New Jersey Blood Services Declares Blood Emergency

10,000+ fewer blood donations, a 40% drop in recent weeks, leaves less than a two-day supply across the region

NEW JERSEY — New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) has declared a blood emergency and is issuing an urgent call for donors. Holiday disruptions, severe winter weather, canceled blood drives, and widespread seasonal illnesses have led to a significant decline in blood donations, resulting in critically low levels across the region.

In recent weeks, blood donations have dropped nearly 40% below what is needed to meet hospital demand, resulting in less than a two-day supply of blood for more than 200 hospitals across the tri-state area. The emergency declaration follows an exceptionally challenging end to the year, caused by a combination of events that sharply reduced blood donations:

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Board of Commissioners celebrates Three Kings Day

“For many, Three Kings Day represents the official end of the holiday season, so we’ll be making sure the festivity ends with one last chance to celebrate,” said Nilsa Cruz-Perez, Director of Constituent Services. “We invite everyone in our community to join us for this celebration of tradition and culture.”

Today at 2 p.m., the Board of Commissioners and the Department of Constituent Services’ Office of Hispanic Affairs will host a celebration of Three Kings Day for families and children at the Parish of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Camden City.

Parish of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 642 Market Street, Camden.

Children and families will enjoy live music, food, and receive gifts during the Board’s annual Three Kings Day celebration.

Ruth Shirley Bundens, 89, of Gibbstown

Surrounded by her family, Ruth passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at Jefferson Hospital in Stratford, at the age of 89. (nee Herman) Of Gibbstown. Formerly of Gloucester City.

Loving wife of the late Oran Alphonso Bundens. Loving mother of Deborah L. Gigantino (Daniel), the late Michael Reader and the late Levi B. Reader. Cherished grandmother of Nadine Montgomery (Frank), Janine Iapalucci (Michael), Charles Hoover (Christine) and Jessica Gigantino and great-grandmother of Nicolette Montgomery, Alexi Franks, Frankie Montgomery, Charlotte Iapalucci, Olivia Iapalucci, Mikey Iapalucci, Hadley Hoover and great-great-grandmother of Riley Blythe and Matthew Blythe, Jr. Predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Loretta Herman and her siblings, Julia Griffith, Joe Herman, Frank Herman and Mary Krause. Also survived by her special niece, Linda Griffith-Boldizar, as well an many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

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Assembly Democrats Advance Legislation to Protect Immigrant Communities

Bills would strengthen public safety in New Jersey and protect families in sensitive community spaces

(TRENTON) — The Assembly Judiciary Committee advanced two bills, sponsored by Assemblywoman Ellen Park, designed to protect immigrant communities in a way that reinforces trust in our local and state law enforcement and ensures New Jersey remains a place where all families can live, work, and access essential services without fear.

The committee advanced bill A6310, which would codify the Attorney General’s “Strengthening Trust Between Law Enforcement and Immigrant Communities” directive, also known as the Immigrant Trust Directive, which has been upheld by state and federal courts.

The Directive reaffirms that there is a necessary distinction between State, county and local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. It makes clear that it is not the role of State, county, or local police officers in New Jersey to carry out federal civil immigration enforcement. The federal government is responsible for enforcing federal civil immigration violations. New Jersey law enforcement officers are already tasked with the demands of protecting the public, investigating state criminal offenses, and enforcing state criminal law.

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Richard J. Cyzewski, born in Philadelphia

We are sad to announce the death of Richard John Cyzewski, beloved husband, father, grandfather, mummer, and friend to many, on December 31, 2025.

Richard was born in Philadelphia, PA, on August 15, 1930, to Paul and Rose Cyzewski. He attended Northeast High School, and was a star player on their basketball team. One of his first jobs was at the iconic Stetson Hat Company where he met their most famous customer, John Wayne.

Richard proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. during the Korean War. His difficult to pronounce last name was changed to Ski by a Parris Island boot camp Colonel. It became Richard’s life-long nickname. After proudly surviving boot camp, he was stationed at the Pentagon as a staff car driver, responsible for providing specialized transportation services for high-ranking officers, distinguished visitors, and command staff. His most memorable passenger was Neil Armstrong who Ski described as the nicest guy he met in the Corps.

