Insurance Dispute Delays Wedding Deposit Refund

In June, I put down a deposit of $1,280 for my daughter's wedding at Sweetwater Casino in Mullica Township. As most everyone is aware, soon after, the place burned down. I was assured by the banquet manager that I would receive a full refund of my deposit, but it's been several months and I have received nothing. Certified letters have been returned marked "refused."

Is there any way you can help get my deposit back? - K.J., Egg Harbor Township

 It appears you are stuck in the middle of a legal dispute between the owners of Sweetwater Casino and their insurance company.

 "No insurance money has been paid," co-owner Jeff Anastasi said Tuesday evening, and "we are in the middle of suing (the insurance company)."

He would not comment further.

Photo By Chuck Brining

The 81-year-old restaurant, a landmark in the region, was destroyed by a fire in the early morning hours of June 30. The cause has not been determined, but the fire happened right after residents of the Sweetwater section heard an enormous thunder and lightning event, and the State Police lab said in August that no chemical fire accelerants were found in the debris.

Let's hope the insurance issue is settled soon and that creditors are paid.

This story was taken from the news source stated above. It is not necessarily the opinion of The Elwood Vol Fire Company or it's members.