Borough of Stratford

The
STRATFORD
FALL ISSUE 2013
Times
digital edition
Halloween Parade October 26, 12 pm
There will be prizes for the various categories of Most Horrible, Most Original,
Fancy and Comical. Come in your favorite costume with your three initials on
your back (if you do not have a middle initial, create one!). Light refreshments will
be served at the conclusion. The parade will begin at the Laurel Mill Shopping
Center and continue across the street to Yellin School parking lot. If inclement
weather it will take place inside Yellin School.
Miss Stratford 2013
Jennifer Abbott
MISS STRATFORD CONTRIBUTORS 2013
ACADEMY PODIATRY ASSOCIATES, PC
ADAGIO DANCE CENTER
AIKIDO AGATSU DOJO
ALL OCCASIONS LIMOUSINE/DAVE GIFFIN
APPLEBEES
ASSADOUR CHOUNGOURIAN
BATH BOUTIQUE/HEATHER MARTIN
BOWMAN & CO LLP/JOHN F. DAILEY, JR.
BOYCE WATCH & JEWELRY REPAIR
BRUCE ASSOCIATES, INC
CAPONE PHOTOGRAPHER
CINEMARK THEATER, SOMERDALE, NJ
DEMOCRAT CLUB OF STRATFORD
DR. JOHN GENTLESS
DR. LOUIS HAENEL
FILOMENA’S RESTAURANT
GREGORIO BROTHERS
KENNEDY PROPERTY CORP.
LA FITNESS, SOMERDALE
MAYOR & COUNCIL
NEW JERSEY AMERICAN WATER
REPUBLICAN CLUB OF STRATFORD
SEASON'S PIZZA
SPORTS OUTLET
STRATFORD BUSINESS & CIVIC ASSOCIATION (SBCA)
STRATFORD DINER
STRATFORD HISTORIC SOCIETY
TECHNIQUES
THIRTY-ONE GIFTS/DIANNA WHITTAKER &
KRISTINA MCGOWAN
TOMKINSONS AUTO REPAIR
WEBERS ROOT BEER STAND
WILLIAM P. KEENEY MEMORIAL VFW POST #7365
30 STRIKES BOWLING ALLEY
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
A New Day for New Jersey
“Let me just say…We did it!”
Those words, spoken by Rowan University
president Dr. Ali Houshmand shortly after 10
a.m. on July 1, were met with jubilant cheers
and applause from the more than 600
students, faculty, staff and public officials in
the Academic Center at the School of
Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford.
see full article om page 11
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Mayor’s Message
Page 2
Fall Festival 2013
Page 5
Page 3
Tarkill
Page 8
Stratford Library
Page 3
Our Places of Worship
Page 9
Page 4
Borough Contacts
www.stratfordnj.org
Page 12
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
Mayor’s Message
From the Stratford Municipal Senior Office
The Stratford Municipal Senior Office has but one objective, to get for
Stratford’s senior citizens everything that New Jersey and Camden County
offer. Whether it’s information on senior vouchers for fresh produce,
medical information, or entertainment, Stratford’s seniors deserve their
share. In fact, that’s what started the current office.
Terry and Mike Goldin wondered why people from other towns went to
information sessions, parties, band concerts, lunches, etc., and decided to
find out. So far, the Stratford Senior Office has offered a meeting with a
feeeholder, with refreshments, a number of concerts, and an evening at the
Riversharks with dinner. A number of articles on senior interest have also
been written. And forms have been offered so seniors can apply for food
vouchers. Thus far, response has not been overwhelming but we’ll keep
trying.
We’ve also been asked why we don’t start a senior group in Stratford. The
Goldin’s didn’t know just what seniors did at this time so they went to a
Camden County town and saw firsthand a town employee open the
building and keep an eye on this group. Of course, if enough of Stratford’s
seniors want this, the Goldins will support any initiative to start one.
For those neighbors or family members who know of seniors who are not
reading this article and want them to be notified of these events, go to
borough hall and clerk John Keenan will make you aware of just what to do
Below is a list of events in October that is posted on the Camden County
Web site.
OCTOBER
Camden County FREE Senior Legal Workshops (wills/living wills/powers of
attorney) for senior residents 60 +, Voorhees Town Center (Echelon Mall,
2nd level near Boscov’s) pre-register by calling (856)-566-2920.
