Category: CNBNEWS Point of View

OPINION: Shocking Video of Division Street Yard; Gloucester City’s $1000 Trash Can Fine

Trash Can Law to Be Enforced, BUT Division St. Resident Junk Yard Ok

CNBNews video

GLOUCESTER CITY NJ (November 29, 2025)(CNBNews)–On Tuesday, November 26, we spoke with a resident of Gloucester City living on the 600 block of Division Street regarding the condition of his yard. In our opinion, it resembles a junkyard. He informed us that once he finishes remodeling the interior of his home, he will relocate the items he is currently storing in his side yard back inside. When we asked to see what he had been remodeling inside his house, he refused. He said he would file a lawsuit against CNBNews if any article or photo were published about him. This individual is a disabled Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War. One person familiar with the situation suggested that his status as a disabled veteran is the reason he has been allowed to ignore the city’s housing regulations.

Continue reading “OPINION: Shocking Video of Division Street Yard; Gloucester City’s $1000 Trash Can Fine” →

The PEN’s Ongoing Battle with the Gloucester City Democratic Party

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (NOVEMBER 2012)– After the 1982 mayoral election in Gloucester City, two members of the Gloucester City Democrat Club/Party Machine approached Camden County Sheriff Bill Simon on behalf of the club’s membership. They pleaded with him to stop publishing sheriff’s sales in the Gloucester City News and the Camden County Record, both of which were owned by the Cleary family at the time. These legal notices were worth between $20,000 and $30,000 annually. Running for mayor that year were Independent candidate Robert S. Bevan and the endorsed Democrat Club candidate Jack Brophy.

Continue reading “The PEN’s Ongoing Battle with the Gloucester City Democratic Party” →

THE GRINCH DESTROYS THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT AT GLOUCESTER TOWNE; WHY?

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (November 23, 2025) CNBNews Editor’s Note--Today, we received a complaint from a resident of Gloucester Towne who was upset about the destruction of Christmas decorations that the local community had put up. According to this individual, employees from the Public Works Department arrived at the site on November 21 and dismantled the holiday display. The resident claimed that the employees informed her that the order to remove the decorations came from Brian Morrell, the Chief of Police and City Administrator, as well as Mayor Dayl Baile. The resident expressed confusion over why such an order was given and noted that there had been no prior communication with the property managers or the residents regarding the removal of the decorations. “The people living here used their Social Security checks to pay for these ornaments and trimmings,” she stated. Additionally, she mentioned that the mayor and city council members were contacted on Friday, November 21, but as of today, Sunday, they had yet to receive a response.

Cleary’s Notebook News has submitted an OPRA request to the City’s Custodian of Records in order to seek transparency regarding the puzzling removal of festive decorations at Gloucester Towne. The resident we spoke with is a concerned resident who contacted us to share that for the past three years, residents have been allowed to adorn the area with holiday displays. The pressing question for city officials is: why are residents now prohibited from setting up their cherished Christmas decorations? What led to this unexpected change, and why were residents not notified of the new rules?

====================

Continue reading “THE GRINCH DESTROYS THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT AT GLOUCESTER TOWNE; WHY?” →

Startling Two-Car Collision in Gloucester City

Kathy Cleary Underwood | Cleary’s Notebook News

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNews) (November 18, 2025)—In a startling incident this morning, a pickup truck and a car crashed in the 500 block of South Broadway, close to Kohler Street. According to a resident, the car ended up on its roof. The cause of the accident is unknown. It is unclear if the driver of either vehicle was hurt. Or, if there were any other injuries.

Continue reading “Startling Two-Car Collision in Gloucester City” →

My Journey in the Newspaper Industry

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (AUGUST 21, 2025)–My journey in the newspaper industry began in 1968 when I took on part-time roles at our family’s publications, The Gloucester City News and The Camden County Record. During this time, I also worked at the U.S. Post Office as a letter carrier, delivering mail to residents in Gloucester City, Bellmawr, and Brooklawn.

