Appointment of John W. Williams, Twelfth ward Republican, as a city street lighting inspector has been announced by Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann.

Williams, who will be compensated on a per diem basis of $4, formerly held a similar position but when the economy salary cuts were established he was employed on it six-months basis and later the post was vacated.

Hartmann said he appointed Williams primarily because a closer inspection of city street lights is important. He said Williams is familiar with all street light locations and is in a position to make adequate reports to him. 

Hartmann ordered Williams to inspect all street lighting and make recommendations as to locations where there is inadequate lighting and in sections where lighting can be distributed to serve the largest area without the added expense of new street lights.

Several times the commissioner has complained many street lights are of varying heights, improperly located in need of relocations.

"The city of Camden is no worse off in the matter of street lighting than most other cities," Hartmann asserted. "Every city at some time has had to curtail street lighting budgets. 

"If the cost of street lighting in cities served by Public Service Electric and Gas Company was not exorbitant, Camden and other New Jersey cities could be far better lighted. These excessive rates make it necessary to reduce lighting costs to keep the city tax rate down."

r  yesterday sent State Senator Burling's bill to enable Camden to borrow money for construction of a light plant to Dr. Clark Foreman, PWA counsel in Washington, for his perusal.

Camden Courier-Post - February 4, 1938

DEMOLITION BANNED If TAXES ARE OWED
Hartmann Refuses to Issue Permits Unless - Liens Are Settled

Permits for demolition of houses or buildings will be refused to owners unless all taxes and. other municipal liens are paid in full, Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, director of public works, has announced.

In announcing a new department policy, Hartmann said he intended to rigidly enforce the order.

As a result of the ruling the city treasury was enriched $740 yesterday when owners of two dilapidated houses at Seventeenth and Federal Streets paid that sum in order to obtain a permit for demolition of the property.

The City Commission last week approved an ordinance empowering Hartmann to proceed with the work of property demolition when any property is declared unsafe and a menace to life or limb or where a property becomes a fire menace.

Many owners of property have proceeded with demolition work and it was later found taxes and other liens were unpaid," Hartmann said. "This practice will not be tolerated in the future.

"I have instructed my secretary, William J. Palladino, who is in charge of the building bureau, that no permits for property demolition shall be issued until it is determined if taxes and other liens are paid.

"In the case of the two Federal Street houses we found the amount owing to the city was $740. A permit for demolition of the property was withheld. By this action the city received a substantial sum of money."

Hartmann said he is making a survey of all properties in the city to determine the number that are unsafe and dangerous.

Inspectors of the building bureau will furnish him with a list of such dangerous property with the amounts in each case of taxes, water rents and other liens unpaid.

"The city will be able not only to get rid of dilapidated, unsafe and untenantable properties but will at the same time collect a substantial sum of money during the year when these liens are paid," Hartmann declared. He estimated more than 500 pieces of property either should be rebuilt and made safe or should be razed.

Camden Courier-Post - February 4, 1938

3 MEN AND 6 GIRLS PASS CLERK TESTS
Males Certified for 2 Positions in City Department of Public Works

Three Camden men were certified for two positions in the Department of Public Works yesterday after passing examinations conducted by the Civil Service Commission. All qualified as senior clerk-stenographers.

At the same time, six of 11 young women who took tests to supplement the existing eligibility list of female senior clerk-stenographers received passing grades. Three of the six now work for the city, and one is employed by the Camden County Park Commission. The list is for possible employment in Camden city.

The three men certified are David A. Baxter, 907 North Fifth Street, first with a mark of 78.40; Stephen Bielicki, 1031 Kaighn Avenue, second with 75.85, and Joseph F. Markley, Jr., 465 Carteret Street, third with 70.30.

Baxter and Bielicki now are employed in the department as temporary senior clerk-stenographers. Their certification will permit Commissioner Frank. J. Hartmann to make, the appointments permanent if he chooses. Markley also is eligible."

Bessie F. Griffith, 820 Line Street, received the highest grade among the six who passed the test for female employees, with 77.70. Helen H. Lodge, 125 North Third street, was second with 77.55, she is a daughter of former Assemblyman Henry Lodge, of Audubon.

Marie L. Hartmann, now working in the tax sales office of the Department of Revenue and Finance, received a mark of 71.05. She lives at 3126 Atlanta Road. Victoria McCurdy, 1211 Haddon Avenue, employed in the tax lien bureau of the same department, followed with 70.70.

Marie A. Paris, 1426 Haddon Avenue, secretary to John H. Osler, Jr., park commission engineer; qualified with a mark of 70.50, while Marie B. Carr, 1409 Princess Avenue, secretary to the City Board, of Assessors, received 70.25.

The salary minimum for both male and female senior clerk-stenographers is $1380, and the maximum is $1680.

Camden Courier-Post - February 5, 1938

HARTMANN URGES DIME ROUND TRIP
TO PHILA. ON SPAN LINE
Commissioner Favors Modern Bus Terminal Along With Cut In Fare

A 10 cent round trip high-speed line fare between Camden and Eighth and Market streets, Philadelphia, and the establishment of a modern bus terminal in Roosevelt Plaza is favored by Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann:

Hartmann said the low fare terminal would produce these results: 

The reduced train fare would increase high-speed line riding and save thousands of regular Camden and suburban riders between $20 and $30 yearly in transportation costs.

Receipts from operation of the high-speed line would be increased and losses reduced.

Bus operating companies using the proposed terminal would save additional thousands of dollars now paid in high bridge tolls and profits would be increased.

Camden merchants would enjoy more prosperity through, increased sales and greater numbers of buyers.

Commissioner Hartmann made his statement to a committee representing the Broadway Businessmen's Association at a conference in his office when the proposed bus terminal was discussed.

The committee, headed by James V. Moran, vice president of the Hurley Stores, conferred with Hartmann to get his views on a proposed bus terminal. A movement to arouse interest in the terminal was recently inaugurated by businessmen.

"I do not propose to be a part of any plan that will make the city of Camden a financial Santa Claus to resuscitate a $10,000,000 half-dead goldfish called the high-speed line," Hartmann told the committee.

"While I favor erection of a bus terminal, if one is to be built in Roosevelt Plaza then I will insist that it be a structure comparable to the architecture of the $10,000,000 noble experiment we call the new City Hall.

"Neither will I approve a terminal with pup tent shelters, hot dog stands and waiting sheds that will make the present beautiful plaza look like a shacktown neighborhood."

Hartmann said a modern terminal would cost at least $400,000. He pointed out that the present new bridge loll booths at the bridge entrance were built at a cost of about $90,000.

"If a modern bus terminal is decided upon”, Hartmann continued, "then Public Service, the Bridge Commission and all other bus operating companies should pay the costs of building the terminal and the city should receive some revenue for the land acquired for a terminal.

"The fare, from Camden to. Eighth and Market streets should be five cents in each direction instead of the present 10 cent fare with free transfers. With such a fare rate regular riders will save from $20 to $30 annually.

''If P.R.T. and the Bridge Commissioners want to save the high-speed line they should agree to reduce the fare and, encourage more riding. A reduced fare and a modern bus terminal would cause people to flock into the terminal and the high-speed line service would be increased instead of curtailed.

The commissioner said a passenger survey of the high-speed line will show that the majority of Camden and suburban riders travel as far as the Eighth street station in Philadelphia and usually walk the rest of the distance.

Previous efforts to settle the question of establishing a bus terminal proved futile. Last May the Broadway Businessmen's Association went on record as favoring a terminal in the plaza at the City Hall.

The question as to whether bus companies operating through Camden could be compelled to use the terminal in interstate operation has never been decided.