•
October 7th – Camden County Store •2:00 PM
•
October 15th – Camden County Store •2:00 PM
•
October 21st – Camden County Store •2:00 PM
Bead Jewelry Making
Jubili Beads and Yarn,
713 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108.
* This is a 1 hour class where you will be taught by
a professional bead jewelry maker on how to make
either a bracelet or necklace using your
imagination to create your own one of a kind
piece. Should time permit, you will be able to
create both a necklace and bracelet. Perfect timing
with the holiday season just around the corner.
• Wednesday 16th , 10:30 am to 11:30 am
• Wednesday October 23rd, 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Class sizes are limited so you MUST RSVP to
attend. For RSVPs, questions or additional
information, please contact Tom Castellano either
by phone, (856)-858-2986 or e-mail,
tcastellano@camdencounty.com
Mayor John Gentless
We would like to know what you think
of our town newspaper. Please email to
info@stratfordnj.org your thoughts and
ideas that can be used for future issues,
this includes information from any
Stratford Civic Organizations.
Next Issue November 2013
Senior Golf Academy
* Mornings classes through September and October.
* Learn how to play golf or sharpen your game with lessons
from our on staff golf professionals.
* Space is limited and is on a first come, first served basis, you
MUST be pre-registered. * For more information or questions,
please contact Cliff Still by calling, (856)-216-2157 or by email, cstill@camdencounty.com.
• Tuesday October 1st, 8th or 15th – 10:00 am or 11:00 am
• Wednesday October 2nd, 9th or 16th – 10:00 am or 11:00 am
Seated Chair Yoga
* This class is designed to bring yoga to your day, come as you are & utilize some of
your time to maintain health & revitalize your body systems. Yoga develops a union
connecting body, mind & breathe….in essence; it’s a whole body tune-up! This class
is suitable for all experience levels. * Class size is limited so please register early!
* To register for Cherry Hill Classes, please call, (856)-488-7868 or by e-mail,
recreation@chtownship.com. To register for Gloucester Township contact Diane
Jones by phone, (856)-435-5374 or e-mail, recdept@glotwp.com
• October 9th – 1–2 pm – Cherry Hill Municipal Bldg., 820 Mercer Street (2nd floor
conference rm.), Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
• October 9th – 3–4 pm – Gloucester Twp. Rec. Center, 80 Broad Acres Drive (next
to Cherrywood development), Blackwood, NJ 08012
• October 23rd – 1-2 pm - Cherry Hill Municipal Bldg., 820 Mercer Street (2nd
Council Chambers), Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
• October 23rd – 3-4 pm – Gloucester Twp. Rec. Center, 80 Broad Acres Drive (next
to Cherrywood development), Blackwood, NJ 08012
“Seniors with Sneakers” Senior Walking Club
* Join us twice a week for a one hour, heart healthy, brisk and invigorating walk at
one of our beautiful county parks September through October (weather permitting).
Preparatory exercise instruction will be given prior to the walk. For more
information, dates, times and locations, please contact Tom Castellano by calling
(856)-858-2986 or by e-mail, tcastellano@camdencounty.com.
October 24th “Masquerade Ball Prize Bingo
and Breakfast” PRIZE for BEST costume
October 23rd * “Harvest Senior Dance”
* Bellmawr Ballroom, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm,
29 LewisAvenue (next to the Bellmawr Municipal Bldg.),
Bellmawr, NJ 08031. Join us for light refreshments,
LIVE music and an evening of fun.
To register, please call Michael at 856-216-2170.
NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES PERMITTED.
PAGE 2
* Bellmawr Ballroom, 29 Lewis Avenue (next to the
Bellmawr Municipal Bldg.), Bellmawr, NJ 08031 * Please
join us & try your hand of this beloved game of chance. *
Doors will open at 11 am, breakfast will be served & bingo
will begin at Noon. * Seating is limited so please call Tom
Castellano at 1-(856)-858-2986 to register or for additional
information.
All activities are FREE of charge unless otherwise noted. * Denotes Municipal or Residence Community Events.
For more information on joining your local senior club call 856-858-2986.
All activities are FREE of charge unless otherwise noted.
For more information on joining your local senior club call 856-858-2986.
