The Franklin Fountain Celebrates America 250

One of the most famous scoop shops in America is celebrating the country’s 250th birthday with three special releases in time for July 4th weekend. The Franklin Fountain, Philadelphia’s award-winning 1900’s inspired ice cream parlor and soda shop, announce a limited edition Torch of Liberty Sundae, Liberty Bell Ice Cream Bars and Fish House Punch Fizz at their location at 116 Market Street, in Confectionery Row, in historic Philadelphia. All three are available now while supplies last – and all three are great ways to cool down during the July 4th and America 250 weekend where temperatures are expected to soar.

TORCH OF LIBERTY SUNDAE

The limited Torch of Liberty Sundae is layers of Lemon-Lime Sorbet, Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, Mango Sorbet, Raspberry Compote, and fresh Whipped Cream, served in a green torch like cup. The Torch of Liberty is a refreshing treat, large enough to share, but light enough for one person. A full size is $17.76 and a junior size is $13 (but doesn’t come in a torch cup.) There will only be 250 full size Torch of Liberty sundaes this summer (though you can order the same combination of flavors any day, and any year).  

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Philadelphia Homicide Investigation

At approximately 3:55 PM, July 5, officers responded to a report of gunfire in the 500 block of E. Wyoming Avenue, where they discovered a 27-year-old male victim lying on the highway suffering from gunshot wounds.

Responding officers immediately rushed him to Temple University Hospital.

Despite lifesaving efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at 4:17 PM. The crime scene is currently being held for processing; no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing with the Homicide Division.

FBI Increases Carvajal Murder Reward

Nearly five years after 19-year-old Chrys Carvajal was gunned down in a senseless act of gang violence, the FBI is renewing its call for justice with an increased reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of fugitive Joseph Matos.

Carvajal had recently completed Army National Guard basic training and returned home to Chicago to spend Fourth of July weekend with family and friends. On July 3, 2021, as he walked to his vehicle after attending a party in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood on the city’s North Side, investigators say he was approached by Matos and Gary Roberson, two alleged members of the Milwaukee Kings street gang, and fatally shot.

Authorities allege the attack was likely committed to enhance the shooters’ standing within the gang.

“Chrys Carvajal had no gang affiliation whatsoever,” said FBI Chicago Supervisory Special Agent Michael Zoufal, who heads the Bureau’s Second City Gang Task Force, which is investigating the case. “He wasn’t known to these individuals. There was no connection. Unfortunately, it was simply a tragic case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

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Disability Pride Month

July is Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize and celebrate people with disabilities and the many contributions they make to our communities. Commissioner Deputy Director Jim Jefferson encourages residents to explore the services and resources available through Gloucester County’s Division of Human & Special Services: https://gloucestercountynj.gov/163/Human-Special-Services

Join Our Team!

Apply today! Employment Application – Mail: PO Box 337, Woodbury, NJ 08096 – jobs@gloucestercountynj.gov

Double Shooting Investigation

The Philadelphia Police Department is investigating a double shooting that occurred Sunday evening, July 5, in the 22nd District, leaving one man critically injured and another in stable condition.

At approximately 5:56 pm. 22nd District officers responded to reports of gunfire on the 2100 block of N. 22nd Street. Upon arrival, officers located two adult male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers immediately transported the first male victim and transported him to Temple University Hospital, where he is currently listed in critical condition. Officers transported the second male victim to Temple University Hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition.

No arrests have been made at this time, and the investigation is actively ongoing with the Shooting Investigation Group.

Please note that this information is preliminary and subject to change as the active scene is processed. Updates will be provided as they become available.

New to GameZone? Here’s How to Play Responsibly

Alt text: GameZone Online Games

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or revisit the excitement of classic Filipino perya games, GameZone online games make it easy to enjoy your favorite titles anytime and anywhere. Their convenience is a huge part of the appeal, and it’s one reason online gaming continues to grow in popularity.

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PSE&G Installing New Gas Main on Haddon Avenue

Beginning Monday, July 6, PSE&G will start installation of a new gas main on Haddon Avenue in Haddonfield. Crews will begin work on Monday, July 6, and is expected to continue through the end of August, weather permitting.

Crews will perform daytime work from Marne Avenue to Kings Highway from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., followed by nighttime work at the intersection of Haddon Avenue and Kings Highway. Upon completion of the Marne Avenue to Kings Highway section, daytime work will continue from Kings Highway to Ellis Street.

Eileen A. Koontz, 66, Gloucester City

In the loving care of her family, Eileen passed peacefully on July 1, 2026, at home in Gloucester City, at the age of 66.

Born in Camden, NJ to the late Edward P. Ryan, Sr. and Lorraine A. Ryan (nee Costello). Eileen was raised in Fairview and was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School, class of 1978.

Loving wife of 31 years to James M. Koontz. Loving mother of Kelly Loebell (Ted). Beloved grandmother of Ayden, Emma and Evan. Loving sister of Edward Ryan (Susan), Robert Ryan (Kathleen) and Susan DeMaria (John). Beloved sister-in-law of Robert Koontz (Barbara). Also survived by many loving nieces, nephew sand cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Wednesday morning, July 8 th from 10 AM to 12 PM at the McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 851Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Funeral service at 12 PM in the funeral home. Interment will be private.

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John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act Signed Into Law

Landmark voting rights legislation—known as the John R. Lewis Voter Empowerment Act—was signed into law late today. The legislation was sponsored by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson.
Bill A1715 will strengthen voting rights protections in New Jersey by expanding access to the ballot, increasing protections against voter suppression and discrimination, improving language accessibility, and creating stronger oversight of election practices.