At yesterday's conference Charles H. Heritage, president of the association, asked Hartmann if the city legal department had ever given an opinion. Hartmann said he will ask for an opinion from City Solicitor Firmin Michel.

Others who attended the conference as members of the association's committee were Morris Futernick, Samuel Auerbach, Irving Levinsky and Simon Abramson.

Camden Courier-Post - February 5, 1938

3 LANES OF TRAFFIC URGED ON BROADWAY
Acting County Engineer Proposes Widening; Hartmann Opposes Plan

The widening of Broadway through Camden and Gloucester and the establishment of three traffic lanes is advocated by S. Herbert Taylor, acting ·county engineer; in a plan submitted to Frank Berckman, chair man of the road committee of the Camden County Board of Freeholders.

Taylor favors the widening of the city’s principal business street to 46 feet to permit the laying out of the three traffic lanes, to be 10 feet, eight inches wide, to be flanked by seven foot parking lanes. He suggests pedestrian safety islands at intersections.

Taylor proposes the state take over the street in Camden as it already has done in Gloucester and pay for the improvement. He further proposes the state take over River Avenue in Camden, which becomes River Road in Pennsauken Township.

His plan is opposed by City Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, Jr., director of public works, who has charge of Camden streets. Taylor says the widening of the street will decrease traffic hazards and Hartmann is of the opinion it will make Broadway a speedway and increase accidents.

At present the roadway varies from 33 to 40 feet in width, but both cities have 66-foot rights of way, Taylor said. Uniform widening to 46 feet would permit 10 feet on each side for pavements, without the necessity of acquiring new rights of way, he added, asserting only encroachments on the existing municipal rights would have to be removed.

Taylor recommends that application be made to the State Highway Commission for motor, vehicle license and gas tax funds to defray the entire cost of the proposed improvement.

Further, the engineer insists that Broadway, along with River road, in Camden should be taken over by the Commission and maintained by that agency. The, state already operates Broadway in Gloucester, but has been lax on maintaining it, Taylor said in criticizing the condition of the street there. He cited sharp drops at the gutters which make driving or parking along the sides hazardous. This condition would be eliminated in his plan.

Elaborating upon his contention that the state should take over Broadway and River Road, Taylor points out both are inter-county highways, and that for nine months in the year: Broadway carries as much traffic as the White Horse Pike, and River Road as much as Black Horse Pike.

Taylor estimates motorists .using Broadway in Camden pay $54,000 annually to the state in motor vehicle and gas taxes, with no return to the city.

Fifteen persons were injured fatally in motor accidents on Broadway last year, eight in Camden and seven in Gloucester, the engineer pointed out. He said the artery has the heaviest pedestrian death rate in the county in emphasizing, the need for improvements, particularly pedestrian islands.

Offers Protection Plan

In this connection Taylor has designed a· unique island, which he feels provides complete protection for pedestrians. He has submitted a detailed plan to Berckman for his consideration.

"Broadway and River Road should be State highways, right into the heart of Camden City to the Delaware River Bridge," argues Taylor, who was assistant to Beale M. Schmucker until the latter's death. "Both of these routes are arterial, inter-county routes. In neither case is there an alternate state route that can be taken, without traveling a much longer distance. "The State did not solve the arterial highway problem of this, area when it constructed the Crescent and Admiral Wilson Boulevards.

"Take the case of Broadway, for instance, to go to Westville and points south and southwest from the bridge, the Admiral Wilson-Crescent route is two miles or 40 percent longer than the straight line of Broadway. That most people prefer the direct route is shown by the fact that the heavy traffic of the Camden end continues right down through Gloucester City to the county line.

The State has accepted the responsibility of Broadway through Gloucester City, although it has allowed the roadway there to remain in a terrible unsafe condition. If it is a State highway there why should it not continue as a State highway through Camden?

"A 1935 traffic survey showed Broadway carrying 9000 to 12,000 cars daily. These figures should be increased 10 to 18 percent because motor travel bas increased 18 percent generally, since 1935.

"This traffic means that the users of Broadway, while on Broadway, are paying approximately $10,000 per mile per year in gas tax. Since motor vehicle fees produce almost as much revenue as gas tax, we may assume an annual contribution per mile of $20,000. Thus for the 2.7 miles of Broadway in Camden, they pay to the State $54,000 a year and yet none of this money can be made available for the improvement of the route they use.

"That this route is sorely in need of improvement is shown by the death toll on it, the worst of any route through Camden city. Fifteen persons, most of them pedestrians, were killed on the five-mile stretch through Camden and Gloucester last year.

"A slightly widened highway would double its capacity and also make room for "pedestrian" islands. This widening could be done within the present right of way and still leave 10 feet each side for sidewalks.

"Crosswalks could be flood-lighted from the pedestrian islands. A study should be made to determine if progressive timing of traffic signals can be installed to expedite traffic and control speeds. These factors incorporated into the design of a new Broadway would, I am sure, prevent most of these fatalities.

"Broadway has and is producing more than enough revenue to make these improvements. What has been said of Broadway is true also of River Road, although in a less degree. The state should admit its responsibility and take both of these routes over.

Taylor said Broadway’s capacity now is 1000 cars per hour. With three lanes instead of two, as at present, the route could accommodate 2000 cars hourly, he contends.

Room for 3 Lanes

"Broadway is 40 feet wide in Camden," the engineer explains. Seven feet is enough for a parking lane on each side. That would leave 26 feet. Add six feet to that and you have three good wide lanes, each eight inches wider than the 10-feet width accepted as normal; Safety engineers are favoring wider lanes, however, and with all the truck and bus traffic on Broadway, I would recommend 10 feet, 8 inches. This could be accomplished by moving the curbs back three feet on each side.

"In Gloucester the width varies from 83 to 40 feet, although actually it is not even that wide, due to the dangerously high crown. The drop at both sides is so sheer it is difficult for vehicles to go near the curbs.

"The maximum drop from the center of the road to the gutters is 15 inches. By all the rules of highway construction, no drop should be greater than six inches. Personally I wouldn't build with more than a four-inch drop. That's enough for drainage.

Taylor denies that three-lane highways are more dangerous than two lanes.

Defends Plan as Safe

"It is true you have a common passing lane," the engineer said. "But with only two lanes you must go into opposing traffic to pass a vehicle. With three lanes you go into a neutral zone. For the same amount of traffic, a three-lane highway is far safer than a two-lane one.

"I cannot see the wisdom of widening Broadway in Camden at this time," Hartmann said last night, "Camden police officials should do as they did in New York City by putting into effect regulations to prohibit parking of all cars and trucks on Broadway.

"It is the all-day and double parking that contributes to many of the accidents that occur on Broadway. If the street is converted into a boulevard most motorists will use it for a speedway and thereby create more traffic hazards and increase accidents."

The commissioner said he is of the opinion that merchants and property owners on Broadway would be opposed to Taylor's plan If it would cost the city a huge sum of money, which would be reflected in a higher tax rate.

"Broadway was widened in the section below Cherry Street many years' ago," Hartmann added. "The sidewalks were cut down to a little more than a double pathway. Property owners were supposed to set back their building fronts some three feet, to give additional sidewalk space. But a few property owners have met this requirement.

"If the State of New Jersey had a quarter of a million dollars to give Camden a boulevard the money should be spent to widen South Seventh Street over the former Pennsylvania railroad right-of-way. That street is ideal for a boulevard to relieve the heavy traffic on Broadway," Hartmann continued.

Hartmann said the better plan would be to proceed with the paving of South Seventh Street, with the widening of Haddon Avenue to follow as a second project. He suggested a boulevard south of Kaighn Avenue to link Seventh Street with Broadway.