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
PAGE 3
Stratford Police Department
Nixle is a community information
service provider built exclusively
STRATFORD
to provide secure and reliable
EMERGENCY TEXT
communications. It is the first
MESSAGING AND
authenticated and secure service
EMAIL NOTIFICATION that connects municipal agencies
and organizations to residents in
SYSTEM
real time, delivering information
to geographically targeted
The Stratford Police
consumers over their cell phones
Department is a member of
(via text messages), through eNixle a Community Information
mails and via Web access.
Service designed to deliver
important and timely
Nixle is a completely free network,
information to residents, school
simple, and trusted. Stratford
officials, business owners and
residents can register in just
alike in Stratford using the latest
minutes at www.nixle.com
cellular text messaging and
email technology.
Only representatives of the
Stratford Police Department are
This service delivers trustworthy
be able to issue alerts and
and important neighborhoodmessages via the Nixle System
level public safety and
therefore you can be assured that
community event notifications
no spam or commercial
by web, e-mail, and cellular
advertisements will be sent to
phone text messaging. For
your inbox.
example, this system could be
utilized to broadcast a
Please take just a moment to
description of a missing child,
register and remind friends and
notify the public of a serious
family members to do so as well.
crime or announce major traffic
detours or accidents.
WWW.NIXLE.COM
STRATFORD LIBRARY
Free to Stratford Residents only, to be accessed by
Police and First Responders
The New Improved INCASE is coming soon
INCASE working with the South Jersey Tech Center at Sterling is almost
ready to unveil the new INCASE system. This system uses barcodes that
can be scanned by first responders INCASE of an Emergency.
Your barcode, placed on the outside doorframe of your home will contain
emergency contact information IN CASE OF EMERGENCY.
To be a part of the pilot program, mail or email your emergency contact
information. Any questions, please call local Stratford resident and inventor, Jacqueline E. Souders. 856-784-4549
“The future of safety, right at your doorstep”
Endorsed by the Borough of Stratford.
MY INCASE INFORMATION
NAME________________________________________
ADDRESS____________________________________
Cellular Number_______________________________
Contact Numbers-Names optional
1.___________________________________________
2.___________________________________________
3.___________________________________________
Mail to: P.O. Box 22
Stratford, NJ 08084
or email: info@theincase.com
A new ONLINE system will be going live sometime in
September. You will be able to search the Adult and Kids'
catalogs, place reserves, renew items, receive e-mail notifications,
manage your library account, check upcoming programs, and do
so much more—at home! Be on the lookout for more
information posted around the library in the coming weeks.
Book Group
Book Donations for Fall Festival
During the month of
September, the library is
accepting donations of
Children's, Young Adult,
and Adult books in “LIKE
NEW” condition to be given
away at the library's Fall
Festival table. Please put
your donated books in a bag
labeled “Fall Festival Book
Donation” and give the bag
to a library volunteer or staff
member at the Circulation
Desk.
Library Hours
Mondays, Tuesdays, & Thursdays – Noon-8 PM
Wednesdays and Fridays – 10 AM-4 PM
Saturdays – 10 AM-1 PM
Sundays – Closed
Book Group meets once a
month from
September-June.
Call (856) 783-0602 for dates,
times, and book titles.
The Library will be closing early or will be closed on the following dates:
Story Time
Monday, October 14, Columbus Day – Closed
Monday, November 11, Veterans Day – Closed
Children ages 3-8 and
their caregivers are
encouraged to come to our
Fall Story Times on the
following
Tuesday evenings from
6:30-7:30 PM: 9/24, 10/8,
10/22, 11/12, and 11/26.
Please call (856) 783-0602
to register your child. You
will receive a reminder
phone call on the day of
the program.
Juvenile Computer Permission Forms Expire September 30th!
Are you under the age of 18 and want to use the library's Internet computers?
It's that time of year again. Please stop in with your parent/guardian starting
October 1st and have them fill out and sign the required Juvenile Computer
Permission Form, which will expire September 30, 2014
Books for Sale
We have a small selection of books for sale. Look for the neon
green Book Sale sign. Paperbacks are $.50 each and hardcovers
are $1.00 each
Free Books
We have a large selection of FREE books waiting for new homes.
Stop in and take as many as you’d like!
