In this hilarious comedy, Sheridan Whiteside, theatre critic, lecturer, and radio personality, who, arriving to dine [...]]]> The Cumberland County College Theatre Arts Department will be holding auditions for its Fall production of "The Man Who Came to Dinner." Auditions will be Monday, September 13th at 5:00 PM in the Luciano Theatre on the CCC campus.

In this hilarious comedy, Sheridan Whiteside, theatre critic, lecturer, and radio personality, who, arriving to dine at the home of the prominent Stanley family in a small Midwestern town, slips on their doorstep and injures his hip. A tumultuous six weeks of confinement follow, during which Whiteside monopolizes the living room and takes over the Stanley household. Before it’s over, the outrageous has become commonplace. This large cast comedy directed by Deborah Bradshaw, will feature more than 20 cast members playing a most extravagant array of eccentric characters.
Callbacks: Tuesday, September 14
Time: 5:00 pm
Where: CCC FPAC Theatre
1st rehearsal: Monday, September 20
Production dates: November 19 – 21
You may prepare a monologue or read from the script. Sides will be provided.

For more information please contact:
Deborah Bradshaw
Director of Theatre
Cumberland County College
(856) 691-8600 ext 456
dbradshaw@cccnj.edu

MILLVILLE - The former Holly Heights teacher had no problem finding his old classroom.

David Gentile, the new superintendent of the Millville school district, paid a visit to his old school Monday where he started his career in education in 1998. The official walked right through the front door and [...]]]>

New Superintendent David Gentile started his education career in the Millville school district in 1998. Staff photo/Craig Matthews

By JOEL LANDAU
Staff Writer

MILLVILLE - The former Holly Heights teacher had no problem finding his old classroom.

David Gentile, the new superintendent of the Millville school district, paid a visit to his old school Monday where he started his career in education in 1998. The official walked right through the front door and directly through the maze of hallways to room D-4.

"I miss teaching," he said as he looked around. "There is nothing like a room full of fourth- graders coming in buzzing about what they did in the summer -- they come in and they're happy.

"Being in front of a group of kids and their excitement, the feeling you get when you help them," he said, explaining his love of teaching.

Gentile's return Monday was different than the four years he spent in the facility as a teacher. Gentile is now the top administrator in charge of the district's roughly 6,100 students and 1,200 employees. And as the city native acclimates to his familiar, but still somewhat new surroundings, he will rely on the teachers to make the first step of progress.

Gentile started in July and over the summer met with as many administrators and staff in the district as he could. Gentile said he had several meetings to go over all the district's initiatives and has made an initial determination that the district must limit its scope.

"Honestly we have too many initiatives and programs," he said. "We're asking people to do too many things. There are a lot of good initiatives, but what we want to try to do is the programs that work the best and streamline our efforts to make best of our resources."

Gentile will meet with the staff starting today when teachers first report to their buildings. He also plans to visit each school and talk to them about their concerns on the first day of classes Tuesday. The superintendent plans to implement a few things to benefit teachers, including a math program at Lakeside Middle School that will give teachers weekly updates on their students and locate needed areas of improvement.

The district will also spotlight teachers working together and administrators will visit each classroom and assist teachers with their performance.

"We can't just keep going in new directions and have too many initiatives. We need to focus on the staff and give them what they need to be successful," he said. "I want to let our teachers be more of a part of the process to find solutions to today's education problems. Us administrators can forget teachers do have a lot to offer in finding solutions."

Gentile plans to draft a letter to send to all the teachers to challenge them to make Millville a world-class district.

"If the district's vision is to be a world-class district, we have to pull together," he said. "There's a lot of work to be done."

Joe DeMarco, president of the Millville Education Association that represents the district's roughly 900 teachers, said he has spoke with Gentile a few times this summer, but not at length on this topic. But the Memorial High School teacher said any additional support for teachers would, of course, be welcomed.

"Everything that goes on in education, it all comes down to a teacher with a room full of kids," he said.

Leading his hometown district has sunk in for Gentile, a 1993 Millville Senior High School graduate. He notes, despite its growth, the district has kept its small-town feel and Gentile said he is comfortable in the position despite his short tenure.

But the superintendent notes there is work to be done and plans to put in the necessary long hours.

"The honeymoon is over," he said. "If I can't do the job and do it well that won't matter. It might make for a good story, but at the end of the day, I have to do a good job for the town and the taxpayers."

Cost is $5 for cars and $6 for sport utility vehicles.

The event is one of several community service projects [...]]]> The Vineland High School Girls Tennis Team is holding a car wash to benefit the "Dream Foundation" on Saturday, Sept. 4, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Veterans Memorial School, 424 S. Main Road.

