Life long Gloucester City resident, born in 1944. Graduated from Gloucester Catholic High School Class of 1963. Attended Camden County College. Army National Guard 1964 to 1970. Activated in 1967 during the Newark Riots. Worked full-time at the Gloucester City Post Office from 1967 to 1978. Worked part-time at the Gloucester City News from 1965 to 1977. In 1978 I was named editor of the Gloucester City News and Camden County Record. Purchased the City News in 1985. In 2005 the paper was sold. In 2006 I established Cleary's Notebook. At the age of 81 I remain editor of Cleary's Notebook News writing commentary and reporting the news for South Jersey and Philadelphia regions.
On November 26, 2019. Of Gloucester City. Age 82. Born in Camden, he is the son of the late Howard and Caroline (Wiedeman) Theckston. Tex is survived by his loving children; Dorothy Passini (Dennis), Teresa Theckston, Jacqueline Sherriton (Brian), James Theckston; step-children, Gerald Sheridan, Eileen Nemeroff (Dave) and Kathleen Chiodi (John); grandchildren, Nichole, Nicholas, and Edward Sheridan, Daniel Theckston, Matt Nemeroff, Katherine Bradley, Olivia, Joshua, Jenna and Philip Sherriton: brother, Howard Theckston, Jr.; sister, Carol Monforte. He was predeceased by his wife, Jacqueline Theckston; step-children, Margaret Sheridan, Edward Sheridan, granddaughter, Heather Nemeroff and his brother, Norman Theckston.Mass of Christian Burial WAS celebrated on Saturday, December 7, 2019 in St. Mary’s Church, 426 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, where family and friends may visit from 10 to 10:30 am. Burial will be held at a private later date in New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Tex to help with his daughters needs thru:https://www.gofundme.com/f/diggers-for-teresa or sent to Mr. Frank Lopergolo, Detect America, 144 East Arbor Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360, Attn: Diggers for Teresa Theckston, or to her sister: Jacqueline Sherriton, 820 NW 120 Avenue, Plantation, FL 33325.Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Warren A. Theckston. Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCANN-HEALEY FUNERAL HOME, Gloucester City. Ph: 856-456-1142
Tex was an entrepreneur in Florida and Gloucester City, NJ
The Diocese of Camden has agreed to pay $180 million to more than 300 survivors of clerical sexual abuse, marking one of the largest such settlements in New Jersey history and representing a significant expansion of compensation for victims who have waited years for justice. The agreement, announced Tuesday in a letter from Bishop Joseph A. Williams to diocesan clergy and faithful, more than doubles the $87.5 million settlement the diocese reached in 2022. The victim support fund will be financed through contributions from the diocese, its parishes, and insurance carriers following a protracted legal dispute. The settlement represents a breakthrough after years of contentious negotiations between the diocese, claimants’ attorneys, and insurance companies that had resisted earlier payment demands. The agreement must still receive approval from the bankruptcy court, as the Camden diocese has operated under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection since 2020.
In his letter dated February 17, Bishop Williams acknowledged the profound significance of the moment for those who suffered abuse at the hands of clergy members. The bishop offered a direct apology to victims, calling their suffering the result of “grave sin and a devastating betrayal of the trust you placed in the Church that you loved.”
Years of Legal Battles
According to a statement from Lowenstein Sandler, the law firm representing plaintiffs in the case, the new agreement supplements rather than replaces the earlier settlement, bringing total compensation to victims to more than a quarter-billion dollars.
For the more than 300 survivors involved in this case, the settlement offers financial recognition of their suffering, though many advocates note that no amount of money can truly compensate for the trauma of childhood sexual abuse and its lifelong consequences.
Context and Implications
The agreement also reflects the ongoing financial and moral reckoning facing the Catholic Church as it continues to confront the legacy of clergy sexual abuse scandals that have spanned decades.
Suddenly, On January 31, 2026. Age 70, Of Haddon Heights. Cherished Son of the late Vincent and Irene Kavalunis. Beloved brother of the late Sandra Kavalunis.
Funeral Arrangements are pending at this time. Please contact McCann – Healey Funeral Home, Gloucester City Ph: 856 – 456 – 1142 for additional information.
Gloucester CITY, NJ (CNBNews)(February 19, 2026)–In June 2025, authorities informed residents and officials across 19 New Jersey municipalities about a potential collapse in the real estate sector that could soon affect their communities.
An article published by Newsweek emphasizes that while New Jersey’s housing market appears to be robust on the surface, a comprehensive analysis reveals concerning trends. Over the past 15 years, the Zillow Home Value Index has signaled critical warning indicators in these 19 towns, reminiscent of prior market downturns: significant overvaluation, noticeable volatility, and a troubling loss of upward momentum. Certain communities, such as Woodlynne and Gloucester City, have experienced such extreme price inflation that a market correction appears not only probable but nearly unavoidable. This phenomenon may be driven by exaggerated media coverage, speculative investment behaviors, or unrestrained momentum that no longer reflects genuine economic conditions.
