Author: William Cleary Sr.

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.

Family, Friends, and Neighbors Remember Billy Schmidt

Billy Schmidt Memorialized –Several hundred people packed the corner of 20th and Durfor streets in South Philadelphia last Thursday to honor Billy Schmidt, age 22. He was shot to death on June 6 in the early morning by a suspect who stole his phone. A Penn State student, he was scheduled to graduate in December with a degree in journalism.

His viewing is tonight, Monday, June 15, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Baldi Funeral Home, 1327-29 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (ample off-street parking available). A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Monica Church, 17th and Ritner Streets, Philadelphia, PA.

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SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (CNBNews)(June 15, 2026)–William Schmidt “Billy”, age 22, passed away tragically on June 6, 2026. He is survived by his parents, William and Kristin (née Kastanek) Schmidt, and brother of Anna Schmidt. Cherished grandson of William (Bernadette) Schmidt and Patricia (Ted) Packer.

Nephew of Dana (Johnny) Troisi, Marla (Edward) Crosbee, Joseph (Marie) Gionta, Anna Muraglia, Margie (Roger) DeCicco, and Stephen (Janice) McKnight. Loving cousin to Jennifer, Melissa, Anna, Bobby, Lynn, Kristin, Natalie, Dominic, and Stephen, and is also survived by many dear friends and extended family members.

A proud graduate of Roman Catholic High School’s Class of 2021, Billy continued his education at Penn State University, where he was pursuing a degree in Digital Journalism and Media. He was entering his senior year and eagerly looked forward to graduating this December.

Billy embraced life with enthusiasm and a genuine love for the people around him. A loyal Philadelphia sports fan, he enjoyed spending time at the gym and had recently developed a passion for running. He was teaching himself to play the guitar and loved the music of Zach Bryan. He also enjoyed playing pool with friends at Buffalo Billiards and Station Bar and turned his love of baseball into a hobby business buying and selling baseball cards online.

Those who knew Billy will remember him for his kind heart, thoughtful nature, and unwavering loyalty. He was the type of person who would always make time for family and friends, offering encouragement, laughter, and companionship wherever he went. His warm personality and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on everyone, fortunate enough to know him.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Billy’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments and ambitions, but for the compassion, friendship, and love he shared so freely with others. Billy will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, classmates, and all whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Source Baldi Funeral Home,

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Rams’ Four-Peat:Inside Gloucester Catholic’s Baseball Dynasty

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews

photo Gloucester Catholic Facebook

Gloucester Catholic doesn’t rebuild — it reloads.

And in 2026, the Rams did what only the great programs ever dream of: they captured their fourth straight state championship, cementing a dynasty that now stands shoulder‑to‑shoulder with the greatest runs in New Jersey high school sports history.

With this latest title, Gloucester Catholic extends its state‑record total to 23 championships, a number so large it reads like a misprint. But anyone who has followed the program knows better. This is a machine built on discipline, development, and a culture that refuses to accept anything less than excellence.

At the center of it all is a man who has become synonymous with South Jersey baseball greatness.

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Continue reading →

Multi‑Million‑Dollar Upgrade for Alice Costello Elementary School

William E. Cleary Sr. | Cleary’s Notebook News

BROOKLAWN, NJ (CNBNews) (June 13, 2026) — Groundbreaking ceremonies for the multi‑million‑dollar enhancement project at Alice Costello School were held Friday, June 12, on the school grounds at 301 Haakon Avenue. Dr. Samuel A. Rosetti, Superintendent of Schools, served as host for the event.

Dignitaries in attendance included State Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr., Camden County Commissioner Jonathan L. Young Sr., Mayor Jerry “Skip” Grandstrom, School Board President Michele Cecilio, and Architect Bob Garrison.

Two seventh‑grade students, Geoffrey Gettings and JJ Meehan, also participated in the program. Gettings led the Pledge of Allegiance, while Meehan delivered the student address. His comments are below.

The facilities improvement and modernization project is being funded through a strategic partnership utilizing the Camden County Improvement Authority’s Borough‑Guaranteed Lease Revenue Bonds (Series 2025).

