Comments on the Freeholder Forum

It was a quiet 3rd Friday. Came home, walked the dogs and chilled out inside. It was a cold spitty rainy day. Today promises to be the same. Boy the 11 o'clock news was all in a lather over the 2nd N'or Easter approaching. The 2nd top story was about a man being seriously hurt at a strip club in SW. Philly. Nothing like strip-clubs for those ratings.
While I was thinking of what to write, I read a blog that covered the Freeholder candidates forum. On the most part he tries to be even-handed. The notable exceptions were his remarks about Lou Magazzu and Lauren Van Embden. Now I understand his comments about big Lou. He is toxic and should be voted out of office. I wholeheartedly agree with him. I really do not understand his attitude towards Ms. Van Embden. She is running a CLEAN campaign and resisting calls from her own party to play slash and burn. This shows to me she has good values and ethics and will not be a pawn to Lou and party boss Kavenaugh. The accusations of ageism are a red herring. In fact I believe she is being sensitive not to use age as a wedge issue.

I see that MagazzuWatch featured RD Owens and my blogs . Some of the comments were pretty mean towards Mr Owens. I am sorry I did not have time to write my take. It would have interesting to read what they thought of my comments. So I decided to make my views known.
Well here goes.
I thought Gloria Noto was pretty energetic. I did not think that her aggressive defense of her record was really necessary. She went on the attack while stating how frugal she is. She is pretty harmless though and had a large following at the Millville First sponsored event. Lauren Vending was very good. She stated that she would bring changes in the clerks office that would bring it up to speed in today's world. Ms. VanEmbden is running a clean campaign and yes I do plan to vote for her.
Mr Magazzu was his old arrogant self. I missed his grand entrance earlier in the forum. The Republicans seemed like nice fellows but did not come off as strong leaders. It would be OK if at least one of them got in. I would say Mr. Sheppard was the most qualified candidate of the Republicans in my mind.
The independent candidates were strong except Bruce Peterson. Mr. Peterson seemed like was not in good health (hope I am incorrect.) . Ms Christy and Ms. Swift had a strong grip on facts and poise. They at least have Freeholder experience. I heard one of the Lou Puppets, Jane Jennorne make comments behind me when Ms. Christy called Lou out on several issues.
Mr. Sanford was earnest but lets face it he is a second-tier candidate who needs some work. I do think that its good to have an average Joe make a stab at running for public office. It take guts to run and put yourself out there.
I asked a fellow blogger if he thought that Lou Magazzu would win. He wrote back that he was pretty sure Lou would win due to name recognition and that most voters do not think before voting. I must admit he does have good point. It must be noted that he is a strong Magazzu critic like myself. I am fearing that the Republicans and Independents will split the Anti-Magazzu vote and we will be stuck with Lou as a result. I sure hope I am wrong.
I must say that the Millvile First did a fine job running this forum. They seem to have improved in running these forums.

A Long goodbye to Lou Magazzu

Zap! He is Gone!!

Well  finally Lou Magazzu has resigned from  the  Cumberland County Freeholders mainly because the media finally reported on his naked pictures of himself sent to a unnamed mistress  somewhere.  It has been  three (3)  years  since in August 2008
when I was first exposed to his ways. of dealing with people. Since that day, I have seen him play dirty with political foes and private citizens.I am one of MANY Cumberland County Democrats that supported Magazzu Watch over the past 3 years. The media does NOT bother to mention this. He was an embarrassment to many Democrats. Lou abused MANY folks in his own party. I mean the Newark Star Ledger printed an editorial that SUPPORTED Lou! Ummm. I wonder why? To me it's pure partisan bias at work. No media outlet seems to care to find out the threats and abuse he meted out.

Good News Travals Fast!

He was THE political force of Cumberland County NJ for years. Yet after he leaves, the Democrats have a slim 4-3 majority on the Freeholder Board. This blog  has followed with interest.the goings on of Big Lou and his minions as they trampled those who DARE to question him. One such issue in Cumberland County is Teen Pregnancy. Our county has the highest rate in all of New Jersey. When a citizen wrote a critical letter in the local newspaper about Lou and the County Freeholders were handling this issue, this person was visited by County Tax Assorors at her house.
Thank you Carl and MagazzuWatch. You proved that justice can prevail with a lot of patience and persistence.
Good bye Lou and enjoy Chicago!!
This is the last of my comments on Mr Magazzu

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A Real Issue in Cumberland County

County's choice of teen pregnancy program raises questions

By By LINDA FORBES • August 20, 2008

Last week, Cumberland County Freeholder Director Lou Magazzu garnered attention by his public finger-pointing tirade (now on YouTube) accusing Millville resident and Democratic stalwart Mark Krull of being a Republican spy.