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
PAGE 4
BOROUGH BITS & Helpful Hints
JUVENILE CURFEW:
From October 27, through October 31 the curfew for children will be
7pm. This will strictly be enforced by the Stratford Police Department.
SPECIAL ELECTION – Senate Vacancy:
The Special Election day is to be on Wednesday, October 16, and polls
open at 6am and will close at 8pm. Any questions about this Special
Election please call the borough clerk, 783-0600.
ELECTION INFORMATION
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, and polls open at 6am and will
close at 8pm. Any questions about registration or on election day please
contact the borough clerk office, 783-0600.
eNews: To keep residents better informed we offer an Email Blast service.
When there are important issues, notices or changes of certain things the
borough will send an email to those email addresses who have signed up. To
sign up please visit our website at www.stratfordnj.org.
PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOGS:
Please remember when walking your dog, there
is a “pooper scooper” law in Stratford. Please be
considerate of other residents’ yards, as well as
your own.
RECYCLING – ELECTRONIC
October 26, Saturday, Lindenwold –
Camden County Public Works Complex
2311 Egg Harbor Road, Lindenwold 8:30a-12:30p
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION
October 19, Saturday, Lindenwold – Camden County Public Works
Complex
2311 Egg Harbor Road, Lindenwold 8:30a-3:00p
The Stratford Swim Club would like to thank all of its members for a
great season!!! See you next summer!! For information on how to
become a member, visit www.stratfordswimclub.com
Stratford Municipal Sewer Utility Department
REMINDER: Did you turn 65 in 2013?
Apply for the Senior Citizen’s Sewer Fee Abatement!
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Stratford residents who turned 65 on or before December 31,
2013 and own and reside in their home in Stratford.
WHAT TO DO?
By March 1, 2014 you must provide proof of your age to apply
for the abatement; copies are fine, and yes, you can mail it to us!
Tell us your residential address if it is not included on your proof
of age. Tell us your married name if it is not included on your
proof of age.
Have questions please call the Sewer Department at 856-783-0601.
CUT OFF DATE IS MARCH 1, 2014!
November 5th 2013
Do not forget to VOTE Poles open @ 6 am
SAO Basketball Registrations Dates for the
2013-2014 season are scheduled for the below dates:
Saturday October 5th
10-4pm
Tuesday October 15th
7-9pm
Wednesday October 16th 7-9pm
Thursday October 17th 7-9pm
Stratford Fall Festival
Yale Avenue Clubhouse
Yale Avenue Clubhouse
Yale Avenue Clubhouse
Boys and Girls Clinic Leagues (2nd grade up) through
High School grades are encouraged to participate.
SAO Basketball Registrations Dates for the
2013 - 2014 season are scheduled for the below dates
Registration forms can be found at www.SAO.com
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
PAGE 5
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
WHAT IS AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or autism is a developmental disorder that affects a person’s
social communication and interaction. Individuals with ASD also have restricted and
repetitive behavior, interests and activities. These characteristics fall across a “spectrum”
ranging from mild to severe.
Some of the major characteristics of autism include: difficulty with social interaction, difficulty
with communication and unusual behaviors. Some features associated with autism include: 1)
appearing as though deaf, 2) high or low activity level, 3) having little or no apparent fear of
dangers (may run into traffic or wander away), 4) unusual responses to sensory information –high
tolerance for pain or low tolerance for noise, 5) eating, sleeping and toileting difficulties, 6) seizure
disorder, and 7) aggressive or self-injurious behavior.
Current research shows that autism affects 1 in 49 children in New Jersey and
1 in 88 nationwide. ASD or autism is 4 to 5 times more prevalent in boys than in girls and
occurs across all races, ethnicities and social classes.
WHAT IS AUTISM NEW JERSEY?
Autism New Jersey or Autism NJ is the largest statewide network of parents and
professionals dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism. Autism NJ is a nonprofit
agency committed to ensuring safe and fulfilling lives for individuals with autism, their
families and the professionals who support them. They recognize the autism community’s
many contributions to society and work to enhance their resilience, abilities and quality of life.
The Vision of Autism NJ: We are GROUNDED in science, STRENGTHENED by knowledge and
DEVOTED to creating a society of compassion and inclusion for all those touched by autism.