"Camden, taxpayers are paying their limit in taxes and they cannot be asked to pay more for a Broadway boulevard or a high-speed thorofare anywhere else in the city. If any of the city streets are to be widened as feeders for the Crescent or Admiral Wilson Boulevards than the state should pay the bill and not the taxpayers;" he said.

Several months ago the Ninth Ward Democratic Association approved a resolution to build a boulevard in the present semi-abandoned South Seventh Street railroad right-of-way. No action followed the proposal, when a survey showed a majority of property owners and persons renting homes and buildings along the street voiced their opposition to the proposed boulevard project..

Camden Courier-Post - February 8, 1938

Camden Courier-Post - February 8, 1938

$8,000,000 FUND SOUGHT FOR HOUSING
Hartmann Declares City Needs 2 Added Low-Cost Rental Projects

A Federal grant of $8,000,000 for slum clearance and two municipal low-cost housing units will be sought by the city of Camden when the State Legislature approves pending bills providing enabling legislation.

This was made known yesterday by Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, director of public works, who also announced he will present an ordinance at Thursday's meeting of the City Commission setting up a Camden Municipal Housing Authority.

The ordinance, Hartmann explained, will conform with requirements in one of the Assembly bills. Members of the authority, who will be known as Housing Commissioners, will be named by the City Commission.

Present members of the Camden Municipal Low-cost Housing Committee are Charles F. Hollopeter, chairman; Dr. M. F. Wheatland, William H. White, Horace R. Dixon, secretary, and John Green, president of the United Marine and Shipbuilders' Union of America.

"Camden needs two more low-cost housing units to provide modern, sanitary and adequate housing for its working people," Hartmann said. "Unless present plans are changed the proposed housing authority will seek a grant of $8,000,000 from the U. S. Housing Authority".

"As soon as the legislature passes the enabling legislation the city through this committee will be in a position to go to Washington, present our plans, and make formal request for Federal money.

Hartmann said that neither he nor the members of the housing committee will divulge any contemplated locations of the two proposed projects.

"This committee has studied housing needs from all angles. Neither politics, race or creed will enter into negotiations in connection with the projects."

Camden Courier-Post - February 8, 1938

BURLING CONFERS WITH HARTMANN
ON LIGHT PLANT BILL
Details of Possible Legislation to Enable City to Get PWA Funds Kept Secret
ANDERSON AT PARLEY

A conference on Camden's proposed legislative light plant bill was held yesterday by State Senator Albert E. Burling, Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann and his assistant, Walter S. Anderson. The session was held in Burling's private office.

Neither Burling nor Hartmann would disclose if they had decided on any action to introduced a bill to provide enabling legislation to obtain Federal PW A funds for the proposed municipal electric light plant, for which voters of the city twice cast a majority vote.

"The conference was held at the request of Commissioner Hartmann,” Burling said. "We discussed possible legislation which may be favorably acted on by the Legislature.

"It was agreed that our plans not be discussed or made known for the present and not until the matter can be more thoroughly analyzed and discussed."

Commissioner Hartmann was reluctant to discuss the conference.

"Out of courtesy to Senator Burling I do not desire to discuss the matter," Hartmann said.

Anderson appeared before Burling and the Camden county Assembly delegation at the weekly forum Saturday with suggested revisions in previous bills, after contacting Dr. Clark Forman, of the PWA legal staff in Washington. Today's conference was the outgrowth of that discussion.

City Clerk Clay W. Reesman, of Camden, asked the Legislators to amend the election law to defer certification of polling places until Fall in years when primaries are held in September.

Cites Election Law

Reesman pointed out that Article 8, paragraph 87, calls for municipal clerks to send polling place lists to county boards of election before March 1, and directs the county boards to certify them ·back by April 15.

"That was all right when primary elections were held in May each year," Reesman said. "But now they are held in September except in Presidential years, and the dates should be changed to August 1 and September 1 except in Presidential years. As it now stands, changes are made all Summer after the list is certified, until the original list be comes unrecognizable."

Clarence Dunkleberger, of the Eleventh Ward, reappeared to ask that a way be found to provide an underpass for school children who cross the railroad tracks between Cramer Hill and the Westfield Avenue section. There are no crossings between Twenty-seventh and Thirty-sixth streets.

Asks About Trade Mark

Dunkleberger said it is his understanding that an existing law requires railroad companies to provide crossings at every other block, but if this is not so, he asked that a bill be introduced to compel railroads to provide crossings every half mile in second-class cities.

Charles Dieck, of Philadelphia, representing non-residents in business in New Jersey, appeared to ask questions concerning the Foran trademark bill which, it is estimated by its sponsor, would provide $10,000,000 this year to help finance relief.

Dieck said he had been unable to obtain a copy of the bill, which was introduced in the upper house last Monday.

"I have been to the Courier-Post and the bills are not available," Dieck said.

. "You come down to my house and I'll show you the bill," put in Assemblyman Millard E. Allen, of Laurel Springs, who wants all employees of the publication "led to the guillotine. "

. "How can you show him the bill?" asked Assemblyman Rocco Palese, "when they haven't been printed yet?"

Maybe He Has Got It

"I got my bills yesterday” Allen insisted.

"Was that bill among them?" inquired Burling. "I haven't been able to get one yet."

"I think it was, but I'm not positive," admitted Allen. "At least I have some information on it."

"I don't think you have the bill," Assemblyman Lawrence H. Ellis said. "I was told in Trenton they haven't been printed yet."

"Well, I said I'm not positive," Allen declared. Shortly afterward he left the session.

The legislators voted to dispense with the regular weekly meeting next Saturday, because' it is Lincoln's birthday. They will be resumed February 19.

Camden Courier-Post - February 9, 1938

Is Zat So?
by
GORDON MACKAY

May we not at this time proffer a suggestion to Mayor Brunner, Eddie Kelleher and the other party sachems that should be a sure-fire plan to make Camden county safe for Democracy? We advise that the Democrats gather a fund of $4000, the money to be expended in giving testimonial dinners to Republican leaders, near-leaders and persons who figure themselves to be both.

Engage tables enough to accommodate about 350 persons. Invite representatives of all the various G. O. P. factions in the county, give a half dozen tickets to boisterous Democrats, so that the latter can sit back in their seats and enjoy the subsequent dogfight on a full stomach.

This idea that I am advancing to register about 5000 more Democrats in the county and paralyze the remnants of the once-powerful county G.O.P., was born when I attended the recent testimonial dinner to Louis Bantivoglio, freeholder from the Fifth ward.

Naturally my attendance was purely in a professional capacity. Speeches were made by divers and sundry spokesmen, the high-light being the sales talk for Bantivoglio and Baird by David Baird, Jr. The latter waxed wrathfully but warily in castigating the "half-breeds," as he once sarcastically termed the Republicans of the ilk and stature and political. leanings of Commissioner Mary W. Kobus.

Rarely, too, have we ever attended a banquet, either in the capacity of guest or reporter that ever awakened so many echoes of the past as did the dinner to the Fifth ward freeholder.

MRS. KOBUS ELECTED LOUIS

First came the information from friends of Commissioner Kobus that she was responsible for the election of Bantivoglio from the Fifth ward as freeholder. In view of the fact that Squire Baird seemed to feel that the freeholder's election was a personal triumph; this appeared strange to yours truly.

We moseyed about, however, and discovered that whether the squire likes it or not Mary W. Kobus and her minions did elect Bantivoglio. The leaders of the Kobus faction who put, the thing across were headed by a woman named Madeline Salvatore and a gentleman named "Bucky" Branch.

Bantivoglio was elected by something less than 40 votes, These votes could easily have been given to his opponent but there were strategic reasons why the Kobus faction didn't want a Democrat chosen from the Fifth ward.

