By Chris Concannon

After spending weeks getting ready for the event, Santa’s elves, disguised as Borough employees, made last-minute preparations for Bellmawr’s 10^th annual \”Christmas In The Park.\”

As a pre-winter breeze shifted the overcast sky to reveal the largest and brightest full moon in 15 years, two spare \”sleighs,\” on loan from the North Pole, took event-goers through a large cavalcade of fixed and inflatable holiday decorations.

Mayor Frank Filipek Sr. said an estimated 8,000 people took part in the three-day event Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 12-14.

\”This is the only event of its kind in the State of New Jersey which is free of charge,\” Filipek said.

In addition to face-painting and visits with Santa himself, Baby Paws of Sicklerville was also on hand, providing a petting zoo and pony rides.

Encompassing almost the entire Recreation Centre complex, the sleigh ride course snaked its way through an ever-expanding trail, which grows from year to year.

Along with the Tree Lighting and Parade and Christmas In the Park, the Borough of Bellmawr sponsored a House Decorating Contest December 14-18.

Check back with this column in the end of year issue to see who won.

By Linda Boker-Angelo

At the recommendation of Superintendent Paul Spaventa, the Gloucester City Board of Education recognized the commitment and efforts of several district faculty and facilities staff members during last week’s monthly meeting.

Spaventa lauded retirees Jim and Peg McQuaid, who together have spent almost 40 years serving the district.

Jim worked as the cafeteria custodian at the high school for several years, as well as the lead on summer moving projects and snow removal.

Peg was assistant manager of the cafeteria before joining the Mary Ethel Costello School Facilities staff.

The superintendent stated both of the McQuaids \”were great workers …and even better people.\”

 Courier-Post.

Player of the game: Gerry Wixted led the Irish with 25 points and 12 rebounds. He also went 8-of-10 from the foul line in the second half. Eyes on Blair: Montez Blair, who led Timber Creek with 20 points, displayed his all-around game with Navy coach Billy Lange in the stands. Blair has already made a verbal commitment to play for the Midshipmen.

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