Pine Barrens Tribune July 13-July 19, 2024 by Pine Barrens Tribune

CLOSING THIS CHAPTER?

Lenape Regional BOE Readopts Budget for 2024-25 School Year, Amended to Reflect 45 Percent in Restorative Aid from State and One-Time Allowance to Exceed Tax Cap; However, Board Still Proceeds with Eliminating Two Tenured Library Media Specialists Over Objections of Alumnus, Educators and Librarians Who Predict Future Consequences

Board, in Readopting Budget, Restores Student Gymnastics and Bowling Programs, with Superintendent Describing How Two Local Bowling Businesses Stepped Up

B y D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG—Enacted legislation that has since allowed for New Jersey school districts affected by earlier state funding cut pronouncements for Fiscal Year 2025 to apply for a grant to get 45 percent back in restorative aid and also take advantage of a one-time allowance to exceed the twopercent tax levy cap for the upcoming school year budget cycle is purportedly still not enough financial assistance for the Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD) and its Board of Education to restore two, tenured school library media specialists who were the subject of a Reduction in Force (RIF) action taken back in May.

The board, as it once again decided the LRHSD 2024-25 school year budget on June 26 after the legislation also had granted a deadline reprieve, decided to stay the course as far as eliminating the two specialists, despite hearing dire warnings from educators and school library media specialists both locally and elsewhere in the

state about the potential consequences of any such decision, in addition to pleas from district alumni and a petition calling for the specialists’ reinstatement having garnered over 1,200 signatures.

The school governing body, however, did reinstate the district’s bowling and gymnastics programs after cutting them through the original budget passage back in late May, which drew praise from both parents and student participants, with LRHSD Superintendent Dr. Carol Birnbohm recognizing that the salvaging of the bowling program was made possible by Medford Bowling Lanes “partnering with us to cut lane fees by 50 percent,” with also Laurel Lanes having cut its lane fees. She also took a moment to encourage the gymnasts to now “grow their sport” to help make it cost efficient for the district.

However, it was the calls for the reinstatement of the school library media specialists that dominated the June 26 public hearing.

According to Board Member David

Stow, who is the finance chair for the school board, after the 45 percent in restorative aid was applied to the district’s budget, “we still lost $2.5 million from their cuts” during this budget cycle, or those first proposed by Democratic Governor Phil Murphy’s administration, and ultimately adopted in some form by the state Legislature (more on this at the end of the story).

“What people don’t understand is some of the gimmicks the politicians have put in this,” he said of the restorative aid legislation. “For example, the 45 percent is a ‘grant,’ which means we get it this year and it goes away next year. So, we are going to be back in the same boat.”

As for what Stow called the “tax-levycap removal,” he pointed out, “that is for this year alone” and it is “by way of calculation,” based on the “amount of money we lost” from the 2021 to 2025 fiscal years.

Stow said that while the legislation has been promoted that it allows districts hit by

B y D ouglas D. M elegari

Staff Writer

TABERNACLE—The setting off of fireworks in the Wharton State Forest on the night of Fourth of July, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS), is believed to have ignited what has been, as of press time, the largest wildfire of the year in the Pinelands – the Tea Time Hill Wildfire, which consumed over 4,000 acres in the area of the Batona Campground and Apple Pie Hill in Tabernacle Township, with the most intense flames burning on July 5, the day it was discovered.

In a July 7 pronouncement from the NJFFS, the agency reported that “fireworks have been identified as the cause of the Tea Time Hill Wildfire” after investigators from multiple agencies found that a “fireworks device lighted inside the forest” had “ignited the fire late Thursday, July 4, and the Apple Pie Hill Fire Tower discovered the fire shortly after 9 a.m. Friday, July 5.”

It was noted by the NJFFS that “fireworks are strictly prohibited” in New Jersey’s state parks, forests and recreation area, including but not limited to “beaches, campgrounds, fields and forested areas.”

Anyone with further information about the fire that could aid in the investigation is urged to call the New Jersey State Park Police tip line at 1-844-PARK-TIP (844-727-5847).

At an earlier press briefing on July 5, officials with the NJFFS described that the blaze had broken out in a “very rugged area” of the Wharton State Forest.