Cost is $5 for cars and $6 for sport utility vehicles.

The event is one of several community service projects planned by the team, according to coach Harry Silverstein.

According to its Web site, the Dream Foundation, founded in
Santa Barbara in 1994 by Thomas Rollerson, is the first national wish granting organization for adults suffering life-threatening illness.

VINELAND -- Wrapping up a two-week summer camp, Diane Severino was sentimentally aware she had hit one of the first "lasts" of her senior year.

(See the photo galleries here.)

"I'm so depressed I have to leave," she sobbed to her 45 fellow Vineland High [...]]]>

Staff photo/Cody Glenn

Staff photo/Charles J. Olson

By DEBORAH M. MARKO
Daily Journal Staff Writer

VINELAND -- Wrapping up a two-week summer camp, Diane Severino was sentimentally aware she had hit one of the first "lasts" of her senior year.

(See the photo galleries here.)

"I'm so depressed I have to leave," she sobbed to her 45 fellow Vineland High School marching band colleagues after the final practice Thursday.

"It's always the flute players," joked musical director Eileen Bosco, coaxing a giggle from Severino, who wiped away tears.

"This is not an end," band director William McDevitt told Severino. "You are starting something -- you are making something happen for the future.

Gliding across the grid of a football field isn't just fancy footwork, it's about becoming part of a legacy.

Meeting in the band room ringed with shelves stacked with dust-coated trophies, the 2010-11 band is coming together. Clothing racks hold band uniforms yet to be assigned and varsity jackets still to be earned.

The musicians -- mostly brothers and sisters of former band members -- are preparing to make their mark by rallying football game crowds and winning judges' praise at competitions.

The band lost 11 members who graduated in June. They will be replaced by 16 freshmen arriving at VHS from middle school feeder programs.

With so much change, McDevitt is the constant, anchoring the program for 23 years. His style is less drill sergeant, more motivational speaker.

"I don't know where we will end up -- it just gets better each day," he told the teens. "You are scaring me a little bit, you are so good."

The band last week showed off its carefully crafted choreography and musical mastery before a friendly crowd of family, friends and alumni.

From atop the podium, drum major Kaitlyn Browne-Torpey raised her hands, commanded "horns up" and counted in the band to a Steely Dan tune.

"They've come pretty far," McDevitt said, showing off the group's newfound skills. "The first thing they learn is how to march."

They launched "Rikki Don't Lose that Number," with just about everyone hitting their mark on the last drumbeat.

"Since they are your kids, you know what a feat this is to accomplish," McDevitt told the parents.

The Medina-McTamney family tailgated to watch the band camp, a family tradition that started with Angelica Medina, Class of 2001,

Back then, she was playing Earth Wind and Fire on her French horn.

"It's like a family," Medina said of the VHS Marching Band. Her two sisters followed in her band shoes.

Now it's younger brother Angel Medina, with his trumpet on the field, under McDevitt's gaze.

His mother, Marcella Medina, noted the annual tailgate wouldn't be ending anytime soon.

"There are grandchildren," she said.

Dinner is from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and the two-hour comedy show will begin at 9 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person.

For tickets, contact Karen Malatesta [...]]]> The Vineland High School Baseball Parent Association is sponsoring a Buffet Dinner/Comedy Night with comedian Paul Venier on Saturday, Oct.30 at Buena Tavern, located on 1256 Harding Highway. 

Dinner is from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and the two-hour comedy show will begin at 9 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person.

For tickets, contact Karen Malatesta (856) 305-8063, Sandy Gee (609) 870-8749 or Mendie Forte (856) 982-6890. 
All proceeds will benefit Vineland High School Baseball.  Checks payable to VHS Baseball Parent Association.

Names of children in need are still available at the restaurant at the Big Brothers Big Sisters display in the foyer. General donations [...]]]> Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland & Salem Counties has partnered with The Cosmopolitan Restaurant for a backpack collection campaign for students in local schools, Arianne Hegeman, BBBS vice president of programs, said.

Names of children in need are still available at the restaurant at the Big Brothers Big Sisters display in the foyer. General donations of backpackand school supplies are also welcome. Members of the community are invited to drop donations off to the Cosmopolitan until September 3rd, 2010. Donors will receive a 15 percent off coupon for the restaurant.

The Cosmopolitan will also host “Big Brothers Big Sisters Night” on Thursday. The public is invited to dine between the hours of 4 to 8 p.m. and The Cosmopolitan will donate a percentage of its proceeds during those hours to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland & Salem Counties.

