Crier Column 9/13: Get a Woodie Burger; Tapas, Tractors Saturday; Bike Safety Law Discussed; Homecoming Court; Mums and Pumpkins from FFA; Wolverine football home game tonight

 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2024

The Woodstown High School 2024 Homecoming Court has been announced! The Homecoming game is slated for Friday, Oct. 4, 2024. Go see the King, Queen, and Court! More about these young royals in the Community section below.

Hear ye, hear ye! O yez, o yez!

Happy Friday the 13th!

Where did the superstitions come from? Difficult to pinpoint exactly. Some say the the numerology is connected with the Last Supper and Good Friday (Judas being the 13th disciple), others blame the arrest of the Knights Templar on Friday, Oct. 13, 1307. Still, others blame the death of Italian composer Gioachino Rossini on Friday, Nov. 13, 1868, or the 1907 superstitious Wall Street novel Friday the Thirteenth by T. W. Lawson. But, we all know the true reasons for the season: Jason Vorhees slashing naughty teenagers. Hahaha!

Nevertheless, avoid hockey masks tonight but do enjoy a good horror film!

♦

Who saw that extraordinary rainbow last Saturday? My sister and I were getting ready to leave for dinner when she rushed in the house and called for us to run outside and see the rainbow. We got plenty of pictures. I doubt I've ever seen one so vibrant.

The massive rainbow above Woodstown on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024. Photo courtesy George Lipari.

I put a request out on Facebook for photos from the Double Rainbow on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 and received an overwhelming response. I'll be featuring those photos in another post this week!

♦

Woodstown's own Sneakers & Spokes Bicycle Shop is leading an effort to tighten safety laws for cyclists on NJ roadways in light of the death of hockey players Johnny and Michael Gaudreau who were killed in Oldman's Township late last month. They are selling the above signage for local lawns for $10.

The Sneakers and Spokes bicycle store on Main Street hosted a town hall meeting earlier this week to address local concerns following the tragic cycling deaths of hockey players Johnny and Michael Gaudreau. They are selling lawn signed that state "STATE LAW | GET OFF THE GAS | FOUR FEET TO PASS" for $10 (cash). Proceeds will go toward safety awareness. Here is a dispatch from their Facebook concerning the meeting: 

"Thank you to all who came out to our town hall meeting last night. It was well attended by our community members and local officials. There was a lot of good information presented by several speakers including Karen & Aaron Gerber, Kenny Smith, Chris & John from the Bicycle Coalition of Philadelphia, and many residents of surrounding communities which will all help towards safer streets for all of us. We have several community members who signed up to be on the committee to work towards this goal. There is much to be done. Small steps toward safety starts now. If you would like more information on how to get involved in our committee, email us at sneakersandspokes@yahoo.com"

♦

"The Woodie" a new, fantastic menu item from the Band Boosters. It may not be the prettiest sandwich, but the flavors leave nothing to be desired. Go get one at the home games!! This user submitted photo is from Jesse Stemberger. I give it a 10/10!

Should you have the pleasure of attending a Woodstown Football home game this season, run (don't walk) to the WHS Band Boosters concessions. They are debuting a new item on their menu: THE WOODIE. It's a char-grilled cheeseburger atop slow-roasted, gently seasoned pulled pork.

I'll admit, I had my doubts. That's a lot of meat. But, being an eternal lover of the WHS Marching Band ever since they welcomed me into their ranks when I had an extra period to fill during my senior year of high school (and ended up making some of the best memories of my life, I bravely ordered The Woodie. There's also a nearby table with assorted condiments — especially BBQ sauce. I went with ketchup (I don't have a taste for BBQ sauce, myself).

To my shock and awe, this sandwich is one of the best I've had. In fact, it is the reason I may return to every home game I can this season. I wish the Football players the best, and the Marching Band itself sounds outstanding, and the cheerleaders are tremendous, but wow. This sandwich. The combination of flavors is something I've never had before. 

I'm a picky eater, but The Woodie gets an absolute 10/10 from the Town Crier. Go get yourself a Woodie Sandwich, enjoy the rousing performance by the Marching Band, rave over the talented cheerleaders who reach new heights, and MAKE SOME NOISE FOR THE WOLVERINES!!!

Home game tonight, LET'S GO!

COMMUNITY

HOMECOMING: Congrats to the 2024 WHS Homecoming Court! They are, as pictured above:

Top row (left to right): Bryce Belinfanti, Jake Ware, Sebastian Smith, Cole Lucas, Joe Kurpis

Front Row (left to right): Talia Battavio, Megan Donelson, Shelby Foote, Hannah Hitchner, Ty'Onna Husser

    - Congrats to the court, from a WHS homecoming king of long ago! (2005)

♦

FLOWERS The Woodstown FFA is selling Mums at the Woodstown Agriculture Education Center (188 E. Millbrooke). Pumpkins, too! Cost is $8 or 4 for $28. Self-service.

♦

TRACTOR FUN: Tapas, Taps, Tractors Event at Friends Village on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature:

• Tractor Show

• Complimentary Food, Beer & Wine Samplings featuring Farmers & Bankers Brewery and Wagonhouse Winery

• Live Music

• Pick Your Own Sunflowers in our Sunflower Field and more!

Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.

This is a free event, no tickets required!

Click here for more information.

♦

CONNECTION: Join the W-P, Alloway, and Upper Pittsgrove school districts for Community Connection Day on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024 at Marlton Park beginning at 5 p.m. Rain location is WHS Gym. Contact Diane Cioffi at Cioffi.d@woodstown.org for more details. The dispatch states:

"Grab a blanket or lawn chair! McKinney-Vento for Homeless Children & Youth is excited to host Devin Wyman from the Youth Alliance Network! Join us at 6 p.m. to hear from our hero and mentor speaker, the former NFL New England Patriots player #72 as he delivers a motivating message to our families."