So Branch, who is a policeman, I believe, and who was not working on election day, it being his regular day off, went into his precinct and put over the votes that elected Bantivoglio .

And Mr. "Bucky" Branch, I have been informed, has been so sore at the fact that he did elect Louis Bantivoglio that he moans and cries and berates himself ever since the trick was turned ..

Politicos who told me the story about the Kobus support for Bantivoglio gave a rather sensible reason for the step that was taken by the anti-Baird folk. The New Dealers among the Republicans sensed that the division between the Republicans and Democrats in the 1938 Board of Freeholders was going: to be exceedingly close.

Too close, in fact, to take any chances. So it was decided to support Bantivoglio in the Fifth ward, because he was a regular Baird Republican and couldn't be won to the coalition, The reasoning of the Kobusitees was clear and correct.

Had Bantivoglio been beaten by a Democrat, the board would have been divided equally, The Democrats would then have been able to deal with an individual rather than a faction, One vote would have given either side control. Thus by putting Bantivoglio across the Kobus faction made it imperative for the Democrats to deal with that clique; in fact Brunner and his minions had to do that little thing.

In view of this analysis I'm con tent to believe that the Kobus claim that the New Dealers elected Louis Bantivoglio is absolutely okay.

LADY " COPPER" NOT TRADE PARTY

Now don't get the information askew. Mrs. Kobus had no official or personal hand in this matter. It was the keen thought of some of her lieutenants, whose judgment appears to have been excellent, that fashioned this plan and executed it.

Meanwhile numerous politicos have been jibing Baird's statement that he would "rather have one Louis Bantivoglio than 1000 ingrates.". These political seers and soothsayers declared that such a declaration proved that its author was all wet in his political judgment and short sighted in his political history.

These politicos ambushed Mackay the other day, crammed him. into a corner and told him that if it "hadn't been for Bantivoglio Baird would have control of the city commission today."

These chuckling anti-Bairdites not only bearded me in my den, but dared me to disprove their statements by taking a look at the record. A stranger to politics in Camden, I didn't know the import of this statement until I squinted at the ward returns for the 1935 city commission election.

There in black and white is the proof that Baird lost the city commission fight because of the Bantivoglio-Leo Rea alliance in the Fifth ward. Just to take a look at the record again and to refresh jaded memories, the regular Baird slate received the following votes in the Fifth ward:

Bennett, 1016; Leonard, 1001; Lummis, 962; Rhone, 963; von Nieda, 1081. The New Deal ticket, then supported by the Messrs. Bantivoglio and Rea, polled these votes;· Baker, 1032; Brunner, 1022; Hartmann, 1001; Kobus, 1024, and Reesman, 930.

We would call your attention particularly to the Leonard-Hartmann vote. Louis and Leo supported candidates Brunner, Kobus and Hartmann, of the New Deal.

Leonard and Hartmann polled exactly the same vote, 1001. And the recount revealed Hartmann a winner by SEVEN votes, the box score showing Hartmann, 17,338, and Leonard, 17,331. And the Fifth ward turned the trick, for it would have been easy for Louis and Leo to have given Hartmann the same vote that Reesman received, or 71 less, and elected Leonard. There would have been no recount then.

Which scrutiny of the returns would seem to show that Bantivoglio as a friend of the squire proved his valor and vigilance in the cause by seating a New Deal commissioner and owing his seat in the Board of Freeholders to the Kobus clan.

In connection with this fund which the Democrats should raise to give testimonial dinners to G.O.P. leaders et cetera we might suggest that on each occasion they have, David Baird Jr., named for a new office. In order, that my friend, Florence Baker, can show her loyalty and friendship to the Old Guard Field Marshal by asking his election to the said office.

This suggestion to, the Messrs. Brunner, Kelleher and the others is made tax-free, and no charge for usage. If that scheme doesn't make Camden county safe for Democracy, nothing will.

Camden Courier-Post - February 9, 1938

BAIRD AIDES HELD SEEKING CITY RULE
Orlando Warns Democrats at Fete to Moore, Crean and Mrs. Soistmann?

by GORDON MACKAY

David Baird Jr., and his allies have already arranged their slate for the next city commission election and are laying plans to recapture the city government of Camden. Democrats should know of this movement and prepare to thwart the proposed plans at once.

This warning was given by County Prosecutor Samuel P. Orlando last night, at a testimonial dinner in the Hof Brau at which three Ninth Ward Democrats were feted, and at which 500 were present. The trio honored comprised Mrs. Mary Ellen Soistmann, state committee woman; Oscar Moore, freeholder, and John J. Crean, assistant city solicitor and county committeeman.

While the three guests were feted and presented with wrist watches and other tokens, the affair took on a love feast aspect for the three New Deal commissioners arid all shades and leanings of Democratic leadership.

Mayor George E. Brunner was toastmaster and took occasion to poke fun at the G.O.P. and its tribulations over the county headquarters.

Brunner Jests at G.O.P.

"I have just received word," said the Mayor with due solemnity, "that the Republican county committee of whom I, read today was having trouble over their headquarters, have finally solved their troubles tonight.”

"I understand they are giving up their present location and. have just been presented by the Bell Telephone Company with a booth, and are now looking for another tenant to whom the committee can sublet half the space."

Orlando's warning came after he congratulated the special guests, He said:

"I have every reason to believe that Dave Baird and the rest of the Republican chieftains are already laying their plans to capture the city commission. They are working to the end with their own slate, so that they can take from the people of Camden the good government which they have received far some time.

"We Democrats do not want to take this warning lightly, we want to remember that Baird and his chieftains are already working toward capturing the government of Camden, and this is something that .we want to prevent at all hazards."

Orlando also congratulated the gathering as an indication of the growth of the party, and the faith that the people of Camden come to have in the Democratic party and in its principles."

The prosecutor also prophesied greater honors in the future for the triumvirate who were the guests of the occasion.

Disclaims Harmony Rift

Mrs. Emma E. Hyland, postmaster and long a figure in Ninth Ward affairs declared she resented any newspaper stories that hinted that there was the slightest rift in the Democratic party.

She told of the trouble the Democrats in the Ninth Ward, which, she declared, had never elected a Democratic freeholder until Oscar Moore was chosen. Mrs. Hyland told of detectives shadowing her home during election, and of 'the struggles' that she and Moore had known together in fighting for the party in that bailiwick.

"I want to say" continued the postmaster, "that we must all be impressed by the spirit of harmony that this gathering means has come to pass.

"I don't want you, and I will not myself believe all you read in the newspapers declaring we are fighting among· ourselves, for if there is anything like that in progress, I don't know anything about it and I don't believe you do, either."

County Treasurer Edward J. Kelleher, hailed as "The Father of the Democratic Party in Camden County" contrasted the spectacle before him with the harmony dinner which he and others sponsored years ago.

“We sold 150 tickets," he said, "and gave away 150 more, and when the sponsors reached the hall at 7 p.m., the hour of the dinner, there wasn't a single other person on hand. Later the hall was filled, and it held 200 guests. 200 to attend a Democratic harmony dinner that embraced all of Camden county."

Officials Laud Guests

Mrs. Bertha Shippen Irving, postmaster of Haddonfield; Police Judge Gene R. Mariano and others also congratulated the guests. Mayor Brunner introduced Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann by calling attention to the cleanup campaign now under Hartmann auspices.

"Just as Hartmann is making Camden a cleaner city in which to live," said the Mayor, "so has Commissioner Kobus made the city clean from crime. The streets are clean, the city is clean, and this has only been made possible by the efforts of the three commissioners who have worked in harmony, and who are going to continue to work in harmony." Crean, Moore and Mrs. Soistmann spoke their thanks to those present for the banquet, the gifts and the sentiments expressed.