The local youth mentoring organization is proud to have the support of the popular restaurant. Vice President of Programs Arianne Hegeman is excited about the partnership.

“During a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet, simple things like school supplies can be last on the list of priorities. This campaign will help many students start the school year off on a positive note, with support from the community, The Cosmopolitan and Big Brothers Big Sisters," she said.

For more information, contact Danielle Angeline, director of High School Mentoring at Big Brothers Big Sisters at (856) 692-0916, ext. 106.

VINELAND -- As far as first scrimmages go, the Vineland High School football team appeared to make some strides on Tuesday.

The Fighting Clan moved the ball with some success under the return to the Wing-T offense, made some big hits and forced turnovers with their 4-4 defense [...]]]>

Staff photo/Craig Matthews

By TOM MCGURK
Daily Journal Staff Writer

VINELAND -- As far as first scrimmages go, the Vineland High School football team appeared to make some strides on Tuesday.

The Fighting Clan moved the ball with some success under the return to the Wing-T offense, made some big hits and forced turnovers with their 4-4 defense and emerged from the game healthy. The team also produced the lone touchdown in the scripted contest against Bridgeton at Gittone Stadium.

It was a positive first step for the team, which is still searching for its identity under first-year coach Josh Hedgeman.

"I think we did all right," said VHS senior Derek Coney, who accounted for the game's lone touchdown. "We have a long way to go, we have a lot more work to do."

Hedgeman set out the "Three E's" for his players to achieve in their first action since they returned from a five-day training camp in the Poconos on Monday.

"Effort, enthusiasm and execution, that's what we were looking for," he said. "I felt the effort was good. The enthusiasm took a minute or two to warm up. The execution was there on some plays and not there on others.

"When the kids made mistakes, they listened and made the adjustments. We saw progress and we're moving forward. There's progress."

Asked who has impressed him over the past week, Hedgeman didn't pull any punches, "Nobody. That's not a knock. We have a lot of kids who are giving great effort and many have stepped up, but we haven't done anything yet," he said.

There are competitions for most of the starting jobs on the team, none bigger than the one that appears to be brewing at quarterback.

The incumbent, Darrius Flowers, ran the first-team unit while Steven Chestnut, the starter in 2008 who was academically ineligible last year, returned and guided the second-team unit.

Chestnut didn't show any signs of rust in his return to the gridiron. He made four solid throws, including one to Coney that went for a 45-yard touchdown play, and a long 40-yard gain on a bootleg call.

"I missed playing a lot (last year)," said Chestnut, who almost made a juggling interception on defense too. "I came to every game and it felt terrible. I wanted to be there. I just focused more on my school work and did what I had to do."

The defense, which struggled to produce turnovers in each of the last two seasons, had two on Bridgeton's first possession as Brian Winchester made a pair of tough catches for interceptions.

An even bigger storyline may be the fact that Vineland played with more discipline, although a penalty did negate a 75-yard touchdown by Tory Clark.

The building project that is Vineland football secured its first cornerstone on Tuesday. Come Saturday when the Clan hosts Episcopal (Pa.) at 11 a.m., that cornerstone will be tested for its sturdiness as another is added.

VINELAND -- It was a sign of the times.

Vineland Charter School Board of Trustees President Gary Stanker prepared a notice for the front door of 610 E. Montrose St. informing the public "This is now the Vineland Public Charter School. Adult School no longer here!"

But [...]]]>

Movers Silas Peterson (left) and Tyrone Evans of Jake Davis Sr. Movers based in Bridgeton clear out the Vineland Public Charter School on Landis Avenue. Staff photo/Cody Glenn

By DEBORAH M. MARKO
Daily Journal Staff Writer

VINELAND -- It was a sign of the times.

Vineland Charter School Board of Trustees President Gary Stanker prepared a notice for the front door of 610 E. Montrose St. informing the public "This is now the Vineland Public Charter School. Adult School no longer here!"

But he had to wait until the school supplies were delivered to access the tape to hang it.

On Tuesday, people were still coming to register for adult education classes despite the center closing June 30.

The building is now home to the Vineland Public Charter School, which focuses on educating students from kindergarten through third grade.

On Tuesday, charter school administration and staff packed up their belongings at their leased space at First Baptist Church on Landis Avenue, where the school debuted last September.

After two moves in two years, school Principal Yvonne Cribbs said she hopes to stay put for at least the next five years, which is the term of its first lease with Vineland Public Schools.

"It's our home," Cribbs said, noting there is room to accommodate the charter school's gradual expansion plan up to fifth grade.

The lease was signed Monday at the law office of school board solicitor Bob DeSanto and the keys turned over. That launched a race against the clock with the charter school set to welcome 156 students for their first day of classes on Aug. 30.

