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

The Power of Community: Finding Inspiration and Motivation Through Connection

Coming back home from the military is not easy. It is a process that has many difficulties. However, it is also a wonderful chance to develop. Hard times mean searching for your own people, and the only way to do this is to become a member of some community of people who have similar experiences or who share some interests.

However, outside the military, community becomes much more important, with fellow veterans, family, and local groups. It’s more than just a strong support system; it’s a source of inspiration and motivation that can make all the difference. Those interested in finding a community of bettors can click here to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests and experiences.

Why Community Matters

Community is being a part of something larger than oneself, where one is accepted because of one’s life experiences and appreciated for all one can give. Suddenly, after years of structural comfort and camaraderie, entering civilian life creates a whole different feeling: disorientation. Now you’re all alone—that is both liberating and daunting. Community may really make this transition easier, helping you find your tribe—your people.

Shared experiences bring about power. Veterans have faced challenges that civilians might not fully understand. Whether from the bond forged through service or through mutual understanding of what it means to walk the post-military world, connecting with others having walked a similar path can be incredibly grounding. It’s more than sharing stories; it’s a lesson to each other, finding strength in numbers, and pushing each other to move forward.

Inspiration through Connection

Let’s face it: some days are tougher than others. One can easily feel stuck, be it physical aftereffects of service, dealing with one’s mental health, or just trying to find a new sense of purpose. That is where the community comes in. You will be surrounded by people who have faced similar hurdles and found ways to overcome them. Their tales of resilience, tenacity, and triumph can light the way on your darkened path.

It can be just about anywhere sometimes. It might be another veteran whose new business shows that, at times, you are never too old to pursue your dreams. Or it could be one who has discovered some tranquility and fulfillment by volunteering. They serve as a reminder that no matter where any of us are on this journey, there is always a way forward.

The Role of Support Groups

Support groups offer a safe space: a place to discuss issues one would feel uncomfortable discussing with their family or friends. Here, you are among your fellows who have been in the same place, done that, and would not mind being there for you with that information. From in-person meetings to online forums to even social media groups, such connections can make one feel less alone and more understood.

And it’s not just about talking. It’s about listening, too. Hearing the story of someone else sharing their own struggles and successes gives you new perspectives, new ideas, and new ways to approach your own challenge. You may be able to say, “If they can do it, so can I.” And that is the beauty of community. It makes you want to do more and be more, never giving up.

The Motivation to Keep Going

Motivation can be a funny thing. It comes and goes, sometimes when you least expect it. Yet whenever you’re part of a community, there’s always somebody in there to lift you should your motivation wane. Be it the buddy who gives you a call, the dedicated mentor who has tips, or simply that energy created within a group working towards common goals, the support of others can help keep an individual moving forward.

Think of it this way: whenever one gets knocked off their horse, their community helps them get back on. Maybe that’s through a class workout, one of the veterans’ services, or by just meeting a friend you can share about your continuing journey. And often, all it really takes is to be reminded that we are not isolated in situations; they rekindle the drive.

Building Your Own Community

So, how do you find your community? Start small. Just start by connecting with other veterans in your area. Join your local veterans’ group or go to any events where you can meet new folks. Communities come in many forms, such as local veterans’ groups and other regional communities, where you can meet people with similar interests. Of course, online communities are a great resource because people from all over the world use the internet. Don’t forget your existing networks: families, friends, and even coworkers constitute your support system.

Community building is no quick task, but it is worth the time and effort. The relationships you form become one of the foundation stones in your life to lead, inspire, and motivate you when you need it most. And remember, it’s a two-way street because just as you benefit from others, your experiences and insights can equally help someone else.

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 )

Scholarships Available for High School Seniors

The Camden County Hero Scholarship is pleased to announce its’ 2020 Scholarship Program.

Three $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors who have a parent actively serving Camden County, or they themselves serve Camden County in a public safety

capacity. One award will be presented in each field of service: law enforcement, fire, and EMS.

