Local Residents Predict Healthy, Happy, Snowy 2012

The fast-approaching new year will be a good year, says Charlie (who does not use her last name), a psychic astrologist from Blackwood and owner of

Charlie says 2012 will be a good numerology year, representing freedom and grounding. 

"Everyone will be stronger next year. Goals will be set. It will be good financially, for our troops and overall be very calm," said Charlie, who has been doing readings since she was 12.  She also said that the last two digits of the year, 12, add up to three in numerology and therefore represent harmony, peace, and love.

Other, less psychic residents are also predicting a good year.

Three-year-old Morgan Mullen predicts a giant Easter egg hunt for 2012, while her mother, Jen Mullen, predicts a mixed blessing: a big snowstorm in February.

Gloucester Township Council President Glen Bianchini disagrees with Mullen—perhaps in a bit of wishful thinking.

"I predict we'll have minimal snow," he said.

With the exception of school children, most would agree that would be a good thing after the brutal winters of 2010 and 2011.

The Council president also offered a second prediction that will make most township residents happy.

"The Phillies will win the World Series," Bianchini said. "I guess that's more of a hope than a prediction."

And after years of a struggling economy, war, natural disasters and other strife, many locals are hopeful things will turn around.

Darren Gladden hopes 2012 brings some positive changes. 

"I hope things get better for all, because I am on Plan C," said Gladden.

Stevie Scronzynski, owner of , thinks 2012 will bring a new commitment to health consciousness. Scronzynski predicts the economy will turn around. She believes those who have been jobless, working multiple jobs just to pay bills or completely stressed, will stop letting their health suffer and get back to eating healthy and exercising.

While we look ahead to a healthier 2012, Stephanie Roberts, one of the volunteer organizers at the , predicts a bigger and better market with new vendors, loads of local fresh produce and more special activities for the children.

But, of course, there those who are less optimistic as we cruise into 2012. Paulette Moncrief-Lerro and her husband Dan Lerro both feel there will be global change in 2012 and the start of spiritual battles.

"Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, cherish those you love and pray for all," said Moncrief-Lerro.

And for those who believe the supposed Mayan prediction that the world will end on Dec. 21, 2012, Michelle Wolfson, a township resident and Patch columnist, does not believe the hype.

"I predict that it will be exposed that the only reason the Mayans predicted the end of the world in 2012 is because they ran out of carving space on their rock tablet," Wolfson said.