A moving company loaded equipment and boxes for the 1.5-mile journey downtown.

The charter school staff is trying to redirect shipments of new furniture to Montrose Street, Stanker said.

The charter school's growth meant new opportunities for some.

Teacher Jesse Morvay was working in Middle Township but recently received a reduction in force notice. Working for the charter school, he noted, he is just blocks from where his family operated a Landis Avenue market.

The school district is subletting the building to the charter school at $125,000 annual rent -- the amount the school district was paying the city for the facility.

In addition to rent, the charter school's administration is required to pay the school district $6,456 a year for preventative building maintenance and $12,000 a year for Internet and phone service. The charter school also must reimburse the district for long-distance calls.

The deal seemed to be a perfect solution for everyone's concerns, but Cribbs was so pleased with the deal she dubbed it "a gift."

Looking around at the space she was leaving behind, Cribbs said, "This was baby steps.'"

The charter school, she said, is ready to move on.

"Vineland has been wonderful -- they have made themselves available to help us," Cribbs said, noting other school districts are not so welcoming to charter schools.

Charter schools are publicly funded, but don't create extra costs for the district because the money follows the students from their home district to the charter school. There is no tuition, and transportation is provided by the school district, just as it would for any student attending a public school.

The new digs offer some new amenities including central air conditioning, an elevator, and lights that automatically shut off when no one is in the room.

Kathryn Ross, the school's drama teacher, was delighted with her bright second-floor room.

"I'm going to bankrupt decorating this place," she said, surveying the sunny yellow walls.

The group will begin their training on Monday with an introduction from Superintendent Dr. Maryann Banks.

The first two days of the [...]]]> Thirty-three new teachers and 18 mid-year hires begin three days of orientation on Monday, Aug. 23 at the Vineland Board of Education Administration building on Plum Street, according to district spokesman John Sbrana.

The group will begin their training on Monday with an introduction from Superintendent Dr. Maryann Banks.

The first two days of the annual program include a briefing on various components of the district’s operations. School begins on Sept. 7.

The first-day morning session will include a broad outline of the district’s personnel policies and procedures from Maryann Greenfield, executive director of human resources, and Kevin Franchetta, business administrator and board of education secretary.

Breakout sessions with district supervisors on the evaluation process are also scheduled. The morning will also include a discussion on district communications strategies, led by Dina Elliott, assistant superintendent for administration, and Sbrana, communications coordinator, and a session with Sal Emburgia, Vineland Education Association president.

The afternoon gathering will focus on suicide prevention training, led by Elvira Smith of the New Jersey-based Traumatic Loss Coalitions for Youth.

On Tuesday, an overview of the district curriculum will be provided by 11 supervisors of instruction in reading and the language arts curriculum in grades K-12, mathematics, science, social studies, special education, bilingual programs, and the district’s preschool program. Information will also be provided on student support services and family advocacy, technology, health and physical education and health services. Facilitator will be Teri Godlewski.

Additional briefings are scheduled for special education and preschool staff, and an overview of the Response to Intervention Teaching.

In the afternoon, the new educators will participate in site-based orientation with their principal and staff.

The final day is set aside for content area curriculum specifics with supervisors of instruction, and training in use of the districts K-12 administrative software system.

The session is an informal one-hour luncheon designed to educate the community about the work that is done at Big Brothers [...]]]> Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland & Salem Counties will host a “Little Moments Session” on Wednesday, Sept. 1 from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. at their office on Landis Avenue (near Spring Road) in Vineland.

The session is an informal one-hour luncheon designed to educate the community about the work that is done at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Each session features testimonials from current volunteers and a behind-the-scenes tour from the professional staff members.

The local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency was recognized in 2008 with the Gold Standard Award for program growth and increased revenue. The Board of Trustees was named a finalist for Board of the Year at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America 2008 National Conference. Donna Bennett, long-time President/CEO was also selected out of 400 other agencies as “CEO of the Year” for small markets.

Lunch is provided, courtesy of Larry’s II Restaurant in Vineland.

Anyone interested in attending must RSVP to Arianne Hegeman by calling (856) 692-0916, ext. 102.

Over 400 local children are being mentored in one-to-one, long-term, life changing relationships through the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland & Salem Counties program. But many children are still waiting to meet their Big Brother or Big Sister. We know not everyone has the desire to be a mentor but everyone CAN help make a difference.

Want to win a new car? Visit http://www.allamericancarraffle.com for details on our summer fundraiser.

