There have been several deer sightings in Merchantville posted on social media during the past few days - Rosemarie Mocrytzki, captured a picture of one in her driveway off Lexington Avenue, and another was photographed crossing St. James and Somerset Avenues by Tim Mentzler. Last October, Marilyn Johnson spotted four deer grazing on Hampton Road across from the Merchantville Country Club, and a month later in her own back yard! NJ says that the deer population has become a public safety problem leading to thousands of car crashes, a public health problem with increasing cases of Lyme disease, and millions of dollars a year in losses for agriculture. Just a head's up to check for ticks and be careful when driving in and around the 'ville.

William S. Finlayson III of Merchantville passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2019. He was 76. Bill was a longtime Pennsauken resident before moving to Merchantville 14 years ago.  He was a member of the Mt. Holly Elks Lodge 848, and belonged to Timonium United Methodist Church, Timonium, MD. He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Sharon; three loving children, Kara-Lin Eller (Joseph), Stuart Finlayson, William Finlayson IV; three cherished grandchildren, Julian, Dane, Avalon; a caring sister, Janice Hands; and his dear niece and nephew, Kristen Engelke and Michael Hands. Full obituary.

Woodbine Swim Club presents their 1st Annual Summer Stayin Alive 12 Hour Bowl-a-Thon in partnership with Pinsetter Bar & Bowl. You’re invited to join in the fun on Saturday June 22, 2019 from 7:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. This event includes bowling, shoe rental, music, dancing, food and drink specials, prizes and lots of excitement for 12 straight hours. Cost: $20 adults, $10 kids under 18. If you have any questions, please contact Kate Brennan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Susan J. Ott, longtime Pennsauken resident passed away Friday, May 31, 2019. She was 70. A graduate of Haddon Twp. High School and Glassboro State College, Susan had retired as a teacher for Camden City Schools after over 36 years of dedication. She was an active member and supporter of the Friends of the Pennsauken Library and Pennsauken High School’s many extracurricular activities. She thoroughly enjoyed her visits to Sea Isle City and the time spent with “The Posse” and her crochet club. Daughter of the late George and Lorayne Pims; wife of the late Andrew Ott; she is survived by her two beloved daughters, Lindsay Makrinos (Chris), Jamie Ott (Pete); a cherished grandson, Cameron; a loving sister, Lynn McHugh (Joseph); dear sister-in-law, Teresa Noell (Peter); and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Her memorial service will be held 11 am, Friday, June 7th at the Gaskill-Brown Funeral Home, 33 West Maple Ave., Merchantville. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Thursday evening from 6 to 9 pm and again Friday morning from 10 am until time of service. Full obituary.

A mama turkey and her 15 poults (chicks) were spotted in a backyard on Walnut and another mom and her babies on Frankin Avenue yesterday. Wild turkeys have staged a comeback in NJ since they were wiped out in the 1800's. Due to their adaptable nature and prolific breeding ability, they have thrived in NJ since the 1980's. They love sizable oak forests - and we have plenty - or patches of forest interspersed with suburbs. Males, or toms, are polygamous and often mate with several hens during the breeding season who can lay up to 17 eggs and may have multiple broods.

The Merchantville School Garden Club under advisor Dina Turan, met with the Merchantville Community Garden Club to plant in the community on May 17th. Before they planted, they were read a story by club member, Cindy Hertneck. It is wonderful to see the Borough and school clubs working together to embrace the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. The Merchantville Garden Club also gave students sunflower seeds to plant in their own yards.