The Hammonton Gazette 02/05/25 Edition

New law goes into effect for mail-in ballots

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Volume 29 • Issue 6 hammontongazette . com Wednesday , February 5 , 2025

The legend of ‘ Sign Man ’ Talking with local Eagles fanatic

Photo Courtesy of Savanna Perry

Once the “ Sign Man ,” always an Eagles super fan — Rodio bleeds green with Eagles pride .

HAMMONTON — Food lovers , get ready to indulge in a variety of local flavors as Downtown Hammonton hosts its first-ever Restaurant Week ! From Thursday , February 20 through Tuesday , February 25 local eateries will welcome residents and visitors to experience the diverse flavors of downtown .

Over six delicious days , participating establishments will serve up unique dishes , prix fixe menus , and exclusive discounts , giving diners the chance to savor Hammonton ’ s finest flavors at unbeatable prices . Whether you ’ re enjoying specially crafted multi-course meals or discovering one-of-a-kind dishes made just for the event , Restaurant Week brings a diverse selection of cuisines — from Italian and Mexican to classic American and fusion . It ’ s the perfect opportunity to explore the culinary richness of downtown while supporting local businesses .

“ We ’ re thrilled to bring Restaurant Week to Downtown Hammonton . It ’ s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the incredible culinary talent in our town and encourage the community to support our local businesses ,” MainStreet Hammonton Vice President Christina Bircher said .

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HAMMONTON — John Rodio , local Philadelphia Eagles superfan previously known as “ Sign Man ” created eye-catching statements for over 16 years when the Philadelphia Eagles played at Veterans Stadium .

The journey began in 1987 with the National Football League ’ s 24- day strike resulting in most teams consisting of walk-on players that Rodio described as almost comedic . In Philadelphia , more than 4,000 local union workers supported the players outside the stadium in protest of the replacement game being played later that afternoon . Player representatives went as far to block the buses of replacement players from entering team facilities .

Nonetheless , Rodio suggested to his brother that they should still attend the game , bringing their first sign reading “ THIS IS SAD .” Due to the chaos of the strike , local newscasts broadcasted highlights

See RODIO , Page 6

Restaurant Week begins Feb . 20

BY CARINA CAFISO FOR THE GAZETTE

BY SAVANNA PERRY FOR THE GAZETTE

The inaugural event will feature an impressive lineup of local favorites , including Annata Wine Bar , Casciano Coffee Bar & Sweetery , Downtown Peru , Nuevo El Mariachi Loco , Fiesta Mexicana , Fruta-Mex , La Carreta Taqueria , La Chilanga , Mannino ’ s Cannoli Express , Marquez Mexican Grill , Rocco ’ s Town House & Rock Bottom Whiskey Bar , Tacos Al Carbon , and West End Grill & Bar .

Beyond the dining experience , visitors can enjoy an evening stroll through Hammonton ’ s lively downtown , home to charming boutiques , art galleries , and antique shops . Whether you ’ re planning a date night , a family outing , or a night out with friends , Restaurant Week offers the perfect setting to enjoy great food and great company .

Over the next two weeks , we ’ ll dive deeper into each of the participating restaurants , highlighting their special menus , exclusive dishes , and the talented chefs behind the flavors . Be sure to stay tuned for detailed features that will give you a sneak peek into what you can expect during Restaurant Week .

For more information about Downtown Hammonton Restaurant Week , please visit https :// www . downtownhammonton . com / restaurantweek or follow their social media platforms for updates .

Super Bowl Predictions & Game Day Plans

“ My prediction is Eagles 31 , Chiefs 24 .”

— Ricky Mauriello

“ Eagles 27 , Chiefs 24 . I ’ m heading to a buddy ’ s house for a big Super Bowl party .

— Jim Raso

“ Watching the Eagles has and will always be a family experience . We were all together back in 2018 to watch the Eagles win the Super Bowl versus the Patriots . It was even more extra special because my dad ( Sal Velardi ) was there with us . My dad passed away one month after their Super Bowl victory . On Super Bowl Sunday of this year , I will be at my house watching the game with my mom , my brother , and our sons . Although my dad will not with us , we know he will be watching from the best seat in the house and singing ‘ Fly Eagles Fly . My prediction : 33-27 Eagles .”

— Kimberly Velardi

“ Eagles 34 , Chiefs 20 . I will be watching with friends and family at a Super Bowl party .”

— Anthony Barone

“ Birds by a million !! We don ’ t do much — just need to watch the game !”

— Terri Caruso-Cafiso

“ Chiefs 33 , Eagles 28 . I ’ ll be at my buddy Ricky Mauriello ’ s house — and I ’ ll probably be the only one rooting against the Eagles .”

— John Scola

See more , Page 6

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