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Category: South Jersey

  • Philly sets a rain record, and more showers are possible Friday and Saturday

    Philly sets a rain record, and more showers are possible Friday and Saturday

    It may be a while before the drought advisories disappear, but since Monday Philadelphia has had more rain than in any entire month since March 2025. And the city of Camden has been clocked well over a half-foot of rain.

    In both instances, if it seemed like most of that came in a hurry, it did.

    On Thursday, for the second time in a week, downpours set off a flood of warnings in the city, the neighboring counties and Delaware.

    And more showers are possible Friday and Saturday, but the atmosphere isn’t expected to upstage its performance since it turned off last weekend’s 100-degree heat.

    Thursday’s downpours wrung out 2 and 3 inches of rain in several towns across the region.

    Flooding was reported along numerous roads, with vehicles stranded, including in the vicinity of the Ben Franklin Bridge, the National Weather Service said. The rains could continue until 7 or 8 p.m. Thursday, said Alex Staarmann, meteorologist inthe Mount Holly office.

    Multiple water rescues have been reported in Wilmington.

    Philadelphia broke a 74-year-old record for a July 9 with 2.61 inches of rain measured officially, according to the weather service.

    At one point flood warnings had been posted for the city and in all seven neighboring counties.

    But the rain lately has been random. And in the grand casino of the atmosphere, that was the case Thursday, and not every place got the soakings.

    The drought conditions are likely to persist despite the storms

    In the weekly inter-agency U.S. Drought Monitor update posted Thursday, some degree of drought conditions persisted in all of New Jersey, Philly, and the neighboring Pennsylvania counties.

    The drought monitor has most of the region was in “moderate drought,” with some improvement in Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester Counties.

    But all of Chester County and most Montgomery County were in “severe drought.” Southeastern New Jersey, including the Shore towns, were in “extreme drought.”

    Soil moisture levels will remain significantly below normal during the next week, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.

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    And it appears the atmospheric faucets are going to shut after Saturday.

    Said Joseph DeSilva, meteorologist at the weather service’s Mounty Holly office, “Next week looks pretty dry.”

  • Mount Laurel schools name longtime Cherry Hill educator Neil Burti as new superintendent

    Mount Laurel schools name longtime Cherry Hill educator Neil Burti as new superintendent

    Mount Laurel public schools will start the next academic year with a new leader at the helm.

    Neil Burti will take over as superintendent of schools starting Aug. 1, succeeding George Rafferty, who is retiring after leading the district for a decade.

    After an extensive search, “Dr. Burti distinguished himself as the candidate whose experience, leadership style, and vision best aligned with the needs of the Mount Laurel School District,” Danielle Stuffo, president of the Mount Laurel Board of Education, said in an email.

    Burti has more than 25 years of experience as an educator and administrator and is a longtime employee of the Cherry Hill Public Schools. While there, he served at all levels of leadership and was most recently the director of secondary education for the district.

    Earlier this year, Burti also stepped in to handle the principal responsibilities during the second half of the school year at Cherry Hill High School East following a period of administrative upheaval in the school district.

    The shake-up came after a lawsuit filed last September alleged that East’s former principal, alongside the Cherry Hill Board of Education and two other top administrators, subjected a former assistant principal to discrimination and retaliation.

    A new principal at East, John Cafagna, took over this month.

    “We are confident [Burti] will build upon the district’s many strengths, work collaboratively with our staff and community, and continue our focus on providing an exceptional educational experience for every student,” Stuffo said.

    Stuffo said the district’s goals will largely remain the same under new leadership.

    She acknowledged that the district will need to address increasing financial pressures, as Mount Laurel has not been spared from the budgetary challenges affecting school districts across New Jersey.

    Like other districts, Stuffo said, Mount Laurel will work to continuously improve student experience and outcomes while adapting to evolving educational needs — and doing so within an increasingly limited budget.

    “Fortunately, Mount Laurel is well positioned, with excellent staff and strong systems already in place. As Dr. Burti becomes familiar with the district, he will have the opportunity to evaluate our organizational structure and administrative leadership and, if appropriate, make recommendations to the Board for consideration,” she said in the email.

    Burti was named the 2024 New Jersey Secondary School Principal of the Year during his time leading Cherry Hill’s John A. Carusi Middle School.