“This milestone marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our students, families, and community,” Dr. Rosetti said. “The facility upgrades will allow our school to continue serving as a place of learning, growth, and opportunity for generations to come.”

The Brooklawn Borough School District has officially launched a $6,290,000 modernization initiative scheduled throughout 2026 at Alice Costello School. Supported through the CCIA financing program, the project reflects the district’s commitment to providing a safer, more sustainable, and high‑performance learning environment.

Critical infrastructure upgrades will address essential components of the school’s physical plant, including advanced building automation systems (BAS), comprehensive electrical improvements, and modern architectural design‑build enhancements. District officials say these improvements will deliver immediate benefits in environmental quality, operational efficiency, and updated safety protocol

Good afternoon, everyone! I’d like to welcome our school board members, teachers, parents, neighbors, and fellow classmates.

My name is J.J. Meehan, and I am a 7th grader here at Alice Costello School. It is an absolute honor to stand here today as we break ground on a massive upgrade for our school.

When you’re in 7th grade, you spend a lot of time thinking about the future—high school, sports, and what you want to be when you grow up. But today, our town is investing $6.3 million directly into our future right here in these classrooms.

We aren’t just getting a few cosmetic fixes. This project is bringing top-tier technology to ACES. We’re talking about smart building automation systems that control the climate, flat LED lighting that helps our planet save energy, and high-tech air purifiers in our classrooms to keep us all healthy and focused.

As students, our school is like a second home. When our community invests in making it safer, cleaner, and more modern, it tells us that our education matters. It inspires us to work harder.

Even though I’ll be graduating soon, I am so proud that this project will leave a lasting legacy for the younger grades and the future students of Brooklawn.

Thank you to the Brooklawn Board of Education, the Camden County Improvement Authority, Dr. Rosetti, ACES staff, and everyone in our community who made this historic day possible. Now let’s dig in!

THE CITY OF BELFAST IS BURNING (VIDEO)

Video courtesy of SKI NEWS, AUSTRALIA.

BELFAST, IRELAND (Cleary’s Notebook News)–The demonstrations against immigrants in Belfast was spurred by a brutal attack Monday on a 40-year-old Belfast man. The suspect is a 30-year-old Sudanese man who had claimed asylum in the United Kingdom. He has been charged with attempted murder, threatening to kill, and carrying a knife. The man entered Northern Ireland after applying for asylum. In 2023, he was granted a five-year visa to remain in the U.K. reported CBSNews.

A video of the attack published on X shows the Sudanese man straddling the victim, holding a large knife. Men from the neighborhood can be seen running to the scene with clubs in their hands and then beating the suspect. That film shared on social media sparked two nights of unrest on the streets of Belfast. Groups of masked rioters have been seen setting fire to homes, a bus and trash cans, and throwing rocks at police and blocking roads.

The family of Stephen Ogilvie, who lost an eye in a knife attack that sparked the protests, condemned the violence.

Tuesday night, 200 extra police officers were on the streets after residents were forced to flee homes that were set on fire. Wednesday night, saw masked youths breaking up parts of pavements and walls of private homes to make bricks to throw at police.

Northern Ireland’s infrastructure minister described the destruction as “racism, intimidation and thuggery”, according to Amelia Neath, a reporter for the Independent.

Tonight, Thursday, some public transport services in Belfast will be suspended for the third evening in a row, causing passengers in Northern Ireland to face travel disruption, wrote Neath.

Throughout today, traffic returned to normal in Belfast. But, last night, the demonstrators forced Antrim Road in Glengormley to be closed after bricks and bottles were thrown at police. In return, the officers responded with water cannons.

CNBNews Archives:…BARNARD AVE WORK DISGRACEFUL

Peyton and Me Meandering Through Gcity and Beyond…

By William E. Cleary Sr.

