As we count down to the end of 2024, here are some of the year’s top stories in Gloucester Township.
A unique sound
An international gospel recording artist and Sicklerville resident made news in the gospel music industry this year with a win at the Prayze Factor Awards in Atlanta.
Singer Trina Sharifa Cuff was named the Best Rhythm and Praise Solo Act, an award that reflects what has been described as a unique sound and her years of musical growth. Reflecting on her roots, Cuff shared how her upbringing – and her time at Edgewood High School – laid the foundation for a career that began long before she stood on a stage at the awards.
“Growing up in Sicklerville exposed me to various types of music,” the 55-year-old recalled. “I was a rapper. I sang with Kristina Pruitt (a Philadelphia singer and pianist) in Edgewood’s school band, and I was also part of a local gospel choir.
“I had no idea at the time that these early experiences would later shape my path as a contemporary gospel singer.”
Cuff acknowledged that the Prayze Factor Awards are a defining moment in a career.
“It feels wonderful winning this award because, unlike a streaming award, people vote for you,” she explained. “It’s like all your hard work is being valued and acknowledged on another level.”
The Prayze Factor Awards draw talent from all over the world, and for Cuff – who has spent years singing in Europe, especially in London churches – it was an opportunity to share the stage with international artists.
“I was so excited to see people not only from the whole country but from Europe, Africa, and South America as well,” she recalled. “The standout moment for me was when they called my name. Even though many people from the tri-state area voted for me, I wasn’t expecting to win.”
Cuff’s sound – a mix of jazz and traditional gospel – falls into the contemporary category of Praise, defined as worship music and songs.
“I sing everything from gospel jazz to R&B and traditional gospel,” she noted, “but my heart is in contemporary worship songs.”
Like many artists, Cuff faced her share of challenges on her path to success, including not conforming to what others wanted her to be,.
“It wasn’t always easy adjusting to different cultures while traveling abroad either,” she admitted, “but I learned that people have different ways of doing things and seeing the world.”
Remembering valor
Gloucester Township residents came together on Oct. 5 to honor their veterans at a ceremony in Community Park.
The event – organized by Mayor David Mayer and council – recognized nearly 500 vets from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces in front of about 2,000 attendees. Its centerpiece was the awarding of the Gloucester Township Meritorious Service Medal, presented to veterans who have demonstrated exceptional service to the country while residing in the township.
Among them was 103-year-old former technical Sgt. Chester H. Clark, a veteran of World War II who served in Okinawa, Japan. In his opening remarks, Mayer emphasized the importance of the day and the township’s commitment to its veterans.
“This ceremony is a small but meaningful way for Gloucester Township to show our appreciation for the service of our veterans,” he said. “They have given so much to protect our freedoms, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the respect and support they have earned.”
The ceremony was marked by contributions from local organizations and groups. The township police honor guard gave a formal presentation of colors and patriotic performances followed, including renditions of classic American songs by the Mainstage Center for the Arts and local singer Michelle Botsford. Also on hand were Highland High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadets.
A poignant moment came when Mayer shared Clark’s story, including his participation in the bloody and ferocious battle of Okinawa in April of 1945, near the war’s end.
“Technical Sgt. Clark’s story is one of courage, resilience and dedication,” Mayer noted. “We are honored to recognize him today and hope that his life of service inspires our young people to value freedom and the principles that our veterans fought to uphold.”
Muslim pride
The Islamic Weekend School in Voorhees, an educational arm of the Muslim American Community Association (MACA), hosted its annual graduation ceremony in October.
The event brought together students, parents, faculty and community leaders to celebrate the academic and personal achievements of the graduating class at the school’s main hall. On hand were Congressman Donald Norcross, state Sen. Jim Beach, township Mayor Michael Mignogna and school principal Aqil Khan.
Khan opened the ceremony by reflecting on the Islamic Weekend School’s mission and the importance of education, both Islamic and academic.
“This graduation ceremony is a symbol of the hard work, dedication, and commitment our students have shown over the years,” he said. “It is a moment of great pride not only for the students, but for the entire community. It signifies that we are building the future generation of respectful, peaceful, and responsible citizens.”
Khan also addressed the 40-year-old school’s mission and commitment to provide a well-rounded education for Muslim children in the township and in Marlton, Gibbsboro and Sicklerville.
“Our mission here is to provide a vibrant and engaging Islamic education experience,” he explained. “We aim to teach the core principles of our faith, the five pillars of Islam – faith, prayer, charity, fasting and pilgrimage – while also instilling strong moral character, respect for others and a sense of social responsibility.”
Stella Sytnik, a long-time supporter of MACA and the township’s Community Affairs Commissioner, shared her personal connection to the school and the community.
“I have a very special relationship with the American Pakistani community,” she observed. “It is an honor to be invited every year as a panelist to their annual graduation ceremony to share my background. I take pride and feel honored to be able to address the students about the importance of education …
“Seeing smiles on their faces while presenting gifts to the teachers makes my heart melt.”
The school’s students learn the teachings of the Holy Quran, the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad and core subjects like math and science. Khan pointed out that the graduates not only excelled academically, but also developed a deeper understanding of their faith and how it applies to everyday life.
“The unique aspect of our curriculum is that we blend the study of Islamic principles with academic subjects in a way that prepares our students for the future,” he said. “Our teachers are highly educated and volunteer their time to teach, ensuring that every child receives a high-quality education.
“The results are clear: Our students are well-prepared for the next steps in their educational journey and in life.”