The display will feature books that have been challenged or banned. It was launched in [...]]]> Vineland Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave., celebrates the freedom to read with a display of books during September on the main floor commemorating Banned Books Week, Sept. 25 through Oct. 2, a national celebration of the freedom to read.

The display will feature books that have been challenged or banned. It was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores and libraries and celebrates the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one’s opinion even if that opinion might be considered unorthodox.

Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Library Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors, and the National Association of College Stores. Banned Books Week is also endorsed by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.

For information, call (856) 794-4244, ext. 4246.

BANGOR, Maine — The South Vineland Senior League team pulled out a thrilling 9-8 win in 10 innings over West University, Texas to remain unbeaten in pool play at the World Series.

South Vineland (2-0) will play the host team Bangor (2-0) in Wednesday's game at 5 p.m.

In [...]]]> From The Daily Journal's staff reports

BANGOR, Maine — The South Vineland Senior League team pulled out a thrilling 9-8 win in 10 innings over West University, Texas to remain unbeaten in pool play at the World Series.

South Vineland (2-0) will play the host team Bangor (2-0) in Wednesday's game at 5 p.m.

In the 10th, Vaughn Watson led off with a single and moved to second on a sacrifice bunt by Christian Adorno. After a wild pitch advanced Watson to third, he scored on Tovine Potts' sacrifice fly.

Andrew Biggs went 3-for-5 with three RBIs and two runs scored. He delivered a clutch two-out RBI single in the bottom of the eighth to extend the game.

Watson finished with two hits and four runs scored for South Vineland.

Carlos Lebron pitched 5 1-3 innings of relief for the win.

For more on this game, see Wednesday's edition of The Daily Journal.

Only small electronics will be accepted including computers, monitors, cell phones, house phones, laptops, keyboards, radios, VCRs, MP3 players/iPods, headphones, batteries and wire. Television sets measuring [...]]]> The Cumberland County Improvement Authority will accept small electronics for recycling from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 13, at Vineland Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave.

Only small electronics will be accepted including computers, monitors, cell phones, house phones, laptops, keyboards, radios, VCRs, MP3 players/iPods, headphones, batteries and wire. Television sets measuring more than 19 inches will not be accepted.

For information, call (856) 794-4244.

The group of nine worked at the CCHFH 719 E. Plum St. jobsite with the Zambrana family, the future homeowners. As the group completed some of the [...]]]>

The latest Habitat volunteers, pictured left to right, were Jacob Gonzalez, Damien Colon, Denise Colon, Janise Colon, Moses Arce, Kimberly Garcia, Nomi Cordero, Adrianne Arce, and Christine Vera. Submitted photo.

Youth group members of the Inglesia de Dios Pentacostal Church of Vineland spent thier weekend volunteering for Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity, according to Victoria Lods, Habitat's executive director.

The group of nine worked at the CCHFH 719 E. Plum St. jobsite with the Zambrana family, the future homeowners. As the group completed some of the final touches on insullation the Zambrana family became so excited as they anticipated the arrival of drywall coming next, Lods said.

"Real walls are right around the corner. Real walls! I can't believe it. Its really starting to look like our home," said Jose Zambrana, according to a news release.

 Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the office at (856) 563-0292, visit Cumberland County Habitat on Facebook for volunteer reminders, or stop by the Plum Street works sites on Saturday mornings from 7 a.m. to noon.

The event will be held in the school cafeteria.

"We are delighted to have this opportunity to welcome our new students [...]]]> Kindergarten students who will be attending D’Ippolito Elementary School in September and their parents are invited to attend a "Kindergarten Social" at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 24 at the school, 1578 North Valley Avenue.

The event will be held in the school cafeteria.

"We are delighted to have this opportunity to welcome our new students and their parents to be part of our school family," Principal Gail Curcio said. "At our social, there will be important information shared, as well as an opportunity for parents to meet their child's teacher and take a tour of the school."

Cookies and punch will be served at the conclusion of the program, she said.

For more information, contact the school at (856) 794-6934.

This Camper and Alumni Barbecue will held at the camp at 1249 Jesse Bridge Rd. in Pittsgrove. It begins at 5 p.m. and is free, but advance registration is required.

To register, call the Y at [...]]]> The YMCA of Vineland’s Camp Merrywood will host a party Thursday for current and past campers and their families.

This Camper and Alumni Barbecue will held at the camp at 1249 Jesse Bridge Rd. in Pittsgrove. It begins at 5 p.m. and is free, but advance registration is required.

To register, call the Y at (856) 691-0030, ext. 313.

Among the activities will be volleyball, baseball, basketball, mini golf, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. Camp staff will be in attendance.

For additional information, visit the YMCA at 1159 E. Landis Ave.

