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

7 Things Worth Doing in Gloucester City

Gloucester City may be small, especially compared to Philadelphia, which sits just across the river from the city, but that doesn’t mean it’s not without excitement or enjoyable activities. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings or kid-free entertainment, these seven places and experiences are sure to please.

1. Red Bank Battlefield Park

Being a city nestled along the historically significant Delaware River, it’s no surprise that it and neighboring Gloucester County have historically significant sites. One of the area’s most important and interesting spots is the Red Bank Battlefield Park on the river waterfront, just ten minutes outside the city. The park is home to a historic home, the James and Ann Whitall House, which has stood since 1748. The home is open for tours from April to October, and visitors can enjoy hearth cooking demonstrations. Younger guests can participate in various children’s programs exploring early American life.

Surrounding the Whitall House are gardens and a butterfly house, both of which are volunteer-run by the Gloucester County Certified Gardeners group. The butterfly house is available for tours from June to September, allowing you to see the full life cycle of butterflies, an experience that will surely delight young naturalists. You’ll even find annual events like the Spring Festival or Butterfly Festival here, with live music, magic shows, crafts, and even a bug parade.

If history and gardens are not for you, the park also offers a host of amenities for enjoying a day outdoors. On site, you’ll find grills perfect for a picnic, walking trails, and restrooms to enjoy the park and its river views uninterrupted.

2. Battle of Gloucester Audio Tour

If American history fascinates you, you’ll want to embark on a combined walking and driving audio tour of the Battle of Gloucester. The tour starts in Haddonfield and ends in Gloucester City, following the path of American, British, and Hessian soldiers of the American Revolution. The tour is self-paced with the assistance of the TravelStorys app, which presents information about each site as you drive up to it. The app also encourages you to get out of your car and visit historic landmarks and signs that delve further into the significance of each site. It’s a fun and innovative way to explore local and national history.

3. Proprietors Park

Another great place to enjoy a day outside is Proprietors Park. Situated along the Delaware River and offering scenic views, the park is named for the first landowners in what is now Gloucester City, making it a place rich in history. Throughout the park are plaques informing visitors of the area’s significance. Like with Red Bank Battlefield Park, even if you’re not interested in its historic features, you’ll enjoy Proprietors Park’s green spaces and many walking paths. The park also serves as an event and festival space throughout the year, including the city’s main site to enjoy a Fourth of July fireworks display.

4. Restaurants

Gloucester City may be small, but it offers a selection of enjoyable dining experiences. Highlights include Max’s Seafood Cafe and Vitale’s Italian Bistro. On the corner of Hudson and Burlington, Max’s stands out for its historic look (the building was built in 1890), paired with a neon sign and an approachable entrance. Many of the restaurant’s customers have been incredibly pleased with the experience. The menu ranges from jambalaya to a classic steak dinner and everything in between, making it an excellent option for its versatility.

Meanwhile, Vitale’s is a cozy and casual restaurant serving classic Italian dishes, from appetizers to desserts. The restaurant is well-rated, and many customers enjoy the atmosphere and service as much as they enjoy their food.

5. Online Gambling

Though Gloucester may not have a casino or gambling hall, it is part of the state of New Jersey, meaning online gambling is not only legal but also widely available from a range of operators. Residents and visitors can access a diverse selection of online gaming platforms, offering everything from classic casino games to innovative live dealer experiences. If you are someone who makes informed decisions before diving into the action, you can view sites that rate, review, and carefully curate gaming options. These platforms provide expert insights, user reviews, and comparisons to help you choose from the many reputable operators available, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming experience tailored to your preferences.

6. The Pub Scene

When it comes to bars and pubs, Gloucester has quite a few to have on your radar, from sports bars with the best game day food and drinks to friendly spots with live music. You’ll find plenty of options throughout the city. Nero’s pub brings DJs to the venue for a fun-filled night of dancing and drinking. The Highland Tavern offers drinks and late-night eats for a busy night on the town. Tavern on the Edge provides a huge selection of beer on tap and opportunities to try craft beers, and of course, pub food that perfectly complements your drinks. Finally, with live music and a classic hole-in-the-wall feel, Bayer’s Tavern delivers just what you need from a local bar.

7. Day Trip to Philadelphia

Another huge perk of living in Gloucester City is its proximity to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. You can enjoy the charms of a tight-knit community but only need to drive twenty minutes to find the amenities of a big city. After crossing the Walt Whitman Bridge, you’ll find yourself in Pennsylvania, a short way away from Philadelphia and all its attractions, like the statue of Rocky Balboa, the steps from the Rocky film, Reading Terminal Market, the Magic Gardens, and the Liberty Bell Center. You can pop out for an afternoon or spend the day there enjoying all the amenities.