A $1,500 scholarship in memory of Chief Gary R. Cline, Ret., Merchantville Police Department, will be offered to a graduating high school senior pursuing a career in law enforcement.

A $1,500 scholarship in memory of Chief Gene Dannenfelser, Ret., Camden County Fire Marshal’s Office/Haddon Heights Fire Department, will be offered to a graduating high school senior pursuing a career in fire service.

A $1,000 scholarship in memory of Cpl. Christopher Milito, Delaware River Port Authority Police Department, will be awarded to a graduating high school senior who has a parent serving in law enforcement at the time of application. This scholarship award is sponsored by DRPA Penn-Jersey Lodge #30 on behalf of the Milito family.

Scholarships are awarded on a one-time basis for the 2019-2020 academic year.

Award criteria includes academic performance, community service, extracurricular activities and financial need.

Application deadline is April 15, 2020

Applications are available online at

www.camdencountyhero.com

by emailing a request to

dawn@camdencountyhero.com

by calling the office at (856) 768-9656, or

They will be at the guidance departments of all Camden County high schools in the near future.

The Scholarship Committee will review and approve applications impartially with no knowledge of the applicants\’ identities. All decisions of the selection committee are final.

Announcement of the awards will be made in late May/early June.

State Launches Clean Up of Illegal Dumping Area Along Assunpink Creek

TRENTON – Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine R. McCabe today joined Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, other city officials and volunteers to launch a community project to remove materials from a large illegal dumping site in Trenton as part of the DEP’s statewide

environmental justice efforts.

This is the first phase in the cleanup of the Amtico Square site and results from concerns residents raised at an environmental justice listening session held by Commissioner McCabe and the city last fall.

“This cleanup is a direct, tangible response to concerns I heard from residents during an environmental justice listening session and is a great example of putting into practice environmental justice principles to improve quality of life for disproportionately burdened communities,” Commissioner McCabe said. “The City of Trenton and Mayor Gusciora have been constructive and dedicated partners in this effort, from the listening session to the eventual conversion of this site to public use. As is our goal with all environmental justice projects, we will continue to revitalize our communities and protect public health to make New Jersey stronger and fairer. I am grateful for the strong partnerships and community support for their collaboration to transform this eyesore and public safety hazard into a community asset.”

“Programs like these showcase the continued partnership between Trenton and state government,” said Mayor Gusciora. “We’d also like to thank our partners at the New Jersey DEP and United by Blue for coordinating and funding this site cleanup. We have many stakeholders working to create a 100-plus acre park at the Assunpink Greenway, and we’re very excited about our future plans for these formerly vacant brownfield sites.”

Commissioner McCabe and Mayor Gusciora were joined in launching the cleanup of Amtico Square by volunteers with the East Trenton Collaborative and Isles Inc. community groups, members of Trenton City Council, the city’s public works department, the Bridgestone Corp. and United by Blue, a socially conscious organization that works to protect the environment and has helped coordinate similar cleanups in the region.

This initial phase is focusing on removing materials dumped illegally on the property in recent years, including debris from housing demolitions, tires, and large household items such as furniture, mattresses and appliances. The property also has numerous piles of bricks and concrete, most resulting from the demolition of a large building at the site. These piles will be addressed as part of future long-term cleanup.

The city is providing heavy equipment and workers. United by Blue has agreed to pay for the hauling and disposal of household items collected at the site. Bridgestone Corp. has also agreed to take tires to be recycled.

United by Blue is committed to protecting the health of waterways through trash and debris removal projects, including an effort last year to protect the Delaware River through a cleanup of trash and large debris on

Burlington Island

, part of the DEP-coordinated South Jersey Scrub. The group provides safety precautions to volunteers participating in these cleanups.

“We have developed an expertise for organizing logistically challenging cleanups such as the Amtico Square cleanup,” said United by Blues’ High Yields Cleanup Coordinator Megan Platt. “A project like this brings together private and public entities to meet a collective goal of cleaning our water and the surrounding environment. In this case, we\’re intercepting debris before it has the chance of making it into Assunpink Creek – a tributary of the Delaware River.”

