What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Delran High School, Class of 1994, Rowan University, Bachelors in Communications 1998
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
I am a Life Member of Delran Emergency Squad, having been a member for 21 years. I have been a full time career EMT since 2000. I also work part time as an EMT for Medford EMS since 2000.
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Good listening skills. “When you talk you are only repeating what you already know; But when you listen, you may learn something new,” Dalai Lama.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
I obtained Life Membership of the Delran Emergency Squad in 2013 after 20 years of membership and almost 9000 calls.
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
I would like to spend a day with any of my grandparents, all of whom are deceased. They all passed away before I was old enough to appreciate the time I spent with them.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
Even though a large part of my job is talking to people, I am actually quite shy.
Advice for future community leaders?
Anything can be accomplished if you don’t care who gets the credit for getting it done.
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
My personal mission is to live a positive, inspired and purposeful life; to use my knowledge, talents, skills and empathy to earn: the love of my family; the companionship of my friends; the respect of my peers; and to help others help themselves.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Fiction because there is too much “reality” in my career and sometimes it’s nice to be able to step into another world for a little while.
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
In 10 years, I would hope that my husband and I have retired and/or relocated to Tennessee.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Delran High School/ College Prep Classes
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
Delran Fire Department Station 231.
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Honesty.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
The fulfilling part of my professional life is being able to help and serve the people of Burlington County working for the county 911 system.
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
Governor Christie. I would want to tell him enough is enough, it is time to stop blaming all the public employees for the problems of the State of NJ. It is time to put the blame where it is suppose to be, on the politicians that have created this problem, and not the hard working police officers, firefighters, EMS, dispatchers, and the teachers. The people who risk their lives everyday and that are responsible for teaching the children who are our future. It's time to really look at the problems that surround us everyday and how things are so backwards. How people who play sports are making millions of dollars and the people that are responsible for teaching are children and protecting us from the bad things in the world are making next to nothing and we keep trying to take more from them.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
I love the beach but hate the ocean.
Advice for future community leaders?
Always be honest and do the things that you promise you are going to do. Always remember no one does anything on their own, there is always someone there backing them up and helping along the way. Use these people and make sure that you give credit where credit is do and when something fails don't try to blame someone else for the failure.
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
To always finish everything that I start and to do everything to the best of my ability.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Fiction. With fiction you can do and be anything that you ever wanted at least for a little while.
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
"9-1-1: You Can't Make This Stuff Up"
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Still married to my beautiful awesome wife. A couple of kids and still living the dream.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
I attended Delran High School. Undergraduate at Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, North Carolina where I studied Elementary and Special Education. I did my graduate work at the College of NJ where I studied to be a reading specialist and I attended The University of Pennsylvania in their Educational Leadership program for Aspiring Principals.
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
During my time at Riverside Elementary I have worked on numerous school community projects such as a clothing drive that provided parents with new clothes for their children. I have been involved with starting Parent Empowerment Nights that are held monthly to educate parents on topics such as cyberbullying, literacy skills at home and understanding students with ADHD. Also, every holiday season I have worked with the school to help families in need give their children a nice Christmas with new clothes and toys.
What single primary characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Accountability.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
As a school administrator I have to made decisions on a daily basis and when I get an email or a thank you from a student or a parent because of something that I helped them with (no matter how small) — that is all the fulfillment I need.
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
My “Nannymom” because as a child we were very close and I would love to share my accomplishments in my career and my life with her because I know she would be thrilled.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
Even though I love what I do — I have always dreamed of becoming a commercial airline pilot and traveling around the world as my job.
Advice for future community leaders?
Always believe in what you do and know that it does make a difference.
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
No matter what the circumstance — always do what is right for kids.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Realistic fiction because as a former language arts teacher this genre was one that always grasped students interests as well as mine.
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
”Never Stop Believing”
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
As a school principal continuing to advocate for students and looking to become a Superintendent of Schools.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Delran High School and on to the School of Hard Knocks-Parris Island, South Carolina. Major: Stand Up Philosophy.
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
Head Curator of the Liberace Museum; Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to the Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker; Bass River Township Committee to Establish a Statute for Wendell Wilkie; Preservationist of the original lyrics to Leonard Cohen’s unrecorded single “Why oh Why oh Why oh, did I ever leave Ohio?”