Gloucester City exemplifies this trend, having experienced an extraordinary 206.6% increase in home prices. This surge has elevated property values to an astonishing 89.5% beyond what the market can sustainably support, particularly considering the relatively moderate current prices. The city’s history of three significant housing crashes, including a severe 15.7% decline in 2012, further underscores its vulnerability and the potential for another downturn. The combination of excessive growth fueled by speculation and historical market trends is raising alarm among residents and officials, indicating that the stability of these markets may soon be jeopardized.
GLOUCESTER CITY
Home Stratosphere | Zillow Home Value Index
Crash Risk Percentage: 90%
Historical crashes (8%+ declines): 3
Most severe historic crash: -15.7% (2012)
Total price appreciation since 2000: 206.6%
Overextension above long-term average: 89.5%
Annual price volatility: 8.8%
Projected 2025 price: $245,454
Gloucester City’s Location and Overvaluation Concerns
Situated along the scenic Delaware River directly opposite Philadelphia, Gloucester City benefits from a strategic location offering residents convenient access to major employment centers. This prime position makes it an appealing residence for those seeking employment opportunities. Despite its attractive proximity to Philadelphia, Gloucester City provides a more affordable housing market relative to other high-risk urban areas. Nevertheless, the current median home price of $245,454 is alarmingly 89.5% higher than its sustainable long-term average.
Since 2000, property values in Gloucester City have surged by an extraordinary 206.6%. The housing market has experienced considerable volatility, with three significant crashes since 2000, the most severe occurring in 2012 with a 15.7% decline amid broader regional economic challenges. Residents face typical urban issues, such as aging infrastructure and a lack of strong local economic development efforts.
With an annual price volatility rate of 8.8%, the housing market demonstrates ongoing instability. The history of multiple major downturns reveals underlying structural vulnerabilities within the community. Although current prices may seem reasonable compared to more high-end coastal markets, the 89.5% overvaluation indicates that even this working-class area has seen property values rise far beyond sustainable levels. This situation poses a significant risk of market correction, placing homeowners and prospective buyers in a precarious position.
This analysis was initially published in the article “Crash Coming? These 19 New Jersey Towns Are on Thin Ice,” available on Home Stratosphere.
Gloucester City – Delaware River Location Can’t Justify Overvaluation
Situated along the Delaware River directly across from Philadelphia, Gloucester City benefits from proximity to major employment centers while maintaining relatively affordable housing compared to other high-risk markets. However, the city’s median home price of $245,454 still sits 89.5% above its long-term sustainable average, following 206.6% appreciation since 2000. Gloucester City has experienced three major crashes since 2000, with the worst decline of 15.7% in 2012 coinciding with broader regional economic stress.
Gloucester City’s riverfront location and Philadelphia access provide some economic advantages, but the city faces typical urban challenges including aging infrastructure and limited local economic development. The 8.8% annual price volatility indicates ongoing market instability, while the pattern of three major crashes suggests underlying structural vulnerabilities. Despite current prices appearing modest compared to luxury coastal markets, the extreme 89.5% overvaluation indicates that even this working-class community has pushed valuations well beyond sustainable levels, creating significant downside risk.
Woodbury, NJ 9FEBRUARY 13, 20260– Randall D. Bilger, 61, of West Deptford, was arrested and charged with first-degree attempted murder and third-degree unlawful possession of a weapon following a stabbing that left one adult injured, Gloucester County Prosecutor Andrew B. Johns announced.
West Deptford responded Friday morning after a witness called 911 to report Bilger was bleeding and holding a knife. The witness had gone to the residence to check on the victim, an adult female. They told officers that after finding the front door locked, they went to the back door, where Bilger answered, holding a knife and covered in blood, and said “It’s not a good time.”
When police arrived, Bilger came to the front door but ignored orders to exit the house.
Officer then entered the home, arrested Bilger, and found the victim suffering from multiple stab wounds.
The victim reported that Bilger had stabbed them in the shoulder hours earlier and again in the abdomen shortly before the witness knocked on the door. The victim was transported to a hospital for treatment.
The maximum terms of incarceration are 20 years for the attempted murder charge and 5 years for the weapons charge.
Prosecutor Johns also thanked the West Deptford Police Department and the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit for their assistance in the investigation.