    Burti holds a bachelor’s degree in movement studies and exercise science from East Stroudsburg University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Temple University, and a doctorate in innovation and leadership from Wilmington University.

  • Medford approves four housing projects with more than 200 affordable units to meet state mandate

    Medford approves four housing projects with more than 200 affordable units to meet state mandate

    Tackling what local officials called “one of the most significant matters” facing the Medford community, township council approved four redevelopment projects Tuesday night that will bring hundreds of affordable units to the township.

    All of the projects are part of Medford’s effort to meet their state-mandated affordable housing requirements. The housing obligations stem from a 1975 New Jersey Supreme Court ruling requiring that all municipalities develop a certain amount of affordable housing.

    Every 10 years, each municipality in the state is given a specific quota of affordable units to plan for over the next decade based on considerations that include population, income, and land capacity.

    The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development generally follows the 30% rule to determine affordability — any dwelling that costs 30% or less of a household’s gross income is deemed affordable.

    In New Jersey, affordable housing is restricted to households with earnings that must be at or below 80% of the area median income for the area. In Medford, the median household income is $157,969, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau. That would mean any household earning less than roughly $126,375 per year would be eligible for the new affordable units.

    The state most recently determined Medford must build a total of 240 affordable units by 2035.

    The four development proposals that were approved would collectively add 226 affordable housing units as part of approximately 1,067 total new residential units within the township. All of the projects also plan for some type of on-site recreational amenity like playgrounds, pavilions, or picnic areas.

    As part of the agreements, builder D.R. Horton will pay the township a $3 million redeveloper’s fee and a $1.7 million recreational and community benefit contribution that will be split between local nonprofits and the Medford Youth Athletic Association.

    While the township has enough water infrastructure capacity for the new developments, D.R. Horton has also agreed to construct a water tower through the use of a $5 million special assessment bond with no cost to the township if it’s determined that water pressure is insufficient, Township Solicitor Patrick Varga said.

    Large housing developments are often contentious in South Jersey, especially in places like Medford where residents value open space and are concerned more families will overburden an already cash-strapped school district.

    In response to resident concerns about overbuilding, Medford Mayor Mike Czyzyk said Tuesday that the only residential communities that the township has approved in recent memory were related to the township’s affordable housing requirements.

    “Medford has had a history of not building residential unless it’s required by the state,” Czyzyk told attendees during the meeting. “So as it stands today, there are no large or small-scale residential tracts being developed. There may be parcels being developed for residential use, like on Mill Street and in different areas, but there’s no communities coming to Medford outside of the ones required to be built to satisfy our affordable housing need.”

    During Tuesday’s meeting, one resident questioned the township’s need to move forward with all of the projects at once, especially given that it is still so early in the 10-year window. But officials said that the timeline was out of their hands and they had a state deadline to meet.

    “Every town in the state of New Jersey was required to adopt and finalize how it was going to comply with its Housing Element and Fair Share Plan for the Fourth Round by March 15,” Varga said. “The Township of Medford was one of a handful of towns that received an extension.”

    Now that council has approved the redevelopment agreements, the township will be taking the plans before a judge who will determine if Medford is in compliance with their housing requirements.

    Here’s what’s included in each of the redevelopment plans:

    The Reserve at Ironbridge

    Located on a 64-acre parcel at the intersection of Church and Eayrestown Roads, the Reserve at Ironbridge will include up to 287 total units, 48 of which will be designated as affordable.

    Landing at Kirby’s Mill

    Not far away, a 61-acre lot at Church and Fostertown Roads will become the 198-unit Landing at Kirby’s Mill. Forty of these units will be affordable.

    Trollinger-Stonebridge

    The largest of the four projects, the Trollinger-Stonebridge project will total more than 164 acres northeast of Church Road and County Route 541. The project includes up to 48 affordable units out of a total of 300 new residences. This project also includes plans for a bike trail to be constructed and paid for by the builder, pending state approval.

    Flying W

    Planned for a 114-acre lot on Fostertown Road, Flying W includes the greatest affordable housing contribution among the four projects. With 90 affordable units, 31% of the 282 total units will be set aside for low-income residents. All market-rate units in the development will be age-restricted.