♦

FALL FESTIVAL: The 20th Annual Woodstown Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will be kicked off with a W-P School District 5K Run and Kids Dash at 8 a.m. at Marlton Park. Vendors, click here to sign up (deadline is Sept. 20, cost is $50/vendor). Admission is free to the public. Here is a dispatch from the organizers: 

"Each year in September, Woodstown's historic downtown shopping district comes alive; scarecrows by the dozens keep watch along the streets; historic houses are decorated in their fall best; and vendors, crafters and local shops line their food and wares along Main Street eager to greet the thousands of tourists and towns people who come out to celebrate fall during Woodstown's Annual Fall Festival"

♦

PARK: While at the Fall Festival, head over to the Pilesgrove-Woodstown Recreation Association. The association is seeking community input and donations for the betterment and future of the park. This year, 20 percent of their budget will come from donations, and they are seeking to raise $15,000. I'll be paying them a visit!

♦

INTERGENERATIONAL: Woodstown Friends Meeting will host Intergenerational Family activities throughout the fall. See the list below:

• September 29, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.. -Let’s celebrate the coming of fall with the game “As the Wind Blows” and decorate and bake cookies to take home.
• October 27, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Join Teacher Kate, the popular music teacher at Friends School Mullica Hill, for an interactive hour of music making and dance. We will sing both new and familiar songs, enjoy some interactive folk dancing and play percussion instruments as a group.
• December 8, 2024 – 9:15 AM to 10:30 AM—We will celebrate the holidays with holiday-themed story and craft time. You won’t walk away empty-handed!

♦

FARMER'S MARKET: There will be a Farmer's Market held on Oct. 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The organizers are seeking vendors with vegetables/fruits, pumpkins/plants, cornstalks/flowers, breads, honey, crafters, and quilters. Contact Linda Fritz at LAFritz19@Yahoo.com.

♦

FLU CLINIC: The Salem County Department of Health and Human Services will host the following Flu Clinics for residents ages 3 and older. No appointment necessary.

• Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Fair Grounds, Rt. 40, Pilesgrove. Drive-Thru. 
• Tuesday, Oct. 1, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Dept. of Health. 110 5th St., Salem. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Lower Alloway's Creek Fire & Rescue. 15 New St, Hancock's Bridge. Drive Thru.
• Thursday, Oct. 17, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Salem Community College, Davidow Hall. 460 Hollywood Ave, Carneys Point. Walk-in.
• Tuesday, Oct. 22, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Shalick High School, 718 Centerton Rd., Pittsgrove. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Oldmans Municipal Building, 40 Freed Rd., Pedricktown. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Carney's Point Municipal Building, 303 Harding Hwy, Carneys Point. Walk-in.

ENTERTAINMENT

The WHS Band visited youngsters at Mary S. Shoemaker School. This is a special first step for future generations of musicians in our school and community!

YOUNG BAND: A dispatch from Mary S. Shoemaker School:

"On Friday, our 4th-grade students at Mary Shoemaker School had a special treat! Woodstown high school band members visited and shared their love of music.

"The students got to see and hear the instruments up close, and it was amazing to witness their excitement! Mrs. Sheridan will be providing band interest forms to current 4th and 5th grade Shoemaker students."

 ♦

ACTORS NEEDED: A dispatch from Salem Main Street and the Blue Moon Theatre:

The 37th Annual historic Yuletide tour of Salem County is looking for reenactors to participate in their event on December 7th from 1-6 rain or shine. This is a Paid position (with donations from those involved in the event).  Currently they are looking for:

Fredrick Douglas (1st lawyer) and Fredrick's daughter a teacher, Hetty Reckless a slave who went on to help free other slaves. Her owner was the governor in Salem and his wife was very hateful to Hetty., Harriet Tubman, and a Father Christmas who could also be like a town crier, Decreeing the day dedicated to the many people celebrating the upcoming holiday season.

If you are unfamiliar with any of the characters, please research them.  You will find them to be amazing individuals. 

If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Stark at Cherstark@hotmail.com or call at 856-905-5840.

♦

OPEN MIC: The Blue Moon Theatre will host an Open Mic Comedy night on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Sign up when you arrive for performing. Tickets are $5.

♦

THEATRE: The Blue Moon Theatre presents "Little Shop of Horrors" on Sept. 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25. The cast was just announced and features Nicholas Renna, Rachel Grodek, Greg Hanmell, Tyler Kulik, Taye Hopkins, Aimee Ferenz, Celeste Daesy Moon, Shabria Moore, and Andrew Fralinger. Click here for tickets.

♦

AUDITIONS: The Blue Moon Theatre will host auditions for "RUMORS" by Neil Simon on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with callbacks on Monday, Sept. 30. Director Dominic Spadaccini is seeking four men, four women, and three actors of any gender for the comedy. Sign up here.

♦

WHITE CHRISTMAS: I'll be starring alongside fellow Woodstown actors Lori and Rick Thompson in WHITE CHRISTMAS at the Levoy Theatre in Millville this November! I love to see Woodstown talent on the big stage! Get your tickets here.

SPORTS

The Wolverines had an outstanding debut at their home game last Friday vs. Delsea, winning in overtime thanks to Bryce Belinfante, Jake Ware, and an incredible amount of teamwork all around. More coverage here.

Home game tonight — play hard, sweat orange, bleed blue!

The Woodstown Athletic Department website, a hub for all things Woodstown High School sports, can be found here.

SCORES

SCHEDULE

WATCH LIVE EVENTS HERE

GOVERNMENT

Woodstown Borough Council and Pilesgrove Twp Committee meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

WEEKEND WEATHER

FRIDAY: Sun. High of 84F. Low of 59F.

SATURDAY: Sun. High of 86F. Low of 58F.

SUNDAY: Sun. High of 83F. Low of 59F.

Forecast: Sun and scattered clouds to start the week, highs in the upper 70s to 80. Clouds and rain starting Wednesday into next weekend. 

♦

Woodstown Crier: Where there's always a rainbow above Woodstown & Pilesgrove — above our schools, above our students, above our artists, above our churches, above our shops, above our theater, above our parks, above our diner, above our cemeteries, above our laundromat, above our bookstore, above our banks, above our lakes, above our ponds, above our wildlife, above our farms, above our rodeo, above our livestock, above our pets, above our trees, above our bugs, above our flowers, above our Veterans, above our first responders, above our hometown heroes, above our government, above our yards, above our homes, above our families, and above our colossal water tower emblazoned across with the name of the greatest town in America, welcoming us home.