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
CHEER– A STAR IS BORN Julia Sienna Santiago performed on American Idle on Monday, February 16, and won the coveted GOLDEN TICKET. The song she sang was the National Anthem. A tribute to her appeared on Facebook. The Facebook post read, “Freehold Township showing BIG pride. Congratulations to Julia Sienna Santiago – Freehold Township resident, Howell High School FPAC graduate, Sea Girt Police Special Officer, and now an American Idol Gold Ticket Winner. From singing our National Anthem at Freehold Township Day to the Idol stage – we can’t wait to see what’s next!”
JEER-The night before Lillo’s Tomato Pies, 159-57 South Burlington, Gloucester City was to be inspected by the Gloucester Housing Department, someone broke in and stole the copper pipes. As a result they had to postpone their opening until February.
CHEER-To the return of American Legion Post 150. Mount Ephraim welcomed back its local American Legion post, restoring an important community hub for veterans and civic life.
CHEER — To the Westville DPW for early storm prep. Before the storm hit, Westville’s Public Works Department publicly announced its readiness plans and emergency contacts, demonstrating a level of communication and preparation that neighboring towns could learn from.
JEER — To the slow cleanup in Westville after the storm, Westville issued multiple updates reminding residents about sidewalk clearing and storm safety — a sign that many property owners still weren’t doing their part after the snowfall. Westville issued multiple updates reminding residents to clear sidewalks and practice storm safety — a sign that many property owners still weren’t doing their part after the snowfall.
CHEER -A BIG SHOUTOUT for warmer temperatures and rain that arrived this week in the State of New Jersey. Since the January 25 snowstorm, that storm have affected residents of Gloucester City and other communities in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The National Weather Service seven-day forecast calls for a high temperature of 48 today, cloudy with a chance of rain. Partly cloudy skies on Saturday, with a high of 50. The low for Sunday will be 29 and Monday the low will be 30. Cloudy skies for both days with a chance of rain and snow. Source National Weather.
CHEER – Last Wednesday, the House approved the SAVE America Act. The bill now moves to the Senate, where it faces opposition from Democrats. It aims to make significant changes to voting laws in the U.S., including requiring voters to show proof of citizenship to register, ending mail-only registrations, and for the first time, mandating photo ID in every state. It also urges states to take steps to remove noncitizens from voter rolls. “It’s just common sense. Americans need an ID to drive, to open a bank account, to buy cold medicine, to file for government assistance,” Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told reporters. “So why would voting be any different than that?” Democrats argue the legislation will disenfranchise Americans, noting that voting by noncitizens is already illegal. Current law requires voters to attest to their citizenship under oath, with criminal penalties for violators. The bill mandate that all votes be counted and tallied on Election Day.
CHEER-New Jersey American Water is thrilled to announce the launch of the 2026 American Water Charitable Foundation Water and Environment Grant Program. The Foundation invites community partners to apply for grants that promote clean water, conservation, environmental education, climate variability, and water-based recreation projects. Applications will be accepted through March 6, 2026. READ MORE
CHEER –Police officers searching high and low for a missing toddler in Louisville, Kentucky, last month received an unlikely assist from a four-legged hero. While a drone and police helicopter searched overhead for signs of the 3-year-old boy, officers with the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Seventh Division canvassed the neighborhood. According to The Blaze, a dog appeared out of nowhere and joined the search. Thanks to that shaggy dog, the child was found locked in the front seat of a nearby In the footage, it’s clear that the dog was similarly excited over the result, wagging its tail excitedly and darting its nose from officer to officer. “Lassie found him!” says one of the officers. Thompson suggested that in his two years patrolling the neighborhood, he had never seen the hero dog before or since. “I don’t know where the dog came from,” he said. “But it was a blessing from God that day.”The LMPD stated, “Outstanding work by our officers, and a four-legged friend who reminded us that heroes come in all forms.”car. SEE VIDEO
JEER-Presidents usually separate from any businesses before taking office to avoid conflicts of interest. Donald Trump, however, appears in a television commercial promoting the Trump Watch, which costs $100,000. There are cheaper models. Technically, the president is allowed to maintain his businesses as long as he doesn’t use his public office to promote them. Trump no longer directly runs the Trump Organization, but he still profits from it. His presidency is still directly tied to the business, as it sells hundreds of “Trump,” “MAGA,” and “45-47” items. If you peruse Trump’s watch website, you’ll find a video of Trump endorsing the products while standing in front of American flags.The Market Realist reported that Mr. Trump has earned over $10 billion from merchandise sales in 2025 alone. We think selling his Trump merchandise while in office demeans the office of the presidency. READ MORE
CHEER-We still believe that Trump is the best person to be leading our country when compared to the Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz. Minnesota is now facing one of the largest documented government service fraud scandals in United States history. Under Gov. Tim Walz’s evidently unwatchful eye, federal prosecutors estimate that approximately $1 billion in taxpayer funds has been siphoned from multiple state- and federally funded social-service programs over the last five years. We suggest that investigators will eventually determine Walz’s guilt in the billion-dollar fraud.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: William E. Cleary Sr. is a veteran South Jersey journalist and editor with more than five decades of experience covering local government, crime, and community life. He is the founder and editor of CNBNews. And, the former editor and publisher of The Gloucester City News and the Camden County Record, two weekly print newspapers. His memoir, “A Cop, A Reporter, and a Priest Walk Into a Bar,” shares stories from a lifetime spent chasing the truth, holding officials accountable, and giving a voice to the community.Look for his book on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions. Your support helps preserve independent local journalism and the history of Gloucester City and the surrounding region. eBook $9.99; Paperback $16.99BUY HERE
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ON Sunday, April 11, 2010, friends of Lt. Colonel Al Bancroft honored him at the American Legion Post 372, Cherry Hill. The following is the press release announcing that celebration.