“A lot of it is very inaccessible to motorized vehicles or fire equipment,” said section Fire Warden and Incident Commander Tom Gerber of the NJFFS. “Some of the area has not seen fire since 1954.”

Gerber described that the blaze is burning in a “very, very dense pine forest.”

Aerial views captured by various Philadelphia television station helicopters showed that the wildfire had become a crown fire by late morning on July 5, with flames spreading from the tops of some pine trees.

Given the nature of the fuels in the area, Gerber said, a wildfire such as this one “tends

Tea Time Hill Wildfire Burns ‘Very Rugged Area’ of Wharton After Being Ignited by Fireworks, Forest Fire Service Announces Wildfire That Grew to 4,000 Acres Burns Part of Area That Had Not Seen Fire Since 1954 and Forces Evacuation of Batona Campground See WILDFIRE/ Page 4

Photos By Nick Weissmann

Michelle Graf (left), Melissa Plotts (center) and John Panico (right), who spoke in favor of retaining school library media specialists.

By D ouglas D. M elegari

Staff Writer

MEDFORD LAKES—William Fields has succeeded Dr. Gary Miller as mayor of Medford Lakes Borough, with the municipality reorganizing on July 1 following a May non-partisan municipal election that saw Fields get re-elected to Medford Lakes Council, alongside two newcomers, Matthew Bailey and Gerald

Photos By Andrew King William Fields (top left) is sworn in as Medford Lakes Borough’s new mayor, Gerald Yowell (top right) and Matthew Bailey (bottom right) are sworn in as Medford Lakes Borough Councilmen.

Seneca High Sends Two to West Point as Pupils Make School History

MAYOR

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Yowell, the latter who were also swornin on council July 1 to fill council seats that have been vacated by Miller and Gail Caputo, both of whom choose not to seek re-election.

Fields was selected as the borough’s next mayor by his council colleagues through a traditional ballot process.

“I am excited,” he declared upon his being sworn in for the mayoral post. “We have a great group of councilmen up here, ready to serve the people of Medford Lakes, and I am looking forward to the next several years of working with everyone up here.”

Fire Department, the purchase of equipment for the borough’s Public Works Department, as well as the implementation of the borough’s 2024 Road Improvement Program. The bond would also float the the purchase of a new vactor truck for the borough’s Sewer Utility.

The bond, if passed during a second reading and public hearing scheduled for July 11, would appropriate $2,107,120, and authorize the issuance of $1,784,950 in bonds or notes of the borough to finance the improvements.

At a previous meeting held just a few days prior, on June 27, Miller reflected on his time as mayor of Medford Lakes, as well as being a councilman.

By Jenn lucas Staff Writer

TABERNACLE—It is rare when a student graduates and goes on to a military academy. It is even more infrequent when not one, but two graduate from the same high school and both are accepted to the same prestigious military academy.

If those two are the first in the school’s history to do so, it is something for the local history books.

That unprecedented occurrence took place this year when Catie Andrews and Alex Sztajerwald graduated from Seneca High School in Tabernacle Township and were accepted to West Point, being the first two students in the school’s 20-year history to do so.

The two students are wildly different, from their goals in life to the paths that brought them to West Point, but they both share a love for traveling and challenging themselves.

One of her major draws to joining the military was the ability to see the world, Catie said. She has already been to 13 countries, with Spain and Norway topping the list of her favorites. She said she also likes to visit places not typically thought of as travel destinations.

“I like finding new places and experiencing new things,” she said, noting that a trip to Honduras when she was younger led, in part, to that inspiration. “I’ve always loved traveling since I was a kid.”

As for Alex, his favorite country is Poland. His mother and father both came to the U.S. from there when they were in their 20s, and he still has lots of family there, so they visit that country often.

“My Polish grandmother was just here

The part of Poland she is from, Alex noted, is “very peaceful.”

“I love it there,” he declared.

Though not close friends, the two have gotten to know each other well through their years in the Seneca Air Force JROTC Program and are comforted knowing there is a friendly hand to help or shoulder to lean on while they navigate the next stage in their lives.

“We did a lot leading up to West Point to help prepare each other,” Alex said. “We would see each other at JROTC events, as she was always very involved with them, and it was nice to see her there.”