What single primary characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Height. It takes a big man to admit when he is wrong, but an even bigger man to stand there and laugh at him.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
Winning the Burlington County Times 40 under 40. Yup, it is THAT bad folks ...
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
I will be maudlin and say my old man. If that is not acceptable I would love to play poker with Abraham Lincoln, Vlad the Impaler, Lyndon LaRouche and Ron Jeremy.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
I am actually 41 and do not live in New Jersey.
Advice for future community leaders?
Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony.
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
DECLARE VICTORY AND DEPART THE FIELD.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Apparently Congress can’t tell the difference between the two, so why should I?
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
”B’s and C’s Get Degrees: One Man’s Epic Journey from Delran to Moorestown With His Pet Dachshund Lucy” Written, directed and produced by Ethel Merman.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Delran High School, Burlington County College, studied Psychology
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
Delanco Emergency Squad
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Patience
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
(I) had the opportunity to assist in the delivery of a baby girl.
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
My father. He has passed in 2001 and was a volunteer firefighter. Would have loved for him to see all that I have accomplished.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
My initial aspiration was to become a nurse. In doing this I started volunteering and became an EMT. Found this to be fulfilling so I continued to volunteer instead.
Advice for future community leaders?
Being a volunteer you should allow your happiness to come from your accomplishments and the smiles you put on others faces in the time of need.
Tell us your own personal mission statement?
I will try the best I can to assist people in need until I am unable to do so any longer
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Non-fiction, I like to learn of peoples achievements and struggles and grow my knowledge to be able to be understanding during any situation.
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
”A Volunteers Juggling Act”
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
In 10 years I hope my health and physical ability allows me to continue to volunteer and assist my community and others.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Graduated from Delran High School and attended community college and Liberty University for nursing.
What community organizations do you spend time on/with?
I enjoy serving at Feeding 5000. Feeding 5000, a non-profit organization started by Fellowship Alliance Chapel members, travels to Philadelphia every Saturday and the fourth Sunday of each month to provide food, clothing, toiletries, love, care, and prayers to the needy, hungry, and homeless in the city. I’ve donated my photography services to David Akers’ Kicks for Kids auctions, the Anna Foundation BUDDY walk, the JDRF, and more recently the Sean Fischel Connect helping to raise awareness and a cure for HLH. As a family, we also love to volunteer yearly at the Birchwood Triathlon held on July 4th
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Personal example.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
I think as a whole, starting my business 10 years ago and seeing how it has evolved. I’m self taught in photography and my business has grown solely by word of mouth. Also, providing the gift of tangible, lifetime memories for people. There is nothing like it!
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
Well that’s easy ... Elvis Presley
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
While the camera is around my neck I’m pretty outgoing, but I can tend to be shy and a bit of a homebody.
Advice for future community leaders?
Be excellent in all you do and remember having good character is how you treat those who can do nothing for you.
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
This hangs in our home on a large canvas as a daily reminder ... Love Jesus, encourage your siblings, be considerate, respectful, and grateful.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Non-fiction. I enjoy Christian, photography and work-out books because it is in these areas that I focus my time and energy on.
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
The movie would be a documentary called “Darkroom: Chronicles of a Portrait Photographer”
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I’m starting to dabble in filmmaking which is exciting and I’d like to be doing more commercial work.
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
Delran High School & Greensboro College, Economics and Marketing
What community organizations to you spend time on/with?
YMCA & United Way
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
A great leader must be a visionary.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
My growth with TD Bank. TD Bank has given me the opportunity to grow into my current position of vice president store manager and the resources to further develop my career.
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
Thomas Jefferson, because of my love of history and his vision to create something new.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
I had three beautiful girls in 18 months and I am better person for it more and more everyday.
Advice for future community leaders?
A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent. —Douglas MacArthur
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
It is not a tragedy to die without dreams unfilled, but it is a tragedy to live without dreams.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Fiction. You cannot deepen you mind when your imagination is out of focus.
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
”Lead By Example”
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
Being a great father/husband and helping my customers and teammates fulfill their dreams
Daniel Thomas Blasucci of Cinnaminson passed away suddenly Friday, Aug. 1, 2014. He was 34.