“Isles has been a long-term partner in the East Trenton Collaborative. During that time, we’ve worked with other organizations and residents to clean-up and improve public space by building gardens, beautifying parks and vacant lots, and planting street trees,” said Jim Simon, Deputy Director of Community Planning for Isles Inc. “We are also committed to making this East Trenton Collaborative neighborhood and other neighborhoods safer by addressing home health hazards and helping turn blighted properties like Amtico Square into community assets by engaging residents in a brownfields planning process.”

The Amtico Square site sits across from the home Gwendolyn Grier has lived in for more than 50 years. She is concerned about the impact dumping there has had on quality of life and health of her neighborhood.

“We’re hoping to get something for the kids, because right now it’s just an eyesore,” she said.

Other key partners are the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, the Trenton Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, which are working to gather evidence throughout the process to inform investigations that may lead to prosecution of those responsible for the illegal dumping. Those responsible may face civil and/or criminal charges as well as significant fines.

Located along Assunpink Creek in East Trenton, the Amtico Square site is a 3.5-acre vacant area that once was the site of various rubber factories and other industries. It was most recently used for warehousing.

The building that occupied much of the site was demolished in 2013. The concrete foundation of the building today covers much of the site. Sampling of the ground below the foundation shows slightly elevated levels of contaminants, including metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

The city purchased the site as part of the Assunpink Greenway Brownfield Development Area project that envisions turning brownfield sites such as Amtico Square site into active and passive recreation parkland and a greenway trail along the Assunpink Creek, extending from the Hamilton border to downtown Trenton.

The Murphy Administraton has made addressing environmental justice a priority, launching legal actions against those responsible for pollution in these communities, making environmental justice considerations a priority in the state’s air quality and clean energy initiatives, and helping communities clean up contaminated sites and improve water quality.

In 2018, Governor Murphy signed

Executive Order 23

recognizing that the state’s low-income communities and communities of color have been exposed to disproportionately high and unacceptable levels of air, water and soil pollution, with the ongoing potential for health impacts. The order emphasizes that all communities should receive fair and equitable treatment in decision-making that affects their environment, communities, homes and health.

Achieving these environmental justice objectives is also one of the DEP’s key priority areas, through work that focuses on empowering communities to take action, protects public health and the environment in overburdened communities, and strengthens partnerships among communities, regulated entities and government.

The DEP is coordinating the Amtico Square cleanup through its Compliance and Enforcement Program and the Community Collaborative Initiative, which assigns DEP experts to work closely with urban communities to develop solutions to long-standing environmental problems.

As part of the first phase of cleanup, a fence will be erected around the site and security cameras set up to deter future dumping. The DEP will be coordinating additional environmental investigations of the site to assist the city in future restoration efforts as it moves forward with its greenway vision.

For a drone video of the site, click

here

For more information on the work the DEP is doing to address environmental justice, visit

www.nj.gov/dep/ej/

For more information on the Community Collaborative Initiative, including an explanatory video, visit

www.nj.gov/dep/cci/

NORWESCAP AND THE TOWN OF PHILLIPSBURG PARTNER TO REVITALIZE THE SOUTH MAIN STREET DISTRICT

$125,000 Awarded by New Jersey Department of Community Affairs to Fund Revitalization

Phillipsburg, New Jersey, February 26, 2020

– The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (NJ DCA) has approved a plan, jointly developed by the Town of Phillipsburg and Norwescap, to make improvements in the South Main Street District. The plan included input from hundreds of local residents, business leaders, elected officials and community-based organizations.

Through its ‘Neighborhood Preservation Program, the NJ DCA will provide the Town of Phillipsburg with $125,000 in funding to focus on branding the district, coordinating and expanding events, and attracting complementary businesses through micro-grant opportunities. In addition, strategies will be deployed to improve the look, feel and function of public spaces and foster a vibrant business district by connecting the “downtown” area with nearby parks and trails for biking and walking and by linking tourist attractions (such as the popular Delaware River Railroad Excursions) with local retail shops and eateries. The funding is renewable for up to four years.