By the numbers: Our helpline staff… 1) answers 3,500 phone calls annually,
2) responded to 2,671 information requests in 2012, 3) distributed 11,044 publications,
guides and informational brochures in 2012 and 4) maintains a database of 2,300
professionals.
A Lifeline: Toll-free information & referral line, 800-4-AUTISM, open Monday thru Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm
PAGE 6
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
STRATFORD’S 6TH ANNUAL 5K RUN/WALK
FOR AUTISM NJ
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2013
$20 Pre-Registration Fee (no refunds)
before OCTOBER 2ND
$25 Registration Fee on Race Day
(RAIN DATE OF OCTOBER 6TH)
Where: Rite –Aid Parking lot
100 Warwick Rd Stratford, NJ 08084
When: 8-8:45 am Race Day Check-in / Registration
9:00 am 5K RUN/WALK START
 Awards/Prizes given for top 3 finishers in each age group at the Fall Festival main stage
 All participants must register and check in
 Race t-shirts (paid for with registration) will be provided at check-in
Mail to: Fall Festival 5K/ P.O. Box 17/ Stratford, NJ 08084
2013 5K RUN/WALK FOR AUTISM NJ –REGISTRATION FORM---PLEASE WRITE LEGIBLY
I hereby understand that upon my entry into the 5K Run/Walk for Autism NJ, I waive any and all rights I have against Autism NJ,
the SBCA, the Borough of Stratford, volunteers and Samuel S. Yellin School, for any injuries sustained in the event. I give my full
permission for the SBCA and Autism NJ to use any photographs, videos or other recordings of me that are made during the
course of this event. I further attest that I am physically fit enough to participate in this event.
Name______________________________ Date of birth___________
Age on race day_____ Gender: M / F
Address_________________________________City________________________State_________ Zip_________
Email address___________________________________ Phone number________________________________
T-shirt size (circle one) ADULT—S
M
L
XL
YOUTH—S
M
L
XL
XXL
Signature of Participant or Parent (must be signed by parent if under 18)
______________________________________ Date__________________
Make checks payable to: SBCA, please put 5K in memo line.
Questions: Please email Michael_Maloney@yahoo.com
@ stratfordfallfestival5K
PAGE 7
FALL, 2013
stratford Times
PAGE 8
Tarkill Fall 2013 News
Kids are headed back to school, sweaters are on and the leaves are changing colors… must mean it’s SOCCER
TIME! The Tarkill soccer season will kick off officially on Saturday, September 7th. We are excited to see so many
returning faces along with a lot of new soccer players registered this fall as well. If you have not already done so like
our Facebook page “Tarkill Soccer Club” as we will post field closings, cancellations, upcoming events and more
throughout the season!
Volunteers Wanted
We are always looking for parents willing to lend a hand by coaching, field maintenance, running our snackstands
and so much more. Without your help we could not pull off the successful seasons we have and continue to strive
for. The kids love to be able to brag that their parents are helping out as well. Please feel free to contact us at
tarkillsoccer@hotmail.com if you are looking to volunteer.
We want to hear from you!
If you have any ideas, feedback or even complaints we as a board want to hear from you. Your input is the only way
we will improve. Please send all correspondence to our Hotmail account at tarkillsoccer@hotmail.com or attend
one of our general membership meetings.
Board Openings
We will have a few positions open on the board next January.
To be considered or able to vote you must attend at least two General Membership meetings.
Under the Lights Games
Please see our calendar on our website as both the Rec and Clinic leagues will have under the lights games this
season!
TARKILL NIGHT OUT AT THE PHILADELPHIA UNION
Looking for a fun night out with the family? Help support Tarkill and enjoy a night out at the Philadelphia Union
on October 5th – a great ending after the day at the fall festival! We are able to offer discounted tickets for only $30
each (a savings of $10 a ticket). For tickets contact Tarkill at tarkillsoccer@hotmail.com no later than September 21.
Upcoming Events
September 7th – Season Kickoff
September 21st – Lena’s Fundraiser – get your flyer from us that morning – 30% of all sales are donated to Tarkill.