Daniel was the beloved son of Robert and Marjorie (Hahnan) Blasucci; loving brother of Adam Robert Blasucci; dear grandson of Harold Hahnan. He also is survived by many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.
Daniel attended the Githens Center and Burlington County Special Services.
He will be sadly missed by his family, friends, nurses, and fellow students.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Daniel's life celebration and gathering from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, at Snover/Givnish of Cinnaminson, 1200 Route 130 North, and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, at St. Charles Borromeo Church, where his funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Daniel's name may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, www.mda.org.
To share your fondest memories and condolences with Daniel's family, please visit the funeral home's Web site below. Snover/Givnish Funeral Home,
Billions of tax dollars are being lost every day to waste, fraud and corruption in the federal government, but President Obama’s administration is blocking inspectors general— the officials who are most likely to find and expose such wrongdoing — from doing their jobs. That’s the disturbing message given to Congress and the American people this week from a majority of the federal government’s 78 IGs. The blocking occurs when agency lawyers deny the authority of IGs to gain access to relevant documents and officials.
The 47 IGs minced no words: “Each of us strongly supports the principle that an inspector general must have complete, unfiltered, and timely access to all information and materials available to the agency that relate to that IG’s oversight activities, without unreasonable administrative burdens. The importance of this principle, which was codified by Congress in Section 6(a)(1) of the Inspector General Act of 1978, as amended (the IG Act), cannot be overstated. Refusing, restricting, or delaying an IG's access to documents leads to incomplete, inaccurate, or significantly delayed findings or recommendations, which in turn may prevent the agency from promptly correcting serious problems and deprive Congress of timely information regarding the agency’s performance.”
Three specific examples were described in the IGs' letter, including blatant obstruction of important investigations at the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Justice and the Peace Corps. But many other IGs have “faced similar obstacles to their work, whether on a claim that some other law or principle trumped the clear mandate of the IG Act or by the agency’s imposition of unnecessarily burdensome administrative conditions on access. Even when we are ultimately able to resolve these issues with senior agency leadership, the process is often lengthy, delays our work, and diverts time and attention from substantive oversight activities.”
The experience of Justice Department IG Michael Horowitz is especially outrageous. In a Senate hearing in April, Horowitz said his office must go through Attorney General Eric Holder to gain access to DOJ documents and officials. Giving Holder the power to veto an IG’s access in that manner egregiously violates the 1978 law and other statutes. Obstruction like Holder’s risks “leaving the agencies insulated from scrutiny and unacceptably vulnerable to mismanagement and misconduct – the very problems that our offices were established to review and that the American people expect us to be able to address,” the IGs said in their letter to Congress.
It is impossible to know exactly how much the federal bureaucracy loses every year to waste, fraud and corruption. Credible estimates put the total at more than $200 billion, but in a $3.5 trillion budget it could easily far exceed that amount. Every time an IG is barred from gaining access to vital documents or officials, it encourages even more wrongdoing. Congress must get tough with people in the executive branch who obstruct IGs from doing their jobs. And when it’s the attorney general doing the obstructing, it’s time to bring back independent prosecutors.
Andrew W. Rowley of Juliustown, passed away Tuesday Sept. 16, 2014 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was 37.
Andy was born in Willingboro, N.J. and had previously lived in Delran and Runnameade, before moving to Juliustown five years ago. He was a 1995 graduate of Delran High School.
Andy had worked as a service advisor for Turnerville BMW for several years, and most recently was working at Circle BMW as a service advisor. He enjoyed working on cars, and especially enjoyed drag racing. Andy was a member of the Pemberton Odd Fellows Association.
He is survived by his wife of ten years, Robin (Garrett) Rowley; his step-son, Edwin Levering; his parents, Robert and Joan Rowley; his brother, Peter Rowley; and his sister, Beth Smyth (Larry). Andy is also survived by his brother-in-law, Russ Garrett (Anna); his sister-in-law, Stefanie Garrett; his mother-in-law, Leah Garrett; his nephews, Ryan and Justin Smyth; and his niece, Isabella Garrett.