The plan, authored by Norwescap and its partners at New Jersey Community Capital, has been cited as an example for other municipalities to follow. Jef Buehler, NJ DCA NPP Administrator said of the NPP Plan, “Your South Main Implementation Plan both fully meets and exceeds our requirements and is being used as a ‘best practice’ model for other NPP communities working with us in New Jersey. All who have seen and reviewed the South Main Implementation Plan, both at DCA and in other communities, have been very impressed”.

Norwescap and the Town of Phillipsburg have entered into a shared services agreement to implement the Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP) program. For both entities, this District is a priority and its designation as a Neighborhood Preservation area is anticipated to leverage more than 1 million in public and private funds for projects for the next four years. Norwescap has two additional initiatives in the South Main Street District – the Parnassus Neighborhood Plan created as part of NJ DCA’s Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit (NRTC) program, and the Community Based Crime Reduction (CBCR) program. These two programs and, Norwescap’s long history as a trusted social service provider, will ensure that additional resources and programs will enhance these efforts in the South Main Street District.

“We are honored to be given the opportunity to work with the Town of Phillipsburg on this project,” said Norwescap’s CEO, Mark Valli. “Together we can leverage our collective assets and resources to build a vibrant and thriving District. There are over 120,000 visitors to the Phillipsburg area and the goal of this program is to spark efforts to attract food and retail options or events that build on visitors’ experience while in Phillipsburg. Building a strong commercial District will improve the quality of life for local residents.”

Residents and visitors will soon begin to see improvements along the South Main District from Market Street to McKeen Street and an increase of events at Walters and Shappell Parks.

One way to become involved in this transformation is to join Norwescap and the Town of Phillipsburg Police Department for the 2nd Annual Community Day of Action planned for Saturday, April 18th. “The Phillipsburg Day of Action is a positive way for anyone to get involved in improving their community,” said NPP Coordinator Mary Jo Harris. “Last year we had students, retirees, elected officials, police officers, and a host of residents pitching in to beautify our community, this year will be bigger and better.”

If you would like more information on the NPP program or the 2nd Annual Community Day of Action please contact Mary Jo Harris at

harrism@norwescap.org

or call Mary Jo at 908-454-7000, Ext. 1136.

About Norwescap

Norwescap provides vital services to over 30,000 individuals and families in need in Northwest New Jersey. Our programs include strategies that address the critical areas of education, health and wellness, employment, housing, volunteerism, and financial capacity building. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to achieving the mission of creating opportunities to transform lives through innovative programs and partnerships. For more information, please visit

www.norwescap.org

Gloucester City PD Issues Road Closures/Parking Restrictions for St. Patrick\’s Parade

February 25, 2020

On Sunday, March 1

. the 5

. annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will begin on Johnson Blvd. at Monmouth Street at 1:00 pm.

The parade will proceed west on Monmouth Street to King Street, then south on King Street to Cumberland Street.

In order to accommodate the parade, the following road closures/ no parking will be in place from 10:30 am until the Highway Dept. finished sweeping the parade route following the parade. When viewing the attached maps, all streets highlighted in yellow are closed to traffic and parking.

Streets highlighted in pink are open, but parking is prohibited.

Monmouth St. closed from Johnson Blvd. to King St.

Johnson Blvd. closed between Highland Blvd. / Klemm Ave. and Bergen St.

Brown St. closed between Somerset and Bergen Sts.

Somerset St. closed at Johnson Blvd.

Kathryn St. closed at Johnson Blvd.

Frances St. closed

Highland Blvd. closed between Baynes Ave. and Greenwood Ave.

Klemm Ave. closed between Johnson Blvd. and Rosalind Ave.

E. Brown St. closed between Frances St. and Sparks Ave.

Sparks Ave. closed

Baynes Ave. closed between Johnson Blvd. and Barnaby Ave.

S. Railroad Ave. closed at Monmouth St.

N. Railroad Ave. closed at Monmouth St.

Library Parking Lot closed at Monmouth St.