"This will be a very special night where students and parents will get an opportunity to tour our building in small [...]]]> An orientation session for sixth-grade students of Veterans Memorial School and their parents or guardians has been scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 1 from 5 to 7 p.m., said Mario Olsen, the school's new principal.

"This will be a very special night where students and parents will get an opportunity to tour our building in small groups with teachers serving as guides," he said.

Olsen said the evening will begin with a group meeting in the cafeteria where snacks will also be served. Then the students and their family members will be divided into groups for the actual tours.

Students who attend will receive a Veterans Memorial bag, lanyard, and pen. Students must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, Olsen said.

For more information about the event, contact the school at 856-794-6918.

Information about other school's orientations will be posted as the information becomes available.

Before and after school care registration is for locations at all eight of Vineland’s public elementary schools and the YMCA itself. This program is for kids aged five to thirteen. Activities include homework time, snacks, [...]]]> Registration is underway for the YMCA's fall activities. These include sign-ups for fitness classes and for before and after school care.

Before and after school care registration is for locations at all eight of Vineland’s public elementary schools and the YMCA itself. This program is for kids aged five to thirteen. Activities include homework time, snacks, the Horizon Foundation Healthy U curriculum, arts and crafts, sports, and special events.

This fall’s eight week fitness classes will include something for everyone, ranging from Spinning to Aquatics. New offerings for this session are Belly Dancing and Personal Nutritional Consultant classes. The schedule boasts time slots from early morning hours through evenings. Registration by August 25 is recommended.

For details, call (856) 691-0030 or visit the YMCA at 1159 E. Landis Ave. or at http://www.ccaymca.org.

The Vineland resolution comes in the wake of a presentation by Citizens’ Campaign Cumberland County Chairman and Vineland resident Lee [...]]]> This past July the Vineland City Council adopted a resolution to take away health benefits from part-time elected and appointed municipal officials starting September 1, resulting in $90,000 in savings per year for the city.

The Vineland resolution comes in the wake of a presentation by Citizens’ Campaign Cumberland County Chairman and Vineland resident Lee Burke to the city Administration who embraced the measure.

“Vineland City officials should be commended for adopting this proposal, it’s not often you read about individuals putting aside their own self-interest for the betterment of the community and the taxpayers,” said Burke. “I hope other municipalities will take note and follow their lead.”

Facing a tough budget year, the City moved quickly to adopt this waste-cutting measure. According to the Citizens’ Campaign, towns can save from $12,000 to $20,000 for each person removed from the local health benefits plan.

Through its Law and Policy Task Force the Citizens’ Campaign has developed 20 local government waste-cutting measures, which have the potential to save towns millions of dollars annually.

The Citizens’ Campaign is leading a Jersey Call to Service campaign throughout the state to inspire citizens to participate in the leadership of their communities and replace our culture of political self-interest and government waste with a culture of service and frugality.

In June, the Citizens’ Campaign hosted a Jersey Call to Service Summit in New Brunswick, which brought together more than 1300 citizens together. Due to the overwhelming show of support, similar mini-summits are being held throughout the state including Camden, Morris, Somerset, and Middlesex Counties.

Citizens interested in presenting their own waste-cutting measure can visit http://www.jointhecampaign.com to take a free online class on how to become a “citizen legislator” to effectuate reform in their hometown and to gain access to the Citizens’ Campaign menu of model reform laws.

The cruise is open to all years of American (marque) made cars that are muscle cars, street rods, cruisers, classics and rat rods.

The cruise is [...]]]> On Sunday, Aug. 22, the South Jersey Cruisers Association Car Club will be hosting their “Hot Summer Nights Car Cruise II” at Bennigan’s restaurant, located on West Landis Avenue.

The cruise is open to all years of American (marque) made cars that are muscle cars, street rods, cruisers, classics and rat rods.

The cruise is from 4 to 8 p.m. and special discounts on food will be given to the cruisers. The event is canceled if it rains.

Music will be provided by DJ Steve Mauro. The event is free.

Information for the two cruises may be obtained by calling John at (856) 825-3047 and SJ Cruisers’ Web site at http://www.thesouthjerseycruisers.com.

Then on Aug. 29, the South Jersey Cruisers Association Car Club, Nostalgia Knights Classic Car Club, the Fox family and DJ Steve Tatz will be hosting their 3rd annual car cruise dedicated to the veterans who reside at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home, 524 N.W. Boulevard in Vineland. The event will be held rain or shine.

Over 400 cars are expected to attend this year. The event is free to participants and spectators. The general public is invited to come out and enjoy the cars. A Civil War re-enactment group will also be set up for display.