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Want to share your Woodstown-Pilesgrove news in the Crier Column? Email Jim Cook at WoodstownCrier@gmail.com 

Wolverines wins first home football game of 2024-25 season

The Woodstown Wolverines kickoff their first home game of the 2024-2025 season, Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. The home team won against Delsea, 14-13.

WOODSTOWN — We won!

The Wolverines beat Delsea in a hard-fought game Friday night, 14-13.

The match marked the first win and home game for Woodstown and the debut of Woodstown’s new head coach Frank Trautz, a social studies instructor at Woodstown Middle School.

The game was won in overtime with a 25-yard touchdown by Bryce Belinfanti, and a tie-breaking point after attempt by Jake Ware.

An interesting bit of family history: Ware is the grandson of the late Clint Ware, Woodstown’s head football coach for nearly four decades. Coach Ware’s last season was in 1999. The field is named in his honor.

This game also marked the debut of this year’s unique and hilarious WHS Marching Band theme “Rubbish,” where all of the selected music references garbage, and some of the numbers are played on non-traditional instruments.

Though the theme may have been littered with “trash,” the performances were anything but.

Prior to the kickoff, the band played a rousing and patriotic rendition of the National Anthem, led by Director Shannon Sheridan.

The WHS Cheerleading Squad also provided much-appreciated energy to the exciting game. One of their finest moments was lining the field and welcoming the players debuting on their home turf just prior to kick-off.

Pro-tip: Next game, head over to the Band concessions and order “The Woodie.” One of the tastiest sandwiches I’ve ever had — right here at home. Many thanks to Band Boosters for sending me home with t-shirts to rep the team at the next game!

Crier Column 9/6: Wolverine Football vs. Delsea kick-off at 7 p.m.; FFA Chicken Sale; Community Connection Day; Tapas, Tractors, ect.; Flu Clinic; Open Mic at Blue Moon

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 06, 2024

William Roper School students adjust to life in the classroom as school bells rings and classes are back in session. Welcome back to our students, teachers, custodians, staff, and administrators!

Hear ye, hear ye! O yez, o yez!

    Welcome back, students!

As you embark on your new school year — whether it be the beginning of your journey in Mary S. Shoemaker School, or your mid-way point at Woodstown Middle School, or your senior year at Woodstown High School, know that you are the pride and future of our great town (or wherever you go)!

Keep studying, keep reading, keep working hard, keep hustling, and keep creating. 

Friday night (tonight) is our first home football game, and in just a few weeks, we'll see the premier of the Fall Play: "THE WIZARD OF OZ" directed by seniors Elizabeth Hitchner and Virginia Messick.

Let's go, Wolverines!!

♦

Today is National Read a Book Day! What are you reading? I just started "Chesapeake" by James Michener. I'm also working through a litany of other books because that's my toxic trait: I read too many books at the same time and rarely finish any.

♦

Pay your Town Crier a visit this Sunday at First Baptist in Woodstown. I'll be at the organ. Hymns are "Just a Closer Walk With Thee" and "Be Thou My Vision" — two of my favorite classics.

♦

Rite Aid announced it has successfully emerged from bankruptcy. We didn't lose our pharmacy. Let's hope those shelves are re-stocked soon.

COMMUNITY

CHICKENS: The Woodstown High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) is hosting its fall Chicken Sale. Chickens can be purchased from Sept. 4 - 13 by clicking here. Pick up at Sept. 15 at Elmer Grange from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cluck cluck!

♦

TRACTOR FUN: Tapas, Taps, Tractors Event at Friends Village on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature:

• Tractor Show

• Complimentary Food, Beer & Wine Samplings featuring Farmers & Bankers Brewery and Wagonhouse Winery

• Live Music

• Pick Your Own Sunflowers in our Sunflower Field and more!

Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.

This is a free event, no tickets required!

Click here for more information.

♦

CONNECTION: Join the W-P, Alloway, and Upper Pittsgrove school districts for Community Connection Day on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024 at Marlton Park beginning at 5 p.m. Rain location is WHS Gym. Contact Diane Cioffi at Cioffi.d@woodstown.org for more details. The dispatch states:

"Grab a blanket or lawn chair! McKinney-Vento for Homeless Children & Youth is excited to host Devin Wyman from the Youth Alliance Network! Join us at 6 p.m. to hear from our hero and mentor speaker, the former NFL New England Patriots player #72 as he delivers a motivating message to our families."

♦

FALL FESTIVAL: The 20th Annual Woodstown Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will be kicked off with a W-P School District 5K Run and Kids Dash at 8 a.m. at Marlton Park. Vendors, click here to sign up (deadline is Sept. 20, cost is $50/vendor). Admission is free to the public. Here is a dispatch from the organizers: 

"Each year in September, Woodstown's historic downtown shopping district comes alive; scarecrows by the dozens keep watch along the streets; historic houses are decorated in their fall best; and vendors, crafters and local shops line their food and wares along Main Street eager to greet the thousands of tourists and towns people who come out to celebrate fall during Woodstown's Annual Fall Festival"

♦

INTERGENERATIONAL: Woodstown Friends Meeting will host Intergenerational Family activities throughout the fall. See the list below:

• September 29, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.. -Let’s celebrate the coming of fall with the game “As the Wind Blows” and decorate and bake cookies to take home.
• October 27, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Join Teacher Kate, the popular music teacher at Friends School Mullica Hill, for an interactive hour of music making and dance. We will sing both new and familiar songs, enjoy some interactive folk dancing and play percussion instruments as a group.
• December 8, 2024 – 9:15 AM to 10:30 AM—We will celebrate the holidays with holiday-themed story and craft time. You won’t walk away empty-handed!

♦

FARMER'S MARKET: There will be a Farmer's Market held on Oct. 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The organizers are seeking vendors with vegetables/fruits, pumpkins/plants, cornstalks/flowers, breads, honey, crafters, and quilters. Contact Linda Fritz at LAFritz19@Yahoo.com.