The next day, Lou's behavior was even more bizarre. He accepted an award for his response to the county's teen pregnancy crisis. The odd thing is, Lou has done nothing on behalf of teen pregnancy prevention other than promising the agency that gave him the award (Community Health Care Inc.) $100,000 in no-bid funding from the county for a teen pregnancy program.

The proposed award raises a number of questions.

Why is the county planning to give $100,000 for pregnancy prevention to this particular agency instead of offering funds on a proposal basis to other effective nonprofit agencies that could have conducted the same or similar programs? Unlike these other agencies, Community Health Care has not been prominent in the county's collaborative teen pregnancy prevention efforts.

What happened to Freeholder Doug Rainear's Children First Initiative, which also was going to address teen pregnancy? Kicked off over a year ago with much press, the Children First Initiative was supposed to respond to the county's dismal Kids Count statistics. Now, well over a year later, that effort seems to have fizzled, despite investment of considerable county staff time and other resources. Notwithstanding the hard work of dozens of volunteers who met and planned, the county has yet to fund any proposals coming from this effort.

How is the program that the county is funding, "My Daughter's Keeper," going to respond to the county's teen pregnancy epidemic? Cumberland County has twice as many teen pregnancies as the second highest-ranking county in the state. The situation is deplorable and merits a coordinated crisis response by state, county and local authorities.

The freeholders' response is to fund a program that is going to help mothers communicate with their daughters and offer services to improve girls' self-esteem. It offers workshops that include "role playing, theatrical skits, and dinner-date package incentives and giveaways." Who is going to hold Community Health Care accountable for this program's effectiveness in preventing teen pregnancies, and how will effectiveness be measured?

And, once again, why is Community Health Care uniquely equipped to conduct this social services program, when its primary mission is health services delivery?

More than half of our county's teen births are to Hispanics. Will My Daughter's Keeper be culturally relevant for these girls? How will this program serve the Hispanic population?

I put these questions out in public because I believe the county's taxpayers deserve answers.

But even with satisfactory answers to these questions, Lou Magazzu's acceptance of an award recognizing all he has done to prevent teen pregnancy is especially ironic, given his apparent lack of interest in a report on teen pregnancy in Cumberland County presented to the freeholders earlier this year.

The icy reception and two-minute time period Magazzu, who was then freeholder director, granted for presentation of the report spoke volumes.

Linda Forbes is a Millville resident.

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wolff wrote:

Maybe it's another reason why some refer to him as Lou Maggot.
8/20/2008 6:26:39 AM

Maybe it's another reason why some refer to him as Lou Maggot. wolff

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NSSherlocks wrote:

Looks like the Krull's have been relegated to riding in the back of the bus. Didn't his wife recently lose her position downtown ? Lou finds it easier to attack his own.
Oh well, that's why the hard working honest folks want no part of these creatures.
8/20/2008 6:09:33 AM

Looks like the Krull's have been relgated to riding in the back of the bus. Didn't his wife recently lose her position downtown ? Lou finds it easier to attack his own. <br />Oh well, that's why the hard working honest folks want no part of these creatures. NSSherlocks

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Cumberland County in Trouble:Our Political Candidates

Good morning. I have not been writing about our political conditions here in Cumberland County New Jersey. I am now going to play catch-up. Then again this is no game. This is about the continued economic viability of Cumberland County and to Millville as well.
First off some good news. Millville celebrates 10 years of 3rd Friday's. This started with volunteers such as Liz Nicklus, Carl Johnson, Leslie Ficcalia, Mike Cagno and others who started the RRCA from scratch as volunteers. Now we have 2 anchors. The RRCA on one end and the Village on High on the other end. Maryann Cannon deserves full praise for getting this project started at an old gas station on High Street.
Ok, Lets enjoy this Friday
 Back to our politics... I see that Rev Dunkins is not running for Freeholder

but a woman named Carol Masso will be running. She seems to be an insider with the party. I know little about her. I wished that Jane Jennerone had dropped out instead since she has been embarrassing. She has been the bad cop for big Lou. I did notice that Mr. Magazzu is STILL running the party as this statement leads me to believe.