  • What to know about the closure of the Ben Franklin Bridge this Saturday

    What to know about the closure of the Ben Franklin Bridge this Saturday

    With Philadelphia’s Fourth of July festivities for the United States’ 250th birthday having come and gone, this weekend will mark a celebration for a newly minted centenarian. And with any luck, that party won’t run so late.

    Technically, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge turned 100 on July 1, but the Delaware River Port Authority will mark that milestone with a party Saturday.

    Set to take place from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the Camden side of the bridge near its toll plaza, the event will close the bridge to vehicles for much of the day, allowing attendees to walk the span’s roadway.

    The party will feature interactive historical displays, food trucks, music, and other activities. It’s open to the public and free to attend, and while not required, advance registration via the DRPA website is encouraged, officials said.

    “For 100 years, the Ben Franklin Bridge has stood as more than a crossing over the Delaware River. It is a public promise,” John T. Hanson, DRPA chief executive officer, said in a statement. “We are proud to invite the public to celebrate its past, recognize those who have preserved it, and look ahead to the next 100 years.”

    Here is what you need to know:

    Closed to cars

    Due to the event, the bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic in both directions from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, DRPA officials said in a statement.

    Road closures around the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, officials said, should be expected during the event. However, the Walt Whitman and Betsy Ross Bridges will remain open for motorists.

    While the bridge travel lanes will be open to foot traffic, the pedestrian walkway will be closed during the event. It will reopen at 2:30 p.m., and continue to operating until 9 p.m., the usual closing time.

    Additionally, PATCO trains will continue to operate across the bridge Saturday, with enhanced service instituted to allow trains to run every 15 minutes throughout the bridge celebration.

    How to get there

    For those looking to get to the Camden side’s main party area, DRPA officials advise using the PATCO option from Philadelphia, which can get you to Camden’s City Hall station nearby.

    There will also be a complimentary shuttle service operating continuously throughout the event. One shuttle route runs between the Camden City Hall station and the event entrance, and another from PATCO’s Franklin Square Station at 7th and Race Streets in Philly to the event site in Camden, DRPA spokesperson Mike Williams said.

    And, of course, from Philly, you could just get to the Jersey side by walking across the bridge. Starting from the main event area in Camden is not required

    “The bridge walk is really the centerpiece of the celebration, and we hope attendees take advantage of this rare opportunity,” Williams said.

    Bikes are permitted on the roadway but are not permitted in the main party area.

    For those who plan on driving, parking areas will be available on the Jersey side. They include free lots at Rutgers University, on-street metered parking, and a paid parking garage at Camden Technology Center, DRPA said.

    What if it rains?

    Saturday’s event will go on rain or shine, and there is no rain date, Williams said.

    Officials had announced a rain date of July 12, but the event logistics made a rain date impractical, Williams said.

    Things to do

    In addition to the food trucks and vendors, the event will feature dance performances and special guests.

    A “Winged Victory” statue, one of four that originally sat atop the bridge at its opening in 1926, will also be on display.

    A family fun zone will offer an inflatable obstacle course and oversized yard games, as well as face painting and other entertainment, organizers said. And attendees will also be able to get up-close views of the vehicles that work on the bridge, such as a barrier mover known as a “zipper machine,” as well as front-end loaders, and dump trucks.

  • A South Jersey K-9 sergeant is charged in the death of two dogs in hot patrol vehicle

    A South Jersey K-9 sergeant is charged in the death of two dogs in hot patrol vehicle

    A sergeant with the Salem County Sheriff’s Office has been charged in connection with the deaths of two K-9 dogs who were left for seven hours in an unattended hot patrol vehicle, prosecutors said Wednesday.

    Cody Henderson, 41, was charged Tuesday with two counts of recklessly causing bodily injury to a living animal, and related offenses, including unnecessary cruelty to animals, Salem County Prosecutor Kristin J. Telsey said.

    According to the complaint filed against Henderson, surveillance video showed the K-9 handler arriving to work on May 29 shortly before 8:30 a.m. in his county issued 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe with Rip, a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois, and Boomer, a 6-year-old springer spaniel.

    Henderson did not return to the vehicle until just after 3:30 p.m. and found both dogs dead in his patrol vehicle, prosecutors said.

    He then transported the two dogs to an animal hospital in Delaware, prosecutors said.

    Later that evening, the sheriff’s office notified the Salem County Prosecutor’s Office about the K-9 deaths.