♦

FLU CLINIC: The Salem County Department of Health and Human Services will host the following Flu Clinics for residents ages 3 and older. No appointment necessary.

• Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Fair Grounds, Rt. 40, Pilesgrove. Drive-Thru. 
• Tuesday, Oct. 1, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Dept. of Health. 110 5th St., Salem. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Lower Alloway's Creek Fire & Rescue. 15 New St, Hancock's Bridge. Drive Thru.
• Thursday, Oct. 17, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Salem Community College, Davidow Hall. 460 Hollywood Ave, Carneys Point. Walk-in.
• Tuesday, Oct. 22, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Shalick High School, 718 Centerton Rd., Pittsgrove. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Oldmans Municipal Building, 40 Freed Rd., Pedricktown. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Carney's Point Municipal Building, 303 Harding Hwy, Carneys Point. Walk-in.

ENTERTAINMENT

WHITE CHRISTMAS: I'll be starring alongside fellow Woodstown actors Lori and Rick Thompson in WHITE CHRISTMAS at the Levoy Theatre in Millville this November! I love to see Woodstown talent on the big stage! Get your tickets here.

♦

ACTORS NEEDED: A dispatch from Salem Main Street and the Blue Moon Theatre:

The 37th Annual historic Yuletide tour of Salem County is looking for reenactors to participate in their event on December 7th from 1-6 rain or shine. This is a Paid position (with donations from those involved in the event).  Currently they are looking for:

Fredrick Douglas (1st lawyer) and Fredrick's daughter a teacher, Hetty Reckless a slave who went on to help free other slaves. Her owner was the governor in Salem and his wife was very hateful to Hetty., Harriet Tubman, and a Father Christmas who could also be like a town crier, Decreeing the day dedicated to the many people celebrating the upcoming holiday season.

If you are unfamiliar with any of the characters, please research them.  You will find them to be amazing individuals. 

If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Stark at Cherstark@hotmail.com or call at 856-905-5840.

♦

OPEN MIC: The Blue Moon Theatre will host an Open Mic Comedy night on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Sign up when you arrive for performing. Tickets are $5.

♦

THEATRE: The Blue Moon Theatre presents "Little Shop of Horrors" on Sept. 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25. The cast was just announced and features Nicholas Renna, Rachel Grodek, Greg Hanmell, Tyler Kulik, Taye Hopkins, Aimee Ferenz, Celeste Daesy Moon, Shabria Moore, and Andrew Fralinger. Click here for tickets.

♦

AUDITIONS: The Blue Moon Theatre will host auditions for "RUMORS" by Neil Simon on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with callbacks on Monday, Sept. 30. Director Dominic Spadaccini is seeking four men, four women, and three actors of any gender for the comedy. Sign up here.

♦

CAST ANNOUNCED: The Blue Moon Theatre announced the cast of their upcoming November production, "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. The cast is led by Gian Vanderose as Tom, Cheryl Stark as Amanda, Angela Robb as Laura, and Andrew Fralinger as Jim. Performances run Nov. 15-24.

SPORTS

WOLVERINES VS. DELSEA, KICKOFF TONIGHT AT 7 P.M.

A dispatch from the Athletic Department:

Woodstown High School Fall Sports are underway. The Girls Tennis Team and Girls Soccer Team have opened their seasons. Football will open their season tonight at home against Delsea. Kickoff is 7 p.m., gates open at 6 p.m..  All students and spectators are encouraged to review the Tri County Conference Spectator Code of Conduct. 

The Woodstown Athletic Department website, a hub for all things Woodstown High School sports, can be found here.

SCORES

SCHEDULE

WATCH LIVE EVENTS HERE

GOVERNMENT

Woodstown Borough Council and Pilesgrove Twp Committee meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

WEEKEND WEATHER

FRIDAY: Clouds. High of 79F. Low of 57F.

SATURDAY: Clouds with a 35% chance of rain. High of 79F. Low of 60F.

SUNDAY: Sun. High of 72F. Low of 51F.

Forecast: Sunny in the low to mid-80s next week. Lows in the upper 50s. Warm days but cooler nights. Love it!

♦

Woodstown Crier: WHERE THE WOLVERINES ARE BACK!

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Want to share your Woodstown-Pilesgrove news in the Crier Column? Email Jim Cook at WoodstownCrier@gmail.com 

Crier Column 8/30: Back to books! WHS Car Wash on Saturday; Spencer UAME School Supplies; RIP Johnny Hockey Gaudreau and brother Matthew; Smoke Free Marlton Park

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024

A special moment from the Art Showcase at Squirrel’s Nest Studio. The artwork featured in this part of the showcase was enhanced by the illumination of black light!

Hear ye, hear ye! O yez, o yez!

GOOD NEWS

Woodstown's historic halls will be buzzing with the excitement of its bright pupils once again this Thursday. School is back in session! Be wary of children crossing streets. Plan your commutes to accommodate delays due to school buses. 

♦

ORGAN: I had the distinct honor of playing classic hymns at First Baptist Church on South Main Street last Sunday, Aug. 25. The congregation showed their overwhelming kindness in singing to me "Happy Birthday." It was a great birthday spent at the organ! 'Twas an honor! My family, later in the day, took me to historic New Castle, Delaware to Jessop's Tavern. It's one of my favorite restaurants, and it's just over the bridge!

WEIRD NEWS

WAFFLE HOUSE: In case you haven't already heard — the rumors are not true. A weird anonymous trolling account in the Woodstown Facebook groups drummed up quite a stir with poorly drawn, unsubstantiated reports that a Waffle House would be built where the old Acme once stood. The account also alleged a Culver's Restaurant was in development by Wendy's in Pilesgrove. Click here to read more. 

CRIME LOG

JOHNNY HOCKEY: John "Johnny Hockey" Gaudreau, 31, and brother Matthew, 29, were struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver Thursday night in Oldman's Township.

Johnny was a National Hockey League (NHL) star who, at the time of his death, played for the Columbia Blue Jackets. He spent most of his professional career with the Calgary Flames. Matthew played in the American Hockey League, and later returned home to coach at Hollydell Ice Arena in Washington Township, according to a report in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Police arrested Sean M. Higgins, 43, of Woodstown in connection with the deaths and charged him with two counts of death by auto and driving under the influence. 