“Cumberland County residents have received the short end of the stick from the Trenton Republicans,” said Cumberland County Democratic Chairman Lou Magazzu, in a statement announcing his party’s county slate in the upcoming November elections.

So I guess Lou is not "gone" like I was told by a Democratic insider last month. I really did believe him too! The face that Jane is still on the ballot seems to confirm my opinion on this matter. Lou comes out and says this statement that the Democratic candidates will defend Cumberland County against attacks from the Christie Admin.

“The team of Whelan, Jannarone and Musso will be a firewall to protect us from any further attacks.”

Well, Mr Magazzu, your current candidates have not "protected" us here in Cumberland County that well. As you said yourself.

“The (Chris) Christie administration has unfairly targeted Cumberland County by planning to close the Upper Deerfield (motor vehicle) inspection station and already closing the Bridgeton inspection station, Vineland Developmental Center and the urban enterprise zones of Bridgeton, Vineland and Millville.

Our Assemblymen are not much better in protecting our economic interests.Assemblyman John Burzichelli has no ideawhy the Vineland Development Center is targeted for closing.

A member of the budget committee, the Third District assemblyman stated he doesn’t understand why the center is to be closed when relatives and advocates for those staying there have praise for it — and while many patients cannot speak for themselves.


“Something just doesn’t sit right with this,” said Burzichelli, the Democratic deputy speaker in the Assembly. “I’ve asked for follow-up information on this. This is a real important issue to many people in this county.
“I think there is going to be a need for a facility here.”

Well, with all due respect, you might want to do your job and FIND OUT!!!
Meanwhile Jeff Van Drew is accused of tearing up petitions of a woman who DARED to run in the primary against him. Yo Jeff, why don't you and Mr Burzichelli go out and challenge the Christie Admin on why the Vineland Development Center is being closed, the UEZ is closing its local office, and why another DOT building is going to be shutdown.
Ok, Now that I have commented about the Democrats, its time for the Republicans. I see that Sam Fiocchi gets full endorsement from First District GOP nomination for STATE ASSEMBLY. Gee, did he not just get elected for Freeholder umm 4 months ago? I voted for Mr Fiocchi thinking that he would bring a balance and commonsense to the Lou-Dominated Freeholder Board. I was again mistaken. He just just used his Freeholder seat (barely warm) as a stepping stone. He did not impress my friend who was seeking leadership concerning the proposed closing of the County Library.
I do not know the Republican candidates for Freeholder except Joey Farabella who was a good Millville Cop. If anyone out there can educate me, I am willing to listen. Can anyone get rid of Lou and Jane? Can we get strong leadership so we are not the red-headed step child of the State of New Jersey?

City Comission Meeting Sept 1st 2009

I went to the City Commission meeting on this fine September 1st. It was packed to the max with folks concerned with the Route 55/49 project. State officials from the Department of Transportation came out and stated that the project will be scaled back and the The 220-year-old oak tree near the corner of Wade Boulevard and Route 49 will not be affected. Rt 49 will not be widened. The heavy hitters of the local political scene were out. Lou Magazzu, Jeff Van Drew, Matt Millim and Nelson Albano. I did get a chance to let Sen Van Drew know how important the Levoy is to the future of the Arts District in Millville. He reacted positively to this. We shall see very soon if the Senator puts his back-slapping to good use. At the meeting the Commission approved the city buying a property at the corner of Buck and Pine Streets. I walk my dogs by there everyday and I for one am glad the city will buy it. I really like the suggestion that Mayor Shannon made to tear it down. Commissioner Vanaman wants the city to consider being a landlord. This is a silly idea. If anyone looks at the property, they will see it needs work. The city will need the land to further the develop the riverfront area. This property is next to the library and make the area whole for future development. This is smart of the city.
I then had to leave the meeting at 7:45pm. I missed Commissioner Vanaman vote NO for an extra $325, 000 of UEZ funds to assist in the Levoy. He did express support for Pete Peirce's dream and the project. I guess he felt the need to save money or to show his bonafides to the Millville First contingent in the audience. I do not know.. After the meeting a friend asked Lou Magazzu a few questions. No video but great reporting.

Election 2009: Trick or Treat??

I did some errends yesterday and saw these kids dress up so funny and its not even Holloween. The Rite Aid can be a strange place weither its West Philly or Millville.
Anyhow I got a disturbing email this morning concerning a radio program with I believe 2 candidates running in this November's election. on 92.1 WVLT. They went on and on about how Man I wish I had heard THAT!! I really wish I did!!!