A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Lee Funeral Home, 317 High St., Mount Holly. Relatives and friends may visit the family from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in the New Odd Fellows Cemetery, Juliustown Road, Pemberton, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Andy may be made to the National Brain Tumor Society "Team Wookie", The Curtis Center, 601 Walnut Street, Suite 955W, Philadelphia, Pa., 19106.
Birth: Feb. 16, 1947 Stafford Stafford County Virginia, USA
Death: Sep. 25, 2010 Philadelphia Philadelphia County Pennsylvania, USA
Tania D. Reath of Riverton passed away Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, at Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Pennsylvania from advanced cryptogenic cirrhosis. She was 63.
A beloved mother, sister, dedicated and nationally recognized educator for more than 30 years, Tania was born Feb. 16, 1947, to Ada and William Boswell in Stafford, Va. She was one of 13 children.
Graduate of Longwood College, Tania had devoted her life to the teaching and empowerment of children, not only her own, but also, the countless others she instructed throughout the years.
She is survived by her two loving sons, Ryan and Gavin Reath; her two cherished grandchildren, Jaden and Quincy Reath; her sisters, Delsea McKelvey, and Dot Leach; and her brother, William Boswell.
Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24, at the First United Methodist Church, 32 Conrow Road, Delran.
Judy Gray Thomas, 69, of Freehold Township died Thursday, February 23, 2012 at CentraState Medical Center, Freehold Township. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she lived there prior to moving to Freehold Township 40 years ago. Mrs. Thomas was a Librarian for the Carnegie Library, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, retiring in 1972. She was an active supporter of the Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation, Short Hills.
Surviving are her husband, David William Thomas; a son, Dr. Brian Thomas and his wife, Dr. Gabriela Thomas, Monroe Township; and a sister, Marion Oxley, and her husband, Lawrence, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Relatives and friends may call at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold, on Monday from 1:00 to 4:00p.m. Funeral services will be held at 4:00p.m. with Rev. Dr. Hugh A. MacKenzie officiating. Interment will be held at Sewickley Cemetery, Sewickley, Pennsylvania. Donations in her memory to the Long Branch Presbyterian Church, 167 Cedar Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740 would be appreciated
Funeral Home Higgins Memorial Home 20 Center StreetFreehold, NJ 07728 (732) 462-0895Funeral Home Details
It was the bitter aftertaste of the Republican primary for Congress in the 3rd District that led me to believe that Tom MacArthur was just another elite party pick, a closet lib and probably a soak-the-rich socialist, too.
That’s because last spring, when tea party fave Steve Lonegan ran against MacArthur, the rebel conservative’s campaign attempted to change MacArthur’s name to Tom “He raised taxes as mayor of Randolph!” MacArthur.
There were other jibes. MacArthur was not authentically pro-life. MacArthur is an establishment stooge, a gutless RINO, etc.
None of it worked. MacArthur triumphed, although the former self-made insurance company CEO had to spend $2 million of his own cash to beat the insurgent Lonegan.
When I met MacArthur on Tuesday in Bordentown Township, his easygoing manner and reasonable answers cleansed the palate of bitter backwash. I rifled questions at him.
Q: Pro-life, or pro-choice?
A: “I’m pro-life. I’ll work with anybody to foster a culture that respects and honors life and respects women.”
Q: Does the Second Amendment give us the right to shoot ducks, or shoot tyrants?
A: “The Second Amendment gives you the right to protect your family, yourself and your property without relying on the state.”
Q: “Obamacare”: Repeal and replace, or mend it don’t end it?
A: “It needs to be repealed and replaced — replaced with free-market reforms to create more competition and lower costs, like allowing people to buy insurance across state lines.”
Q: Immigration: Amnesty, or send them back?
A: “You keep speaking in these either/ors,” he said, vaguely annoyed. “We need to return anyone who’s committed a crime to their country of origin. There needs to be a tough but fair path to citizenship. Paying back taxes, learning English, and getting at the back of the immigration line, so not to bump people who are trying to come here legally.”
Amnesty is one of two top issues MacArthur hears about as he campaigns. The other is the Obama economy and its lack of good jobs.
“People are out of work, or they’ve given up in despair. I hear a lot from people who are stuck in part-time jobs that don’t pay very well.