Witnesses reported Higgins driving his Jeep Grand Cherokee at high speeds while attempting to pass another vehicle on County Route 551. During the maneuver, Higgins reportedly hit and killed the two brothers.

Gaudreau was drafted 104th overall in 2011 to the Calgary Flames and played professionally for the past decade as a left wing. His honors included winning silver in the 2010 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Czech Republic and Slovakia, gold in the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship in Russia, and bronze in the 2018 IIHF World Championship in Denmark. 

The Gaudreaus were born in Salem, N.J., and attended high school at Gloucester Catholic before moving to Iowa. 

The brothers travelled to Oldman's Township to attend their sister's wedding which had been scheduled for this weekend.

COMPLAINTS

MORE SMOKING: Last week I echoed some community concerns about smoking at the Marlton Recreation Field during the Woodstown Pirates and Cheerleading practices. I go for a run there every day and always smell the cigarettes or marijuana during the sporting events. 

Last weekend was the kick-off of the Woodstown Pirates 8th Annual Pre-Season Jamboree. It was packed with parents and players and family members — and, no doubt, it was a resounding success. I caught a glimpse of it while on one of my nightly runs through the park.

During my run, however, I passed a young woman pushing a newborn in a stroller around the track while finishing off a joint of weed. Now, I gladly support its legalization and decriminalization, and feel there should be no shame in using the stuff if it's your preference. But, with a baby? I caught a puff of it in my lungs as I was finishing my run, as I am sure the baby did, too. My first thought was god-forbid she's breast-feeding and the child is ingesting the THC. 

Now, I don't know her situation at all, and she may not have even been the mother, so I'm no one to cast judgement. But, she was hardly the only one. I saw cigarettes, cigars, marijuana vapes, and a colorful assortment other smoking accoutrements. 

Nevertheless, YOU CAN GO AN HOUR WITHOUT A SMOKE, PEOPLE! This is not the example we should be setting for our children. 

COMMUNITY

CAR WASH: The WHS Bands will host a Car Wash at the WHS Horseshoe (parking lot at the main entrance of the school) on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024 beginning at 9 a.m. Cost is $10 per car and $15 per SUV. 

♦

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: The Spencer UAME Church Food Pantry is hosting a Back to School Supply Drive until Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. Items should be dropped off to the church at 314 Bailey St. in Woodstown. Monetary donations are welcome on Cash App to "Spencer Church Food Pantry." Items needed include pencils, pens, paper, crayons, markers, color pencils, notebooks, folders, binders, tape, glue, erasers, staplers, calculators, backpacks, Clorox wipes, sanitizer tissues, dry erase markers, highlighters, and other assorted school supplies.

♦

TRACTOR FUN: Tapas, Taps, Tractors Event at Friends Village on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature:

• Tractor Show

• Complimentary Food, Beer & Wine Samplings featuring Farmers & Bankers Brewery and Wagonhouse Winery

• Live Music

• Pick Your Own Sunflowers in our Sunflower Field and more!

Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.

This is a free event, no tickets required!

Click here for more information.

♦

FALL FESTIVAL: The 20th Annual Woodstown Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will be kicked off with a W-P School District 5K Run and Kids Dash at 8 a.m. at Marlton Park. Vendors, click here to sign up (deadline is Sept. 20, cost is $50/vendor). Admission is free to the public. Here is a dispatch from the organizers: 

"Each year in September, Woodstown's historic downtown shopping district comes alive; scarecrows by the dozens keep watch along the streets; historic houses are decorated in their fall best; and vendors, crafters and local shops line their food and wares along Main Street eager to greet the thousands of tourists and towns people who come out to celebrate fall during Woodstown's Annual Fall Festival"

♦

INTERGENERATIONAL: Woodstown Friends Meeting will host Intergenerational Family activities throughout the fall. See the list below:

• September 29, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.. -Let’s celebrate the coming of fall with the game “As the Wind Blows” and decorate and bake cookies to take home.
• October 27, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Join Teacher Kate, the popular music teacher at Friends School Mullica Hill, for an interactive hour of music making and dance. We will sing both new and familiar songs, enjoy some interactive folk dancing and play percussion instruments as a group.
• December 8, 2024 – 9:15 AM to 10:30 AM—We will celebrate the holidays with holiday-themed story and craft time. You won’t walk away empty-handed!

♦

FARMER'S MARKET: There will be a Farmer's Market held on Oct. 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The organizers are seeking vendors with vegetables/fruits, pumpkins/plants, cornstalks/flowers, breads, honey, crafters, and quilters. Contact Linda Fritz at LAFritz19@Yahoo.com.

♦

FLU CLINIC: The Salem County Department of Health and Human Services will host the following Flu Clinics for residents ages 3 and older. No appointment necessary.

• Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Fair Grounds, Rt. 40, Pilesgrove. Drive-Thru. 
• Tuesday, Oct. 1, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Dept. of Health. 110 5th St., Salem. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Lower Alloway's Creek Fire & Rescue. 15 New St, Hancock's Bridge. Drive Thru.
• Thursday, Oct. 17, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Salem Community College, Davidow Hall. 460 Hollywood Ave, Carneys Point. Walk-in.
• Tuesday, Oct. 22, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Shalick High School, 718 Centerton Rd., Pittsgrove. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Oldmans Municipal Building, 40 Freed Rd., Pedricktown. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Carney's Point Municipal Building, 303 Harding Hwy, Carneys Point. Walk-in.

ENTERTAINMENT

ACTORS NEEDED: A dispatch from Salem Main Street and the Blue Moon Theatre:

The 37th Annual historic Yuletide tour of Salem County is looking for reenactors to participate in their event on December 7th from 1-6 rain or shine. This is a Paid position (with donations from those involved in the event).  Currently they are looking for:

Fredrick Douglas (1st lawyer) and Fredrick's daughter a teacher, Hetty Reckless a slave who went on to help free other slaves. Her owner was the governor in Salem and his wife was very hateful to Hetty., Harriet Tubman, and a Father Christmas who could also be like a town crier, Decreeing the day dedicated to the many people celebrating the upcoming holiday season.