    Necropsies conducted on both dogs determined that they likely died from heat stroke with no evidence of other causes, prosecutors said.

    There was no evidence that a K-9 heat alarm “Hot-N-Pop” device in the vehicle malfunctioned, and that it was “presumably turned off on the above date,” the complaint said.

    The “Hot-N-Pop” device lowers windows and triggers sirens and flashing lights if the interior of a vehicle is too hot.

    Henderson could be reached for comment.

    In a statement posted on social media, Salem County Sheriff Charles M. Miller wrote that Henderson had been charged in connection with the “deaths of his assigned canine partners.”

    Rip and Boomer “exemplified the highest standards of service, loyalty, and dedication. Their contributions to public safety and their commitment to duty will not be forgotten. The loss of these loyal partners has had a profound impact on our agency, our law enforcement community, and the citizens they faithfully served,” Miller said.

    “We continue to honor the memory and service of Rip and Boomer and extend our thoughts to all those affected by this tragic loss,” Miller said.

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  • EMR will reopen Camden facility after recent fire, following judge’s ruling

    EMR will reopen Camden facility after recent fire, following judge’s ruling

    The EMR scrap metal recycling plant will reopen after Camden suspended its operations following a late May fire, the latest in a string of fires in recent years.

    The decision fell to Camden Superior Court Judge Stephen J. Polansky on Wednesday after the Camden City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday against a settlement that would have allowed EMR to reopen under certain safety precautions. EMR had sued Camden for suspending its junkyard license last month for the facility, where Camden officials say there have been more than a dozen fires in the last six years.

    Shortly after the hearing, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s office announced that she signed a bill into law aimed at increasing safety in the scrap metal industry led by Assembly member Bill Moen, a Camden County Democrat. He introduced the bill after a four-alarm fire in February 2025 at EMR.

    The court fight to open EMR

    The judge said EMR can open its doors only if it follows a list of safety precautions. The company’s legal team told The Inquirer that it had already fulfilled those requirements and is ready to open as soon as the judge submits his order.

    “We intend to open and operate in accordance with the judge’s order, which directly incorporates the recommendations of EMR’s third-party fire expert,” Joe Balzano, CEO of EMR USA, told The Inquirer after the hearing Wednesday. “EMR is the only scrap metal recycling facility in the state of New Jersey that has a facility-wide fire suppression system installed and operating.”

    Among the required precautions are a 24-7 fire watch, fire suppression system testing, and procedures for scanning material coming into the facility and responding to fires.

    In court, EMR’s legal team argued that the city did not have the authority to suspend its license without proper hearing or notice, and that the company has undergone irreparable harm as a result. It has lost millions of dollars, endured tainted industry relationships, and, as of Wednesday morning, sent more than 300 layoff notices, said Kathleen Campbell, a lawyer for EMR.

    The fire took place on May 29, at which point EMR voluntarily shut down its operations. The city issued an immediate suspension notice days later, on June 4. A big question in the courtroom was whether there was enough of an emergency at that point that the city could circumvent its normal due process.

    “The city can regulate,” Campbell said in court. “What it can’t do is continue an emergency shutdown when there is no basis for it. The fire is over. The testing that this court authorized is complete.”

    She argued that the city is more worried about a “desire to keep EMR closed” than an actual immediate danger.

    William Tambussi, the city’s lawyer, argued that the possibility of another fire was enough to present an emergency.

    Camden Fire Chief Jesse Flax talks with people during a community meeting for residents, affected by a 2025 fire at EMR, at MJD Fieldhouse Gym on Broadway in Camden on Sunday, February 23, 2025.

    “The city is required and has the right to protect its citizens from the harms that come,” he said in court.

    Tambussi said after the hearing that the judge’s decision is still a win for the city because the safety precautions EMR has to follow overlap with what the city wants from the company.

    “The judge found that the city rushed the process, which the city doesn’t apologize for,” he said in an interview.

    Camden and EMR will meet again in court in August, where they will assess whether EMR has complied. The city can also attempt to shut down EMR through a full hearing process if it finds that the company has violated its terms of opening. The city cannot, however, just shut the company down.

    A new law stemming from a Camden County legislator’s fight against EMR

    The law Sherrill signed on Wednesday, which goes into effect in a year, will require heat detection equipment, publicly accessible fire safety plans developed with local fire officials, and compliance with certain fire prevention standards. It also requires fire suppression systems that can be remotely operated and limits the height allowed for piles of material.