September 25th – General Membership Meeting 7:00 pm at Tarkill Clubhouse
Late Sept – Early Oct – Applebee’s Pancake Breakfast – date TBD
October 5th – Fall Festival – No Rec Games
October 5th – Tarkill Night out at the Philadelphia Union
October 13th – Columbus Day Weekend – No Games
October 23 – General Membership meeting
October 25th – Coach’s game and Trunk or treat
October 23, 25, 26 – Indoor registration
November 2 – Beef and Beer – tickets will be on sale in October
November 16th – PeeWee, Clinic and Rec Awards
November 20th – General Membership Meeting
Thank you for your continued support, we look forward to a great season!
The Tarkill Soccer Board
FALL, 2013
stratford Times
PAGE 9
Our Places of Worship
Stratford United Methodist Church
At Union & Central Avenues
SUMC Thrift Shop and Food Pantry:
Mondays & Tuesdays from 9am – Noon
Please consider making a Canned Food donation to the Food Pantry.
Please drop off items on Mondays & Tuesdays
9am – noon.
Call 856-784-9135 for more information.
Stratford Presbyterian Church
-Biblical -Reformed –Traditional –Christ Centered
Home of Stratford Classical Christian Academy
Sunday Services: Sunday School for all ages at
9:45 a.m.; Morning Worship 11 a.m.
Evening Worship 6:30 p.m.; Wednesday Evening Service 7:30 p.m.
Everyone is welcome.
Warwick Road • Stratford, NJ
856-784-0674 Rev. Martin L. Dawson, Pastor
ALL ARE WELCOME!
300 West Atlantic Ave. • Stratford, NJ 08084 • Ph: 856-435-1771
Website: Wordfc.org
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Fall Worship Schedule Begins on Sunday, September 15, 2013
Youth Group Sunday Night from 7-9 p.m.
***********
United Methodist Women Yard Sale to be held on
Friday, October 25th from 9am - 3pm and
Saturday, October 26th from 8am – 2 pm.
***********
Also: (if you have room)
Thrift Shop & Food Pantry is open every
Monday & Tuesday from 9 a.m. – Noon.
10:15 a.m. Sunday School (Classes for Ages 2 – Adult)
8:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service 11:15 a.m. Traditional Worship Service
Youth Group Sunday Night from 7-9 p.m.
Food donations (canned goods) are always welcomed for food pantry. Clothing & small household items (no furniture) accepted for
Thrift Shop. Drop off items on Mondays & Tuesdays 9am – noon.
Call 856-784-9135 for more information.
WORSHIP DIRECTORY
St. Luke R.C. Church: 55 Warwick Road
Stratford United Methodist Church: Union & Central Avenues
Stratford Presbyterian: Church: 41 Warwick Road Word
Fellowship Church: 10 West Laurel Road
Buddhist Temple Duc Me Hien
Mother of Grace Temple: 317 Princeton Avenue
627-2222
784-9135
435-0892
435-1771
783-2327
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
55 Warwick Road * Stratford, NJ 08084 *(856) 783-3088 * Fax (856)783-9302
www.jp2rs.org
For Immediate Release
Photos Attached
Contact: Christine Willard
Telephone: 856-783-3088
E-mail: cwillard@jp2rs.org
August 25, 2013
Press Release
John Paul II School Celebrate 5th Anniversary
Stratford, NJ –John Paul II Regional School celebrates its 5th Year Anniversary this year. The
celebration kicks off on Sunday, September 15th with an Anniversary Mass and reception at
11:30 am at St. Luke Church, Stratford. All are welcome!
John Paul II School experienced much success since its 2008 opening as a result of the strong
leadership of Fr. Joseph Capella, Pastor, Helen Persing, Principal and the John Paul II School
Board. Campus expansions and upgrades over the past five years, as well as, a variety of
programs to meet the needs of all students were also made possible by the generosity of our
benefactors, a very dedicated community of parents, faculty, parishioners, alumni, diocesan
officials, and business partners.