Covering The South Jersey, Philly Region and Surrounding Communities

February 27, 2023

THE DONKEY PATH —

DOES ANYONE KNOW? Why has it taken over six months to repave Barnard Avenue in Gloucester City? It can’t be weather related since this winter has been mild. There have been weeks when no construction work was done on the street. According to Barnard

Regarding the Barnard Street repairs, Brian Morrell, the acting City Administrator/Police Chief, promised the residents living on that DONKEY PATH that the work would start at the beginning of January 2022. However, the long-overdue work didn’t begin until September 2023, nine months later. Residents have been putting up with the dirt and dust from the construction crews all this time. On Monday, January 30, another infrastructure crew dug up the street again.

That street, along with others in the Riverview Heights area, has been neglected by the past and present Democratic mayor and council for decades. The incumbents have no competition, so they have no need to live up to their promises. Which explains why the streets in this area and across the City have been patched so many times. Gigantic holes in these streets with water pouring out of them are a common occurrence.

Continue reading “CNBNews Archives:…BARNARD AVE WORK DISGRACEFUL” →

Fundraiser for AC Police Sgt. Ivanov and Family

Sergeant Ivanov’s recovery fund covers medical costs, childcare, and family stability needs

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (CNBNews)(June 9, 2026)–The Atlantic City Police Department Union released the following statement regarding Police Sgt. Christian Ivanov who was critically injured after being shot in the line of duty. A GoFund Me page that has been published and those who worked with him or knew him are asking the public to donate to it. The money raised will be used towards his medical costs, for childcare, and family stability needs.

Continue reading “Fundraiser for AC Police Sgt. Ivanov and Family” →

Summer Block Party Organizers Indicted for Starting Glassboro Riot

WOODBURY, NJ – Elijah Evans, 19 of Pine Hill, and Serenity Hall, 19, of Camden, have been indicted on charges of inciting a riot after a party they allegedly hosted led to multiple violent events and calls for service.

According to documents filed in this case:

On June 29, 2025, the Glassboro Police Department responded to multiple calls on Rowan Boulevard for various reasons including an armed robbery, a shooting, a stolen motor vehicle, noise complaints, fights, burglary, and disturbances.

An investigation found a pop-up “Summer Block Party” had been advertised via social media with the date and time listed as June 29, 2025, at 10 p.m. The bottom of the poster indicated “F*** THE COPS TURN UP!!’

The social media account that had shared the flyer, which reached approximately 1,000 people, was found to belong to Serenity Hall, while an account belonging to Evans was found to have disseminated the flyer. Communication between the two and a juvenile were also found, showing the group organized the event.

Both were charged with and subsequently indicted on one charge of fourth degree inciting a riot. The maximum term of incarceration for this charge is 18 months in state prison.

The State is represented by Assistant Prosecutor Lauré Walker.

Prosecutor Andrew B. Johns thanked the Glassboro Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.

The charges contained in the complaint/indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Lakewood Police Releases Info on New Laws for Bike AND E-Bikes

LAKEWOOD, NJ (June 7, 2026)–The Lakewood Police Department reminds residents to stay informed about New Jersey’s updated bicycle and e-bike laws.

New requirements for e-bike riders include licensing, registration, insurance requirements, age restrictions, and mandatory helmet use. These changes are designed to improve safety for riders and everyone sharing our roadways.

Motorists are also reminded that New Jersey’s Safe Passing Law requires drivers to move over when possible and provide at least 4 feet of clearance when passing bicyclists and other vulnerable road users. If 4 feet cannot be provided, drivers must slow down and be prepared to stop until it is safe to pass. Continue reading “Lakewood Police Releases Info on New Laws for Bike AND E-Bikes” →

Taquan N. Ayers, 25, a Licensed Practical Nurse Charged with Arson

6/4/2026

Camden County, NJ – A Gloucester Township man has been arrested and charged in connection with a series of arsons in Gloucester Township and Winslow Township, including fires at his apartment and workplace, reported Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay, Gloucester Township Police Chief Anthony Minosse, and Winslow Township Police Chief Donald Lemons.