Camden Courier-Post - February 9, 1938

HONORS ARRANGED FOR LODGE LEADER
Tall Cedars to Entertain National Head at Fete Here Saturday

Charles Siegel, Supreme Tall Cedar of the United States, and his official Camden Forest No.5, staff will be honored at a dinner and at the second annual charity ball of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, at the Walt Whitman Hotel Saturday night.

Among the guests will be City Commissioner Frederick von Nieda and Mrs. von Nieda; City Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann and Mrs. Hartmann, Surrogate F. B. Hanna and Mrs. Hanna, Sheriff Joseph Van Meter and Mrs. Van Meter, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pearson, Mr. and, Mrs. August Romelle, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Hicks, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Cook, Mr. and Mrs. James Knox, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Brown.

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Forsythe, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Giffins, Mr. and Mrs. William Del Baugh, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Reeves, Mr. and Mrs. William E. Strouse, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Peters, William G. Rohrer, Miss Flora Tulk, Mr. and Mrs. George Murray, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Dahl, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ireton, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Mattison, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Burgess, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Miles, Lieutenant Albert Eckenroth and Mrs. Eckenroth.

Music will be furnished by the Famous Sonny James Orchestra.

Camden Courier-Post - February 9, 1938

Camden Courier-Post - February 9, 1938

‘Is There a Doctor in the House?'

To the Editor:

Sir-If anyone would take the time to watch the children going to and from school across the railroad each day, they would be thoroughly convinced as to the grave necessity of an underpass.

It is not very pleasant to contemplate what may happen to some one or more of these children if the cars which they climb over and some crawl under were suddenly moved by a shifting engine, while they were upon or under these cars.

The miracle of miracles is that (l hope I am correct) none of these children has been killed or maimed while crossing or recrossing the railroad: But let us not wait for a horrible example to set us in motion to fill the need of an underpass.

Mr. Hartmann tells us to construct an underpass it would cost about $400,000. Now although I am not an expert in the art of underpass construction I don't believe it is necessary to go to such a great expense, especially for us ordinary Cramer Hillers. We only want a plain but substantial underpass. It does not have to possess beautiful tile walks nor ornate entrances and terraced approaches. Just plain!

No doubt most everyone has heard the request, "Is there a doctor in the house?"

Well, here Is a new one, "Is there an underpass constructor around?" If so let's hear his views on $400,000 underpasses.

Hoping this will arouse all you Cramer Hill folks to the. support of a just need, I am

H. W. BROWN
802 Beideman Avenue

Camden Courier-Post - February 10, 1938

Public's Quick Aid in Cleanup Vindicates Hartmann's First Results Appeal
Commissioner After Inspecting Tagging Mixed-up Refuse Cans Will Regulate Junkmen Next

This is the fourth in a series of articles showing how co-opera­tion by Camden citizens in ash and garbage collection can save money for the city.

By DAN BOONE

Camden citizens really want to do their part in keeping the streets clean.

 That has been proved to the satisfaction of' Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, director of public works, as a result of his campaign of educating the people to co-operate in the city's refuse removal program.,

"I've never heard more favorable comment than I have as a result of our appeal to the householders to put out their ashes, garbage and rubbish in proper containers," Hartmann said. "I made an inspection trip yesterday throughout the city and found that most of the citizens were most willing to aid our collection by keeping their ashes, garbage and rubbish separate and tying neatly in bundles the refuse which is too big for containers.

"Many residents told me how much better the streets looked and how much it aided them to keep their pavements clean when their neighbors co-operated with the department."

Hartmann said the stickers placed on containers in which the refuse was improperly prepared for collection, notifying the householder of this fact had appealed to most citizens.             ,

"Persons whose containers were not placarded appeared to take great pride in that fact and it was noticeable that baskets and boxes which bore these notices were quickly removed from the curbs after being emptied by citizens- who did not want their neighbors to know that they had not done their bit to keep the city clean."

But there is one phase of the collection which has not improved, and Hartmann is determined to remedy that immediately.

"We are going to stop scavengers anti junk men from littering the streets with refuse which they strew about after digging through containers for some bits which they may want," the commissioner declared.

"It often happens that the refuse will be placed at the curb in proper manner by the householder. And then along comes a scavenger who upsets the boxes or baskets, wades through the contents for whatever he may be seeking and leaves the remainder scattered all over.

Must Take All or None

"I am giving notice now that any, one who wants to take any of the contents of the rubbish containers must remove all the contents. If they want any of the bundles, they can't untie them and take what they want, hut they must take it all away. Then, after they have re moved the contents, they want to get rid of whatever may not be useful to them, they must take it to the city incinerator."

Hartmann pointed out ·that all the refuse truck drivers are special officers and he has instructed them to take the name and address of any scavengers seen littering the streets. He said he believed disorderly charges could be placed against those who disturb the refuse.

 "I am even considering the possibility that scavengers be licensed. I don't know whether the city would do that, but I believe it would be possible to require a permit to be attached to all junk carts. But. at any rate, we are going to see that the work of the housekeepers in doing their part is not cancelled by the careless and sloppy actions of scavengers."

Camden Courier-Post *  February 11, 1938

City Bureaus Keep Costs Within Budget for 1937
Brunner Lauds Rulers for $40,000 Saving by Co-operation in Offices
$302,000 IS VOTED ON STREET BONDS

All departments of the city government were operated within the budget appropriations "during 1937 and the city's saving, as a result, was $40,000, Mayor George E. Brunner announced yesterday.
"I believe it is the first time in years that all departments have finished a year without a single departmental deficit," Brunner commented.

The Mayor expressed public thanks and commendation to his fellow commissioners for "whole-hearted cooperation with me, as the city's chief fiscal officer, in giving the taxpayers a break."
Brunner's announcement was made at the meeting of the city commission in connection with approval of routine interdepartmental transfers of unspent funds to balance the various bureau budgets. Figures for the individual departments were not released.

The commission approved the form of a $302,000 bond issue to pay the Pennsylvania railroad and subsidiaries for the right of way in Seventh street, purchased but not paid for by a previous commission.

The bonds will mature serially and will bear interest at 3% percent. 

An ordinance amending the 1924 ordinance on protection, regulation and control of trees, in city parks and streets was passed on final reading.

Michel Explains Ordinance

Commissioner Frederick von Nieda asked Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, Jr., to explain the new provisions, and Hartmann referred him to City Solicitor Firmin Michel, who explained:

The 1924 ordinance vested powers to permit plantings or removals and to fix penalties in the "Department of Parks," which does not exist.

The amendment vests these powers in the Bureau of Parks, the body which has control of trees and "other arboreal improvements."

The amendment also substitutes for specific arbitrary penalties for violation, as provided in the original ordinance, the blanket city ordinance penalties of fines not to exceed $200 and imprisonment not to exceed six months, or both.

"In my opinion the old penalties were not valid because they were not left to the discretion of the magistrate presiding," Michel said. "The city has the right to fix penalties, but must not attempt to take away the discretionary rights vested in magistrates."

The vote was unanimous after this explanation.

City Fund Increased

Approval of two resolutions providing adjustments on taxes and other liens on two properties will give the city $1450 in cash.

The commission approved acceptance of $1000 from Sylvan I. Seligman in settlement of unpaid taxes and liens, including the year 1937, on premises designated as the North side of Baird boulevard, Bridge boulevard and Maplewood street.

The other resolution provided acceptance of $450 in settlement of municipal claims on a property at 331 Royden street. The adjustment was made with the Beckett Building & Loan Association.