“On immigration, I hear from two sides. From people who feel they are paying taxes to support people who are here illegally, and I hear from businesses, manufacturers, farmers, restaurant owners who want…”
“Cheap labor?” I said.
“Who want access to labor. And they want some sort of program for it,” he said.
To stop the illegals from flowing in, he wants the National Guard deployed in the border states.
We met at Mastoris Diner. MacArthur appeared on Dom Giordano’s radio show on WPHT-AM (1210), which was broadcasting from the diner. MacArthur is soft-spoken. He looks like a guy who sells insurance, which is how he amassed his fortune, building York Risk Services.
He is a center-right guy in a center-right district that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Delaware River in Burlington and Ocean counties. His opponent is Democrat Aimee Belgard, a Burlington County freeholder. Belgard was invited on Giordano’s program, but didn’t show. Instead, a chair with her name on it was set up next to MacArthur.
Her campaign told me Belgard had more pressing (undisclosed) obligations. However, eight debates are set, the first to be recorded Friday in Trenton at the NJTV studios.
Skipping Giordano was an amateur error. When a 50,000-watt radio station invites you to tell people why they should vote for you, you show up.
Polls show the race is tied. MacArthur told me his internal polling shows him ahead, which makes sense. Except for the brief Jon Adler interlude, 3rd District voters have picked Republicans for a century.
If Belgard wins, though, I will invite her to Mastoris Diner and she can pull up an empty chair, where I’ll eat crow.
J.D. Mullane can be reached at 215-949-5745 or jmullane@calkins.com. Twitter: @jdmullane
Paul Konieczka, a lifelong resident of Delran, passed away Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014.
Paul was born on March 11, 1942 in Riverside. He was the son of the late Adolph and Helen Konieczka.
Paul was a teacher in the Delran school district for more than 35 years. He was an avid sportsman who loved fishing, hunting, and golfing. He enjoyed spending time socializing with his friends at the Polish American Citizens' Club where he was a long standing member and officer.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Marcia Konieczka of 47 years; son, Alan Konieczka and wife, Karen of Greenwich Township, N.J.; and daughter, Stacy Silva and husband, Rui of Delran. He also is survived by his treasured grandchildren, Michael, Lauryn, Kyle and Elise; as well as his sister, Elaine France and brother-in-law, Bob and brother, Richard Konieczka and sister-in-law Dee.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Paul's life celebration and visitation at Snover/ Givnish of Cinnaminson, 1200 Rte. 130, from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday. His prayer service will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Lakeview Memorial Park, 1300 Rte. 130 N., Cinnaminson.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul's name may be made to Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio St., Suite 304, Chicago, IL 60611-3201.
To share your fondest memories and condolences with Paul's family, please visit the Web site below. Snover/Givnish of Cinnaminson
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.One of the most challenging diagnostic problems in digestive medicine is finding the source of obscure or hidden bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
Patients with obscure or hidden bleeding usually have unexplained anemia (red blood cell deficiency), a low blood count, or may have blackened stools.
When traditional imaging studies fail to reveal the source of the bleeding, another high-tech imaging tool, called PillCam, can provide detailed images of the small intestine — an area that’s difficult to reach with traditional endoscopy procedures.
PillCam, or video capsule endoscopy, is a procedure that uses a tiny wireless camera to take pictures of the insides of your digestive tract. The camera is housed in a vitamin-sized capsule that you swallow. As the capsule travels through your digestive system, the camera takes thousands of pictures that are transmitted to a recorder you wear on a belt around your waist.
“In the past, finding the source of bleeding often required surgery,” said Thomas A. Judge, MD, gastroenterologist at the Cooper Digestive Health Institute. “Now the patient comes into the office in the morning, swallows a dime-sized capsule, is attached to external monitoring equipment, and is out and about for the day. The patient returns in approximately eight hours and the equipment is collected. It really couldn’t be simpler.”
The images then are downloaded and carefully reviewed by the gastroenterologist. If a problem is detected and the source of the bleeding is identified, follow-up procedures and treatments can be performed.