John Paul II School continues its mission that is dedicated to Christian stewardship and
academic excellence. Last year’s graduating class received over $25,000.00 in scholarships. “I
am proud to be part of creating a Catholic elementary school that provides an experience for students
developing the mind, body, and spirit. We empower students to achieve individual academic potential at
John Paul II and they excel.” Helen Persing, Principal
An ad-hoc Anniversary Committee is planning year-long events to celebrate school families,
faculty, alumni, parishioners, grandparents and community partners. We invite all to join us for
the following fall events scheduled:



Anniversary Mass & Reception -Sunday, September 15th St. Luke Church,
Stratford,11:30 am
John Paul II 6th Annual Golf Tournament-Friday, October 4th, Valleybrook Country
Club
Designer Bag Bingo-Saturday, October 12th, John Paul II School
John Paul II School Fall Open House-Tuesday, October 22nd and Thursday, October
24th, 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
For more information, contact Christine Willard, Advancement Director at
856-783-3088 or cwillard@jp2rs.org
John Paul II Regional School, Stratford, a Catholic School for nearly 375 students in preschool through
eighth grades, is dedicated to Christian stewardship and academic excellence, and empowers students to
achieve their academic potential in a faith based environment. To visit our school or for more
information, please call Christine Willard, Advancement Director at (856) 783-3088.
PAGE 10
stratford Times
FALL, 2013
PAGE 11
A New Day for New Jersey
“Let me just say…We did it!”
Those words, spoken by Rowan University president Dr.
Ali Houshmand shortly after 10 a.m. on July 1, were met
with jubilant cheers and applause from the more than 600
students, faculty, staff and public officials in the
Academic Center at the School of Osteopathic Medicine
in Stratford. The overflow crowd was there to witness
history in the making – the integration of the former
UMDNJ-School of Osteopathic Medicine and the
Stratford Division of the UMDNJ-Graduate School of
Biomedical Sciences into Rowan University.
On that day, the New Jersey Medical and Health Sciences
Education Restructuring Act went into effect, nearly ten
months after it was signed into law by Gov. Christie. The
law transforms higher education in South Jersey and
throughout the state.
For South Jersey, there are three key elements to the legislation:
•
The School of Osteopathic Medicine and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences merged with Rowan University;
•
Rowan became New Jersey’s second – and South Jersey’s only – comprehensive public research university; and
•
Rowan and Rutgers-Camden will launch a joint effort to develop a college of health sciences in Camden.
In his welcoming remarks to those assembled on the Stratford campus, RowanSOM dean Dr. Thomas A. Cavalieri noted the historic nature of
the day, saying, “Today marks the creation of a new research university in South Jersey, a new day for Rowan University and a new day for the
School of Osteopathic Medicine.”
Both schools have deep roots in South Jersey.
From a small teaching college founded in Glassboro in 1923, Rowan has grown into a nationally respected, highly competitive, award-winning
university that draws applicants from across the country and around the world. Rowan offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees to more
than 12,000 students in 57 disciplines in eight academic colleges.
The School of Osteopathic Medicine was founded in Camden in 1976 and later moved to Stratford. The school, which has grown by roughly 50
percent in the past few years alone, enrolls more than 600 medical students. More than half of the 2,200 graduates of the school practice in New
Jersey. In addition, nearly 200 students currently are enrolled in advanced degree (masters or PhD) programs at the Graduate School of
Biomedical Sciences.
As a result of the legislation, RowanSOM joins Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, which opened in August 2012, under the Rowan
banner, and Rowan becomes just the second university in the U.S. to offer both D.O. and M.D. degrees.
During the July 1 event, Dr. Houshmand outlined a vision for Rowan that centers on growing the University into an educational and economic
force to better serve southern New Jersey.
It involves doubling the student body to 25,000 in ten years, increasing the University’s endowment to half a billion dollars (it’s $165 million
now), and increasing sponsored research from about $23 million to $100 million annually.
Among countless changes made prior to the official integration, replete with a ceremonial unfurling of a new banner, was Rowan Board of
Trustees action to rename the school Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine or, informally, RowanSOM.
Many dignitaries who helped make the merger a reality were in attendance to celebrate the occasion. All were acknowledged by Dr. Houshmand,
who gave special thanks to New Jersey Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney, saying the senator’s “vision and tireless work have positioned South
Jersey for great growth.”
Senator Sweeney noted his personal connection to RowanSOM: the school’s first class included his brother Bob Sweeney, who today is a
successful New Jersey physician.
Senator Sweeney added that as Rowan grows and prospers – in Glassboro, Camden, and, now, Stratford – the entire region will prosper along
with it.
“Education is the key to a strong economy,” he said. “And Rowan is going to drive this economy.”
Look for helpful health tips from The University Doctors at RowanSOM in future editions of The Stratford Times.
Fall 2013
stratford Times
PAGE 12
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