Alex joined AFJROTC his freshman year, and Catie her sophomore year, but both said that program prepared them to meet any upcoming challenges West Point will throw at them. The instructors, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Greg Sevening and MSgt. (Ret.) John Brooks, were sources of inspiration and wisdom for them both, as well as the guiding force in them applying for West Point.

“It was such a good experience for me and gave me a leadership opportunity,” Catie said. “It is a very student-led class. We rely on ourselves for making plans. It was Ret. Lt. Col. Sevening and Ret. MSgt. Brooks though that were instrumental in getting me here.”

According to Alex, it was “the Air Force Academy that gave me niche-specific advice about what the military academy would be teaching me.”

“Lt. Col. Greg taught me not to be afraid to fail,” he added. “It is not something you should harp on yourself for. Everyone will fail at some point.”

The students were standout cadets, according to Ret. Lt. Col. Sevening, and he said he knows what they learned at Seneca and through the AFJRTOC program has prepared them for this next big step.

“Catie and Alex gave so much to the Seneca JROTC family and community,” he said. “They were leaders from day one in the our program, in all areas, and made those around them excel. I am so proud of them both for taking on the commitment to serve and defend our Nation. We wish them the best in July as they start their journey at West Point.”

Being active in high school came second nature to Catie, who while on AFJORTC became a senior leader, commander of the Color Guard and deputy commander of the Drill Team. She pushed herself in track and cross country and field hockey; reached the Girl Scouts’ top honor, the Gold Award; and learned to solve problems

See HISTORY/ Page 5

Fields, a now three-term councilman, previously served as mayor from 2018 to 2020, as well as has served as the borough’s deputy mayor from July 2022 to June of this year.

Councilman Dennis O’Neill was chosen through the same ballot process to serve as the municipality’s next deputy mayor, in the wake of Fields being elevated again to the mayoral post.

Bailey is beginning his council tenure after having served as a sergeant in the U.S. Marines Corps, with his service in the Marines spanning from 2002 to 2010. The now 8-year resident is also currently a federal project manager for a construction firm working on public and private projects.

Yowell has served on the Medford Lakes Colony Board for five years in the roles of director, director of lakes, director of property, co-vice president of recreation and most recently has been the vice president of property. Yowell, a specialist in finance and data/operations analytics, has also coached in the Medford Lakes Athletic Association (MLAA) program.

Following the leadership decisions of the council and the administering of the oath of office to the two new councilmen, a resolution was passed dividing borough government into departments, with Fields designating members of borough council to chair committees overseeing those departments.

Administration chair is Councilman Thomas Cranston, with Fields serving as deputy chair, while Bailey has been chosen as the chair of the Department of Public Works, serving alongside O’Neill as deputy chair.

Fields, a former police officer and now school safety and security coordinator for a school district, will chair Public Safety and the Police Department, with his deputy chair Cranston.

Chairing the Colony Relations Committee will be O’Neill, with Yowell serving as deputy chair.

Serving as chair of the Fire Department will be Yowell, with Bailey selected as deputy chair.

“Thank you for your support,” Fields told those who gathered for the reorganization meeting. “I am very excited for the new members; this council and we have a lot of great things we want to do. And I think everyone here is of the same mindset with Medford Lakes being a top priority.”

One of the first actions taken by the new council was to introduce a bond ordinance authorizing the purchase of Police Department equipment, the purchase of a new fire truck for the borough’s

“I just want to say how wonderful it has been during these many years of serving this wonderful borough and its residents,” Miller declared. “I have many, many good memories from what we have done and I think I have been able to have a little bit of an impact to maintain the way of life that we so very much enjoy and cherish in our town.”

Miller, who served a total of 19 years on council, including three terms as mayor, with him having served at various times on the governing body since the 80s, maintained that in working with the administration and various departments, it has been “nothing but wonderful” with the officials of those entities “coming up with good suggestions” in “tackling tough issues.”

The outgoing mayor, who has resided in the borough since 1984 and was also at one time a member of the local zoning board (now a combined Zoning and Planning Board), noted that he didn’t “always agree” on certain things, but it did not matter because the borough had always “come up with the right answer.”