"In both these cases Mayor Brunner was successful in obtaining more money than was offered originally," Hartmann said.

In the first settlement, Hartmann said, the original amount was doubled and in the latter instance the amount was increased to give the city $150 additional. He then commended the Mayor for his record of driving consistently good bargains in tax settlements.

The election of three constables was approved. Hartmann nominated Peter Giardini, of 331 Beckett street, and Cyril J. Hughes, of 2262 South Eighth street. Commissioner Mary W. Kobus nominated Eugene Livingston, of 1025 Cooper street. All were elected for three year terms.

Bonds posted by James P. Conaghy, of the Sixth ward, and Frank J. Suttill, of the Seventh ward, both elected constables two weeks ago, were approved.

Title Sales Approved

Sale of three tax title certificates on as many properties was approved. Margaret A. Powell purchased the certificate covering the property at 506 Broadway upon agreement to pay all municipal liens.

Walter Dumbleton purchased certificates on property at 130 North Eleventh street and 2012 Arlington street, under a similar agreement.

Seven properties were acquired by payment of $175 for assignment of deeds. A resolution authorized the payment of $75 to Edward Handlers and wife for deeds covering 1418, 1420 and 1422 South Fourth street; payment of $75 to Elvena Simpson, for properties at 136, 138 and 140 Stanley street, and $25 to the Juniper Investment Corporation, covering premise's at 1029 Segal street.

The commission approved cancellation of taxes and liens on three properties acquired by foreclosure.

A used car sales license for Walter Viegel, 1169 Cooper street, and transfer of the license of George R. Van Sciver from Twelfth and State streets to 2610 Federal street, were approved.
Hartmann objected to granting licenses to dealers who leave cars parked in city streets.

"Between billboards, used car lots and cars parked in our city streets the City of Camden looks swell," Hartmann said. He voted in favor of both licenses.

Camden Courier-Post * February 11, 1938

CITY SEEKS BIDDERS FOR MID-CITY PLOT
$375 Minimum Monthly Rent Required by Rulers in Lease Offer
PRESENT HOLDER QUITS

Camden's municipal parking "lot," bounded by Federal, Arch and Fifth street, will be put on the auction block again.

The City Commission yesterday authorized the legal department to make provisions for offers on a month-to-month rental of the tract.

No bid will be accepted unless the rental bid is more than $375 monthly, payable in advance.

Monroe Y. Brett, present holder of the lease, was awarded the rental contract on his bid of $441 a month. Since taking over the plot for a paid parking space he has lost money, he informed Commissioner Hartmann last week. Brett's lease expires Monday.

Available March 15

The resolution provides the lease shall be awarded the highest bidder for a term beginning March 15.

The lease, together with the terms agreed upon, will be filed with City Clerk Clay W. Reesman and shall lay over for two weeks to be open for public inspection.

Nothing is contained in the resolution that requires the city-owned plot shall be used for parking purposes. The resolution sets forth the "piece of ground is not needed for public use by the City of Camden."

Anticipated action on a proposed lease for radio station WCAM failed to develop.

The lease with the Broadcasting Advertising Company expired February 1, and since that time the station has been operated by the city under supervision of the Department of Revenue and Finance of which Mayor Brunner is director.

Housing Plan Deferred

Hartmann withheld a resolution he had prepared, providing a municipal housing authority composed of five members to supplant the present housing committee.

Hartmann announced he desired to study similar authorities in other cities. The legislature has not approved four Assembly bills providing the enabling legislation necessary to secure U. S. Housing Authority funds for slum clearance and low-cost housing, he said.

Mayor Brunner said he has been directing operation of the radio station with negligible profits.
"The station has been a big headache," the mayor said. "I expect to lease it as soon as certain matters are adjusted to the satisfaction of the Federal Communications Commission.

Camden Courier-Post * February 11, 1938

6 Old Frame Houses Disappear Mysteriously in South Camden
Hartmann Reports Dilapidated Dwellings Marked For Demolition
'Gone with the Wind' Before City Gets Chance to Raze Them

"MISSING—Six dilapidated South Camden properties. Locations, 1700-1702 Kossuth St., 757-759 Chestnut St.. 1891 Mulford St., and 1847 Miller St. Anyone having information as to the disappearance of said properties communicate with Frank J. Hartmann, Director of Public Works. City Hall."

The above could be used for an advertisement to help solve one of the most unusual incidents since Commissioner Hartmann took charge of the city department of public works.

Six houses that had little value seemed to vanish almost over night. The situation left Hartmann and his secretary and building bureau aide, William J. Palladino, somewhat flabbergasted.

"Yes sir, these properties simply dropped out of sight," Hartmann told a reporter. "They just went right out of sight as if they were wiped away in a cyclone or tornado."

"Just what do you mean they dropped out of sight?" the reporter queried.

"I'm telling you they're gone with the wind or something like that," rejoined Hartmann.

"Did somebody tear them down?" shot back the scribe.

"I just told you they disappeared into thin air," replied the director; "certainly somebody tore them down. You don't suppose the houses just walked away, do you?"

Then Commissioner Hartmann further explained the story of the "six missing properties."

The unoccupied frame dwellings were declared unsafe and branded as fire hazards by inspectors in the city building bureau. Hartmann and his assistants decided to proceed with the legal routine of compelling the owners to raze the buildings or to have the work done by the city at the expense of the owners.

Last Friday Hartmann and Palladino "double checked" the houses and tabbed them for destruction.

It so happened yesterday that Palladino was making a tour to locate other property that should be demolished. He passed the Chestnut Street locations and discovered—the two properties were not there. A few bricks and some debris and empty cellars remained.

Palladino inquired around the neighborhood. Nobody knew anything about the houses. Palladino took another trip. This time he went down to Kossuth street.

The two properties also were gone. Later Palladino found the Mulford and Miller street houses had disappeared. He then took it on the run to Commissioner Hartmann's office.

"They're gone," snapped Palladino to his chief.

"What's gone?" replied the usually undisturbed commissioner.

"Six houses are gone," replied Palladino. "They're gone, the whole the whole bunch of them."

Finally Palladino and Hartmann got together. They looked up the photographs of the missing houses. They were marked: "demolished by parties unknown."

"In one way the razing of the properties was a God-send," Hartmann said. "They were in a dangerous condition and should have been torn down a year ago.

"However, I will not permit any owner to just go ahead and tear down property without my permission. That would be a dangerous and vicious practice.

"I hope the city will soon be rid of these dangerous, dilapidated and unsanitary buildings. I am planning to order demolition of many properties through power invested by the city ordinance passed some time ago."

Hartmann has estimated the city has more than 500 properties that either should be re-built or torn down. Two previous efforts to have the Grand Jury return true bills against properties were unsuccessful.

Camden Courier-Post * February 11, 1938

Co-Operation in City Cleanup Facilitates Rubbish Collection
Separation of Refuse By Householders Permits Use of Ashes
for Street Repairs and Fill; Employees to Return Accommodation

This is the fifth in a series of articles showing how co-opera­tion by Camden citizens in ash and garbage collection can save money for, the city.

By DAN BOONE 

Camden citizens are co-operating so well with Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann in his campaign to improve the appearance of the city streets that the director of public works today announced a new procedure for collections. 

Heretofore ashes, garbage, papers, bottles, cans and other rubbish had , to be collected together because householders failed to put out their of refuse in separate containers.

Now, however, Hartmann's request to keep ashes separate from garbage and other refuse have been heeded so well that the new method has been decided on. 

