During the week of  June 17, 2012. Eighty-Six 245-watt solar panels were installed at Grace Episcopal Church, 7 East Maple Avenue, Merchantville, New Jersey. This marks the first such installation at a church in the town of 3,500 residents adjacent to Pennsauken and Cherry Hill.

Congressman Andrews announced that Merchantville will receive $320,000 in federal funds to improve its waste and storm water sewers. The Storm Water Management Systems Improvements Project will alleviate flooding that has caused consistent water damage to homes, cars, and railroads in the community.

The Borough of Merchantville kicks off summer this weekend with a variety of community events. The town will hold its birthday celebration June 1 at Wellwood Park with a day of activities planned for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday alsostarts the Merchantville Farmers Market season — a daylong sale of organic and sustainable produce and products. http://on.cpsj.com/157ATgF

Merchantville's Farmers Market kicks off its second season on Saturday, June 1, 2013. This community market supports and promotes local farmers, growers and producers of agricultural products. Our focus is on natural, organic and sustainable foods and goods. Merchantville's Farmers Market features locally grown fresh produce, baked goods, and packaged foods, weekly entertainment, arts and educational programs, and fun activities for everyone.

The annual Spring Beer Fest sponsored by The Blue Monkey Tavern will take place on Saturday, April 27th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. It's a tented outdoor event with almost 100 different craft beers, a few wines and food for purchase. This is one of the best craft-beer bars in the state. Get your tickets today - $35 - also available at the door. For more info (856) 661-8008 or visit our Facebook page.

It was just over a month ago when Merchantville resident Gerald Smith chased down a man he saw allegedly grab a purse from a woman outside Pathmark on Church Road. Monday night, Smith was recognized by the township council, who honored him at the start of their regular meeting by giving him a proclamation and declaring April 9 as Gerald Smith Day. Smith's quick actions were credited by police in stopping David Zane Jr., of Westville, who police said not only snatched a woman's purse that afternoon, but was wanted in multiple other towns on various charges.