Borough Manager Dr. Robert Burton, who ran for council 12 years ago alongside Miller, having gotten elected to a term with him (before he became the manager), described there being a “really good working relationship” between the two, and acknowledged that while “there were times we did not agree on things and yelled and screamed at each other,” there were also “times we did agree on things and hugged it out.”

“Gary is still a mentor of mine,” asserted Burton, pointing out that it was Miller, when Burton was first seated on borough council, who “kind of helped me get through the first couple years.”

Burton added that Miller will always be known for “his levelheadedness and seeing the big picture.”

And that was a takeaway from Miller’s service to the borough that longtime Borough Solicitor Doug Heinold shared as well.

“I probably have worked with 150 to 200 elected officials in my career, and the first word that comes to mind with Gary is he is a gentleman – an absolute gentleman,” Heinold said. “His demeanor, and the way he speaks and handles difficult situations, has a very even keel and it is a good approach to things, that I think in difficult times, is all the more important.”

Heinold took note that everywhere he goes in the borough, “There is Gary,” who he contended “has Medford Lakes so much in his heart, that he is often there.”

Miller, in fact, made the point to this

MAYOR/ Page 5

Photos Provided

Catie Andrews (left) and Alex Sztajerwald (right), recent graduates of Seneca High School, who both were accepted to West Point, being the first two students in the school’s 20-year history to do so.

SPECIALISTS

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school funding cuts to be able to raise the tax levy “not to exceed 9.9 percent,” and therefore, “some people out there think we can raise it 9.9 percent,” that is actually not the case.

“What we are able to do is raise it by about $7.25 million, which amounts to 5.7 percent,” he said of a proportionate calculation set by the state, making a point that the calculation is not set by the district. “That is our limit.”

Stow also said of the state allowing districts to exceed the tax levy cap on just one occasion to make up for the state financial aid losses that the “State of New Jersey has taken their responsibility to fund our kids and thrown it on us board members, so people can say ‘we are the bad guys,’ as we have to go out and tell you your taxes are going to go up in order to maintain some of the programs and staff in the LRHSD.”

As Stow pointed out, regional school taxes will increase in district sending towns from $84.30 in Evesham Township to $376.25 in Shamong Township.

According to Stow, the original $4.69 million financial aid cut provided to the LRHSD for the upcoming school year came after the district had already determined it was “almost $4.5 million in the hole” for this budget cycle, with the district at one point facing “close to a $12 million deficit.”

“What a lot of people don’t understand is we actually had a 3.6 percent increase in our enrollment in students with disabilities, which is not fully funded by the State of New Jersey,” said Stow of how the $4.5 million deficit came about. “Their aid provides for only 15.9 percent of our (special education) population. Yet our special education enrollment is at 19.1 percent.”

Stow, however, stopped short of saying what specifically led the district administration and board to ultimately want to move ahead with reducing the two tenured specialists, versus other possibilities, only saying officials are “not able to bring everything back because we don’t have enough … they didn’t give us enough.”

But more than a half-dozen public speakers participating in a new public hearing on the budget had hoped the board would at least have an open mind before redeciding the budget, though there were signs, particularly by the hearing’s end, that the board continuing with their elimination

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to burn very high,” up to a height of 50 to 75 feet, while also burning at the ground level.

“Fortunately, we did a lot of fuel reduction projects adjacent to where the fire started,” Gerber declared.

Firefighters, the section warden noted, are using resulting “good sand roads” in the area to do “indirect burning” operations, which allowed them “contain the fire to a large box we put it into.”

The NJFFS, he reported, have been “using those man-made breaks” in the area.

Additionally, while Gerber observed that “it has been abnormally dry in this region since early May” and “a lot of the fire area has not seen precipitation over an inch in several weeks,” the Atlantic White Cedar swamps in the area are “fortunately still holding moisture” and the “fire is not burning through a lot of those wetland features.”

was a forgone conclusion.

“Academically, the negative consequences of this will be substantial and far reaching,” warned former district English teacher Melissa Plotts, who taught the subject for 30 years.

Plotts pointed to “school library impact studies” conducted over several decades that found increases in student test scores had coincided with the addition of school librarians. Districts that have seen gains in school librarians, she said, had their student test scores increase by as much as “two times” as those that lost school librarians.