    The legislation is part of a four-bill package Moen has been pushing for in Trenton, but is the only one to make it to the governor’s desk before the summer recess.

    “We were met at every step of the way with opposition from a well-funded industry,” Moen said in an interview Wednesday.

    Balzano, the CEO of EMR USA, said in an interview Wednesday that he believes his Camden site is mostly in line with what the new law requires. But he said the height limit would be “very detrimental to the industry and probably to the environment,” arguing that it is too broad and applies to scrap metal that is not prone to fires. He said that could have “unintended consequences” by having scrap metal spread out across more space.

    “I fully support the premise of it,” said Balzano, who has pointed to lithium-ion batteries as a source of scrap metal fires.

    Moen emphasized that while the issue of scrap metal fires has become particularly important in Camden, it is not restricted to the city’s borders. Scrap metal sites in Vineland and Newark, for example, have also seen fires in recent years.

    “This will be the first step in hopefully many of the state bringing greater transparency, accountability, and an expected level of responsibility for these scrap facilities,” Moen said.

  • The best things to do in South Jersey this weekend

    The best things to do in South Jersey this weekend

    The weekend is so close. If you need help settling on plans, check out this list of our favorite things to do in South Jersey this weekend.

    Come back every week, and you’ll always have something on your radar for the end of your week.

    USA 250 Celebration

    Come to Evesham Township’s official party for America’s Semiquincentennial for live music, family-friendly activities, live music, barbecue, ice cream, and a car show.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 📍 The Promenade at Sagemore, 500 Route 73 South, Marlton 🌐 facebook.com/EveshamTownship 💵 Pay-as-you go

    Ben Franklin Bridge 100th Anniversary Celebration

    If you’ve never walked the length of the bridge, this is your chance. Celebrate the iconic bridge marking a century with food trucks and vendors, inflatable obstacle courses for kids, historical displays, and various speakers and live entertainment. The bridge will be closed to cars during the celebration.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. 📍 The Camden side of the bridge near the toll plaza 🌐 drpa.org 💵 Pay-as-you go

    Mood’s Farm Market Blueberry Festival

    Compete in a blueberry dessert contest, listen to live jazz music, buy blueberry-themed treats, and peruse various craft vendors selling candles, flowers, antiques, and more.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 📍 Mood’s Farm Market, 901 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill 🌐 moodsfarmmarket.com 💵 Pay-as-you go

    Butterfly Festival and Old-Fashioned Picnic

    Show your love for butterflies with historic house tours, crafts, live music, an art show, and more. Don’t miss the butterfly release and parade. Bring your own blanket and picnic lunch. If you skip bringing lunch from home, there are options from food trucks.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 📍 Red Bank Battlefield, 100 Hessian Ave., National Park 🌐 visitsouthjersey.com 💵 Free

    Haddonfield Crafts & Fine Art Festival

    The 32nd annual family-friendly festival in downtown Haddonfield showcases accessories, candles, ceramics, clothes, jewelry, fiber art, and so much more. Stroll through the festival while grabbing a bite to eat at one of the several food vendors.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. 📍 Kings Highway and Tanner Street and in Kings Court, Haddonfield 🌐 renaissancecraftables.com 💵 Pay-as-you go

    Country in the Park Food & Music Festival

    Enjoy live country music, food trucks, child-friendly activities, and a bar. Line-dance the night away, and be sure to test your skills on the mechanical bull.

    ⌚️ Saturday, July 11, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 📍 Washington Lake Park, 626 Hurffville Crosskeys Rd., Sewell 🌐 justjerseyfest.com 💵 $5.49 for pre-event ticket sales, $8 at the door

    Gloucester County’s Family Fun Shows

    Children and families are encouraged to sing and dance with scheduled performers. The interactive shows vary from magic to dinosaur puppets shows.

    ⌚️ Multiple dates from July 2 to Aug. 19; all shows begin at 10:30 a.m. 📍 Various park locations 🌐 gloucestercountynj.gov 💵 Free

    Yoga at Cooper River Park

    Take a free yoga class. All ages are welcome, but bring your own yoga mat.