In 1978, I made the significant decision to leave my position at the post office to fully immerse myself in journalism as the editor of both newspapers. This opportunity allowed me to shape the voice and direction of the publications, connecting with local readers and covering important stories in our community.

Continue reading “My Journey in the Newspaper Industry” →

New Basketball Court for Three Corner Park ; A Look Back at the Playground’s History

William E. Cleary Sr. | Clearys News Journal

Slam Dunk Upgrades at Burlington & Middlesex Streets

The basketball court at Burlington and Middlesex just got another round of improvements! The blacktop has been resurfaced and painted, and new netting has been added above the fencing to keep the game going strong. The whole 3 Corner Park area is really coming together—it’s looking better than ever and adds a nice boost to the neighborhood. As activity continues to grow west of Broadway, these upgrades help set the stage for even more good things to come.

ANGELS PLAYGROUND–In January 2007, the playground located at Three Corner Park in Gloucester City was refurbished and renamed Angels Playground in honor of the three Slack children who tragically perished in a fire on July 4, 2002, at the intersection of Broadway and Mercer Street. Regrettably, the area has experienced acts of vandalism, including the destruction of the Angels’ Welcome sign and the defacement of playground equipment with graffiti. The reasons for the failure to replace the sign remain unclear. 

Continue reading “New Basketball Court for Three Corner Park ; A Look Back at the Playground’s History” →

THE AMERICAN BALD EAGLE VISITS GLOUCESTER CITY

This past September, I was walking our new dog, Sweetie, in the old industrial area of the city, and we had the incredible fortune of spotting four American bald eagles perched majestically in two trees. As we got closer to their location, two of the mature eagles flew over our heads. At the same time, the other two took off in the opposite direction. We were in awe at their beauty. It felt like such a special gift from nature, filling our hearts with awe and wonder as we soaked in the beauty of these incredible creatures. Sweetie, our two-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever whom we recently adopted, seemed to share in our excitement.

Continue reading “THE AMERICAN BALD EAGLE VISITS GLOUCESTER CITY” →

MY CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN HAVE MADE US PROUD

Dear Family,

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (CNBNEWS)–Today, at St. Mary’s Church, I looked at all of you. I was struck by the powerful lyrics of a Darius Rucker song that capture our family’s essence. I’ve included a verse from that song along with the link below—make time to listen. (photo courtesy of St. Mary’s Facebook)

It won’t be like this for long

One day soon, that girl is gonna be

All grown up and gone

Yeah, this phase is gonna fly by

So, he’s tryin to hold on

Cause it won’t be like this for long

It won’t be like this for long.

, Preform by Darius Rucker

Reflecting on this song brought vivid memories of each of your births—Kelly Ann, Connie Lynn, and Billy. Your bright blonde hair and radiant smiles were undeniable gifts from heaven. Yes, you tested our patience at times, but the joy you brought into our lives far outweighed any challenges. Your mother and I felt young and vibrant, and I wouldn’t trade those days for anything. Watching you grow into a strong woman and a remarkable man fills me with pride, especially as you now bless us with wonderful grandchildren who are continuing this legacy of love.

Sitting in church this past Sunday, I reminisced about my time as a young altar boy, serving alongside the priest while my father sat in his customary spot, lost in prayer. Those moments reminded me of my life journey, from childhood to the present, and how swiftly the years have flown by.

You deserve to know about the simplicity of your mom’s and my upbringing. Life back then was straightforward, and we often took our good fortune for granted. I am genuinely concerned about the challenges you face today. Growing up in today’s world is undoubtedly difficult, and I want you all to understand that you have my unwavering support.

I often think of my parents and the time I would have loved to spend with them. Watching them age was painful, as they became almost childlike in their needs. Many nights, I cried in silence, wishing for their peace. I miss my brother and the invaluable conversations we shared.

Now, I fully grasp my father’s tears while listening to music in his final days. He was likely reflecting on his own life, as I do now.

I stand firm in saying that I have been blessed with a wonderful life, and a significant part of that comes from each of you. My only regret is not expressing my love for you more often—I know your mother would feel the same way.