In difficult diagnostic cases, video capsule endoscopy may be able to reveal small ulcers or other abnormalities. The procedure has been particularly helpful in diagnosis with patients who suffer from Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory disease of the small intestine.
“Gastrointestinal bleeding is a symptom rather than a disease and can occur anywhere within the digestive system,” Dr. Judge said. “The PillCam is a valuable tool for diagnosing problems, and Cooper is one of the only centers in the region with the experience and expertise to provide the technology, and to use it effectively.”
For more information about video capsule endoscopy or other programs and services available at the state-of-the-art Cooper Digestive Health Institute, located in Mount Laurel, N.J., call 856.642.2133.
Colorectal surgery has long been associated with invasive procedures, long hospital stays, and painful recoveries. At Penn Medicine, specialists are putting a new face on colorectal surgery by offering patients the latest minimally invasive procedures, including transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM), single-incision laparoscopic (SIL) colectomy, sacral nerve stimulation, and robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci® Surgical System.
Transanal-endoscopic Microsurgery
Offered to select patients with rectal tumors, TEM allows surgeons to excise large polyps and high rectal tumors that would otherwise require major surgery.
“Previously, if a patient had an early cancer or sizable polyp in the rectum that was not accessible transanally, it would require radical surgery to remove it,” explains Joshua Bleier, MD, FACS, FASCRS. “With transanal-endoscopic microsurgery, we can access areas that were previously too high for transanal approaches.”
TEM is a relatively painless, minimally invasive procedure that requires little to no hospital stay and offers a significantly lower rate of recurrence.
“With TEM, surgeons have a 3D perspective of the operating field, allowing us to remove the tumor in its entirety while sparing much of the rectum,” says Dr. Bleier. “This is a distinct advantage over transanal excision, which can cause the tumor to fragment and result in recurrence rates as high as 30 percent.”
Even though TEM has been in existence for several years, very few surgeons possess the training necessary to perform the procedure. Dr. Bleier is one of only a handful of surgeons on the eastern seaboard and the only surgeon at Penn performing TEM.
SIL Colectomy
Patients at Penn who require a right colectomy for the treatment of polyps or cancer may benefit from an advanced laparoscopic procedure called SIL colectomy. Offered by Brian Kann, MD, FACS, FASCRS, assistant professor of clinical surgery, SIL colectomy affords patients the benefits of a traditional laparoscopic approach, but with smaller and fewer incisions.
“With traditional laparoscopic approaches to right colectomy, surgeons make three or four port incisions and then an additional large incision,” says Dr. Kann. “A distinct advantage of SIL colectomy is that it requires only a three- to four-centimeter incision to perform the entire resection. Additionally, because the surgeon uses only one point of entry, a high degree of technical expertise is required.”
To date, Dr. Kann has performed several SIL colectomies. Penn is only one of a few centers in the country offering this procedure.
Sacral Nerve Stimulation
For patients experiencing chronic fecal incontinence who have failed or are not candidates for conventional therapies, a minimally invasive treatment option called sacral nerve stimulation may help them regain complete bowel control.
The sacral nerves regulate the muscles of the pelvic floor. For some patients with fecal incontinence, these muscles do not function properly. Sacral nerve stimulation is a therapy that uses an implantable device to stimulate the sacral nerves with mild electrical pulses to restore normal function to the pelvic floor and help patients regain bowel control.
“Sacral nerve stimulation works in more than 75 percent of potential patients, and when it works it can be profoundly life-changing,” says Dr. Bleier.
The first step in treatment is a test phase to determine if the sacral nerve stimulation will work. The test phase does not require permanent implantation of the device. Therefore, if the test is successful the internal, pacemaker-like device can be implanted with the knowledge that the treatment will work. If the test phase is not successful, unnecessary implantation of a device can be avoided. Both procedures are very safe and cause minimal, if any, discomfort.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
In January 2011, surgeons at Penn became among the first in the region to perform minimally invasive colorectal surgery using the da Vinci® Surgical System. Robotic surgery offers distinct benefits to both colorectal surgeons and their patients.