    ⌚️ Mondays, 6-7 p.m.; Wednesdays, 9-10 am; and Thursdays, 6-7 p.m. 📍 Cooper River Park, 5300 North Park Dr., Pennsauken 🌐 camdencounty.com 💵 Free, but registration is required

    The Art of Lisa Hendrickson Exhibit

    Lisa Hendrickson is a Philly-area artist who combines traditional oil techniques with mixed media materials such as cardboard, newsprint, paper bags, and corks to share the beauty that can be found in ordinary objects. Her artwork often has themes of the issues related to gender inequality, homelessness, and gun violence.

    ⌚️ Multiple dates through Sunday, Aug. 30, 12 p.m-4 p.m. 📍 Warden’s House Gallery, 150 High St., Mount Holly 🌐 burlingtoncountynj.gov 💵 Free

    Collingswood Farmers Market

    The Saturday market brings fresh produce, meat, coffee, flowers, and live music to Collingwood and supports the regions farmers every week.

    ⌚️ Every Saturday from May through Nov. 21, 8 a.m.-noon 📍 Atlantic Avenue between Collings and Irvin Avenues (along PATCO), Collingswood 🌐 collingswoodmarket.com 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    Haddon Heights Farmer’s Market

    This Sunday farmer’s market offers multiple vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and other entertainment from local businesses.

    ⌚️ Sundays from April 14 through Nov. 22, 9:30 a.m.–1p.m. 📍 The intersection of Station and Atlantic Avenues, Haddon Heights 🌐 haddonheightsfarmersmarket.com 💵 Pay-as-you-go

    This roundup will be updated every Wednesday.

  • After the flood | Inquirer South Jersey

    After the flood | Inquirer South Jersey

    Good morning, South Jersey.

    New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill visited Camden on Tuesday to thank first responders the day after thunderstorms caused intense flooding — and to promote her fight against data centers.

    And experts are saying poverty is impacting three times as many state residents than what’s recorded in official federal measurements.

    Plus, a man allegedly tried to buy a Pokémon card worth $24,000 with fake cryptocurrency in Marlton, and more news of the day.

    — Taylor Allen (southjersey@inquirer.com)

    If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

    Gov. Sherrill’s post-storm visit

    Gov. Sherrill visited Camden a day after what local officials call the worst flooding they have ever seen in the city.

    American Red Cross workers have been providing cleaning supplies, snacks, and water as residents navigate the aftermath. No injuries had been reported, but there were more than 1,000 calls to emergency services, and 14 people were rescued from the flooded streets.

    Sherrill urged residents to report damage through the Office of Emergency Management so the state knows how much federal assistance to request.

    She also thanked the first responders and touted her recently signed legislation aimed at data centers, which she said would help prevent strain on the power grid during future storms.

    The Inquirer’s Aliya Schneider has more details about her visit and legislation.

    Experts say state poverty is higher than official federal figures

    According to the federal government, 859,000 New Jersey residents are living in poverty, based on the latest statistics available.

    But a new report from Poverty Research Institute of Legal Services of New Jersey (PRI), a legal aid nonprofit, says the figure is closer to three million.

    People who live at or below the federal poverty line qualify for assistance such as SNAP, Medicaid, and school meals. The issue, according to experts, is that even people with incomes twice the poverty rate still need help when considering the actual costs of housing, childcare, food, and healthcare. It doesn’t help that New Jersey has the third-highest cost of living among states.

    “Life’s a struggle,” said one Camden resident whose family makes just enough to be above the federal level. “I would say this feels below the poverty line.”

    The number of meals that the Food Bank of South Jersey has distributed to Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem Counties has increased by more than a third over the last four years to compensate for rising food costs.

    According to PRI, the following are the true poverty rates:

    • Burlington County: 27.2%
    • Camden County: 38%
    • Gloucester County: 29%

    Reporter Alfred Lubrano has the story.

    What to know today

    🧠 Trivia time

    What is the Rutgers-Camden mascot?

    A) The Scarlet Raptor

    B) Sir Henry, the Scarlet Knight

    C) The Scarlet Raider

    D) The Prof, Whoo RU

    Think you know? Check your answer.

    What we’re …

    🎤 Remembering: When Taylor Swift was sighted and then swarmed by fans on Long Beach Island. (Congrats to her and Travis Kelce for getting married over Fourth of July weekend.)

    🎧 Listening: To Beyoncé’s first new song in two years, “Morning Dew (Donk).”