If you are unfamiliar with any of the characters, please research them.  You will find them to be amazing individuals. 

If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Stark at Cherstark@hotmail.com or call at 856-905-5840.

♦

OPEN MIC: The Blue Moon Theatre will host an Open Mic Comedy night on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Sign up when you arrive for performing. Tickets are $5.

♦

THEATRE: The Blue Moon Theatre presents "Little Shop of Horrors" on Sept. 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25. The cast was just announced and features Nicholas Renna, Rachel Grodek, Greg Hanmell, Tyler Kulik, Taye Hopkins, Aimee Ferenz, Celeste Daesy Moon, Shabria Moore, and Andrew Fralinger. Click here for tickets.

♦

AUDITIONS: The Blue Moon Theatre will host auditions for "RUMORS" by Neil Simon on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with callbacks on Monday, Sept. 30. Director Dominic Spadaccini is seeking four men, four women, and three actors of any gender for the comedy. Sign up here.

♦

CAST ANNOUNCED: The Blue Moon Theatre announced the cast of their upcoming November production, "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams. The cast is led by Gian Vanderose as Tom, Cheryl Stark as Amanda, Angela Robb as Laura, and Andrew Fralinger as Jim. Performances run Nov. 15-24.

SPORTS

First Football scrimmage scheduled for this past Thursday was cancelled. 

First home game is Friday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.

The Woodstown Athletic Department website, a hub for all things Woodstown High School sports, can be found here.

SCORES

SCHEDULE

WATCH LIVE EVENTS HERE

GOVERNMENT

Woodstown Borough Council and Pilesgrove Twp Committee meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

WEEKEND WEATHER

FRIDAY: Clouds and rain, 70 percent chance. High of 77F. Low of 66F.

SATURDAY: Sun and clouds. High of 85F. Low of 66F.

SUNDAY: Rain, 40 percent chance. High of 84F. Low of 70F.

LABOR DAY: Sunny. High of 77F. Low of 61F.

Forecast: Sunny with warm but moderate temperatures next week, highs in the 70s and up to 80F on Thursday and Friday, but no higher. Not like the scorcher we endured the past week. Heck of a way to finish off the summer. Autumn can't get here soon enough.

♦

Woodstown Crier: Where, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, children used to play on their lunch break by the fountain in the center of Woodstown. Then, the school bell would ring, and the shouts from teachers would echo down the street: "Back to books! Back to books!" The fountain is dried up and replaced with pavement, but the books on our school shelves are eternal. And, so, it's back to books this Thursday!

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Want to share your Woodstown-Pilesgrove news in the Crier Column? Email Jim Cook at WoodstownCrier@gmail.com 

No, we are not getting a Waffle House or Culver's Restaurant

A screenshot of the fake proposed Waffle House. It should be noted that this location is not even in Pilesgrove, but in Woodstown. According to local sources, it is fake.

PILESGROVE — Over the weekend, residents of Woodstown and Pilesgrove may have been alarmed or intrigued to read recurring claims from an anonymous Facebook account that a Waffle House would be built where the old Acme once stood in Woodstown on Route 40, and a Culver's Restaurant would be built on not-yet-developed land adjacent to the Pilesgrove Shopping Center.

Admins of the Facebook groups where these rumors began circulating removed the poorly drawn development sketches (which appear to have been made in Microsoft Paint, and incorrectly identified the former Acme location as Pilesgrove). And while most people were smart enough to recognize a fake account, it begged the question: Is there any truth to the rumors?

No. It's fake.

Saturday evening, just to be sure, I reached out to a source connected with the Pilesgrove Planning Board and they confirmed they've received no notice of development, nor has the planning board reviewed any developments concerning a Culver's Restaurant.

The Waffle House would be in Woodstown territory despite the graphic claiming the old Acme being in Pilesgrove — but if one is untrue, it's safe to bet the other is too. 

I cannot confirm if this was the case, but often times organizations called "Troll Farms" or "Troll Factories" will create fake Facebook (or other social media) profiles, infiltrate local community groups, and purposely cause chaos. When the arguments are sparked, whoever is controlling the account will harvest the data of the people arguing, confirming who among them are actual residents of that community. Then, the operator of the fake account will sell that data to tech companies for huge sums of money. Those companies will ceaselessly advertise to those residents, create trend analysis of those residents, and attempt to influence their elections. 

Russia and China will often weaponize troll farms to conduct information and psychological operations against their populations. Think of it as the Orwellian "Big Brother," except that Big Brother isn't just watching — it's collecting and subliminally controlling.

Apart from population control, why do the operators of these accounts harvest and sell the data? Likely because, in recent years, data has eclipsed oil as the most valuable resource on Earth. A 2017 report in The Economist confirms the shift.

Now, I'm not trying to scare anyone. It's just the truth of the times in which we're living. Best to stay vigilant online, my friends. Click here for a helpful resource on the history of troll farms. Click here for a refresher on how to secure and protect your personal and family's online data.

Luckily, Woodstown and Pilesgrove residents weren't fooled.

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Want to share your Woodstown-Pilesgrove news in the Crier Column? Email Jim Cook at WoodstownCrier@gmail.com 

Crier Column 8/23: Woodstown Students Honored! Senior Art Showcase; Back to School Block Party; Football and Band first scrimmage; Actors needed for Yuletide Tour; Flu Clinic; Crime Log

 THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2024

Woodstown Odyssey of the Mind team: Kaitlyn Crane, Torsten Duva, Annabelle Lafond, Bella Lucas, Bianca Martell, Milaeha Watts, Amy Wilson. This team took place second in the State Finals (with a first in Style) on April 13. They were honored this week along with many other Wolverines who distinguished themselves during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Hear ye, hear ye! O yez, o yez!

GOOD NEWS

Buckle up — we've got a lot to cover! Who was in love with the weather this week? Can it be like that every day, please?! Let's start with the good news.