“The pelvis is often a difficult area to operate in due to anatomic constrictions,” explains Dr. Kann. “With the robot, we have enhanced visualization of the operative field due to high-definition, magnified, 3-dimensional views. This is instrumental in identifying and protecting critical structures such as nerves in the pelvis. Additionally, the range of motion with traditional laparoscopy is limited to moving the instruments up and down, back and forth, and in and out. A key advantage to the robot is that the ends of the instruments articulate like our wrists, adding an additional range of motion and facilitating the ease of surgery."
Used mainly for rectal surgery, a significant advantage to robotic colorectal surgery is its potential to preserve nerves that control key bodily functions such as urination or ejaculation. In addition, it allows for more complete excision for rectal cancer. Drs. Kann and Bleier both perform robotic-assisted colorectal surgery at Penn Medicine.
“The addition of these procedures demonstrates our commitment to providing patients with the most advanced treatments available for their condition,” says Robert Fry, MD, FACS, FASCRS, chief of the division of colon and rectal surgery, chairman of surgery, Pennsylvania Hospital, and the Emilie and Roland deHellebranth Professor of Surgery. “We take an enthusiastic, multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Patients are seen within a day or two of their initial call and referring physicians receive regular updates on their patient’s care.”
Penn’s commitment to training future colorectal surgeons distinguishes it from many other programs in the nation. Its colorectal residency program is one of only 50 in the United States and offers aspiring surgeons the opportunity to receive specialized training in this field.
“Our program, while comparatively young, offers participants the opportunity to train with a highly skilled, widely renowned team of colorectal specialists,” says colon and rectal surgery program director Dr. Kann. “I feel that our ability to really push the envelope in terms of treatment and research makes this a great place for surgeons to train and practice.”
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 800-789-PENN (7366).
Rudi Klobach From Survival in a Concentration Camp to Winning Coach
A Life Rewarded
Rudi Klobach, a resident of West Deptford, passed away Saturday, Jan. 10, at home from ALS. For three years he fought the effects of that disease until he lost the battle.
He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara of ten years; a son, Lance; a sister, Maria Klobach; nephew, Steve Amelang; niece, Susan Amelang; niece, Karen Amelang; nephew, Larry Amelang; great-nephew, Cody Amelang; sister-in-law, Joanne Amelang; and sister-in-law, Joan Williams.
He was preceded in death by his brother, William Amelang.
Rudi was born to Klara and Karl Heinz Klobach on June 18, 1944, in the Threisenstadt Nazis Concentration Camp. They were rescued from the camp by the Russians and eventually settled in Dusseldorf, Germany, where his sister Maria was born. His family moved to the United States in 1948. His father, Karl Klobach, had been an architect by trade, thus he soon was sponsored by an American architectural firm and the family settled in Pennsylvania.
Rudi attended Upper Dublin High School then went on to Thiel College near Pittsburgh where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education, majoring in English and German. His first teaching position found him in Weatherly, Pa., teaching English and German and coaching boys' soccer and track. Coaching soccer and track would become a major focus in his career. His dedication to these interests touched many lives and achieved for him many awards. Besides being an excellent coach, he also was an extremely proficient athlete.
Circumstances brought him back to the Philadelphia area where he taught as a permanent substitute teacher in Northeast High School for a few years and then landed a job in the Delran public schools. Here, in Delran is where 'Coach K', as he affectionately became known, really came into his own. He built the German program from one period to full time, teaching five levels, taught one German class at the middle school, established the German Club, and coached the girls' soccer team through many winning seasons. Every other year Rudi would take his German students to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland as part of their foreign language experience. Rudi was asked to coach soccer at the World Scholar Athlete Games in Rhode Island for four summers.
After retiring from Delran, Rudi continued to coach soccer and track. He coached soccer one year at Cherry Hill West, two years at Gateway Regional High School as assistant soccer coach, then three years as head coach, then coached at Woodbury and Glassboro High Schools, primarily track.
In 2011, Rudi received a crowning honor of his career when he was inducted into the South Jersey Soccer Hall of Fame. In October of the same year, he reached the milestone of 250 game victories.
Rudi Klobach was loved by all his students and soccer players over the years. He is greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 12, at Temple Emanuel, 1101 Springdale Rd. in Cherry Hill, N.J.
