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The Bridgeton Beacon
The Bridgeton Beacon
140 episodes
2 days ago
The Bridgeton Beacon is the soapbox and megaphone for commerce, culture, cuisine, and local causes. Enjoy our longform conversations with South Jersey luminaries. Or, collaborate with us by launching your own niche podcast or video project. The Bridgeton Beacon is an NJ 501c3 charitable organization, founded to promote economic development, and history in South Jersey.
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All content for The Bridgeton Beacon is the property of The Bridgeton Beacon and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The Bridgeton Beacon is the soapbox and megaphone for commerce, culture, cuisine, and local causes. Enjoy our longform conversations with South Jersey luminaries. Or, collaborate with us by launching your own niche podcast or video project. The Bridgeton Beacon is an NJ 501c3 charitable organization, founded to promote economic development, and history in South Jersey.
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Places & Travel
Society & Culture
Episodes (20/140)
The Bridgeton Beacon
Bridgeton UEZ Block Party 2025

Hello and welcome back to the Bridgeton Beacon Podcast. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending the Bridgeton Urban Enterprise Zone Block Party — and what a day it was. The last of summer, with perfect weather, and the heart of our community out in full force.Scene SettingI strolled through East Commerce Street and Laurel, all the way to Mayor Aitken Drive, where the streets were alive with energy. Vendors, local artists, nonprofits spreading the word, and of course, the irresistible smells of grilled and fried favorites filled the air. Families moved between attractions for kids, friends gathered over food, and everywhere you looked there was a sense of Bridgeton coming together.Shout-out to LeadershipA special mention goes to Stephanie Gonzales, director of the Bridgeton UEZ. She seemed to be in two or three places at once, keeping everything running smoothly while updating the crowd from the main stage. Her energy really set the tone for the day.Activities & AttractionsAnd there was truly something for everyone. Gallery 50 offered 30-minute painting classes. Over at Steamworks, you could design your own wooden business card holders. Hopeloft transformed the McCormick Theater into a movie and craft zone. Kids lined up for glitter art face painting by Ashley Logan, while others made their way to the Kohanzig Zoo’s mobile petting zoo or got a turn riding ponies from Flying First Class Equestrian Center.The Bridgeton Public Library shared free books and resources, while firefighters and police officers hosted a meet-and-greet. Nonprofits and community partners lined the sidewalks, offering information and inspiration.For the kids, there were free hamburgers and hot dogs — first come, first served — courtesy of Good Dog Therapy. And in the entertainment zone, powered by KYMO and Games on the Go, families found a free gaming truck, free haircuts, arts and crafts tables led by Girl Scout troops, live music throughout the day, and DJs keeping the crowd moving.Community & MerchantsWhat stood out most to me was the pride of our local entrepreneurs. UEZ merchants set up tables showcasing handmade art, delicious foods, and unique crafts. There was even a UEZ entrepreneur table sharing information about incentives for businesses, plus a free photo booth capturing memories of the day.ClosingGreat energy. Great people. Great merchants. All of it happening right here in the historic heart of Bridgeton, New Jersey. The Block Party wasn’t just an event — it was a celebration of arts, community, and the spirit that makes Bridgeton special.This has been the Bridgeton Beacon Podcast — thanks for joining me as we highlight the people and events that keep our community shining bright.

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1 month ago
2 minutes 50 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Historic Nail House in Bridgeton NJ

Exciting news for Bridgeton!The historic Nail House at the entrance to City Park is reopening. Thanks to the volunteer professionals at CHABA (Center for Historic American Building Arts), this 200-year-old building has been beautifully restored — from structural supports and clapboards to its iconic two-faced clock.The Nail House isn’t just a landmark — it’s a story of resilience. It powered the Cumberland Nail & Iron Works, brought water from Sunset Lake through a mile-long raceway, and laid the foundation for Bridgeton’s thousand-acre City Park.As CHABA says: This little building is HUGE.We can’t wait to welcome the public back inside for tours, community events, and celebrations of Bridgeton’s history.