    🏠 Viewing: A spacious and simple home overlooking Rancocas Creek in Delanco. (Is your house a Haven? Nominate your home by email — and send some digital photographs — via properties@inquirer.com.)

    🧩 Unscramble the anagram

    Hint: 🌊 Runs through four states

    ARRIVAL WEEDER

    Email us if you know the answer. We’ll select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Joe Galliera, who solved last Wednesday’s anagram: Walt Whitman. This bridge connects South Philadelphia with Gloucester City.

    🏡 On the market

    This four-bedroom in Chesterfield allows for an abundance of natural light

    This home comes with a two-car garage, a wide driveway, and a front porch.

    The spacious main level of the four-bedroom and 2.5-bath home includes a formal living room, a dining room, a powder room, a family room, and an office. The house was built in 2008 but the kitchen was upgraded in 2025 with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and breakfast bar seating.

    All four bedrooms are upstairs. The primary suite has large closet space and a renovated en suite bath with a Jacuzzi tub.

    See more photos of the property here.

    Price: $750,000 | Size: 3,018 SF | Acreage: 0.13

    I’ll have more news for you tomorrow. See you then! 👋🏽

    By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

  • Gov. Mikie Sherrill says fighting data centers is part of her response to extreme weather during Camden visit after flooding

    Gov. Mikie Sherrill says fighting data centers is part of her response to extreme weather during Camden visit after flooding

    New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill climbed onto an emergency water vehicle in Camden on Tuesday with Camden Fire Chief Jesse Flax. That vehicle, called the High Water One, was used by local emergency responders on Monday to rescue 14 people from the flooded streets of Camden, Flax said.

    The vehicle had arrived in the city one week earlier, just in time for what officials said was the worst flooding they had ever seen in the city, including from Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

    “I’ve never seen this in my whole career,” said Flax, who has worked in the city for three decades. “I’ve seen bad fires, I’ve seen a lot of different things. But I’ve never seen it flood in this capacity.”

    The new High Water Rescue vehicle that was used in the recent rainfall and flooding at the Fire Administration Building in Camden on Tuesday.

    No one was reported injured among 1,000 calls to emergency services.

    Sherrill thanked emergency responders and comforted Maria Perez, a Camden resident recovering from surgery who worked with her neighbors to fight the flooding by “telling them what to do and keeping them calm.”

    “I wanted them to keep plastic bags on their feet, too, because you don’t know what’s in that water. … I’m so glad that we had such a great team,” Perez, a member of the Camden schools advisory board, said in an interview.

    The governor’s visit came just a little more than an hour after she signed legislation in Salem County aimed at data centers. She said that very work can help prevent strain on the power grid during future storms and that the electrical grid is “top of mind” for her.

    Gov. Mikie Sherrill, left, speaks with Maria Perez, center, and Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez, right, at the fire house in Camden on Tuesday.

    “We are seeing these extreme weather events more and more and more frequently,” said Sherrill, who was dealt a historic snowstorm just weeks into her term and has recently seen a deadly heat wave. After her stop in Camden, she went to a BJ’s Wholesale Club store in Monmouth County where a roof fell in from Monday’s flooding.

    One of the bills Sherrill signed into law on Tuesday creates a new ratepayer class and rate structure for data centers that is meant to ensure they pay for their own energy. Another creates more oversight for utility companies’ grid upgrades to try to save money.

    “We’ve set them aside in a separate class of utility users, so that if we have storms like this, they will be first impacted, not normal rate payers,” Sherrill said.

    Data centers have caused concern on both sides of the aisle in South Jersey, with towns including Medford taking steps to block their development locally. But according to county spokesperson Dan Keashen, Camden did not have widespread power outages during the storm, just a handful that were rectified the same day.

    Oscar Parra makes his way to his car in the flooded parking lot at the Ferry Avenue PATCO station in Camden on Monday amid a flash flood threat for the region.

    So what about the damage in Camden?

    Sherrill said residents should report damage through the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management so the state can calculate how much federal assistance to request.

    “There are technical things we need to meet,” she said. “I think we probably will, but we’re collecting that now.”

    American Red Cross workers in Camden on Tuesday were providing cleaning supplies like mops, bleach cleaners, gloves, and tarps — as well as snacks and water, said Diane Concannon, the organization’s communications director for the New Jersey region.