Taquan N. Ayers, 25, a licensed practical nurse at Oaks Integrated Care, was charged with one count each of 2^nd-degree Aggravated Arson and 2^nd-degree Causing or Risking Widespread Injury or Damage in Gloucester Township. He was also charged with two counts of 3^rd-degree Arson and one count each of 1^st-degree Attempted Murder, 1^st-degree Kidnapping, 2^nd-degree Attempted Aggravated Arson, and 3^rd-degree Terroristic Threats in Winslow Township. Continue reading “Taquan N. Ayers, 25, a Licensed Practical Nurse Charged with Arson” →

CNB Archives: Gloucester City’s Political Scene in 2021

Gloucester City, NJ(August 30, 2021)(CNBNews)— The November 2 election in Gloucester City will have three different groups offering candidates for the positions on the council that are open. When Mayor Dan Spencer resigned suddenly in April, he still had a year and a half left on his four-year term. His resignation set up the following chain of events. Democrat Councilman at large Pat Keating stepped down from his position and was appointed to the mayor’s seat until this November’s election. The fact that there were two unexpected openings on the council seems to have got two former mayors with different philosophies thinking about getting back in the arena.

Those two mayors are Robert (Bob) Bevan, who was elected in the 80s to two terms as an independent, and Charles (Chuck) Billingham, who was elected in the mid-90s as a democrat.

Former Gloucester City Mayor Robert Bevan’s candidate for Pat Keating’s council-at-large seat is Sarah O’Brien; she is very involved in a youth program called Community Rocks, which teaches art and music to kids, according to Bevan.

Bevan had hoped to have a candidate to run Spencer’s unexpired term, but was unable to find anyone interested. “We had short notice; the deadline for us to gather names on the nomination petition was today, August 30, by 4 PM. That seat, along with Keating’s at-large position, will be up for re-election next November. Hopefully, we can get more people interested in running for office by then.”

We will talk with Bevan about why he got back into the political arena later this week. We will also have more information about Sarah O’Brien at that time.

Billingham announced today that he is forming his own Democratic Party in Gloucester City, and is backing Dale Baile for mayor, George Berglund for council, and newcomer Robbie Page for Keating’s at-large council seat. Billingham said he has resigned from the Gloucester City Democrat Club and is just organizing this new group. He emphasized he was not going to run for any position on council or any other body.

“I don’t want to do anything in a vacuum or behind closed doors from now on; everything will be in the open. The people I spoke to so far agreed to that open-door policy. I have the blessing of Jim Beach, the chairman of the Camden County Democratic organization and also the state Democratic organization, to proceed with the reorganization of the Gloucester City Democratic Party. After speaking with Chairman Beach, he promised that the candidates I am backing in November will be listed in Column 1 on the ballot. The incumbents who are up for re-election have been moved to Column 2. “

“In the future, I like to see incumbents earn the right to run for re-election. Under the present system, an incumbent can stay in office as long as he wants, even if he isn’t doing his job. Asked who else is involved in this change, Billingham said, “Presently it is just and Ad-hoc group of non-political people who agree with me that our city is going in the wrong direction.”

Asked who was in charge of the present Democrat Party, Billingham said, “My son Michael is the head of those people, and there is a bit of a private disagreement between us. I have no intention of running for office. I am just an advisor.”

What made you decide to start this movement?

“I have been out of politics since 2015, but in recent months, I met with the present members of the Party, and I wasn’t hearing anything different coming from their mouths. I just got my tax bill and I saw how high it was this year, I just had to do something. I also have been reading your Peyton and Me Meandering columns and I see quality of life problems I just didn’t like. “

“Robbie Page has an incredible educational background in finance. He has the backing of the Camden County Democrats. Rob will be out knocking on doors, meeting everyone he can between now and November 2. Dale Baile is running for mayor. He is a businessman who has been involved in civic activities for many years. He is going to make a great mayor.”

Lastly, I would like to make it clear that I don’t approve of personal attacks on candidates. I will disagree with someone’s policies, but it upsets me when the Party or the local Democrats bash someone’s personality. I tried for six months to influence those running the local organization to my way of thinking. But, they disagreed with me and forced me to take this action.”

Once we know the names of the candidates the regular Democrats are nominating, we will publish that information.