On Magazzuwatch a Mr. Calhoun made this statement that implied that Ms. VanEmbden said the following:
She was proud of being on Lou’s ticket and how those who were complaining (about Lou) were like little yippy dogs and were part of a very vocal minority.
I just got clairifcation on what Ms. Van Embden was referring to when she made this statement. She was referring to opponents of the racetrack and the Millville Arts District. Those opponents would be TrackRacket and Millville First, not those who disagree with Lou Magazzu. She being the only Millville Resident on the ticket was proud to live in Millville. I want to apoligize to Ms. VanEbden.Man the state of Cumberland County politics today.....

Feeholders: Lets Have an Open Space Plan!!

I read in all 3 local papers that the County Freeholders are considering an Open Space study at their July 1st Freeholder meeting
Now didn't the County Taxpayers approve the tax already? Get real!! Do they REALLY need a study. Its just more delay until after the election. The public has consistantly supported open space so why the delays? County taxpayers already pay for an open space tax for farmland preservation. The County's urban areas do not benefit from farmland preservation like the rural municipalities. An open space PLAN is necessary for open space tax money to be spent on non-farmland preservation. An open space plan will set aside money for unprotected open space for recreational use such as public parks. 15 years ago, Cumberland County Residents approved funding for open space.
Why, 15 years later does Lou Magazzu feel the need for a STUDY and not a PLAN for open space? Well, I believe this is because Mr. Magazzu is running for re-election and conducting a study creates the appearence of doing SOMTHING about open space without REALLY geting it done. Just last September, the Feeholders stated that open space was not a priority!!
I hope readers of this newspaper will come to the July 1st Freeholders meeting and let Lou and his co-horts at the Freeholder board know that the time for an open space plan is NOW, not after the election .In closing, an open space PLAN will improve the quality of life in Cumberland County and make the county more attractive for residents and tourists alike.

Freeholder Reorganization Meeting

I decided to go to Cumberland County College to see what the plans are for the new Freeholder Board. I did not know that Gov. Jon Corzine, Sen. Bob Menendez and other top level politicians would be there. It was an eventful meeting if you like pomp with your politics. The main speaker was not the Governor but our Freeholder Director Lou Magazzu Here are some photo and video highlights of this meeting. Of course the Media on the most part just took quotes and created a nice narritive. Don't believe me then read the January 5th News Of Cumberland County


In the first video below, Freeholder Director Magazzu states there will be a tax cut. Maintains Cumberland County has the lowest property taxes and has only 56 more employees then in 1998.Praises certain County employees.Says that New creativity is needed and he praises the County Bus Program
The Second Video Lou says this:
"Debate, dialogue and difference of opinion will be welcomed and encouraged. We will be seeking those who have a passion to bring positive change to the people who, until now, have not been properly served."

Big Red Book of Welfare and Other Thoughts

May 18th and that means there is only a week before Memorial Day. I was buzy at work writing up sanctions for folks who do not cooperate with Welfare to Work guidelines. I have names placed in the book that you see me holding up. It was a fine cool day for Mid-May. Tonite was Dottie's walk. Dale Finch did show up today along with the few of us. We showed some properties that are a mess and Dottie saw a lot of neighbors she knows. Tomorrow the swearing in of the newly elected Millville City Commission will be held at Noon today. Since I do have to be at work, I will have to miss this one. There will be no evening meeting so I get to be home.
I am for one glad that the independent Democrats support open space preservation. Lets hope they stay in the race and push this issue. We are the ONLY County in the state with an open space plan. This is very disappointing for me. Cumberland County needs one before all the land is built up once the economy rebounds in the next 18 months.
Another blogger in Millville is RD Owens who writes a site called E-Cache. He writes very well and gives alot of thought in what he writes. I don't always agree with him such as voting for Millville City Commission but I do on others such as Lou Magazzu. He wrote a very interesting piece about the Motorsports Park way back in May 2005 before the park was built and several weeks before we moved to our present address. This was the 1st and biggest issue when I first moved here in Millville. Today in the BEN, Jack Hummel strongly reacts against a letter that Linda Forbes sent in today in the News of Cumberland County. Jack seems to be a strong big Lou supporter. Folks need to write to Mr. Hummel and not be bullied by Mr. Magazzu.
Well got to eat and have coffee now. Have a good week.