“Even the most seasoned English teacher doesn’t have the tools and expertise to turn a warehouse of books, resources and databases into the heart and hub of the school,” Plotts declared. “The list of indispensable contributions of a school librarian is too long to enumerate here. But besides academic scholarships, just focusing on information literacy alone should be enough for a call to action.”

Michelle Graf, a district alumnus who now teaches English at a school in North Jersey that has eliminated its full-time school library media specialists, described she has witnessed firsthand the consequences of losing school librarians, having observed “low literacy rates, plummeting further,” as well as “student loss in motivation to guide their own learning.”

“A library is a student’s first experience with complete freedom of choice,” she declared.

The specialists, she added, “maintain and teach constantly changing technology” and have to learn the Arts as well as “very frequently serve as an unbiased liaison between students and staff.”

“There is little time in my classroom for students to learn who they are and what they are,” Graf added. “This is learned in a school library. A school library isn’t just a place to hold books, it is a safe home for a child to explore any skill and interest. And it is a place for a child to be so profoundly impacted that I still remember my school library number.”

Graf, who noted she “more or less lived in our school’s library” when she was a LRHSD pupil, then listed off from memory her complete library number from when she was a student to the LRHSD BOE and administration.

The LRHSD school board also heard from John Panico, a past graduate of the LRHSD’s Seneca High School, who described having been given a “neurodivergent” person diagnosis that led to him “needing constant help” in high school, all while he was placed on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Both the necessary reading materials for him to be able to complete his coursework

Also aiding firefighters, according to the section warden, is that there are “lots of streams, lot of drainages” in the area.

Officials reached 90 percent containment on the blaze by late July 9.

During the late morning and early afternoon hours of July 5, two structures were reported by the NJFFS as being threatened, with the agency identifying the threatened structures as a “hunting club and one residential structure.” But by late that day, the structures were no longer threatened by the fire.

The Batona Campground was evacuated at the height of the wildfire.

New Jersey State Park Police Chief George Fedorczyk reported that there were four reservations at the time of the blaze breaking out, and everyone was safely removed from the area.

Gerber added that there were “only a handful of campers” at the site when the evacuation order was implemented, with the campground at the “heel of the fire, so not a lot (of people) were impacted.”

More than 17 Type 7 engines, along with

and a means to find the right ones were provided to him courtesy of his school’s library specialists, Panico recounted.

“The librarians were always present and ready to help when a teacher wasn’t ready to make time, or because they had so many students they had to manage,” he observed.

Panico also discussed how when faced with “distress,” the school library became a “safe haven” for him, as well as a place where he made “friends for the rest of my life.”

Jean Stock, a media specialist for the Mount Laurel School District, contended librarians like her are important to have in a school because they “teach students to be critical thinkers in how to evaluate information sources.”

“These students are future voters and citizens, and it is imperative that they understand how to make informed decisions and how to find facts from reputable sources,” she declared. “When media specialists guide student source selections, every student becomes a critical thinker.”

Stock put a question to the LRHSD administration and board: “How can you justify removing the librarians and allowing students to get their information from sources that are biased or tell outright lies?”

Plotts added that, “In the age of social media and ‘alternative facts,’ school librarians are needed more than ever to help kids in an increasingly confusing world with conflicting interests, political and otherwise.”

Deb Doolittle, a paraprofessional at LRHSD’s Seneca High School, pointed out that “students headed off to college are expected to know how to locate, evaluate, analyze and synthesize information found in academic databases.”

“All students need to be literate in print, digital and social media so that they can make informed decisions for themselves not only as consumers, but citizens,” she declared.

Doolittle added that a “school library not only provides this instruction, but also is the linchpin to ensuring students have access to the best online resources,” maintaining that forthcoming literacy standards in 2026 will only “increase this need.”

Stock, meanwhile, pointed out that media specialists also have “master’s degrees in Information Science and collaborate with teachers to ensure students can find reliable sources in databases.”

She warned that “all students will suffer” with any decision to eliminate the specialists and a board decision to do so will have “lasting impacts.”

Plotts, after describing that “academically

water tenders and bulldozers, were brought in to combat the fire at its peak, reported NJFFS Chief William Donnelly.

On July 5, an initial south-southwest wind caused a large smoke plume to spread over eastern Tabernacle and adjacent Woodland townships, with the thickest smoke found crossing County Route 532, before spreading across the area of Russ Anderson Boulevard and Panama Road, out to County Route 563 and even Route 72.

