Philadelphia, PA – Spring is finally here and Evil Genius Beer Company is celebrating in Fishtown with a massive block party. Say goodbye to the long, dark winter and hello to sunshine, fresh brews, and good vibes at their “Sprung!” Block Party on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from Noon to 6:00pm. Whether you want to sip on something refreshing, soak up the Spring energy, or just enjoy some of the best food, beer and local vendors Philly has to offer this is the party to welcome the warmth in style. Check out the festivities at Evil Genius Beer Company, at 1700 block of N. Front St. outside of their taproom (1727 N. Front St). This is a no charge family and fido friendly event so be sure to bring the whole crew out for the day to enjoy the changing of seasons. For more information on Evil Genius Beer Company or to find their beer, visit their website at evilgeniusbeer.com or give them a shout on social media @evilgeniusbeer.
The GCFD is proud to announce the addition of two new probationary firefighters to the department.
Please join us in welcoming Mike Girgenti and Chris Dolson. Mike and Chris will be attending the Camden County Fire Academy for the next 12 weeks, followed by in-house training as they begin their careers with the GCFD.
We are excited to have them join our team and look forward to working alongside them as they begin their careers here with us.
My wife, Janet and I like to patronize local businesses in Gloucester City whenever we can. For example some years ago we hired an attorney to draw up our Will and our Living Will. Over time things have changed and we needed to update both documents. Our local lawyer recently retired; as such, we hired another lawyer from our community to amend both Wills. I should have asked him beforehand how much he would charge for his time. Thinking it couldn’t be that expensive, I didn’t pursue that thought. Plus, since he never mentioned how much it would be, that furthered my conviction that his charges would be minimal.
My wife and I headed to his office several weeks later to sign the paperwork and retrieve the new Wills. Printed on the last page of the invoice he presented us was a charge of $3,000, less a special family and friends discount of $500. Balance owed, $2,500.
We have decided to appeal his fees with a District Fee Arbitration Committee.
According to my research on appealing an attorney’s fee in New Jersey, you can file a request for binding fee arbitration with a District Fee Arbitration Committee within 30 days of receiving the final bill or, if a lawsuit is filed, appeal the decision to the Appellate Division of Superior Court within 45 days.
BELOW IS SOME INFORMATION FOUND VIA AINJ Courts (.gov) +2 Steps to Appeal (Fee Arbitration): Attempt Resolution: First, discuss the fee directly with your attorney, who must inform you of your right to arbitration. File for Arbitration: Complete the Fee Arbitration Notice of Appeal Form ( and mail it to the address listed on the form, typically with the Office of Attorney Ethics (P.O. Box 962, Trenton, NJ 08625), within 30 days of receiving the final invoice. Committee Review: A local committee will review the case. Note that fee arbitration cannot decide claims of legal malpractice, only whether the fee is reasonable. Appealing the Arbitration Decision: If you disagree with the arbitration result, a written appeal must be filed with the Disciplinary Review Board within 21 days of the written decision.
NJ Courts (.gov) +3 Important Notes: Fee arbitration proceedings are confidential. If a judge ordered the fee, you must appeal to the Superior Court Appellate Division. If you are appealing a court decision (not arbitration), you must file the appeal within 45 days.
NJ Courts (.gov) +1 If you are facing a large fee dispute, you may wish to consult with a new attorney to review the billing records for reasonableness. SOURCE: Attorney Ethics and Discipline
Area School District Edition – January 1 to March 13, 2026
For more than 20 years, CNBNews has highlighted the people, institutions, and decisions that shape our local communities. Each week we recognize those who deserve applause — and call out those who fall short — in our continuing effort to keep residents informed and engaged. We welcome your input. If you like to submit a suggestion for our next School Districts Edition, or our regular Cheers and Jeers column, forward it to Editor William E. Cleary Sr., wecleary@gloucestercitynews.net
Surrounded by his loving family, Stephen B. “Pop” Heister, Sr., of Gloucester City, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at the age of 75.
Steve will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 54 years, Lois D. Heister (née Devine) and children Stephen B. Heister, Jr. and his wife, Pam, and Jeanette Shoemaker and her husband Garrett. He was the cherished and proud grandfather of Braydon and Kayla Heister, and Rhya and Grayson Shoemaker, who brought him endless joy.
He was the beloved son of the late Benjamin and Gloria Heister and the dear brother of the late Benjamin E. Heister, Jr. (surviving Hortensia “Honey”). He is also survived by many loving members of the Heister and Devine families.
Gloucester Catholic High School will host its 4th Annual Hall of Fame Banquet on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Sapphire Grand Ballroom in Deptford, NJ, the Hall of Fame Executive Committee has announced.
Proceeds from the Hall of Fame Banquet benefit Gloucester Catholic High School.
Earlier Saturday morning, February 28, 2026the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran began. The Pentagon confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader was killed as a result of the bombing, along with 40 other high-ranking Iranian officials. Memories of the United States War with Iraq, come to mind. Since the 1980s, U.S. military involvement in the Middle East has focused on maintaining regional stability, securing oil reserves, and combating terrorism, shifting from direct interventions—like the 1991 Gulf War and 2003 Iraq War—to, more recently, proxy warfare, drone strikes, and countering Iranian-backed forces. (Wilson Center +3)
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.
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