Conclusion

Gloucester City offers many wonderful experiences, including opportunities to explore the nation’s history, spend time outdoors, enjoy a bite to eat, or take a day trip to places like Philadelphia. The best part? The variety means you can tailor these experiences to whatever you and your loved ones prefer.

Lady Luck in South Jersey: A Local History of Gloucester City’s Gambling Landscape

Gloucester City, New Jersey, a charming waterfront town, has a rich history intertwined with the allure of gambling. From the roaring twenties to the modern era, the city has played a significant role in the evolution of the American gambling scene.

Gloucester City’s rich history is intertwined with various forms of gambling, from the early days of horse racing to the modern era of a 7bit casino, where players can experience the thrill of the game from the comfort of their own homes.

The Roaring Twenties and the Rise of Speakeasies

During the Prohibition era, Gloucester City, akin to numerous other municipalities across the United States, served as a focal point for illicit gambling activities. Speakeasies, concealed bars and clubs, emerged as popular gathering spots for those seeking a taste of illicit entertainment. These clandestine establishments often featured card games, dice rolls, and other forms of gambling.

The Post-Prohibition Era and the Rise of Legalized Gambling

Following the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the landscape of gambling in the United States underwent a period of significant transformation. While Gloucester City did not become a major gambling destination, it remained a popular spot for local residents to enjoy a night out at the local taverns and clubs.

The Modern Era of Online Gambling

In recent years, the advent of online gambling has precipitated a paradigm shift within the industry. Platforms such as 7bit Casino 7bitcoincasino.com provide a diverse selection of casino games, encompassing slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette, accessible from the convenience of one’s personal residence. This development has created novel opportunities for individuals to partake in the excitement of gambling from the convenience of their own residences.

The Future of Gambling in Gloucester City

Despite the fact that Gloucester City does not currently function as a significant gambling destination, its substantial historical background and geographical proximity to prominent gambling hubs such as Atlantic City render it a promising location for prospective future development. As the gambling landscape undergoes further evolution, it will be intriguing to observe how Gloucester City adapts and seizes emerging opportunities.

Conclusion

From the clandestine establishments of the Prohibition era to the contemporary domain of online gambling, Gloucester City has exerted a significant influence on the historical progression of gambling. While the city may not possess the same level of glitz and glamour as Las Vegas or Atlantic City, it offers a unique perspective on the evolution of gambling in the United States.

CONSULTANT SUGGESTS MAJOR CHANGES FOR GLOUCESTER CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (FEBRUARY 2024)(CNBNews)—The Gloucester City Mayor Dayl Baile and Council hired the Smith Consulting Group of Ocean City, NJ, in 2024 to assess the members Gloucester City paid fire department. The owner, James P. Smith Jr., has 30 years of experience in firefighting and is the Ocean City Fire Chief overseeing 67 department members.

According to the report, the 14-page evaluation was conducted by interviewing all 22 department members to understand their issues, views, perspectives, and ideas for future growth.

After interviewing the members, the evaluator observed that discipline needs to be consistently administered and that officers should be trained to handle infractions. The report mentioned that nine people, or 40 percent, have left the department over the past 11 years.

Smith released 20 recommendations, each placed under a subtitle. For example, under the title DISCIPLINE Smith wrote in part;

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PEYTON AND ME at FREEDOM PIER

(SEPTEMBER 2021)Construction completed in 1914. Ships used to dock at Freedom Pier carrying immigrants to the port of Philadelphia. The large building to the east was used a processing center by the Department of Immigration. In 1945 the site was converted into a US Coast Guard Station and the pier was used to dock the buoy tenders “Red Oak” and Lilac and several 40′ patrol boats. In 1988 the Coast Guard moved into a new facility in Philadelphia.

Gloucester City’s Freedom Pier will be 10 years old this coming September. The exact date of the unveiling of the pier was September 17, 2011. Approximately 100 people attended the dedication including State Senator Donald Norcross, Assemblymen Gilbert Whip Wilson, and Angel Fuentes, Sheriff and former City Mayor CHALIE Billingham, Freeholder and former City Councilman Tom Gurick, Councilmen Nick Marchese, Jay Brophy and Dan Spencer, City Historian Dave Munn, School Board President Louisa Lwellyn and St. Mary’s Church Deacon Frank Crosson.

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PROPERTY TAXES-Gloucester City in the Top 30 with the Highest; Brooklawn in the Top 30 with the Lowest

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews

The Top 30 Communities in New Jersey with the Highest Property Taxes

NJ Advance Media released an article recently regarding the 30 communities in the state of New Jersey with the highest property tax rate. Keep in mind that there are 565 towns/cities in the entire state. So to be listed in the top 30, in this case, is not something to brag about.