Changes

Been awhile since I wrote. I have not been in the mood much in the past 2 weeks. This weekend hung out with Carolyne and Steve and volunteered painting the soon to be opened Levoy Theatre business office

The Fithian Gallery will not be in operation for a while. We aren't giving up or closing forever; we just need some time to get it together and reemerge stronger than ever. This has been a tough decision and we are just emerging from a tough time. When our dear friend and artist, Jimmy Miller, died, it was the last straw. We see no other choice at the time. We are offering studio space for artists so email me at mkrullrt55@gmail.com or call.
The photo is at the Goodwill Store in Millville. Its funny but sums up the times we are living in now. Things are pretty tight nowadays

On the politics front, I have been out of the loop but I have heard these nibbles over the past week or so.

First off there are going to be 4 announcements concerning Millville over the next week to 10 days. I know one will announce the date of demolition of the Millville Gardens but from the hints I got they are all going to be good news for the Millville economy and we all want Millville to succeed...right?? I do know that the city is working on changes to the sign ordinances. This is way overdue and I think most would agree with me on this one.
Word is out according to Lou Magazzu's own polling, he will win followed by Nelson Thompson. This same poll has Lauren Van Embden behind incumbent Gloria Noto. I heard that at an event Lou had his ..... Man can't even print that one out cause its so shameless. Geez this man has to be voted out..Please!!!

I plan to be in Philly to work on business since I do not have to work. The video below yours truly who left their wallet on the bus and called NJ Transit right away. The driver found and and gave to the lost and found located in Washington Twp NJ. I think the bus is OK. I do have one lady who has a problem with me since I talk with a recovering heroin addict too loud and fails to get off at the lovely "Bridge Plaza" in Camden. Maybe I will feature this place on this space soon.

Thoughts of June 3rd..

Good day from Millville NJ at 8am in the morning. Its going to be a hot one today June 4th 2010. Yesterday was a day like some. I worked my butt off at work trying to keep up. After work, I went to a friend's house seeing what was up. Their apt is a bit depressing with the aged off-white walls EVERYWHERE. They want to get out but the rent seems to be cheaper and they have 2 floor to themselves. It could use some cheering up and a few cans of fresh paint I then slogged to the Walt Whitman bridge where lanes were blocked. The traffic was backed up for miles!! It turns out I saw only one car since I suppose, the other car was already removed. Maybe the person hit the guardrail and spun around. Hopefully nobody got hurt. After I got back to Millville, there was a Zoning Board meeting. We had one application which was fairly routine. Went to the Oar House for a bit and saw a few friends who opined about the status of Lou Magazzu and county politics. Apparently there are rumors afoot and power plays going on.
In Millville a whole host of folks are retiring. It has been stated that 10% of the workforce will retire in July.Its a good opportunity to save money for the long term! Lou Thompson is one of the many and it appears that his assistant City Manager Susan G. Robostello, will take over. I was told that Millville is one of the few (if not the only) cities of its size to have a position as Assistant City Manager. Well, its obvious that Millville can not afford THAT position. If Mr. Thompson was making about $130,000 per year, then the assistant could have been making at LEAST 50-75 THOUSAND per year plus benefits.
I am off to get ANOTHER tooth extracted at 8:30am this am since another root canal has gone bad. Then go to work the best I can.
Carl and Liz are showing on First Friday in Bridgeton. They are showing at Gallery 50 Bye

Motersports Park and Noise

Tonight January 15th an organization called Track Racket, held a meeting at the Municipal Building in Cedarville NJ . Michelle Post who lives in Lawrence Township says her neighborhood was quiet when she first moved there five years ago. That changed when the New Jersey Motorsports Park opened last year, and now she is protesting the Park's noise by organizing and creating TrackRacket.
I missed the first 45 min but I quickly noticed the room was full with about 40-50 folks attending. There were 10 from a well-known opponents of the current Millville City Commission, a local lawyer I know, several artists and neighbors of the park.
Ms. Post keep it as grounded as well as she could. It's worth noting that Post says her group has no political agenda that's good but its not easy being apolitical in Cumberland County. She just wants some relative peace and quiet but I could tell that a few in the audience had axes to grind about the City Commission
Folks were URGED to call Millville City officials including the Mayor and the Zoning Officer. I believe they need to call the Freeholder Director cause he does RUN Cumberland County. Their leaflet quotes Freeholder Lou Magazzu implying that he is ignorant of noise pollution and they had this quote "This is not a smokestack. This is not something that will bring deleterious effects." the flyer adds: " Obviously, Lou does not live a mile from the racetrack.
Some asked if the motorsports owners or representatives from Millville city government would be invited and others stated that neither the city nor racetrack officials care enough to show up to future meetings. I know folks who live near each other and each has a different perception of the noise issue. In general, all parties need to listen to each other and ignore the the negative people not looking for solutions like most of the folks in the Daily Journal Forums

Big Lou Calls Me a Republican!