The cruise time 1 to 4 p.m. The cruise is open to cars that are American marques only. New for this year, all motorcycles will be welcomed. The event will offer hot food for purchase and music will be provided by WVLT 92.1 FM DJ Steve Tatz.

Information may be obtained by contacting John Thompson at (856) 691-3067 or Dan Weber at (856) 691-9387.

Movies are $1 on Aug. 6, 13, 20 and 27. Movies start at 7 p.m.

Snack bar will be open.

For more information, call (856) 696-4380.

Community members are invited to come meet with YMCA staffers there. No appointment is necessary, but individuals should bring any appropriate certifications and a current résumé.

Two job openings at the YMCA are for people aged sixteen [...]]]> This Thursday, Aug. 12, the YMCA of Vineland will hold a job fair from noon to 4:30 p.m.

Community members are invited to come meet with YMCA staffers there. No appointment is necessary, but individuals should bring any appropriate certifications and a current résumé.

Two job openings at the YMCA are for people aged sixteen and older. These are for lifeguard and swim instructor positions.

For people aged eighteen and older, there are numerous slots. These include maintenance, housekeeping, member services, before and after care, child care, and lifeguards.

For additional information, call Lisa Scheetz at(856)691-0030, ext. 325 or visit the YMCA at 1159 E. Landis Ave.

This event is intended to provide information from a student’s point of view but does not replace the [...]]]> The Student Government Association at Vineland High School will be having its first formal orientation for freshmen on Tuesday, Aug. 31 at 6 p.m., in the VHS South auditorium, according to Christine Lewis and Chris Mohan, SGA advisors.

This event is intended to provide information from a student’s point of view but does not replace the traditional meeting of new students in September, said the advisors. All incoming freshmen are encouraged to attend the 90-minute session, they said.

For the first half hour, all freshmen will meet together as a large group for an introduction and an informational meeting, moderated by SGA seniors and juniors. The moderators will introduce the administration, talk a little about the school, and tell the new students what to expect.

For the second half hour, the students will be organized by building (north and south) and small learning communities. SGA members will then take the new students on a tour, including the office, security station, media center, cafeterias, gym, theaters, and nurse’s office. This will also allow the incoming freshmen to ask questions.

During the last 30 minutes of the session, students will have an opportunity to follow their schedules, with SGA members stationed at various points in both buildings to assist. The group will then reconvene in the auditorium for a brief wrap-up session.

VINELAND - Baseball and softball are contests of balls and strikes.

VINELAND -- For 149 years old, the city is in pretty good shape.

As the singing of "Happy Birthday" wrapped up, Mayor Robert Romano did the honors by cutting the city's birthday cake Saturday at the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society's annual open house.

The event was festive [...]]]>

Daily Journal Staff Photo/Cody Glenn

By CODY GLENN
Daily Journal Staff Writer

VINELAND -- For 149 years old, the city is in pretty good shape.

As the singing of "Happy Birthday" wrapped up, Mayor Robert Romano did the honors by cutting the city's birthday cake Saturday at the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society's annual open house.

The event was festive and educational. After all, there is plenty to celebrate.

On the eve of a huge milestone -- the city's 150th birthday is Aug. 8, 2011 -- the Historical Society itself celebrated the 100th anniversary of its South Seventh Street headquarters Saturday.

It is the state's second-oldest structure built for the purpose of being a museum, behind New Jersey State Museum in Trenton.

The Historical Society on Saturday opened its doors and encouraged Vinelanders to learn about their own history.

Residents sipped cups of Welch's Grape Juice, which was founded in Vineland, as they shared stories and looked over historical items.

The event targeted people like Rita Cresci-Quinn, who hadn't been to the Historical Society in decades, as well as those who'd never been there before.

"I remember coming here as a kid, 10 or 12 year old," said Cresci-Quinn, 90. "It's a lot more eye-appealing now."

Cresci-Quinn shared stories of her grandparents, Agostino and Celestina, who settled in East Vineland in 1871, where they bought land to clear for what still exists as J. Cresci Farms.

The first Mass in East Vineland was celebrated in their living room, and they were one of the pioneer families who started St. Mary's Church, she said.

"I just wish I had more info about them and the early years," Cresci-Quinn said. "This open house motivates me to do research. Unless you make an effort, it passes by."

Liduvina Ruiz was born in Puerto Rico but has lived in Vineland for 35 years. Saturday was her first time stepping foot in the Historical Society.

"I love Vineland," Ruiz said. "It's my home now, so I like to see the historic stuff from here."

Frank P. Amari Jr., president of the Historical Society's board of trustees, was very pleased with the turnout.