Residents living in any of those 30 communities should call their mayor and city council/commissioners and demand they explain why they are paying more in taxes than 500 plus other communities in this state.

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Oliver J. Stetser, A Life Well and Truthfully Led

By Joseph Hargesheimer

Gloucester City History in Photos

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (March 2020)–Hard to believe, but less than 100 years ago, if you were a married teacher, Gloucester City did not want you. In 1929, 10 married

Oliver J. Stetser (Image courtesy of the Philadelphia Inquirer)

woman,

who were teachers in town, filed a suit ag

ainst the board of education because they were being passed over for raises. They claimed it was because they were married, but the B.O.E. said it was because of a lack of funds. (but they did find the money to give others a raise). And so a hearing was scheduled before the New Jersey State Commissioner of Education.

At the hearing, the lawyer for the board of education told the commissioner, \”we would love to give these ladies a raise, we just do not have the money\”. Several of the board members testified the same way. But then, Oliver J. Stetser, also a board member, got his chance to speak. He started by saying, \” I am going to tell the truth at this hearing\”. The teachers are correct that they did not receive a raise because they are married. In board meetings, time after time, the members said that the best way to rid ourselves of married teachers, is to pass them over for raises until they leave. They deserve a raise, but this is the policy of the Gloucester City Board of Education.

The commissioner then closed the meeting and said he would have a decision soon.

In January of 1930, the State commissioner told members of the Gloucester City Board of Education that they were guilty of discrimination and found in favor of the married teachers.

Those 10 teachers were: Mrs. Alice Donaldson Gilliland, Marion Ivory, Dorothy Morenzana , Elizabeth Reddy, Irene Hutchinson, Anna Andrews, Edith Cubley, Lena Morgenweck, Josephine Keller and Susan Norcross.

Stetser was a hero who would not violate his oath to tell the truth, even though his fellow board members had no trouble doing so. Stetser was also a Justice of the Peace in Gloucester City and also a well respected News Paper Man. He passed away on October 30 1950.

A life well and truthfully led.

(source of information The Camden Courier Post 1920\’s)

Gloucester City News

Gloucester City History

Gloucester Catholic\’s Philanthropy Week

Announcing our 3rd Annual Philanthropy Week! In 3 weeks, March Madness returns to Gloucester Catholic. Your support of #OurWeekForGC makes a profound difference. Starting March 23rd, it\’s your chance to show pride and gratitude for the impact that GC has on each of us. We thank you in advance.

VENMO

@gcramsgiving

ONLINE

http://gchsrams.org/wordpress/?p=10085

TRADITIONAL MAIL

Kindly make check payable to:

Gloucester Catholic High School

333 Ridgeway Street

Gloucester City, NJ 08030

Memo PW 2020

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 )

*Gloucester City St. Patrick\’s Parade, Sunday, March 1

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ– The NJ Irish Society presents events and initiatives year-round as part of paying tribute to our strong history of tradition. Based in the heart of Gloucester City, NJ Irish Society was formally founded in 2019 after serving the community as a whole for decades, with our event roster featuring the sensational

“can’t miss” Irish Parade

and growing series of cultural programming and festivities.

The New Jersey Irish Society is vested in sustaining a vibrant community with excellent quality of life for the residents and visitors. Gloucester City has a rich history of Irish heritage dating back to the 1600’s when Irish Quakers first settled in the Town of Gloucester, now known as Gloucester City. That tradition continues today with the City ranking 9th in the nation for Irish American population.

The New Jersey Irish Society is working closely with the City of Gloucester, Camden County, area businesses, community groups and residents to keep these traditions alive in our community. \”We began in 2016 with our inaugural St. Patrick’s Day parade, which brought thousands to the City and its businesses to celebrate the holiday. We are thrilled to be celebrating our 5th Anniversary as South Jersey’s not-to-be-missed parade extravaganza, featuring the best in entertainment!\”

This year\’s parade is being held on Sunday, March 1, 2020 starting at 1PM. The parade route begins at Martin\’s Lake, Johnson Blvd and Baynes Avenue to the end of Monmouth Street ending at King Street.

The Irish of Gloucester City Celebrate The 100th Anniversary of Irish Independence

Sunday, March 06, 2016

UPDATE SEE MORE PHOTOS Photo (s) Credit CNBNews Staff The Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan, Bishop of the Camden Diocese, (center) and Monsignor William Hodge, (left) Pastor of St. Mary\’s Parish, Gloucester City lead the…