Kate Lairson pt1 - Black Bird Local

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.

23 Sep 2min

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.

22 Sep 3min

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 todayWhy Greenwich, NJ—a town steeped in colonial and maritime history—is the perfect settingHow the community can support, visit, or volunteer during the final phases of the buildThe personal stories of George Woodruff and Alan Carmen and their work preserving local heritageWhat “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.

6 Sep 1min

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.

30 Aug 1min

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

6 Aug 20min

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.takeawaysThe 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 ServiceLeadership Lessons from a Healthcare Pioneer"I believe in lifelong learning.""You made this area your home.""You're inviting them into the adventure."Chapters00:00 Celebrating Achievements and Community Impact02:35 Leadership in Healthcare: A Journey of Service04:49 Building a Visionary Organization07:05 The Importance of Community Involvement09:25 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth11:48 The Evolution of Complete Care14:08 The Role of Foundations in Healthcare16:21 Advice for a Fulfilling Life18:36 Reflections on Leadership and Legacy

4 Juli 32min

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.takeawaysLa 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."Chapters00:00 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

23 Juni 22min

https://bridgetonbeacon.com

20 Juni 2min