Check this out. I was getting a Pizza at NY Style Pizza for us and some kids from the neighborhood
when I stumbled upon a town hall meeting of Cumberland County NJ Democrats and
this happened.. Below is the offending video



From the Millville News August 14 2008
County Dems, GOP unload
Page 4 of 5

The candidates maintained the only "serious" offenses - such as drunken driving, leaving the scene of an accident and driving uninsured - would fall under the surcharge.

Suddenly, at one point, Magazzu approached Michael Krull, of the city school board, who had just walked in with a digital camera and was videotaping the proceedings, and accused him of "spying for the Republicans."

Krull stated he was not a Republican.
Magazzu relented, stating, "Sorry, but that's where we are in politics today, and it's sad."
Krull left shortly afterward.
Later, Magazzu said he would "bet money" Krull was a spy for the Republicans.
The meeting got back on track and shifted toward taxes.
Magazzu defended the current freeholder board, stating it has lowered county property taxes.
"And we will continue to do so," he said.

No Stimulus $$$$$$$ for Cumberland County

This just shows how INEFFECTIVE our representatives are. I mean NOT a RED CENT. Here is an article from the Daily Journal. Pay attention to the Comments. They make sense.

County wants stimulus money

Legislators: Cumberland deserves a piece of the pie

By JOEL LANDAU • Staff Writer • March 9, 2009

South Jersey legislators whose district includes Vineland and Millville are asking Gov. Jon Corzine why he doesn't plan to use any federal stimulus money toward transportation projects in Cumberland County.Sen. Jeff Van Drew and Assemblymen Nelson Albano and Matt Milam, all Democrats representing the state's 1st Legislative District, faxed a letter to the governor's office Saturday.

The legislators noted the state will receive $894 million in transportation funds from the federal stimulus bill, but none of that money is directed for Cumberland County.

"This decision treats Cumberland County unfairly, and we find it hard to believe no Cumberland County projects were among the 55 chosen to receive nearly $1 billion," the lawmakers wrote. "To put it simply, the decision is unacceptable."

Corzine spokesman Robert Corrales said Sunday the governor's office had not yet received the letter but would review it shortly.

The legislators asked the governor to place some of the money into the county, noting it would create much-needed jobs and economic development.

Milam, a member of the Assembly's Transportation, Public Works and Independent Authorities Committee, said he also would question state Transportation Commissioner Stephen Dilts when the commissioner testifies before the committee Thursday.

"The federal stimulus package is a golden opportunity to create jobs, spark our economy and reshape our state's future during this difficult time, but that will only happen if everybody benefits, the legislators wrote.

Transportation projects that did make the list for stimulus funds include replacing two drawbridges that span Ocean City and Somers Point at a cost of $70 million; a $5.9 million resurfacing project for the White Horse Pike in Hammonton and Mullica; and an $80 million plan to rehabilitate an eight-mile stretch of Interstate 295 in Camden and Gloucester counties.

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eyeonMillville wrote:

Maybe if Van Drew spent more time lobbying on behalf of his district and less time introducing hundreds of pieces of pointless legislation we would be better off. Cumberland County getting shortchanged is also a consequence of our county and state legislators being influenced by outside forces especially Camden County. When our state and County legislators accept all this outside money it severely comprises their ability to fight for us. Quite blunty, the people in power don't take them seriously as they know where their contributions are coming from. So, look for Van Drew to start cursing and Albano, Milam, and Magazzu to squawk. Look for a few crumbs to come our way, so as to give the appearance that these guys are "fighting for us". But never forget that Cumberland County residents will always be getting shortchanged until we get new independent leadership that is beholden only to people in the county.
3/9/2009 7:58:24 AM

Maybe if Van Drew spent more time lobbying on behalf of his district and less time introducing hundreds of pieces of pointless legislation we would be better off. Cumberland County getting shortchanged is also a consequence of our county and state legislators being influenced by outside forces especially Camden County. When our state and County legislators accept all this outside money it severely comprises their ability to fight for us. Quite blunty, the people in power don't take them seriously as they know where their contributions are coming from. So, look for Van Drew to start cursing and Albano, Milam, and Magazzu to squawk. Look for a few crumbs to come our way, so as to give the appearance that these guys are "fighting for us". But never forget that Cumberland County residents will always be getting shortchanged until we get new independent leadership that is beholden only to people in the county. eyeonMillville