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1 month ago
3 minutes 6 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
CCHS Lenni Lenape Museum Project

While the bones of a new museum rise at 884 Ye Greate Street in Greenwich, the stories it will soon hold stretch back hundreds—if not thousands—of years.

In a milestone moment for the Cumberland County Historical Society, a 3,840-square-foot museum building is nearing completion, designed to house one of the most significant collections of pre-contact Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape artifacts in the state.

These items—painstakingly assembled by the late George J. Woodruff and the late Alan E. Carmen—represent generations of regional history that have too often gone overlooked.

But not anymore.

This new museum isn’t just a building. It’s a community effort, a cultural statement, and a powerful invitation for residents of Cumberland County to rediscover the original stewards of this land.

With Fabbri Builders overseeing construction, and financing from The First National Bank of Elmer, this project is as local as it gets—from foundation to mission.

In an upcoming episode of the Bridgeton Beacon, we’ll speak with Cumberland County Historical Society Trustee Ted Ritter to explore:

  • What this museum means for the descendants of the Lenni-Lenape Nation today

  • Why Greenwich, NJ—a town steeped in colonial and maritime history—is the perfect setting

  • How the community can support, visit, or volunteer during the final phases of the build

  • The personal stories of George Woodruff and Alan Carmen and their work preserving local heritage

  • What “Ye Greate Street” has seen over the centuries—and why it still matters today

📞 Want to learn more or get involved? You can contact CCHS trustee Ted Ritter directly at (856) 451-3030.



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2 months ago
1 minute 29 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Cumberland County Business Expo and Job Fair

Leap into fall, grow your business and find employees at the Cumberland County Business Expo and Job Fair on Thursday, September 25th, 2025 from 4 to 6.30 p.m. at the Rowan College of South Jersey Cumberland Campus Gym located at 3322 College Drive in Vineland, New Jersey. Admission is free for the public.but if you're interested in becoming an exhibitor or a sponsor, visit CumberlandExpo.com. That's CumberlandExpo.com. Exhibitors and sponsors who register by September 18th will receive a lower fee. The event is organized in partnership between the Bridgerton Area Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Millville Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Vineland Chamber of Commerce.and is sponsored in part by Rowan College of South Jersey, the Authority, Town Square Media South Jersey, and South Jersey Water Conditioning Services, Inc. Come on out on Thursday, September 25th at the Cumberland County Business Expo and Job Fair to talk to the public and entrepreneurs about their products, services, and special offers and meet people looking for a new career.

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2 months ago
1 minute 44 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Bringing Historical Beacons To Light with Britt Ingersoll

This conversation explores the documenting queer history in Cumberland County through oral histories and archival research. Brittany discusses her project aimed at uncovering the stories of individuals who have been historically underrepresented, while acting as Beacon's to the South Jersey Community. The dialogue highlights the significance of figures like Sylvia Beach and Anne Hampton Brewster, the methodologies used in research, and the role of community organizations in fostering connections. The conversation concludes with a call for contributions from individuals who have been part of these communities.takeawaysBrittany aims to create a queer oral history of Cumberland County.There is a significant lack of representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in historical archives.Historical narratives are often shaped by who is included in archives.Sylvia Beach and Anne Hampton Brewster are key figures in local queer history.Research involves creating terms lists and genealogy searches.Newsletters serve as crucial documentation of queer community activities.Community organizations like LGUC foster social connections and support.Oral history provides firsthand accounts that enrich historical understanding.The importance of ethical considerations in sharing personal stories.Brittany encourages individuals to share their experiences for future documentation.Chapters00:00Introduction to the Queer Oral History Project00:58The Importance of Representation in Archives02:53Exploring Historical Figures: Sylvia Beach and Anne Hampton Brewster06:25Research Methodology: Finding Hidden Histories09:05The Role of Newsletters in Documenting Queer History15:41Community Building Through Organizations17:22The Significance of Oral History19:23Call for Contributions and Conclusion

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3 months ago
20 minutes 36 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Gil Walter on Leadership in Healthcare

In this conversation, Meg is joined by recent recipient of the Francis H. Sharp Lifetime Achievement Award, Gil Walter.

Gil discusses his journey in healthcare leadership, community involvement, and the importance of lifelong learning.

They reflect on the evolution of Complete Care and the role of foundations in supporting healthcare initiatives.

The conversation concludes with insights on leadership, personal growth, and advice for living a fulfilling life.


takeaways

  • The importance of community recognition and awards.
  • Leadership requires listening and collaboration.
  • Visionary boards can drive organizational success.
  • Lifelong learning is essential for personal growth.
  • Community involvement enriches both leaders and residents.
  • Complete Care evolved to meet diverse healthcare needs.
  • Foundations play a crucial role in funding healthcare initiatives.
  • Effective leadership invites participation and shared goals.
  • Challenges in healthcare can be overcome with teamwork.
  • A fulfilling life involves helping others and continuous learning.
  • Celebrating Community Heroes: A Lifetime of Service
  • Leadership Lessons from a Healthcare Pioneer
  • "I believe in lifelong learning."
  • "You made this area your home."
  • "You're inviting them into the adventure."



Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Achievements and Community Impact

02:35 Leadership in Healthcare: A Journey of Service

04:49 Building a Visionary Organization

07:05 The Importance of Community Involvement

09:25 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth

11:48 The Evolution of Complete Care

14:08 The Role of Foundations in Healthcare

16:21 Advice for a Fulfilling Life

18:36 Reflections on Leadership and Legacy

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4 months ago
32 minutes 49 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Jose Silva at La Hacienda in Vineland

In this engaging conversation, Jose Silva, an attorney and relationship life coach, shares his experiences at La Hacienda Bakery, discussing the rich coffee culture and its connection to his childhood.

He transitions into his journey from law to life coaching, emphasizing the importance of helping clients make better life decisions, particularly in the context of divorce.

The discussion highlights the intersection of legal practice and relationship coaching, focusing on preventive measures to maintain healthy relationships.

Jose's passion for helping families stay together shines through as he shares insights on communication and personal development.


takeaways

La Hacienda Bakery has been a staple for over 20 years.

Jose's childhood coffee memories connect him to his Puerto Rican roots.

The traditional method of making café con leche is a cherished practice.

Transitioning from law to life coaching was a natural progression for Jose.

Helping clients make better decisions is a key focus in coaching.

Lawyers often act as relationship coaches in high-stress situations.

Preventive relationship coaching can help avoid divorce.

Positive psychology is central to Jose's coaching philosophy.

Effective communication is crucial in both law and relationships.

Jose's upcoming podcast aims to keep families together.


Sound Bites"This takes me back to the 60s.""I wanted them to make right choices.""You're a risk mitigator.""I love doing it and I'm really good at it.""I try to do Bible-based coaching."Chapters

00:00 Exploring La Hacienda Bakery and Coffee Culture07:03 Transitioning from Law to Life Coaching13:56 The Intersection of Law and Relationship Coaching19:56 Keeping Families Together: Preventive Relationship Coaching

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4 months ago
22 minutes 36 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
CCHS Celebrates Progress

https://bridgetonbeacon.com

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4 months ago
2 minutes 10 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Bridgeton Invitational Tournament 2025 with Gary Fischer

Full EP page: https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com/bridgeton-invitational-tournament-2025/Play ball! Welcome to the 2025 Bridgeton Invitational Baseball Tournament, with Gary Fischer and Meg McCormick Hoerner. Transcript:Announcer (00:01)This week, the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament Spring Classic is in full swing at Alden Field in City Park. Played every year since 1967, this tournament is more than just a local tradition. We spoke with Gary Fischer the man who's kept this tournament going strong, to hear about its roots, its impact, and what it means to Bridgeton today.Meg & Gary (00:24)All right, welcome back to the Bridgeton Beacon. We are here with Gary Fischer at the 57th Bridgeton Invitational Baseball Tournament. And tonight is night one. We just finished our first game. Gary, how are things going so far? It's a good start. Game one went on time. So that's a good thing. Excellent. What's the lineup looking like for the week? Yeah. So tomorrow night we have ⁓ two more teams coming in. We have the Garden Seminoles from Vineland.And we have a new entry this year. The Jersey Bananas, they're out of Haddonfield. As far as the events go, Wednesday night starts off three nights in a row of different things. The Bridgeton Fire, Bridgeton Police started off. I believe that's also Dollar Dog Night, followed by Friday is the Philly Phanatic and that will be Philly Pretzel Night. Excellent. We just saw the DC Expos take care of Gildy's Raiders tonight.but both teams are coming back. it looks like you've got, everybody gets to play, what is it, twice? It's a double elimination event. All right, sounds good. Got some good concessions, we got some good baseball. We do. And we got some good weather. We're just, yes, we want to keep that weather going the whole week. Excellent. Now the question that everybody wants to know is any torpedo bats on the field? There is a few, yes.Yeah? Have you tried any out yet? You know what, my son got one, he'll be using his tomorrow night. All right, excellent. Feels good.Great. Well, thanks so much, Gary, for all that you and the entire committee do to keep this going. We appreciate it. And let's go play ball. Thank you.Announcer 1 (01:55)Here's what's coming up. Wednesday, May 21st at 6 p.m. The Battle of the Badges softball game. Bridgeton Police and Fire take on their Vineland counterparts. Friday, May 23rd at 6 p.m. A special appearance by the Philly Phanatic, the Phillies' iconic green mascot. Saturday, May 24th at 3.30 p.m. The Bridgeton Invitational Tournament Spring Classic Championship game. Please support local nonprofit media.You're listening to the Bridgeton Beacon podcast, shining a light on the people and stories that make our community special.Play ball! Welcome to the 2025 Bridgeton Invitational Baseball Tournament, with Gary Fischer and Meg McCormick Hoerner.

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5 months ago
2 minutes 37 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Goldie Wulderk's Thrift Shop & Legacy wit Sandy Feddema

This visit with Sandy Feddema highlights the legacy of Goldie Wulderk, who founded the Senior Thrift and Caring Center, emphasizing its role in the community.

Sandy Feddema and Meg McCormick Hoerner discuss the thrift shop's operations, the importance of donations, and the community engagement fostered through the center.

The tour showcases the various items available, the history behind them, and the ongoing efforts to support those in need.


takeaways


Goldie Wulderk's legacy continues through the Senior Thrift Shop.

The thrift shop serves as a vital community resource.

Donations are essential for the shop's operations.

The shop provides affordable goods to the community.

Community engagement is a key focus of the thrift shop.

Local history is preserved through the items sold.

The shop aims to reduce waste by reusing items.

Sandy emphasizes the joy of meeting new people.

The center distributes food and other essential items.

The shop operates with flexible hours to accommodate visitors.

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6 months ago
12 minutes 32 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Antique Treasures in South Jersey with Sandy Feddema

In this conversation, Sandy Feddema joins Meg McCormick Hoerner to share his experiences of adapting to a new culture in South Jersey, the treasures he has found through his unique treasure hunting endeavors, and the stories behind various artifacts.

He discusses the significance of family heirlooms, historical insights related to his home renovations, and his artistic endeavors.

The conversation also touches on community efforts and the importance of preserving properties and their histories.

takeaways

  • Cultural adaptation can lead to a richer life experience.
  • Barter economies can emerge in response to economic changes.
  • Friendships can flourish in diverse communities despite cultural differences.
  • Every artifact has a story that adds to its value.
  • Family heirlooms carry significant emotional and historical weight.
  • Home renovations can reveal fascinating historical insights.
  • Artistic endeavors can be a form of community engagement.
  • Community efforts are essential for property preservation.
  • Unique finds can come from unexpected places.
  • Stories enhance the value of both art and artifacts.


Chapters

00:00 Cultural Insights and Economic Shifts

02:14 Treasure Hunting and Personal Stories

08:34 Historical Artifacts and Their Significance

11:59 The Story of a House and Its History

15:39 Art, Creativity, and Community Engagement

17:55 Challenges of Home Ownership and Restoration

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7 months ago
21 minutes 36 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Historic Preservation with Dr. Flavia Alaya

In this conversation, Dr. Flavia Alaya discusses her journeyto Bridgeton, the founding of Chaba, and the importance of historic preservation.

She emphasizes the need for community engagement inpreserving local history and the challenges faced in balancing development with preservation.

The discussion also highlights the significance ofBridgeton’s historic district and the role of industrial history in shaping the community's identity.

Dr. Alaya advocates for a people-centered approach topreservation, aiming to connect the past with the present and future.

This conversation explores the importance of communityengagement in historical preservation, particularly in Bridgeton.

The speakers discuss the challenges and opportunities inpreserving the architectural diversity of the area, the intersection of academia and activism, and the role of cultural heritage in fostering community bonds.

They emphasize the need for a proactive approach to engage with local history and its relevance to present and future community development.

 

takeaways


  • Support the Bridgeton Beacon by subscribing to the YouTube channel.
  • Dr. Flavia Alaya founded Chaba to promote historic preservation.
  • Historic preservation is crucial for community identity.
  • Bridgeton has the largest historic district in New Jersey.
  • Community engagement is essential for successful preservation efforts.
  • Forgetting history is easier than remembering it.
  • Local history informs national history.
  • CHABA aims to bridge cultural communities through preservation.
  • Guidelines for homeowners are available in multiple languages.
  • The city government needs to foster better support for preservation initiatives.
  • The district commission should be more proactive in supporting applicants.
  • Historical preservation can drive community development.
  • Bridgeton's architectural range is diverse and significant.
  • Modernist architecture is often undervalued in historical contexts.
  • Community engagement is essential for effective preservation efforts.
  • Cultural heritage connects past, present, and future.
  • Activism and academia can coexist and enhance each other.
  • Local history is integral to understanding national narratives.
  • Collaboration with diverse communities enriches preservation efforts.
  • Preservation is about more than just buildings; it's about stories.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bridgeton Beacon and Dr. Flavia Alaya

02:57 Journey to Bridgeton and Founding of Chaba

05:57 Historic Preservation in Bridgeston

08:59 The Importance of Community in Preservation

12:09 Challenges in Historic Preservation

14:58 Bridgeton’s Historic District

17:56 People-Centered Preservation

21:01 The Role of Industrial History

23:57 Chaba’s Initiatives and Community Engagement

27:02 Guidelines for Homeowners and Community Support

32:35 Community Engagement and Support

35:07 Historical Preservation and Community Development

37:11 Bridgeton's Architectural Diversity

42:13 The Intersection of Academia and Activism

52:00 Cultural Heritage and Community Bonds


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7 months ago
1 hour 2 minutes 19 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Complete Care Health Network

In this conversation, Dr. Baptist discusses the evolution and mission of Complete Care, a healthcare organization dedicated to serving the community.

He highlights innovative programs aimed at improving health outcomes, such as prenatal incentives and free dental care for veterans.

The discussion also covers the importance of the Legends Dinner, a fundraising event that honors community heroes, and emphasizes Complete Care's comprehensive services that cater to a diverse patient population.


takeaways

  • Complete Care has been serving the community for over 40 years.
  • The organization has expanded significantly, now serving 60,000 patients annually.
  • Innovative programs incentivize health visits, improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
  • The Legends Dinner honors community members who contribute selflessly.
  • Complete Care provides free dental care for veterans through the VetSmiles program.
  • The organization operates multiple facilities across southern Jersey.
  • Staff at Complete Care are dedicated to community service despite lower pay.
  • The Legends Dinner is a key fundraising event for the organization.
  • Complete Care aims to educate the community about its services.
  • The organization is committed to addressing the entire medical needs of its patients.

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7 months ago
9 minutes 24 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Fralinger Engineering in Bridgeton

This conversation explores the rich history and evolution of Fralinger Engineering, a family-owned civil engineering firm.

Full episode page & video: https://www.bridgetonbeacon.com/fralinger-engineering-in-bridgeton/

Chuck Fralinger joins Meg McCormick Hoerner to share insights into the company's beginnings, its growth over the decades, and the importance of community engagement.

The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the business, the legacy of hard work instilled by Chuck's father, and the future direction of the firm as it embraces new technologies while maintaining its commitment to local knowledge and service.


takeaways

• Fralinger Engineering was founded in the 1960s by Chuck's father.


• The company has evolved significantly with advancements in technology.


• Reputation is crucial for obtaining municipal clients.


• Fralinger Engineering serves 19 municipalities across several counties.


• The firm balances small and large projects effectively.


• Generational involvement has been key to the company's success.


• Hard work and dedication are foundational to the business.


• The company has survived various economic downturns.


• Future growth will focus on technology and community service.


• Knowledge and skill are essential for success in engineering.


Sound Bites

• "It's all about your reputation."

• "We have records back to the 1700s."

• "Hard work and dedication are key."


Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Fralinger Engineering's Legacy

02:51 The Evolution of Civil Engineering

05:59 Municipal Engagement and Community Impact

08:51 Generational Growth and Family Legacy

11:48 Challenges and Resilience in Business

15:06 Future Directions and Technological Advancements

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8 months ago
19 minutes 5 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Atlantic City Serial Killer - S Jersey True Crime

In this episode, criminal trial attorney Jim Leonard sits with South Jersey Criminal Defense attorney and former prosecutor, Louis Casadia.

Jim recounts his involvement in the tragic discovery of four murdered women in Atlantic City.

Leonard shares insights into the complexities of the case, including the initial investigation, witness testimonies, and the emergence of a new suspect known as the 'River Man.'

He reflects on the challenges faced in the legal process and the ongoing efforts to solve the case nearly two decades later.

The conversation delves into the complexities of a murder investigation involving multiple victims, exploring themes of misleading confessions, the discovery of bodies, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the impact of technology on modern investigations.

The speakers reflect on the victims' stories, the marginalization they faced, and the ongoing efforts to solve the case, emphasizing the importance of remembering the victims and their families.


takeaways

Jim Leonard has been practicing criminal law for over 23 years.

The case involved the discovery of four murdered women in Atlantic City.

Leonard believed his client was innocent based on initial impressions.

Witness testimonies played a crucial role in shaping the investigation.

The 'River Man' emerged as a potential suspect in the case.

Leonard's client was never formally charged with any crime.

The prosecutor's office had a divided opinion on the case.

Leonard held a press conference to clear his client's name.

The case remains unsolved nearly 20 years later.

There is ongoing interest from law enforcement to solve the case. Confessions can often be misleading and require thorough investigation.

The discovery of bodies can reveal critical information about the timeline of events.

Circumstantial evidence plays a significant role in murder investigations.

DNA evidence can be compromised, affecting the investigation's outcome.

Victims' backgrounds and lifestyles can influence public perception and investigation focus.

Modern technology significantly aids in solving crimes compared to past methods.

The passage of time complicates cold cases, making it harder to gather evidence.

Law enforcement's approach to marginalized victims can impact case resolution.

Ongoing investigations require collaboration between defense attorneys and law enforcement.

There is hope for justice, but it requires persistent effort and advancements in technology.

Unraveling the Terry Olsen Case

The Tragic Murders of Atlantic City

Inside the Mind of a Criminal Defense Attorney

Witnesses, Suspects, and the Pursuit of Justice

The River Man: A New Lead in a Cold Case

A Lawyer's Journey Through a High-Profile Murder Case



Chapters

00:00Introduction to the Case and the Guests

02:09The Discovery of the Bodies

05:58Initial Client Meeting and Impressions

09:57Developing the Suspect Profile

11:51Witness Testimonies and Their Impact

20:01The River Man and New Leads

30:03Prosecutor's Office Response and Ongoing Investigation

35:14Confessions and Misleading Leads

37:24The Discovery of the Bodies

39:21Circumstances of the Murders

41:10The Investigation's Challenges

43:29The Victims' Stories

46:01Marginalization of Victims

48:22Investigative Techniques and Technology

52:02The Role of Technology in Modern Investigations

56:24The Future of the Investigation

01:01:14Reflections on the Case

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8 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes 24 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Starbound Gymnastics Academy in Bridgeton

