hi-Speedline.

POWER 99 personalities Roxy Romeo and DJ Doc B will play music, emcee, and give away prizes. Other festivities will include children’s face-painting, a bounce house, and a temporary-tattoo station. Moms will receive special gifts to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend.