Garden State Times

PSE&G has announced several roadwork projects in Camden County scheduled for next week. According to the company's plans, Market Street in Camden, Haddon and Newton avenues intersection, Prospect Ridge Boulevard in Haddon Heights, Erial-New Brooklyn Road in Winslow Township, and Little Gloucester Road in Gloucester Township will all be affected by the construction works."Motorists should plan ahead to take alternate routes and give themselves plenty of time to get to their destinations," advised Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Department of Public Works. He further...

Camden County Reacts to State of the Air Report with New Air Quality Team

Camden County officials have responded to the latest findings of the American Lung Association's 2024 State of the Air report with the establishment of the Camden County Air Quality Committee (CCAQ). The CCAQ is comprised of subject experts and community advocates who aim to provide strategic guidance in improving air quality in the region.Commissioner Jeffrey L. Nash emphasized the importance of collaboration with regional partners in addressing factors contributing to poor air quality. He highlighted the committee's focus on education, electrification, monitoring, and...

POSTPONED – Commissioners to Celebrate Spring on Tap Beer Festival at Cooper River

(Pennsauken, NJ) – The Spring on Tap Beer Festival, originally scheduled for Sunday, May 5, has been postponed due to inclement weather. A new date for the event, hosted by the Camden County Commissioners and Visit South Jersey, will be announced in the near future.The festival, set to take place at Veteran’s Island in Cooper River Park, promises a day filled with local craft beers from seven participating breweries, food trucks, live music, vendors, and a performance by LeCompt, a Philadelphia-based classic rock cover band. Commissioner Jeff Nash expressed excitement...

Henry Condemns Rutgers Weakness in Ending Anti-Semitic Protests

Senator Owen Henry (R-12) has publicly criticized Rutgers University officials for their handling of anti-Semitic protests on the campus. The Senator condemned the university's actions as reported in an official statement where final exams were affected due to the demonstrations. Sen. Henry expressed his disapproval by stating, "Rutgers’ reported capitulation to the demands of anti-Semitic demonstrators is unacceptable."Furthermore, Sen. Henry emphasized the importance of addressing the disruptions caused by the protests, saying, "I strongly condemn Rutgers for their...

Commissioners Honor Mental Health Awareness Month

By Garden State Times | May 2, 2024

(Gloucester Township, NJ) – Each year during the month of May, the Board of Commissioners honors Mental Health Awareness Month to increase and amplify this critical topic that impacts the health and welfare of our residents. Established in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month is a national campaign to educate people on the vital role that mental health plays in their overall well-being.According to Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, "Mental health is incredibly important, yet it is often left out of the conversation when it comes to taking care of ourselves. You cannot be...

Republican Budget Members Call on Lt. Gov to Redirect Pompidou Money

Republican Budget Members have penned a letter to the Lt. Governor and Secretary of State, urging the redirection of $24 million of State taxpayer funds allocated for the Centre Pompidou X museum project to a more responsible purpose. In their communication, the members emphasized the need for immediate action to repurpose the funds, stating, "We are writing to request that you immediately take steps to ensure the $24 million of State taxpayer funds appropriated though the Department of State in FY 2022 for the Centre Pompidou X museum project is redirected to a more...

Commissioners, Camden Mayor Announce Annual Camden Summer Youth Internship Program

On Wednesday, the Board of Commissioners joined Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, city council members, city youth, and others to launch the annual Camden Summer Youth Internship Program. The program is designed to provide an educational experience and a financial incentive for the city’s youth through a structured work environment that motivates young people to finish high school and pursue higher education.Commissioner Al Dyer emphasized the importance of the program, stating, "This has always been a vital program to the city of Camden as it gives these kids something to...

Commissioners to celebrate fourth annual Down and Derby wine festival at Cooper River

Camden County Commissioners and Visit South Jersey are gearing up to host the fourth annual Down and Derby Wine Festival on Veterans Island at Cooper River Park on May 1, 2024.The event, scheduled to run from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., will offer visitors the opportunity to sample local wines from South Jersey’s leading wine producers while enjoying Derby-themed fashion and festivities. In addition to wine tasting, attendees can indulge in food truck offerings, games, and live music.Commissioner Jeff Nash expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming festival, stating, "We look forward...

Rabid Raccoon Confirmed in Gloucester Township Prompts Health Department Warning

The Camden County Health Department recently confirmed that a raccoon in Gloucester Township tested positive for rabies. According to Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Health Department, "Although rabies is a serious illness, it can be prevented by early treatment."Following the incident of a resident observing their dog with a raccoon in the neighborhood, the raccoon was captured, tested for rabies, and found to be positive. The dog involved has since received a rabies booster shot and is undergoing a strict four-month quarantine. The Animal...

Market Street in Camden Temporarily Closed

PSE&G has shut down Market Street in Camden from 10th to 6th avenue to address a power outage. The road is estimated to reopen by 8 p.m. Tuesday.“For now, motorists should avoid the area and take alternate routes,” said Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Department of Public Works. “Also, remember that when you’re traveling through a construction area, please slow down and stay alert for crew members and debris.”The Camden County Department of Public Works is responsible for maintaining over 1,200 miles of county roadway and 50 bridges. They are dedicated to making...