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Camden County Roadwork Projects

Lindenwold, NJ) – Several roadway projects will be underway across Camden County during the week of January 5 to January 9.

“Motorists should plan ahead to take alternate routes and give themselves plenty of time to get to their destinations,” said Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Department of Public Works. “Also, remember that when you’re traveling through a construction area, please slow down and stay alert for crew members and debris.”

Berlin Township

South Jersey Gas will be working on Cooper Road from Monday, Jan. 5 to Friday, Jan. 9 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be a full road closure between Cushman Avenue & Hopewell Road.

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR: FIRE THE COACH

I place full blame for Sunday’s loss squarely on Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni. His decision to bench the starters was a costly mistake. The Eagles fell to Washington 24–17, and with that loss, they missed a golden opportunity to secure the NFC’s No. 2 seed. Instead, they’re stuck at No. 3 and now face a red-hot 49ers team next week.
Had the Eagles won, they would’ve earned two home playoff games. Now, they’ll only get one. That’s a massive difference in postseason advantage. The 49ers, led by MVP-caliber running back Christian McCaffrey—who’s also a dangerous receiving threat—have won six straight before falling to the top-seeded Seahawks on Saturday night. Their recent victories include:
Bears by 4
Panthers by 11
Colts by 21
Rams by 3 (in OT)
Seahawks by 4
If we had clinched the No. 2 seed, we’d be facing the Packers instead—a far more favorable matchup. Earlier this season, the Eagles dominated Green Bay, holding Jordan Love and his offense to just 7 points. He looked completely overwhelmed.
As for the argument that the team needed rest? That’s nonsense. These are professionals. The Bears, who secured the No. 2 seed, played their starters. Every team with something to gain did the same. If your seed is locked, fine—rest your starters. But when there’s still a chance to move up, you play to win.
Coach Sirianni has been at the helm since 2021 and even led the team to a Super Bowl victory (LIX). But his decision on Sunday was inexcusable. In my opinion, it was a boneheaded move that could cost us dearly.

FIRE EAGLES HEAD COACH NICK SIRIANNI

Gary Devine

Arrests Made in Homicide Investigation

On Thursday, January 1, 2026, at approximately 11:14 a.m., officers from the 2nd District responded to a reported shooting in the 7100 block of Oakland Street. Upon arrival, officers located a gunshot victim. The victim, identified as 52-year-old Luis Colon of the 7100 block of Oakland Street, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the chest. He was transported by police to Jefferson Torresdale Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:55 a.m. Flash information was broadcast over police radio, indicating the suspects fled the scene in a dark-colored Chrysler 300.

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Anna Mae Tykwinski, 91, of Barrington

Anna Mae Tykwinski (nee Blackman) passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026 at home in Barrington, NJ. Age 91 years.

Beloved wife of 53 years to the late Alexander R. Tykwinski. Loving mother of Robert Tykwinski and James Robert “Bobby” Tykwinski. Daughter of the late Stanley and Helen Blackman. Sister of Jane Flaugher and dear aunt to the late Daniel Loving and his wife, Donna.

Anna Mae was a 1953 graduate of Collingswood High School and a longtime resident of Barrington, NJ. She was active in the Barrington community and served as a member of the ladies auxiliary of the Barrington Little League. Anna Mae was also a longtime employee in the insurance industry, spending most of her career with Keystone/AAA Insurance.

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Nature Tots Tuesdays Are Back in Gloucester County!

The Gloucester County Board of Commissioners invites families to join Nature Tots Tuesdays, a fun and educational program designed especially for young children to explore the natural world.
Each session features a new, exciting topic and is offered at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM.
Upcoming Topics:• January 6 – Bats• January 20 – Birds of Prey• February 3 – Carnivorous Plants• February 17 – Gardening for Wildlife• March 3 – Tiger Beetles• March 17 – Spring Birds
Nature Tots provides hands-on learning experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, and a love of nature in a welcoming environment for children

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