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albertinacan wrote:

The state probably thinks they are doing us a favor by letting us raise the PRISON populations' families. We need barbed wire not road repairs ?
They'll point to the Abbott money and say , you people are greedy, while the gansters shoot up our towns.
3/9/2009 7:21:27 AM

The state probably thinks they are doing us a favor by letting us raise the PRISON populations' families. We need barbed wire not road repairs ? <br />They'll point to the Abbott money and say , you people are greedy, while the gansters shoot up our towns. albertinacan

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Ronin1 wrote:

Two reason we didn't get any money from the state: 1. Sweet Lou is a NOBODY outside of this county despite what he thinks about himself. 2. No one cares about this county... including Lou. This should come as no surprise to anyone. The state has no reason to invest in this county. Sad, but true.
3/9/2009 7:05:29 AM

Two reason we didn't get any money from the state: 1. Sweet Lou is a NOBODY outside of this county despite what he thinks about himself. 2. No one cares about this county... including Lou. This should come as no surprise to anyone. The state has no reason to invest in this county. Sad, but true. Ronin1

Lou Magazzu Resigns!!

It's true
http://m.pressofatlanticcity.com/mobile/news/breaking/cumberland-freeholder-louis-magazzu-resigns-after-internet-scandal/article_92325b9e-bd42-11e0-ae3b-001cc4c002e0.html
It's a sunny evening in Cumberland County!

Today is (Like) Pulling Teeth!

Well, I sit here drinking my coffee reading news such as Al Kelly (Lou Magazzu Puppet) creaming Jim Begley for mayor of Bridgeton and the US Senate Primary between Arlen Spector and Joe Sestack now becoming a very close race. I am off to have teeth #6 and #12 extracted today starting at 8:30 in Vineland. The place is called Vineland Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons P.A 1318 S. Main Road. I was not looking forward to this but the root canal's are starting to get infected and THAT would hurt. Needless to say I am not going to work today. I will do other senseical work instead. Looking on the bright side, I am not on a bus for 2 hrs and I am not fighting traffac like I did last Thursday after a Phillies day game (They won the game)
(They won the game)

Route 55/49 Road Project

Well there was a protest about the 55/49 Project. I went to see what it was about and now Lou Magazzu has replied on the BEN column of today April 16 2009. He will be at the next City Commission meeting Tues April 21st. Here is just part of what the Freeholder Director said

"Further, it may be that the improvements at Route 55 and 49 may give the state incentive to move quicker on the other projects which require attention."I intend to be at the next city commission meeting on Tuesday, at 7 p.m., to ask the Millville City commissioners their thoughts on the Route 49 and 55 project."I have also asked DOT Commissioner Dilts to set up a meeting with DOT representatives and neighbors to determine if their concerns can be alleviated.

"When I am given a date and time, I will ask the city commission to make city hall available for the meeting.

"I have also asked the DOT to determine if there are other shovel-ready projects that could move forward in place of this one, if there is a desire to move away from this project."

This sounds ok to me but will it really happen? What about public transit like buses and trains???
Since this is not federal stimulus money being shovel-ready is NOT a requirement. How does a state that is BROKE just "find" $27 million?

City Commission Meeting

I was not expecting a long meeting with controversy. This by and large was the case at yesterday's City Commission meeting held at City Hall. I was late (as usual). Jane Christy spoke out to defend the " WAWA Tree. This is a white oak that is about 250 years old and is the 3rd largest tree in Cumberland County. This tree may be a victim of the roadwork that is planned for the intersection of Wade Blvd and RT 49. This was reported in April 2009.

This is the Infamous road project brought to us bumpkins by Gov Corzine, and Lou Magazzu.
Next, Michelle Post called out the City Commission for allowing a person to make a personal threat at the last Commission meeting. She has a point but she came off heavy-handed. I sense the the frustration she has with the NJ Motorsports Park. She states there is no "solution" but voting and changing the noise ordnance. The motorsports park is too wide/large to barricade the sound as well. Like I said, I sense a lawsuit and the city does not need THAT for sure. Charles Flickinger spoke about the Wall of education.
After the meeting, I heard something that could have a very negative affect upon Millville and the County. Hope cooler heads prevail or this will eventually make headlines here.

Well, good bye for now

Freedom of Speech!! We Must Protect it!!