"The best thing is to see the new faces," he said. "One of the primary goals is to increase familiarity with the society."

Amari stressed the organization is not a closed society, but rather welcomes the public.

The president said another emphasis of the afternoon was to pay tribute to Frank Andrews, who was instrumental in building the current Historical Society headquarters.

"He is the most important figure in the Society," Amari said. "His dedication to our cause of preserving local history is unrivaled. It's rare if we don't uncover evidence of his hard work on a daily basis."

Vineland's Singing Ambassadors added to the merriment, and a history-themed slideshow wrapped up the afternoon.

Longtime residents sat together, and their jaws dropped as images of champion Vineland High School track members from the early 1900s and exteriors of prominent buildings no longer standing flashed across the screen.

Amari added the Society is looking for votes on its art competition, and he promoted its lecture series held on the third Thursday of each month.

He pointed to the efforts of younger employees -- such as Kate Harbold and Lauren Valentine, who wore 19th century dresses -- as well as summer intern Taylor Catalana for the Historical Society's renaissance.

"There's a lot of energy in here right now," Amari said. "We've achieved our goal if people walk away knowing more about where they're from than when they walked in."

Students who attend - accompanied by a parent or guardian - will have an opportunity to tour the school, and meet school staff members.

Families will also receive a welcome package that includes [...]]]> Wallace Middle School has planned Sixth Grade Orientation for Wednesday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. at the school, 688 N. Mill Rd.

Students who attend - accompanied by a parent or guardian - will have an opportunity to tour the school, and meet school staff members.

Families will also receive a welcome package that includes “Wallace Wildcat” items. Parents can also sign up for the school parent teacher organization.

Refreshments will also be provided.

Those planning to attend are urged to contact the school so a welcome package can be prepared.

Contact Ken Corson, School Social Worker at 794-6700 Ext. 6018 or by email to kcorson@vineland.org

Please provide the following: parent name, student name, number of family attending

The cruise is open to all classic cars, including muscle cars, street rods, classics, rat rods and specialty cars.

WVLT 92.1 disc jockey Pepper Paul will play cruisin' oldies music [...]]]> Classic Car Cruise/Movie event will be held at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 14, at the Delsea Drive-in, 2203 S. Delsea Drive, Vineland.

The cruise is open to all classic cars, including muscle cars, street rods, classics, rat rods and specialty cars.

WVLT 92.1 disc jockey Pepper Paul will play cruisin' oldies music before the first movie “Starsky & Hutch,” which will be followed by current features.

Radio personalities Larry Lazereff and Ben Notaro, host and co-host respectively of "Cruisin' with the Editor," a weekly car talk show on WVLT 92.1 FM, in cooperation with the Delsea Drive-In will host the event.

Admission is $8 for ages 12 and older; $3 for ages 3 to 11 and free for ages 2 and younger.

Outside food and beverage permit is $7.

A portion of the proceeds from concession food sales will be donated to the Dare to Dream Foundation.

For information, call (856) 297-5012 or http://www.delseadrive-in.com.

"I was truly honored to receive this award, but what I enjoy most is being able [...]]]>

Cavagnaro working with a student in a summer autism program at Sabater Elementary School. Submitted photo.

Vineland Public Schools' Caitlin Cavagnaro, a teacher of students with autism at Winslow School, was recently chosen as Autism Teacher of the Year by United by Autism, a New Jersey group of professionals and family members of autistic children.

"I was truly honored to receive this award, but what I enjoy most is being able to work with my students every day and see the progress they make --academically, socially, verbally, and behaviorally," she said in a news release. "My students do not let their disability define them and there are days that I learn more from them than they learn from me."

Cavagnaro was nominated for the award in a letter from Tammy D’Augustine, a Winslow paraprofessional.

"As a colleague of Caitlin Cavagnaro, it is my pleasure to have recommended her as a most outstanding teacher of autistic children," D'Augustine said in a written statement. "Caitlin is intelligent, energetic, and a pioneer for advocating awareness. Caitlin is always able to present creative ideas and communicate the benefits of our children in our community."

In September, Cavagnaro will be starting her seventh year of teaching in the Vineland Public Schools, and fourth year at Winslow working with students with autism, according to John Sbrana, district spokesman. She earned an undergraduate degree from LaSalle University in regular and special education and is currently enrolled in Drexel University’s Education Administration Graduate program.

Others at Winslow nominated for awards from the organization included Christina Peters, support person of the year; Carolyn Melchiore, peer student of the year; Joseph Melchiore, student of the year; and Gina and Michael Mattioli, parents of the year.