You each make me proud in your own unique way, and I want you to know that we could not ask for a better family.

With all our Love,

Dad, Grandfather, Mom, Grandmom

Gloucester City Staying on Top of the Corona Virus Crisis

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (March 11, 2020)–Gloucester City Mayor Daniel Spencer has released the following statement regarding the City\’s response to the Corona Virus crisis.

City of Gloucester officials have been in constant contact with representatives of the Camden County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management on the ever-widening Corona Virus crisis.

The City and its various departments have been meeting on this issue and are doing everything in their power to help educate the citizens of Gloucester City and to do their part in containing this virus.

There are several simple steps to protect yourself regarding the Corona Virus

Clean your hands often with soap and water

Avoid close contact

Stay home if your sick

Cover coughs and sneezes

Wear a face mask if you are sick

Clean and Disinfect at least twice a day for high traffic areas such as phones, doorknobs, light switches

Seek Medical advice if symptomatic

Additional information can be viewed on the State of New Jersey website at state.nj.us and the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov

RELATED:

Murphy Declares State of Emergency, Public Health Emergency

Dr. Oz Coronavirus Survival Guide

FIRST RESPONDERS! Coronavirus Summit

GTPD Alert: Coronavirus Preparedness

1000\’s Attend St. Mary\’s/ Gloucester City Irish Parade (photos)

by CNBNews Staff

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (March 3, 2020)–This year\’s parade, held Sunday, March 1, was \”much bigger than last year\”, said Mayor Dan Spencer. \”Between all the marchers and spectators it was estimated upwards of 5,000 people in town.\’\”

Spencer said, \”I would like to extend my appreciation to all of our parade sponsors especially the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders, all of our great city employees from the Public Works Department, Police and Fire Departments, Camden County Special Events Department, Msgr. William Hodge from St. Mary’s, Charlie Kain, President of the New Jersey Irish Society, Tom Gurick our MC, Bob Kelly from Fox 29 News, Principal Ed Beckett our Grand Marshall from Gloucester Catholic High School, Dr. Dennis Vespe and Principal Sean Gorman from the Gloucester City School District for all their support, Members of City Council, my friends from the Philadelphia Mummers String Band Association for their help and support in organizing things on parade day, and all of those who had anything to do with making this a bigger and better event for putting Gloucester City in the spotlight. We are happy for the many people who visited our businesses that day, especially those who visited our taverns and restaurants. I apologize for anyone I forgot, so a GREAT BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE, Especially the great citizens of Gloucester City for being so humble and hospitable. See you next year for an even bigger and better parade.\”

( photos courtesy of Heidi Weaver heidiho7272@gmail.com )

The opening ceremony of the parade began in front of the church with Sheila McGirl singing  the anthems as the flags for the United States and Ireland were raised by Assemblyman Bill Moen. Grand Marshall Ed Beckett and Deputy Consul General from Ireland Sean O\’Hageon look on

The Brian Boru Pipes and Drums Band with Kevin Flatley Drum Major parades by St. Mary\’s  Church

Several thousand people attended this year\’s parade. Gloucester City Mayor Dan Spencer was decked out in his Irish scarf, tie and carried his Irish shillelagh

Gloucester City Mayor Dan Spencer and Monsignor Bill Hodge do their impression of the mummer strut with one of the string band captains in front of St. Mary\’s Church

Monsignor Bill Hodge enjoyed the day. Being the Irishman that he is he couldn\’t contain himself when the music starting playing he had this urge to strut his stuff.

Celebrity Parade Marshall Bob Kelly from Fox 29 was dressed out in his finery including his shamrock sports coat which he only wears, hopefully, at St. Patrick\’s celebrations.  Where do you buy something like that Bob?

Mary Blackiston just couldn\’t help herself. She showed everyone that you can\’t keep a Gloucester City girl down when the string band starts playing you have to dance!

Honor guest  Deputy Consul General from Ireland Sean O’Hageon

Ladies AOH State Officers Roseann Michel and Maread Gallagher

CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE

( photos courtesy of Heidi Weaver heidiho7272@gmail.com )