THE MILLVILLE AIRPORT Administration Building was recently dedicated to former airport manager, the late Lewis B. Finch, Jr, who served for more than 28 years in that capacity. During the dedication local and regional dignitaries praised Finch’s commitment to the airport and the community. He was a World War II veteran and lifelong resident of Millville, who passed on Oct. 1, 2002.

VINELAND — The tears flowed freely and the hugs lasted a long time as Senior Airman Jorge Gonzalez surprised his daughter, Celine, at Mennies Elementary School recently after returning home from a 7-month deployment to Afghanistan.

Gonzalez is a former U.S. Marine now serving as a munitions specialist for the Air National Guard. He was deployed to Afghanistan in October.

Celine is a fourth grade student and has been missing her father very much, according to her teacher, Bielenda Torrence. Celine knew her dad would be home this week, but not which day. Torrence, Lisa Arena, Mennies Principal; and Kristen Speakmen, Assistant Principal; all participated in an elaborate ruse to preserve the surprise. Celine’s mother, Olga, also helped set up the big moment.

Celine was called out of class, allowing a sizable contingent of print and broadcast personnel to set up in the classroom. The class was told something “special” was going to happen. The fourth grader was then returned to her room, and the morning’s lesson continued.

That’s when her father strode into the room, and gently tapped her on the shoulder.

Celine turned all the way around in her chair and by that time her father had taken her into his arms and enveloped her in a hug that lasted a long time.

The two did not separate for the rest of the visit - including interviews, questions from reporters, and even sharing slices from a red, white and blue cake decorated with “Celine...Daddy’s Home!”

Bridgeton Mayor Albert Kelly hoists a jumper over city Director of Public Works Dean Dellaquila, as County Surrogate Doug Rainer, right, and city Business Administrator Dale Goodreau and city Councilman William Spence, orange shirt, look on. This friendly game came on the heels of a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the new basketball courts in City Park, which are open to the public. Parking for the new lower courts is in the paved lot next to the New Sweden Farmstead along Mayor Aitken Drive. For those wondering, Kelly sank the shot.