The man in the white shirt seems bent on political intimidation. Read this letter and the comments printed in the Daily Journal. We must not allow politics of personal destruction to have a foothold in Cumberland County!!


Letter to the Editor
September 19, 2008:
"One wonders how a nation, a county, a community survive political processes driven not by a debate of issues, but rather by lies and innuendo. I am inclined to be generous in my assessment of others, but I am despairing that too many people find it easier to believe misinformation rather than work at understanding the truth.

I think this is the case with our national election, where Republican strategists are working hard to distance McCain from Bush and to present Sarah Palin as someone with character rather than someone who, "Throughout her political career ... has pursued vendettas, fired officials who crossed her and sometimes blurred the line between government and personal grievance," according to Sunday's New York Times.

We in Cumberland County are even closer to distortion of the truth in an attempt to attain political office. Monday's Democratic attack on Sheriff Michael Barruzza could have been designed by Bush-McCain strategists. Unwilling or unable to talk about issues, the Democrats, led by Cumberland County Freeholder Director Lou Magazzu, and in the person of sheriff candidate Bob Austino, drag up the personal business of a Republican leader who is not even running for office. Surely the Democrats were aware that Sheriff Barruzza is not close to Carl Johnson and that his office will handle any court order relative to Johnson as it would any similar order. Yet they accuse Barruzza of foot-dragging because of "favoritism" and even call a press conference to spread this falsehood!

Looking at this more closely, it is clear that the attack is on Johnson as much as Barruzza. Johnson has had the courage to publicly challenge not only county Democrats, but also Millville First Republicans. While Johnson raises legitimate issues, those he targets stoop to character assassination. Johnson's contentious divorce travails are a private matter and have nothing to do with the issues he has raised in the political forum.

How do we get back to issues?

Somehow, we need to shovel through all of the dirt and decide for ourselves where we would like to see our city and our nation head. I, for one, will be a ticket-splitter. I have always been a Democrat, and will support the national ticket, but the county Democrats and their underhanded tactics have cemented my votes for the county Republican candidates.

Linda Forbes

Millville

In your voice

Read reactions to this story

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wakkaman wrote:

Replying to ABKL1329:

Kudos to the writer on the local election. The democrats have no real issues against the republicans in office except they're republicans so they resort to low ball tactics. Mr. Johnson's private business is just that private. I don't think, if it were them, the democrats would want their dirty laundry aired. Come on folks...let's get to the real issues. I want to know what the candidates are going to to do to make Cumberland County a better place.

I heard that on the same day this letter was published that a TAX ASSESSOR paid a surprise visit to her house and took pictures. This is OUTREAGIOUS!! This is AMERICA and we have freedom of speach!!
9/20/2008 7:46:40 AM

<p class="replyingto">Replying to <span class="author">ABKL1329</span>:</p><blockquote>Kudos to the writer on the local election. The democrats have no real issues against the republicans in office except they're republicans so they resort to low ball tactics. Mr. Johnson's private business is just that private. I don't think, if it were them, the democrats would want their dirty laundry aired. Come on folks...let's get to the real issues. I want to know what the candidates are going to to do to make Cumberland County a better place.</blockquote><br />I heard that on the same day this letter was published that a TAX ASSESSOR paid a surprise visit to her house and took pictures. This is OUTREAGIOUS!! This is AMERICA and we have freedom of speach!! wakkaman

3rd Friday November 20 2009

3rd Friday came around this month. I was looking forward to getting home by 6-6:30 since I was driving to work instead of taking the 408 bus. I was driving to pick up used windows. . Went to Carl's book signing of his new book called Bar Exam at Bogarts Books. It was a festive event. Saw folks I used to see all the time who I have not seen in quite some time. I visited Isabelle and was told of a fun event at the Rainbow Lounge. It was here I was told of the latest Millville political goings on by another friend of mine. Of course the local papers did not cover them in deference to their boy Lou Magazzu who now with a win in this past election will I suppose, cash in and consolidate his hold on Cumberland County politics with deals and rewards for those who do his bidding. I am just fustrated that this kind of politics is coming closer to being the rule of the land in Millville, Vinland and Bridgeton. This will be investigated further in the future

Meanwhile, in more mundane news, Millville will be raising its real estate tax up by 9 cents per $100 assessed. The cost of health benefits will make up over 5 cents of the 9 cents. The Levoy Theatre renovation has begun! Great news it is for sure. I do hear that the political macinations are far from over. Well, its 6:19pm and I am having an early dinner.