In lieu of flowers we welcome you to make a contribution to the Rudi Klobach Scholarship Fund, Delran High School, Delran, NJ 08075, indicate on check 'special funds-memory of Rudi Klobach,' or to the Goodwin Holocaust Museum, 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ 08003.
Memories may be shared at the Web site listed below. Budd Funeral Home,
Q. What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
A. I attended Drexel University. I completed the School of Education’s five year BS/MS program in just over four years, attaining a bachelors’ in education and minor in English, and a masters’ in teaching, learning, and curriculum.
Q. What is your ultimate goal in life?
A. I really want to do something that leaves a lasting impact on the world. I don’t know right now if that will mean something in politics, writing a book, or something else, but I would like to say that I contributed to the conversation of my generation.
Q. What inspires you to do what you do?
A. Right now my focus is on being a positive influence. I am lucky to have the opportunity to make a difference in my community, and this is a responsibility I take very seriously. I hope in the process that this will make me a role model for other young women.
Q. What is your most fulfilling experience to date?
A. Being the top vote getter in my election was incredibly fulfilling. At the outset of the campaign, many thought I was too young to be taken seriously as a candidate. It felt good to disprove that notion, but more importantly, it is a great honor to be entrusted with the stewardship of our wonderful community.
Q. What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
A. Ayn Rand. I am fascinated by the way she viewed the world.
Q. Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
A. I’m kind of a Star Wars nerd.
Q. What in your life helps you get through your day?
A. Coming home at the end of the day to my high school sweetheart and our dog.
Q. What is or was #1 on your “Bucket List”?
A. I love to write, and at some point I would love to publish a book. At this point I don’t know if that will be a novel or nonfiction, but we’ll see what the future brings.
Q. Beach or shore?
A. The sandy place next to the water is a beach, but you go “down the shore” to get there!
Q. If there was a biography written about you, what would the title be?
A. Overture
Q. Advice for your fellow young up and comers?
A. Don’t feel limited by what you are “supposed” to be qualified for at your age. Only you truly know what you are capable of accomplishing.
Vinny Napolitano, Director of Constituencies, Gov. Chris Christie office
What high school/college did you attend, and what did you study?
I attended Union Catholic Regional High School and went to Syracuse University where I triple majored in political science, American history, and political philosophy
What community organizations to you spend time on/with?
Parliamentarian of the Moorestown Republican Municipal Committee; executive board of the Moorestown Republican Club; member of the Moorestown Historical Society; parishioner at Our Lady of Good Counsel
What single characteristic do you feel every leader should possess?
Compassion. No person can truly be a leader without a sensitivity to those around them and a desire to help whoever they can whenever they are able.
What is your most fulfilling professional experience or accomplishment?
It's hard to pick just one. Over the last four-plus years working in the Governor's Office, I've had the chance to do so much — from working with the Special Olympics, to serving as my department's liaison to FEMA in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy; from meeting American heroes who served our nation, to staffing the Governor and Lt. Governor at various events throughout the State. At 27, I've had opportunities and experiences that most people can only dream of, and I am grateful every single day for that!
What one person, living or dead, would you want to spend a day with and why?
President Abraham Lincoln. I've always found him to be an inspiring and incredible figure in American history and someone who espouses the type of leadership that is too often lacking in our world.
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
Few would be able to tell based on my outgoing personality now, but I was bullied much of my childhood before high school. I think there is a part of me that always remembers those days, which is why I always try to help the underdog and be a voice to those who can't fight for themselves.
Advice for future your future community leaders?
"Doesn't matter what the press says. Doesn't matter what the politicians or the mobs say. Doesn't matter if the whole country decides that something wrong is something right. This nation was founded on one principle above all else: the requirement that we stand up for what we believe, no matter the odds or the consequences. When the mob and the press and the whole world tell you to move, your job is to plant yourself like a tree beside the river of truth, and tell the whole world — 'No, you move.'" - Captain America
Tell us your own personal mission statement.
Since High School, my personal mission statement has been "Change the world one person at a time." Any day that I'm able to put my head on the pillow at night knowing I did something helpful or kind for another person is a day that was well worth it.
Fiction or non-fiction? Why?
Both, but I normally find myself reading non-fiction as a political and history geek!
If there was a movie being produced about you, what would the title be?