GHOST TOUR: I had the distinct opportunity to visit Old City Philadelphia by way of my good friends Lance Bird and Kate Dilks, of Woodstown, and my sister Heather. Lance Bird gave us, and a crowd of about 20 spectators, a Ghost Tour of the historic district. What I loved most about it, however, was his emphasis on history. Bird, an elementary school teacher for South Harrison and church musician at First Baptist in Woodstown, moonlights as a well-read historian and exceptional storyteller. The tour impressed us all, learning about the founders of our country, the impact of the Yellow Fever pandemic in the 1790s on medical science, the First and Second National Banks, and the fascinating lore of Old City.

IT GOT US THINKING: What if we did the same in Woodstown? A Woodstown Ghost Tour with an emphasis on well-researched local history? It may happen in the coming months so stay tuned. In the meantime, book your Philly tour by Lance Bird by clicking here.

Lance and I will be making music at First Baptist this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Don't miss us!

♦

RUMOR: Sunshine Nutrition is moving and the location will be replaced by a Taco Shop. I love tacos but I have no more information on that. 

COMPLAINTS AND CRIMES

There's been quite a bit of chatter this week in the local Facebook groups and I think some of it bears repeating here:

SMOKING: This week, young athletes filled Marlton Park to hone their new skills in cheerleading and football. There's a lot of positive energy! One resident complained (and I agree with her) of the smoking from parents. 

"I am breathing it on the sidelines and so are the kids. The park is smoke free," the resident wrote. She's right. You can survive your kid's football practice or cheer meet without a cigarette or a hit on the weed pen. Click here to quit!

SPEEDING: "When is the road double-lining going to be completed on the racetrack otherwise known as Marlton Road?" one resident asked this week. "Children are present too." Those of us who live on or near Marlton Rd. would appreciate everyone go 35 mph — the posted speed limit.

GRAND THEFT AUTO: Two vehicles were stolen overnight on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2024, according to the Woodstown Police Department. Both vehicles were unlocked with the keys inside. "We would like to remind residents to remove valuables and secure your vehicles every night." Woodstown is the type of place where you may feel like you don't have to do that, but you do. Crime-ridden, we are not, but the occasional loon who thinks he can make off with a car, we've got a few. One vehicle was located. No word on the thieves.

ASSAULT: Earlier this month, a woman was reportedly assaulted on South Main Street by a man who has a history of violent behavior and once served a prison sentence in 2017 for attempted murder.

Police arrested Edward Carter, 44, of Woodstown, and charged him with aggravated assault and criminal restraint. Carter was transported to Salem County Correctional Facility. The investigation remains ongoing.

Carter has a history of arrests in Woodstown. In March 2017, he was charged with stabbing a 62-year-old Cape May County resident Richard Hawthorne at Carter's home on South Main Street. Carter pleaded guilty to the charge of attempted murder. The incident occurred two years prior on May 27, 2015. He was sentenced to seven years in state prison and, as part of the plea deal, was required to serve 85 percent of the time before being eligible for parole. 

Authorities reported Carter stabbed Hawthorne in the neck, chest, and stomach. Hawthorne survived the attack, but Carter fled the scene and was arrested by police on West Grant Street. At the time of the arrest, Carter was charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. 

OPINION: Here's my two-cents: The assault and the auto theft were rare, isolated incidents. Yes, lock your cars and take your keys in the house. Yes, lock your doors, garage, windows, gate, shed. Don't leave valuables outdoors. 

But also don't fear — Woodstown and Pilesgrove are both safe, wonderful communities with very little crime. I've been writing this column for seven months now and never reported a single crime because there truly were none to report. Do not panic. 

COMMUNITY

WOLVERINES HONORED: The best and brightest Wolverines were honored by their school district earlier this month for going above and beyond outside of the classroom and distinguishing themselves with great honors. Here are photos and descriptions of their accomplishments:

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND: WMS Odyssey of the Mind team took place second in the State Finals (with a first in Style) on April 13. Though Woodstown did not place at the World Finals (May 21-24), it beat out the Saddle River Team, who had won the State Finals. Way to go!!!

Pictured here: Savannah Hiles, who represented Woodstown in the South Jersey Elementary Chorus.

SJ CHOIR: Congratulations to 5th graders Joseph Eggers, Savannah Hiles, and Kaylin Reese and 4th graders Helen Guerriero and Chloe Smith who represented the Shoemaker School in the South Jersey Elementary Chorus Festival. They participated in an all-day rehearsal and concert at Washington Township High School along with other outstanding music students from schools around South Jersey. We are proud of their accomplishments!

ALL STATE CHOIR:  Each year, Woodstown students practice and audition for membership in the New Jersey All State Chorus where they have the opportunity to rehearse with the finest singers from across the state under the leadership of a distinguished guest conductor. It’s an extremely competitive selection process and these five WHS students were accepted for the 2023-2024 season. Students honored were Natalee Basile, Jessie Bittle, Danielle Hannah, Elizabeth Hitchner and Brianna Iocona.

AMERICAN INSPIRATION: Carter Smith, a sophomore at Woodstown, won First Place in the Regional Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Essay contents and took Third Place for the state of N.J. His essay "How America Inspires Me" opened with this paragraph:

“I am inspired by America from the dreams that are made true and the dreams that are yet to come. I am inspired by the individuals who dedicate everything they have to create something that was never thought to be possible. I am inspired by the ones who uplift others putting their lives at risk for the greater good. I am inspired when I see one with the faith to continue what they are doing even when they are in the depths of despair.”

TRACK HONORS: 4 x 800 Relay Track Team; Coach-Reggie Teemer, Asst Coach-Alex Dominy, Athletes-Karson Chew, Joshua Crawford, Jacob Marino, Cole Lucas. These hardworking young men brought home the NJSIAA Group I State Champions with a time of 8:11.67.

A hearty congratulations to our outstanding Wolverines!!

♦

ART: Salem County Senior Art Show at First Baptist Church on Friday, Aug. 23, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

♦

ELEMENTARY: Mary S. Shoemaker School New Family Orientation event will be held Wed., Aug. 28 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Shoemaker School.

♦

BLOCK PARTY: The Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District is hosting a Back to School Block Party on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Mary S. Shoemaker Activity Fields (201 E. Millbrooke Ave). Free admission. There will be food, giveaways, games, music/karaoke, school bus safety, community opportunities, a bouncy house, and the WHS Football team will host a scrimmage at 6 p.m. on the WHS Clint Ware Field. For more info, call the main offices at 856-769-0144.