Beginning Monday, Hartmann said, separate trucks will be used for collection of ashes and the other refuse. By removing the ashes in one truck and the garbage, papers, bottles and cans and other rubbish in another, the ashes will be available for road repairs and to fill in lowlands. Then the other trucks, containing the garbage and rubbish can be taken direct to the city incinerator at Fourteenth and. Federal streets.

"The people have shown a wonderful spirit of co-operation," Hartmann said, "and when they see how much better their streets look and realize the assistance they are giving the city employees, I am sure they will continue to aid us by placing their refuse in proper containers."

If this co-operation continues, Hartmann said he hoped eventually specific days could be set aside for collection of different types of refuse. For instance ashes would be collected on one day and another day would be set aside for removal of garbage and rubbish.

"I believe that would make it easier for the householders, who now must put out everything at once," the Commissioner said.

While Hartmann said he appreciated the aid given by the citizens in his campaign, he also announced the collectors themselves would be given additional instructions. 

Collectors to Aid Also

"I am going to ask the men who collect the refuse not to throw the empty containers down on the curb lines. They will be instructed to place them carefully along the other side of the pavement close to the houses or where there are fences to put them inside," the Commissioner said. 

"That will take very little more time or trouble and I believe it will prevent the empty containers from being, kicked about the streets. 

"Also, I will ask Commissioner Mary W. Kobus, director of public safety, to seek the co-operation of the fire marshal in eliminating any other condition which I found." 

"In several sections I found high, top-heavy piles of baled and loose papers on the sidewalks in front of junkyards. A stiff wind easily could send this paper all over the streets."

Camden Courier-Post - February 11, 1938

BANQUET ARRANGED BY PYNE POYNT CLUB
27th Annual Event Expected to Break Record on Night of Feb. 26

The twenty-seventh annual banquet of the Pyne Poynt Social Club promises to be the most successful and best attended in the history of this North Camden sports and social group.

From different parts of the country acknowledgments are coming in to Frank Kelley, chairman of the banquet committee, from members that they will be present at the dinner to be held Saturday night, Feb. 26, at the club's headquarters, corner of Fifth and Erie streets.

"We are striving to make this affair the best in the history of the club," said President Ed H. Winters, "and we believe it will far out measure our fondest expectations in the matter of attendance and the good time that everyone there will have.

"The club, in the years that it has been in existence, has occupied a prominent place in the sporting and social affairs of North Camden. It has been the means of making and holding friendships, and the 
friendships so established are cemented further each year by the annual banquet. The members look forward to it."

This year the principal speaker will be Gordon Mackay, member of the editorial staff of the Courier-Post newspapers. Mackay, who has been associated with newspapers for the last 40 years, will talk of sports, on which he is an acknowledged authority.

Among those who already have said they will attend are William Brandt, of Washington; George A. E. Rheinhold, also of Washington; William N. Cann, of Wilmington; Howard Hurlock and Louis Schwaiger, of Philadelphia; Robert Johnson, R. K. Dawrinson, Victor J. Paxson, Walter Adams, Harry McKinney, Fred Schwaiger, Ralph T. Githens, William Oberst, Clarence Rudolph and Arthur Messier, of Westwood; Herbert Schaeffer, of Bloomfield; Harry Edginton, of Milton, Del.; Thomas Kerr, of Bogota; Ren Plum, of Mt. Ephraim; J. Russell Taylor and Ed D. Crosley, of Buffalo, and Arthur Truitt, of Bridgeport, Conn.

Since the organization of the club, in the latter part of January, 1911, the following have been presidents: Harry F. Walton, 1911 and 1912; Cecil Battle. 1913 and 1914; George Townsend, 1915 and 1916; Frank Boyer, 1917; John Begg, 1918; Frank Haines, 1919, 1920 and 1931; John R. Taylor, 1921; Alex Kahnweiler, 1922; Ed. H. Winters, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927, 1928, 1929, 1930, 1935, 1936 and 1937; Richard Barry, 1932 and 1933; and Frank J. Hartmann, Jr.., now city commissioner, in 1934.

Vice presidents have been: Willard Fox, 1911; Battle. 1912; Barry, 1913 and 1931: Begg, 1914, 1915 and 1916 Arthur Messier, 1917, 1923, 1925, 1926, 1927, 1928 and 1929; Haines, 1918; Winters, 1919; Schaeffer, 1921; William Benecke, 1922; W. E. Baird 1930; Barry, 1931; Otto H. Braun 1932, and Kahnweiler, 1933, 1934, 1935 1936 and 1937.

CAMDEN COURIER-POST - FEBRUARY 11, 1938

CEDARS OF LEBANON PLAN CHARITY BALL
Floor Show to Be Added Feature of Dance Here on Saturday

Camden Courier-Post * February 12, 1938

Hartmann Has New Problem In Hamburgers on Parking Lot
Lessee Seeks Opportunity to Augment Income Before Signing New Agreement Leaving Question in Lap of Commissioner

Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann almost daily is called upon to solve bewildering problems in his job of directing the 16 bureaus that make up the city Department of Public Works.

The almost over-night disappearance of six dilapidated houses left him somewhat perplexed, but yesterday another vexing matter was put to him for an official decision.

Hartmann must decide whether he will approve and seek the double approval of his colleagues in the City Commission on a matter of establishing a hamburger restaurant on the east end of the present commercial auto parking lot bounded by Federal, Arch, Fifth and Hudson streets.

Monroe Y. Brett, present leaseholder of the parking tract, notified Hartmann he will vacate the premises next Monday because the parking business proved a losing venture, due to the rent of $441 a month.

Hamburger to Rescue

However, Brett seized upon an idea that will permit him to continue occupancy. He passed the offer along to City Assessor S. Raymond Dobbs, acting supervisor of city property.

Brett wants the privilege of building and operating a hamburger restaurant, and if given that privilege he is willing to sign for a longer lease.

Dobbs put the matter up to Hartmann with the result Walter S. Anderson, an attorney and assistant to Hartmann, was called into a conference to debate the matter.

There is nothing in the rental resolution that stipulates for what the tract is to be used.
Anderson said advertising of the leasehold agreement contains a notice that sets forth certain 
conditions in connection with the proposed second auction of the leasehold agreement are to be made on the date of the auction.

Stipulation May be Made

Further, the attorney said the city legal department with consent of the members of the City 
Commission can stipulate use of the tract.

The resolution authorizing sale of the rental agreement states the piece of ground, which is paved with concrete, is not needed for public use.

Dobbs insisted that if restrictions are not fixed, Brett or another lessee can build a hamburger restaurant, a hot dog stand or even a tent-covered market place. On this point both Anderson and Hartmann agreed.

The question to be decided is whether the city shall grant Brett permission to build his hamburger restaurant and pay the city $441 a month, or auction off the rental agreement for a stipulated amount of not less than $375 a month.

Whether the city will successfully negotiate a rental agreement for the new figure is in doubt, 
inasmuch as Brett was unable to make his parking business pay him a profit..

When members, of the Pyne Poynt Social Club gather in the club's headquarters, southwest corner of Fifth and Erie streets, tomorrow night it will be to mark the twenty-seventh, annual get-together which will be observed with a banquet. 

Harry F. Walton, first president of the organization, which was formed in the latter part of January, 1911, will be toastmaster. He served as head of the club in 1911 and 1912. 

Gordon Mackay, member of the news staff of the Courier-Post newspapers' and an authority on sports, will be the speaker. Mackay will give highlights on sporting activities with which he has become so familiar in his 40 years of newspaper, work. Frank H. Ryan, managing editor of the Courier-Post, will be a guest. 

"Many of the memberrs of the club have gone far afield from Camden,” said Walton, "but on the occasion of the annual dinner they all try to get back home' and rekindle the friendships' made when they were kids up here in North Camden." 