Shifting winds caused the smoke to shift throughout Burlington, Camden and Ocean counties in the days that followed the height of the wildfire.

But described as the “biggest concern” by Donnelly was firefighters having to endure hot temperatures and high humidity in battling the blaze.

“The number one objective here is firefighter safety,” Donnelly added. “We want to make sure no one is hurt.”

The Batona Campground, off of a sandy section of Carranza Road, was described by

speaking, it is unthinkable to not have properly staffed school libraries,” also issued a warning that it “will negatively impact generations of students,” adding, “if the situation remains, this district will fail to provide the basic components of a strong educational experience for a diverse community of young people” and it will “fail to be competitive with our surrounding districts, such as Moorestown, Haddonfield, and Cherry Hill, each with a full-time, certified librarian.”

Melinda Roberts, the “sole” school library media specialist for four schools in the Maple Shade School District, also a LRHSD alumnus, observed that by a school district not having a specialist, it “lowers academic performance and removes a crucial lifeline” in the school system, attesting to a “340 percent increase in circulation” of materials when retained by her district.

School library media specialists, she added, are “most efficient at connecting nonreaders to readers,” agreeing with an earlier point of Plotts that the “library is the hub of the school.”

Shayne Russell, a retired librarian involved with Rutgers University’s library program, emphasized to the board that the school library media specialists threatened with elimination were just not receiving support locally, but from elsewhere in the state and even nationally, noting that a “petition bearing the signatures of over 1,200 people asking the two positions cut be reinstated” represents “parents,” “LRHSD alumni,” “teachers from the LRHSD and sending districts,” as well as “school librarians from throughout the state and country.”

Jennifer Gallagher, a second school library media specialist in Mount Laurel, meanwhile, pointed to the attention the issue was getting on social media, reading back to the LRHSD board some of the comments elicited by word of the plan, including, “’librarians probably taught me more useful info than any teacher’” and it is “so unfair because a librarian has so many responsibilities taken for granted.”

Seneca English teacher Julie Smith concluded the public hearing by describing that “our media center specialists have been crucial in coming into our classrooms and helping our students to understand how to tell if something is a deepfake, if something is manufactured, or if there is another resource they should look at.”

“Taking that away not only from the

See SPECIALISTS/ Page 7

Gerber as being at “heel of the fire, so not a lot (of people) were impacted.” That is also the area where aerial footage showed responding New Jersey State Park Police at during the late morning hours of July 5.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service led the investigation, in collaboration with the New Jersey State Park Police, the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety, and the Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Batona Trail was closed between Route 532 and Carranza Road, as well as the Tulpehocken Trail, from Apple Pie Hill to Hawkins Bridge. Also closed was Carranza Road from the Carranza Memorial to Speedwell Road at Friendship Field.

A remembrance ceremony at the memorial site for the late Mexican aviator Captain Emilio Carranza Rodríguez has been in the works now for several months, and is still scheduled to take place on the on July 13, as of deadline time.

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

ABOUT THE FAIR AND ITS ORGANIZATION

The Burlington County Farm Fair, Inc. is a nonprofit organization with a mission to promote agriculture, social life, and youth as well as educating the general public by conducting a yearly agricultural fair with exhibits, livestock, and farm products. Located on the beautiful Burlington County Fairgrounds in Springfield Township, the fair offers a variety of activities to the tens of thousands of visitors that attend each year Horses, cows, rabbits, chickens, sheep, goats and other animals are on display each day. Most of these are shown by 4-H members, each of whom hopes to win a blue ribbon.

On Friday, there will be a dairy cow show at 12:30 p.m. in the North Show Tent.

Daily horse shows, open to the public, are also a major attraction.

Antique steam engines and antique farm equipment will bring back memories for many. The tractor pulls are a very popular attraction conducted by the Central Jersey Tractor Pullers Association in a dedicated arena.

The Farmer for a Day Tent, sponsored by the Women’s Committee of the Burlington County Board of Agriculture, offers each child who visits the fair a chance to be a “Farmer for a Day.”

There are many more things to see and do at the Burlington County Farm Fair! Come on down and have some fun!