♦

CAR WASH: The WHS Bands will be hosting a Car Wash at the WHS Horseshoe (parking lot at the main entrance of the school) on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024 beginning at 9 a.m. Cost is $10 per car and $15 per SUV. 

♦

TRACTOR FUN: Tapas, Taps, Tractors Event at Friends Village on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature:

• Tractor Show

• Complimentary Food, Beer & Wine Samplings featuring Farmers & Bankers Brewery and Wagonhouse Winery

• Live Music

• Pick Your Own Sunflowers in our Sunflower Field and more!

Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.

This is a free event, no tickets required!

Click here for more information.

♦

RUN: Healthy Kids Running Series starts Sept. 15. Early bird pricing ends Aug. 25. More details and sign-up click here.

♦

FALL FESTIVAL: The 20th Annual Woodstown Fall Festival will be held Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will be kicked off with a W-P School District 5K Run and Kids Dash at 8 a.m. at Marlton Park. Vendors, click here to sign up (deadline is Sept. 20, cost is $50/vendor). Admission is free to the public. Here is a dispatch from the organizers: 

"Each year in September, Woodstown's historic downtown shopping district comes alive; scarecrows by the dozens keep watch along the streets; historic houses are decorated in their fall best; and vendors, crafters and local shops line their food and wares along Main Street eager to greet the thousands of tourists and towns people who come out to celebrate fall during Woodstown's Annual Fall Festival"

♦

INTERGENERATIONAL: Woodstown Friends Meeting will host Intergenerational Family activities throughout the fall. See the list below:

• September 29, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.. -Let’s celebrate the coming of fall with the game “As the Wind Blows” and decorate and bake cookies to take home.
• October 27, 2024 – 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Join Teacher Kate, the popular music teacher at Friends School Mullica Hill, for an interactive hour of music making and dance. We will sing both new and familiar songs, enjoy some interactive folk dancing and play percussion instruments as a group.
• December 8, 2024 – 9:15 AM to 10:30 AM—We will celebrate the holidays with holiday-themed story and craft time. You won’t walk away empty-handed!

♦

FARMER'S MARKET: There will be a Farmer's Market held on Oct. 19, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The organizers are seeking vendors with vegetables/fruits, pumpkins/plants, cornstalks/flowers, breads, honey, crafters, and quilters. Contact Linda Fritz at LAFritz19@Yahoo.com.

♦

FLU CLINIC: The Salem County Department of Health and Human Services will host the following Flu Clinics for residents ages 3 and older. No appointment necessary.

• Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Fair Grounds, Rt. 40, Pilesgrove. Drive-Thru. 
• Tuesday, Oct. 1, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Salem County Dept. of Health. 110 5th St., Salem. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Lower Alloway's Creek Fire & Rescue. 15 New St, Hancock's Bridge. Drive Thru.
• Thursday, Oct. 17, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Salem Community College, Davidow Hall. 460 Hollywood Ave, Carneys Point. Walk-in.
• Tuesday, Oct. 22, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Shalick High School, 718 Centerton Rd., Pittsgrove. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Oldmans Municipal Building, 40 Freed Rd., Pedricktown. Walk-in.
• Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Carney's Point Municipal Building, 303 Harding Hwy, Carneys Point. Walk-in.

ENTERTAINMENT

ACTORS NEEDED: A dispatch from Salem Main Street and the Blue Moon Theatre:

The 37th Annual historic Yuletide tour of Salem County is looking for reenactors to participate in their event on December 7th from 1-6 rain or shine. This is a Paid position (with donations from those involved in the event).  Currently they are looking for:

Fredrick Douglas (1st lawyer) and Fredrick's daughter a teacher, Hetty Reckless a slave who went on to help free other slaves. Her owner was the governor in Salem and his wife was very hateful to Hetty., Harriet Tubman, and a Father Christmas who could also be like a town crier, Decreeing the day dedicated to the many people celebrating the upcoming holiday season.

If you are unfamiliar with any of the characters, please research them.  You will find them to be amazing individuals. 

If you are interested, please contact Cheryl Stark at Cherstark@hotmail.com or call at 856-905-5840.

♦

OPEN MIC: The Blue Moon Theatre will host an Open Mic Comedy night on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Sign up when you arrive for performing. Tickets are $5.

♦

THEATRE: The Blue Moon Theatre presents "Little Shop of Horrors" on September 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $25. The cast was just announced and features Nicholas Renna, Rachel Grodek, Greg Hanmell, Tyler Kulik, Taye Hopkins, Aimee Ferenz, Celeste Daesy Moon, Shabria Moore, and Andrew Fralinger. Click here for tickets.

♦

AUDITIONS: The Blue Moon Theatre will host auditions for "RUMORS" by Neil Simon on Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with callbacks on Monday, Sept. 30. Director Dominic Spadaccini is seeking four men, four women, and three actors of any gender for the comedy. Sign up here.

SPORTS

First Football scrimmage is Thurs. Aug 29.

The Woodstown Athletic Department website, a hub for all things Woodstown High School sports, can be found here.

SCORES

SCHEDULE

WATCH LIVE EVENTS HERE

GOVERNMENT

Woodstown Borough Council and Pilesgrove Twp Committee meet the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

WEEKEND WEATHER

FRIDAY: Sunny. High of 82F. Low of 54F.

SATURDAY: Mostly sunny. High of 84F. Low of 58F.

SUNDAY: Sunny. High of 86F. Low of 60F.

Forecast: Wasn't the cooler weather wonderful this week? I bet our electric bills feel eased. That was what we call False Fall -- a break in the summer. Expect temperatures to climb into the upper 80s throughout the week. Lows in the high 60s. Mostly sunny. 

♦

Woodstown Crier: Where the last week of a strange Summer is days away, but the best Autumn is yet to come. I can already taste the Apple Cider!

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Want to share your Woodstown-Pilesgrove news in the Crier Column? Email Jim Cook at WoodstownCrier@gmail.com