Please come out to Honor Lt. Col. Al Bancroft. The Yellow Ribbon Club, Warrior Watch Riders, American Legion and all other military support groups are getting together to say THANK YOU and WELCOME HOME to Al Bancroft. As most of you know, Al has served over 50 years for the United States Marine Corps. He served THREE tours in Vietnam. He is a true Maverick. He started off enlisted and worked his way up to Lt. Col.
Lt. Col. Bancroft supports all of us and our work. Regardless of how he may have been treated during the time he served; he comes out to welcome home our current troops. He has told us from time to time that this work has helped him heal.
We would like to honor him for his longevity of service in our Welcome Home style. He will be surprised by a convoy of bikes and police who will unexpectedly pull up on his street and make noise. He will then be escorted Rock Star style to the Cherry Hill American Legion for light snacks and small tokens or appreciation from various groups. Now is the time to show our appreciation for one of our older veterans who truly has Patriotism flowing through his blood. If your group would like to present him, please call Leslie at the above number. Hope to see you there.
PHILADELPHIA, PA (February 14, 2026) — An MSC cargo ship departed the Port of Philadelphia on Saturday morning as three tugboats worked in unison to turn the massive vessel around in the ice‑covered Delaware River. Two tugs pulled from the bow while a third pushed from the stern, slowly rotating the ship through sheets of broken ice created by the recent cold snap.
The dramatic maneuver underscored both the scale of modern container vessels and the skill required to navigate them through winter river conditions.
The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has steadily expanded its relationship with the Port of Philadelphia in recent years. Its maiden call at the Packer Avenue Marine Terminal occurred on April 27, 2022, when the MSC Michaela, a 6,730‑TEU container ship, arrived as part of MSC’s Indus 2 service.
The Indus 2 route provides Philadelphia shippers with direct connections to India, Italy, Spain, and Portugal — a significant advantage for regional importers and exporters seeking faster, more efficient access to global markets.
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Local Ties: Holt Family Participation
Members of the Holt Family, operators of the Holt Marine Terminal in Gloucester City, were onboard during the 2022 inaugural visit of the MSC Michaela. Their involvement reflects the long-standing partnership between Holt Logistics, PhilaPort, and international carriers seeking dependable East Coast gateways.
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Port leadership emphasized the importance of MSC
“Shippers want more efficient options and this new India/Med service fits perfectly into our wheelhouse,” said Jeff Theobald, Executive Director and CEO of PhilaPort.
Sean Mahoney, PhilaPort’s Director of Marketing, noted that securing the Indus 2 service was years in the making. “We have been working on attracting a service like Indus 2 for a while. Our terminal operator, Holt Logistics, has really done a great job with the customer base and made this service a reality.”
Officials say Philadelphia continues to play a major role in helping international supply chains adapt to global logistics challenges, offering shippers alternative routes and reliable port performance.
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Photo caption:On the Bridge of M/V MSC Michaela Voy#: 211A – Pictured (L to R) CBP Inspt Damiani, Sean Mahoney – PhilaPort, James Walsh – PhilaPort, Tom Holt – Holt Logistics, MSC – Capt. Carlo Fortuna, Christian Holt – Holt Logistics, Phillip Holt – Holt Logistics, CBP Inspt Mason
Patchy freezing fog after 2am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 27. Calm wind.
Sunday
A chance of rain after 3pm. Patchy freezing fog before 9am. Cloudy, with a high near 41. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
Sunday Night
Rain likely before 10pm, then snow. Low around 31. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
Washington’s Birthday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 40. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
Monday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Calm wind.
Tuesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 46.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34.
Wednesday
A chance of rain after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 47. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Wednesday Night
A chance of rain before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Thursday
A chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 53. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Thursday Night
A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Friday
A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Friday Night
A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Saturday
A chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 48. Chance of precipitation is 30%.