    “Flooding is horrible for any family … because everyone wants to be able to save everything,” she said.

    While the rain was intense, it cleared up quickly because the city has maintained its sewers so well, Sherrill said.

    “They have done a really good job here in Camden with some of these resiliency efforts,” she said. “It’s why this wasn’t worse.”

  • Trump-promoted Freedom Fuel gas stations are opening around Philly. Here’s what we know.

    Trump-promoted Freedom Fuel gas stations are opening around Philly. Here’s what we know.

    Philadelphia-area drivers can now fill up their tanks with less-expensive gasoline promoted by President Donald Trump’s administration, but details on the entire enterprise remain scarce.

    The White House on Tuesday announced the opening of the first Freedom Fuel gas station in Upper Dublin Township, at a former Sunoco station.

    In the undated video, drivers happily filled their tanks for $3.47 a gallon, which the White House said was to honor “our 47th President.” That’s cheaper than the least-expensive gas at nearby stations, according to prices posted by GasBuddy.

    The Freedom Fuel station in Dresher is near a McDonald’s and across the street from a shopping plaza. But what sets it apart from other nearby gas stations is the assortment of American flags planted across its footprint — and the cheaper gas.

    While a nearby Citgo station, about five minutes away, prices regular gas at $3.79 a gallon, and a Gulf offers it at $3.85, Freedom Fuel offers it at $3.47 a gallon.

    For many patrons stopping by Tuesday afternoon, the branding was new — and secondary to savings.

    The Freedom Fuel Network gas station at 1400 Dreshertown Road in Dresher.

    Jessiah Brice, 25, said the Freedom Fuel station was convenient because it is near her job. She had noticed the new branding after the July Fourth holiday and had no idea what it was about, but she welcomed the idea regardless of the affiliation with Trump.

    “Gas should be cheaper,” she said. “My only issue is: How is it $3.47 here and $5 by me?”

    Another gas buyer, who declined to give her name out of privacy concerns, said she had heard of Trump’s efforts to bring cheaper gas to people but had not connected it to her local gas station.

    “What’s not to love?” said another patron, before driving away with a full tank.

    Seyer Hamidi, 36, stumbled upon the station after picking up his car, which he likes to fill up with premium gas, from the mechanic. He, too, welcomed the idea.

    “Gas is going to be high whether you’re a Republican or Democrat,” the Republican said, noting the cheaper gas was a step in the right direction.

    A lot remains unclear, including the names of the participating businesses and how they are able to sell gasoline cheaper than nearby competitors.

    A White House spokesperson confirmed that a website for the Freedom Fuel Network, which showed 25 locations across the Philadelphia region and South Jersey, was accurate. The White House did not confirm that all 25 locations are open and did not provide information about the company.

    The list includes stations in Elmwood Park, Bustleton, and Hunting Park, but it was unclear if every location on the Freedom Fuel website was open.

    A White House spokesperson said the Freedom Fuel Network was a private company and not a government program, adding that the company was not purchasing gasoline at a discount and that the administration has not provided funding. The spokesperson said the business was simply making gas more affordable for drivers in Pennsylvania and New Jersey but did not elaborate.

    The company behind the Freedom Fuel Network did not respond to a request for comment.

    The fuel pumps at the Freedom Fuel Network gas station at 1400 Dreshertown Road in Dresher.

    Beyond that, not much information was available beyond the White House social media post and a statement made by Trump, who wrote on his Truth Social account last week that a “very smart retailer” located throughout the Northeast was “stepping up” to offer a discount at the pump.

    Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, crunched the numbers and said there was no profitable way for Freedom Fuel stations to sell gas so cheaply.

    “Stations selling at this price, it’s not sustainable,” De Haan said. “Generally, when losses happen, somebody’s got to pay for it.”

    De Haan had no insight on who owns the stations or what deals they might have made to purchase gas, but did confirm many of the stations exist in GasBuddy’s database, though the names were “vastly different.”

    Gas prices have been dropping in recent weeks after peaking in May. Prices soared after the United States attacked Iran and the Strait of Hormuz — a key shipping lane — was shut down.

    The average cost of a gallon of gas in Philadelphia on Tuesday was $3.95, according to AAA. That was up nearly 20% from this time last year, when the cost of a gallon of gas averaged $3.31.