All Around Pennsauken

By John Kneib, Mayor of Pennsauken Township

Pennsauken Township is just a few months away from a very big birthday. On February 18, 2017, our town will turn 125 years old. And I think Pennsauken looks pretty good for its age.

Back in the day, Pennsauken used to be a part of a community called Stockton Township. But in 1892, an act of the New Jersey Legislature incorporated us into our very own town. We’ve done a lot of growing since them, turning into a vibrant, culturally diverse part of South Jersey. We have a solid business base, with both large companies and small businesses; and neighborhoods with strong sense of community and a willingness to truly help those in need. I don’t know about you, but I think that’s something worth celebrating.

To that end, the Township, in conjunction with the Pennsauken Events Committee, is looking to plan a variety of events next year to mark this special occasion. And we’d like your help in making it happen. We want to hear about your ideas on how you think we should celebrate the 125^th anniversary of Pennsauken. It’s not just our celebration, it’s yours too. In order to do this properly, it needs to be a collaborative effort from every part of the Pennsauken community.

So if you think we should throw a birthday party with a really big cake, let us know. If you think we should put together a time capsule that won’t be opened until Pennsauken’s 150^th anniversary, tell us. If we should invite back some of Pennsauken’s finest, who’ve gone on to win Super Bowls, help land a space rover on Mars, or become a prominent musician, shoot us a line. The only bad idea is the one not shared.

There are several ways you can share your ideas with us. One is to e-mail aap@twp.pennsauken.nj.us. There will also be an easy-to-use form on the Township’s web site that will be up and running by Monday, Nov. 14. If you’re not computer savvy, there will be a display at the Pennsauken Free Public Library where you’ll be able to fill out and submit a hand-written form. The only things we ask is that you be respectful when responding and that you share your ideas by Friday, Dec. 30.

Now we’ll be sharing this information again via the web and social media on an ongoing basis, but we really need your help to get the word out and help generate ideas. Together, we can put together a celebration worthy of Pennsauken’s 125 years.

On behalf of the entire Township Committee, and as your mayor, I wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful start to the holiday season.