Champion Rd. closed at Monmouth St.

Sussex St. closed at Monmouth St.

Burlington St. at Monmouth St.

Willow St. closed at Monmouth St.

The following parking restrictions will be in place from 10:30 am until 3:00 pm:

Klemm Ave. between Rosalind Ave. and Sylvan Ave.

Rosalind Ave. between Klemm Ave. and Highland Blvd.

Baynes Ave. between Market St. and Barnaby Ave.

King St. between Monmouth St. and Cumberland St. (west side only)

Signs will be posted and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation.

CLICK IMAGES TO ENLARGE

Kirstin Lynch-Walsh Named 2019-2020 Outstanding Educator of the Year

(Sewell, NJ) – New Jersey Thespians, an affiliate of the Educational Theatre Association, have honored Kirstin Lynch-Walsh as the 2019-2020 Outstanding Educator of the Year. Lynch-Walsh is currently the teacher of Speech Arts & Dramatics for the Gloucester County Institute of Technology (GCIT) School of Performing Arts.

New Jersey Thespians honored theatre educators across the state for their commitment to theatre education and the promotion of the fine arts in his or her community. This is the second year that educators have been honored.

“Kirstin is a prime example of a teacher who goes above and beyond for her students and school,” Freeholder Director Robert M. Damminger said. “In addition to teaching and directing the Speech Arts & Dramatics program at GCIT, Kirstin also serves as the Outreach Co-Chair for NJ Thespians, advisor for GCIT’s Thespian Troupe 5480 and founder of ACTing Out.”

ACTing Out is a touring company in which students write and produce shows based upon issues such as domestic violence, racism and mental health awareness. Lynch-Walsh has also been a member of the New Jersey Thespians State Board of Directors for more than 10 years.

Although the official awards ceremony recognized Lynch- Walsh on December 8, 2019, Freeholder Jim Jefferson visited her classroom and presented her with a certificate from the Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholder’s recognizing her achievement of receiving The NJ Thespians award.

“It was great to meet Kirstin and see the impact she has made on her students,” Freeholder Jim Jefferson said. “This award is well-deserved and I can tell she not only has a passion for theatre but for creating an environment at school where students can learn and master their craft.”

Congregation Beth El in Voorhees Receives Support from the Investors Foundation Grant Program

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ

–

A $15,000 grant from the Investors Bank’s Foundation is helping Congregation Beth El complete safety and security projects at its Voorhees campus.

Representatives from Investors Bank recently presented a check from the Investors Foundation for $15,000 to Congregation Beth El in Voorhees. Pictured from left, Investors Bank Voorhees branch supervisor Sayantani Bhattacharya, Investors Bank assistant vice president and Voorhees branch manager Barry Epps, Congregation Beth El Executive Director Josh Laster, Investors Bank’s senior vice president business lending Christopher P. Warren, Senior Rabbi Aaron Krupnick, Associate Rabbi Andy Green, Hazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro, and Congregation Beth El Board President Karen Schlessel.

Congregation Beth El applied for the grant from the Investors Bank Foundation, which supports non-profit organizations that enrich the diverse communities served by Investors Bank.

Congregation Beth El has a rich history in southern New Jersey, beginning with its organization in the Parkside section of Camden in late 1920. The congregation grew significantly over the next 50 years, requiring a move to a larger facility in the late 1960s, and then onto the current location in Voorhees in 2009.

Congregation Beth El is an egalitarian Conservative Synagogue of more than 800 families and is affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

seeks to create a unique, shared space where everyone can discover what it means to be human and to be part of a sacred community.

Investors Bank’s Christopher P. Warren, senior vice president business lending; Barry Epps, assistant vice president and Voorhees branch manager; and branch supervisor Sayantani Bhattacharya, presented the check to the leadership of Congregation Beth El.

“We are proud to present Congregation Beth El with this grant in support of its efforts to ensure the safety of its members,” said Warren. “Everyone should feel secure in their ability to participate in worship, education, and the other activities available through Congregation Beth El.”