In this conversation, Tom the Producer reports to Beacon founder, Meg McCormick Hoerner on adding various fundraising initiatives to the website of the Bridgeton Beacon.They discuss local media, working with Bridgeton youth, and a new project called "Memory Podcasts", which allows you to sponsor the recording session for a local beacon of the community.The dialogue explores the legacy of Paul Hunsberger and the importance of preserving local history through storytelling. The speakers highlight the potential of using AI to enhance storytelling and the significance of crowdsourcing community stories to connect the past with the present.takeawaysThe Bridgeton Beacon now has multiple fundraising channels to support its initiatives.Engaging the community through memory projects can foster local connections.Preserving local history is essential for future generations.Every individual's story is valuable and worthy of preservation.Utilizing technology can enhance the storytelling process.Crowdsourcing stories can help build a richer community narrative.The legacy of influential figures like Paul Hunsberger is crucial to local history.AI can assist in organizing and presenting community stories effectively.Community contributions should directly support local content production.Encouraging feedback from the community can guide future projects.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bridgeton Beacon's Initiatives02:18 Fundraising Channels and Community Engagement04:25 Memory Podcasts: Preserving Local History07:20 The Importance of Oral History10:00 Community Contributions and Nonprofit Goals12:38 Facilitating Conversations Across Generations15:24 Leveraging AI for Engaging Interviews19:19 Exploring Creative Questions for Engagement21:50 Innovative Ideas for Memory Preservation24:18 The Hunsberger Project: A Legacy of Stories29:48 Building a Digital Archive of Memories35:23 Connecting Past, Present, and Future Stories

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8 months ago
7 minutes 22 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Revitalizing Local Media: Fundraising and Community Engagement

In this conversation, producer Tom Ritter reports to Beacon founder, Meg McCormick Hoerner on adding various fundraising initiatives to the website of the Bridgeton Beacon.

They discuss local media, working with Bridgeton youth, and a new project called "Memory Podcasts", which allows you to sponsor the recording session for a local beacon of the community.

The dialogue explores the legacy of Paul Hunsberger and the importance of preserving local history through storytelling.

The speakers highlight the potential of using AI to enhance storytelling and the significance of crowdsourcing community stories to connect the past with the present.


takeaways

The Bridgeton Beacon now has multiple fundraising channels to support its

initiatives.

Engaging the community through memory projects can foster local connections.

Preserving local history is essential for future generations.

Every individual's story is valuable and worthy of preservation.

Utilizing technology can enhance the storytelling process.

Crowdsourcing stories can help build a richer community narrative.

The legacy of influential figures like Paul Hunsberger is crucial to local history.

AI can assist in organizing and presenting community stories effectively.

Community contributions should directly support local content production.

Encouraging feedback from the community can guide future projects.



Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bridgeton Beacon's Initiatives


02:18 Fundraising Channels and Community Engagement


04:25 Memory Podcasts: Preserving Local History


07:20 The Importance of Oral History


10:00 Community Contributions and Nonprofit Goals


12:38 Facilitating Conversations Across Generations


15:24 Leveraging AI for Engaging Interviews


19:19 Exploring Creative Questions for Engagement


21:50 Innovative Ideas for Memory Preservation


24:18 The Hunsberger Project: A Legacy of Stories


29:48 Building a Digital Archive of Memories


35:23 Connecting Past, Present, and Future Stories

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9 months ago
39 minutes 52 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
From Advertising to Advocacy: A Community Hero's Journey