Roadwork to close road in Camden

PSE&G will be working on Ferry Avenue on Wednesday, May 1. There will be a full road closure between South 7th and Master streets from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.“Motorists should plan ahead to take alternate routes and give themselves plenty of time to get to their destinations,” said Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Department of Public Works. “Also, remember that when you’re traveling through a construction area, please slow down and stay alert for crew members and debris.”The Camden County Department of Public Works is responsible for maintaining over 1,200 miles of...

Pennacchio Renews Calls for Murphy Administration to be Held Accountable Amid Cuomo Testimony

Senator Joe Pennacchio has once again renewed his calls for accountability within the Murphy administration following the announcement that former Governor Andrew Cuomo is set to testify before Congress regarding New York's pandemic nursing home policies. Pennacchio, a member of the Republican party representing district 26, expressed concerns about the similarities between New Jersey and New York's COVID policies, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation.Pennacchio stated, “In 2020 and 2021, it was obvious that New Jersey’s COVID policies were shadowing New...

Assembly Republicans’ top viral video captures NJ resident sentiments and disapproving Dems

A New Jersey resident named Michael Archon recently made waves during a testimony to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, where he criticized the rising gas prices in the state and highlighted the exorbitant cost of maintaining roads. In a video that has since gone viral, Archon stated, "Just a few years ago, the gas in this state was $1.98. I have a picture of it. Then, all of a sudden, it skyrocketed and it has never come down." He also pointed out that New Jersey is considered the unhappiest state in the nation.Assemblywoman Pamela Lampitt challenged Archon's...

Commissioners Approve $1.1 Million Grants for Recreational and Historic Enhancement Projects in Camden County

Camden County Commissioner Board has approved over a million dollars in grants for recreational and historic enhancement projects across the county. A total of $720,885 was allocated for 29 recreational facility enhancement projects, while $418,309 was approved for 10 historic preservation projects.Commissioner Jeff Nash, liaison to the county Division Environmental Affairs, emphasized the importance of investing in maintaining recreation facilities and historic sites, stating, “Communities thrive when there is ample access to quality recreation facilities, and keeping...

Camden County Hosts Night to Shimmer Prom

By Garden State Times | Apr 29, 2024

Camden County Hosts Night to Shimmer PromApr 29 2024The Camden County Board of Commissioners hosted the first Night to Shimmer Prom last week at the Adventure Aquarium. The event aimed to celebrate and uplift the disABILITIES community, providing them with a special night to shine. According to the Camden County Board of Commissioners, "This unforgettable prom experience was centered around our disABILITIES community to uplift self-esteem, provide a night of fun and give everyone the opportunity to shine!"The prom night was filled with excitement and joy, offering a...

Bucco/Gannon Announce $250K Grant to Enhance Boater Safety on Lake Hopatcong

By Garden State Times | Apr 29, 2024

Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon have revealed that the Morris County Sheriff’s Office is set to receive a $250,000 grant to enhance boater safety on Lake Hopatcong during the summer boating season."I’m glad that the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs has approved my grant request for Morris County,” said Sen. Bucco. “Boater safety on New Jersey’s lakes, particularly the State’s largest and busiest body of water, Lake Hopatcong, is incredibly important to the local communities and businesses. These funds...

Restoration Project in Camden City to Cause Lane Shifts on Market and Federal Streets

PSE&G will continue a large restoration project along Market and Federal streets in Camden City from Monday, April 29 to Friday, May 3, causing several lane closures. According to Commissioner Al Dyer, liaison to the Department of Public Works, "The repaving of these two major thoroughfares in the downtown of the city will disrupt traffic so motorists should plan ahead to take alternate routes and give themselves plenty of time to get to their destinations." The lane closures and work hours are scheduled as follows:- Market Street: there will be a double lane shift from...

Roadwork Underway in Camden County to Improve Safety for Motorists and Pedestrians

(Lindenwold, NJ) – Crews in Camden City will be restoring concrete and repairing crosswalks at the intersections of Benson Street and Broadway as well as Newton and Haddon avenues beginning on Monday, April 29. The project, aimed at enhancing safety for motorists and pedestrians, will involve lane shifts at the intersections from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with work expected to be completed on May 24.Commissioner Al Dyer, the liaison to the Department of Public Works, emphasized the importance of preparedness for motorists during this period, stating,...

Holzapfel Condemns Pro-Hamas Demonstrations on College Campuses

Senator Jim Holzapfel (R-10) has strongly condemned the ongoing demonstrations in support of Hamas on college campuses across the United States. The protests have been criticized for perpetuating anti-Semitic rhetoric and supporting a designated terrorist organization.Holzapfel expressed his concerns, stating, "I strongly believe in upholding the principles of free speech but burning the American flag on college campuses in support of Hamas, a recognized terrorist group, is deeply troubling and offensive." He also highlighted the hypocrisy of students who accept...

Commissioners to Host Annual Plant Sale