Congregation Beth El Executive Director Josh Laster said, “We are grateful to Investors Bank Foundation for providing the necessary funds to increase security at Beth El. With their support, we were able to implement new protocols offering additional protection to our education programs.

”

“I know I speak for the leadership of our congregation when I say that Investors Bank is aptly named,” exclaimed Senior Rabbi Aaron Krupnick. “They are investing in our shared future by helping to make our children, and their parents, safe and comfortable here at our school. Our children are our future, and we are proud to be investing in them together.”

“Investors Bank believes in supporting organizations and activities that strengthen the communities where our customers and employees live and work,” said Epps. “Congregation Beth El plays an important role in our community and we believe we have an obligation to support its efforts.”

About the Investors Foundation

Investors Bank created the Investors Foundation in 2005 to support the communities Investors Bank serves. The Investors Foundation supports initiatives in the arts, youth development, health and human services, education and affordable housing. The Investors Foundation works to improve the lives of its customers and neighbors.

About Investors Bank

Investors Bank, headquartered in Short Hills, New Jersey, is a full-service community bank that has been serving customers since 1926. With nearly $27 billion in assets and a network of more than 145 retail branches, Investors Bank delivers personalized services and products tailored to the needs of its customers. Investors Bank’s banking services include complete deposit, loan and cash management products for consumers and businesses.

Investors Bank: Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

About Congregation Beth El

Congregation Beth El seeks to create a unique, shared space where members can discover what it means to be human and to be part of a sacred community. Grounded in ex

ploration of Jewish tradition, text, and ritual, Beth El aspires to enrich the lives of its members to celebrate Conservative Judaism at its creative best, and to bring Jews closer to God, Torah and Israel. Congregation Beth El is proud to say it is a community of communities. The congregation is diverse and robust, with many people from many different walks of life. Congregation Beth El welcomes all levels of background and knowledge. For more information, please go to

www.bethelsnj.org.

The Community of Lodi Awarded Veteran Friendly Municipality Certification

From left, appearing in photo: Councilmen Joseph P. Leto IV and Emil Carafa, Jr., mayor Scott A. Luna, Peter Lupo and deputy mayor, Vincent Martin. Photo by Paul Roe

[Lodi, New Jersey – February, 2020] Lodi was presented with the Veteran Friendly Municipality Certification this evening by Peter Lupo of the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce. During a brief ceremony at the start of the regular borough council meeting, Mr. Lupo presented the certificate to Lodi mayor, Scott Luna, councilmen, Joseph P. Leto IV and Emil Carafa, Jr., and deputy mayor, Vincent Martin.

The borough clerk,Carole D’amico, municipal manager, Vincent Caruso, and several other members of the Lodi government were also on hand at the council meeting.

Mr. Lupo praised the borough for its recognition of the challenges faced by veteran owned businesses and for the hardships veterans often face when trying to find meaningful employment. He added that Lodi goes beyond words and takes action to make substantive improvements to economic opportunities for veteran businesses in the community.

The certificate reads, in part, “This municipality strives to make the lives of veterans better and is therefore awarded the Veteran Friendly Municipality designation for 2020”.

Municipalities earn the certification by passing a resolution to award 6% of public contract dollars to veteran owned businesses and to achieve workforce composed of 5% veterans. The Lodi resolution also provides for 3 veteran only parking spaces in municipal parking areas and a promise by the township to proactively notify veteran businesses of upcoming bids and contract opportunities. To date, the certification has been presented to Paramus, Hackensack, Garfield, South Hackensack, Rochelle Park, Fairview, Garfield, Marlboro Township, South Plainfield, Union City, Freehold, and a continually growing list of municipalities.

The resolution was adopted by unanimous vote by the borough council. It will give veterans a chance to be more competitive for public bids and contracts

The mayor and council accepted the certificate from the chamber and paused a moment for a group photo.

The New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce is a 501c6 nonprofit organization focused on making New Jersey’s economy fairer to veteran owned businesses, as well as veteran job creation.

###