In this conversation, Meg McCormick Hoerner is joined by Ms. Nina Young, a recipient of the Community Hero Award, about her journey from a 30-year career in advertising to becoming an advocate for education and community service. They discuss her impactful work in various community programs, including initiatives to support families, address hunger through a mobile feeding bus, provide shelter during cold weather with Code Blue, and create the Village of Hope for the homeless. The conversation highlights the importance of community service and the positive changes that can be made through dedicated efforts. takeaways Ms. Young received the Community Hero Award for her contributions. She transitioned from advertising to early childhood education. Her work includes supporting families with daycare funding. The mobile feeding bus initiative addresses hunger in the community. Code Blue provides shelter during cold weather. Village of Hope offers temporary housing for the homeless. Community programs empower youth and families. Collaboration with local organizations enhances program effectiveness. Transportation is a critical issue for job access. Community service is about making a difference in people's lives. Sound Bites "I went back to school for early childhood education." "We came up with a bus. I designed a bus." "Code Blue was developed by Mayor Kelly and Pastor Rob." "It's a stepping stone to your next step in your life." "If every person can just touch even one person's life." "You never want to judge, right? You never know." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Community Hero Award 01:30 Reinventing a Career: From Advertising to Education 05:41 Impactful Community Programs: Supporting Families 11:46 Addressing Hunger: The Mobile Feeding Bus Initiative 16:47 Code Blue: Providing Shelter in Cold Weather 22:10 Village of Hope: A Pathway for the Homeless 28:32 Conclusion: The Importance of Community Service

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9 months ago
30 minutes 46 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
Gary Fischer and The Bridgeton Invitational Baseball Tournament

In late 2024 Meg McCormick Hoerner interviewed the recipients of the BACC Hometown Hero awards so we could produce a short compilation of the winners. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPZF7JQbakY)

This is the first of the series to be released in it's full form, with local Beacon, Gary Fischer.

In this conversation, Gary Fischer, the recipient of the 2024 Community Hero Award, shares his journey from a player to the director of the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament. He reflects on his extensive baseball career, the significance of the tournament in the community, and the challenges faced in revitalizing the event. Fischer discusses unique tournament rules that enhance the experience and highlights the strong competition in recent years, emphasizing the importance of community support in keeping the tournament alive. takeaways Gary Fischer has played in the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament for five decades. The tournament has a rich history dating back to 1962. Community support is crucial for the success of local events. Fischer took over as director to ensure the tournament's future. The tournament was moved from August to May to increase participation. Unique rules like the speed clock enhance the tournament experience. The competition level has increased in recent years with new teams. Fischer's son played professional baseball, showcasing the tournament's impact. The event fosters a strong sense of community and family atmosphere. Volunteers are essential for the tournament's operations. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Community Heroes 01:52 A Legacy of Baseball: Gary Fisher's Journey 08:00 Reviving the Bridgeton Invitational Tournament 12:12 Innovations in Tournament Rules 18:03 The Future of the Bridgestone Invitational

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9 months ago
22 minutes 22 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
The Death of Local Media

This conversation explores the significant decline of local media, particularly in low-income areas, and its impact on community engagement and democracy.

Episode Page: https://BridgetonBeacon.com/death-of-local-media

Edie Horner discusses the challenges faced by local news outlets and highlights the efforts of the Bridgton Beacon, a nonprofit media platform aimed at revitalizing local journalism.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of community involvement in supporting local news initiatives and the need for innovative solutions to keep local stories alive.


takeaways

  • The decline of local media has left many communities uninformed.
  • Low-income areas are disproportionately affected by the loss of local news.
  • Print media has been declining for decades, impacting journalism jobs.
  • Podcasts and online platforms can provide accessible news alternatives.
  • Community initiatives like the Bridgton Beacon can help fill the news gap.
  • Engaging local voices is crucial for effective journalism.
  • Local news plays a vital role in civic engagement and democracy.
  • Community involvement is essential for the sustainability of local media.
  • Innovative solutions are needed to support local journalism.
  • Reviving local news requires collective action and awareness.

Chapters

00:00 The Decline of Local Media

03:00 Bridgton Beacon: A Community Initiative

05:58 Challenges of Local News Production

08:52 Engaging the Community in Local Journalism

12:08 The Impact of Local News on Civic Engagement

15:00 Reviving Local Journalism: A Call to Action

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11 months ago
25 minutes 47 seconds

The Bridgeton Beacon
The Bridgeton Beacon is the soapbox and megaphone for commerce, culture, cuisine, and local causes. Enjoy our longform conversations with South Jersey luminaries. Or, collaborate with us by launching your own niche podcast or video project. The Bridgeton Beacon is an NJ 501c3 charitable organization, founded to promote economic development, and history in South Jersey.