Served As Freeholder:, 

Walton, elected to the Board of Chosen Freeholders of Camden county as an independent Republican from the Tenth ward, served on the board in 1923 and, 1924. Born in Philadelphia, his parents brought him to Camden at an early age and he has lived in North Camden ever since. He has taken an active interest in civic affairs of the community. 

"We believe that this year will be the best banquet that we have ever had," he said. 

Present officers of the club are: Ed H. Winters, president; A. S. Kahnweiler, vice president; Hamilton J. Batten, recording secretary; Frank Kelley, financial secretary; Walton, treasurer; Alfred J. Rose, Jr., house chairman, and George Ash, trustee-at-large.

Kelley heads the banquet committee with the following members: Ash, Batten, Walton, Richard Barry, Kahnweiler, E. Caskey, Jacob Dreher and Nick Adezio. Rose is chairman of the entertainment committee, with Robert Johnson, William X. Huber, Jr. and Ellery Caskey as other members. 

Club's Wide Membership 

Other members of the club are Herman Brandt, Victor J. Paxson, Herbert Schaeffer, William N. Cann, Harry G. McKinney, Louis Schwaiger, David E. Barry, Thomas Kerr, Ren Plum, Ronald K. Lawrinson, William Brandt, William Walton, George A. E. Rheinbold, 

Charles Seybold, Fred Schwaiger, J. Allen Brown, George Greene; J. Russell Taylor, Harry Edginton, Samuel Payne, Trester W. Vissell, George H. Schwaiger; George W. Muschlet; Arthur Messler; R. Thornton Greene, William C. Pommerer, Charles Glendenning, William E. Smith, Walter T. Adams, John T. Beal, Otto E. Braun, John Deardon, James Selby, William T. Steele, William Begg and Alfred Huber.

Also Samuel Burrows, William J. Denham, Thomas R. Peacock, Frank H. Haines, Clarence Rudolph, Albert R. Heap, Herbert C. Battle, William Oberst, Fred Stahl; John Begg, Charles Stahl, Charles E. Packer, Paul E. Mount, City Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann Jr., Raymond Rickley, Ralph T. Githens, Howard Hurlock, Martin Steer, Harry Kerr, William Reimer, Curtis O. Sangtinette and Einar Odergaard. John LaRue, Jr., is president of the junior club of the Pyne Poynt Social. 

Camden Courier-Post - February 25, 1938

...continued...

...continued...

Frank J. Hartmann Jr. - J. Frank Hanly - Hotel Walt Whitman - Ellis C. Kircher - Carl R. Evered
Westfield Acres - Thomas P. Delany - Charles P.Halyburton - S. Raymond Dobbs

Camden Courier-Post * February 28, 1938

Building Upturn Seen as Camden Permits Total $22, 185 for Week
HARTMANN SPEEDS PLANS TO RID CITY OF UNSAFE HOUSES
Palladino Reports Builders Co-operating on Rule for Better Prints
INSPECT OLD PROPERTIES

Building in Camden showed an increase last week, Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann, director of Public Works, reports.

According to the Commissioner, the increase is taken by him to indicate that with the approach of Spring the city will have a still greater increase in building.

During the week 20 building permits for an estimated value of $22,185, were issued. Receipts from licenses totaled $46.50.

Licenses were issued for 43 private garages and one auto repair shop. Trade licenses numbered eight.

Bureau receipts for the week ending yesterday amounted to $229.50.

Inspectors of the bureau made 140 inspections, investigated 24 complaints and reported eight violations.

William J. Palladino, personal secretary to Hartmann and chief of the building bureau,  reported contractors and builders are cooperating with the new rule requiring blueprints or acceptable hand drawn graphs of building plans.

Bureau inspectors under Hartmann's direction are checking all dilapidated houses and buildings for the purpose of ridding the city of dangerous structures which contribute to fire hazards.

Recently Hartmann estimated there were more than 500 unsafe structures in the city. Under an ordinance approved by city commission, Hartmann is empowered to order their demolition or proceed with the work and assess the cost against owners or agents of the property.

Camden Courier-Post - June 1, 1939

MAGIN PROMOTES 3, REHIRES 3, FIRES 4
Temporary Laborers Dismissed, While Men Ousted
by Hartmann Are Reinstated

Three dismissals, three promotions and four reinstatements and two new hirings were announced yesterday by City Commissioner Henry Magin, director of public works.

Dismissed were Eugeni Gatti, 208 Washington street; Guilio Marcozzi, 321 Line Street, and George Pollard, 336 Stevens street, all temporary laborers at $4 a day. James Carr, 1409 Princess avenue, a laborer on asphalt repairs at $6 a day, is reclassified as general foreman of the department, effective today, at $2100 a year, subject to Civil Service promotional examination. John Dziekanski, 1414 Mt. Ephraim avenue, a laborer in the building bureau at $6 a day, is reclassified as architectural draftsman at $2100, also subject to examination. Oscar Moore, 543 Washington street, Ninth Ward freeholder, will receive $6 instead of $5 a day as a  temporary laborer.

Reinstated were Lawrence Abbott, 910 South Third Street, a brother of Frank Abbott, deputy to Mayor Brunner, as a temporary laborer at $5 a day; Anthony Carrier, 416 Benson Street, a temporary laborer at $4 a day; James Jackson, 1117 Lawrence street, and Otis Still, 261 North Eleventh street. All were discharged by Frank J. Hartmann, Magin's predecessor.

HEALTH BUREAU JOB GIVEN PETE SAMKO
8th Ward Democratic Club Aide Replaces Scheurman; Magin Hires 16

The hiring of Pete Samko, secretary of the Eighth Ward Democratic Club, as a $1380-a-year clerk in the health bureau, was announced yesterday by City Commissioner E. George Aaron. He replaces Frederick Scheurman, of 2969 Hartford road, former Fourteenth ward Republican committeeman.

Commissioner Henry Magin announced the hiring of 16 temporary laborers for the Water and Highway departments which come under his Department of Public Works to

The jobs, Magin said, are all replacements for persons who have been dismissed since he took office. He explained that 102 have been laid off during the period and 66, including yesterday's hiring, put on to replace them.

Three of the 16 will be assigned to the water bureau, Magin said, and the others to the highway department. Those hired for the former department and their salaries are: James McSparrin, 939 Elm street, $1690 annually; Oscar Banks, of 1704 Master Street, $5 a day, and Lawrence DiPilla, of 229 Mt. Vernon street, $4 a day. 

The others given jobs at $4 a day are: Frank Armstrong, of 2617 Cramer street; Thomas I. Cook, of 530 North Front street; Albert Costanzo, of 211 Beckett street; Roberto Dianigi, of 607 North Front street; Samuel Lectino, of 421 Stevens street; Joseph Lynskey, of 643 Grant street; William Porter, of 436 Berkley street and Thomas Richter, of 423 Pearl street, David Schwartz, of 812 South Sixth street; Fred Seither, of 3015 River avenue; Albert Thompson, of 421 North Front street; Guiseppe Trulli, of 550 South Fourth street, and Michael Wozniak, of 1446 South Tenth street. 

Hired, Replaced

Employment of two new laborers and reinstatement of two others was announced Wednesday by Commissioner Magin. Three employees who worked under former Commissioner Frank J. Hartmann were dismissed. The pay of all was $4 per day.

The new men are George Poole, of 276 Senate street, and William Weidman, 1041 North Thirty-fourth. Reinstated were James Jackson, 1117 Lawrence, and Otis Still, 261 North Eleventh. Those let out were Eugene Gatti, 208 Washington; Julio Marcozzi, 321 Line, and George Pollard, 336 Stevens.