FAIR ADMISSION

Official fair times are 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2024, through Saturday, July 20, 2024. There may be events that are held before the official opening time. Check the daily schedule located in this section and updated online at www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com .

Daily admission is FREE.

NO SMOKING on the fairgrounds, please!

Dogs are allowed anywhere on the Fairgrounds property. You must pick up after your dog and it must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Note that dogs are NOT allowed in the remote parking lot or on the shuttle buses.

Turn to Radio Station AM 1620 for Farm Fair traffic details.

FAIR HOURS

Official fair hours are from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily,from Tuesday, July 16, 2024, through Saturday, July 20, 2024. However, 4H Competition Events begin at 7 a.m. Refer to the daily schedules on www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair. com for more information.

Note that for events and competitions starting earlier than the official hours, go to the fair website: www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com and click on “SCHEDULE” link on the homepage.

MAJESTIC MIDWAY RIDES

The Burlington County Farm Fair Association and Majestic Midways of York, Pennsylvania have a great bargain for families!

Wristband Special – Every Day of the Fair! Wristbands may not be used for multiple days. A new wristband must be purchased for each day of the fair.

4 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Wristband cost is $30

6 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Wristband cost is $35

Majestic Midways TICKETLESS “Magic Money” digital credits! No more paper tickets! A reusable plastic card or the Magic Money phone app can be used to purchase Midway ride tickets and buy from Midway concessions only at this time. (All other vendors are only accepting cash or credit card). There is a one-time cost of $2.00

for the card, but it can be reloaded and reused every day of the fair, and even next year!

All rides take 3, 4, or 5 tickets.

NOTICE: There are no refunds given for any reason, at any time, during the fair. For safety reasons, all ride height requirements will be strictly enforced!

Free Area: Munchkinland is for small children 42 inches tall and under, with a play port for children under 36 inches tall. Open every day.

FOOD COURT

We have a new food court called The South West Food Court.

It is located directly across from the animal tents and Spike Driving.

All of the food vendors in the SW Food Court are new this year.

CHILDREN’S DAY

Children’s Day is on Thursday, July 18, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when Midway Rides will be closed.

Animal tents will be open with 4-H and private owners on hand to show their animals.

A Dining Pavilion is available to visitors who bring their own lunches or buy fair food. Visitors may buy food from any open food vendor.

A “Farmer for a Day” tent will be open with goodies for the children.

PARKING

Parking is available directly across the street from the Farm Fair entrance. The donation per car, per day is $15.

A multi-day parking pass for a $30 donation is available from any of the parking lot attendants.

If you have a U.S. Military ID (active or retired), show your ID to the parking attendant

and pay $10 per carload parking donation as our thank you to our military fairgoers! Load up the car and come on down!

A remote parking area is located within the Columbus Farmer’s Market parking lot. ONLY AVAILABLE WHEN THE LOT AT THE FAIRGROUNDS IS FULL . In the event the fairgrounds’ lot is full, FREE shuttles will be offered to the main entrance of the fairgrounds. A special, dedicated motorcycle parking area is in close proximity to all the action. No shuttle is necessary. All bike clubs are welcome! NO COLORS, PLEASE. See parking lot attendants for motorcycle parking area.

Handicapped parking is located in the main parking lot. Transportation into the fair can be provided upon request. See any parking lot attendant for this service.

ANIMAL HEALTH RULES

Information on the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s 2024 Fair/Show Animal Health Recommendations, Regulations, and Forms can be found on the AG department’s website at https://www. burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com/information.html .

Photo By Mark Fletcher

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

THE MAN OF OVER 100 VOICES

Scott Gager is a singing voice impersonator. He can impersonate over 100 voices. Scott has performed in Nashville, TN; Branson, MO; Atlantic City, NJ; and locally throughout the South Jersey area. In July of 2017, Scott performed at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC. He has been featured in several newspaper articles, most recently in the Burlington County Times.

Currently, Scott is the #1 followed act on Facebook in the State of New Jersey with over 70,000 followers.

Scott discovered he could impersonate six years ago. He began to work on his vocals and soon learned he had the ability to impersonate virtually anyone, in all genres of music. In March of 2012, Scott began performing weekly at a local bar. From August to October of that same year, Scott was hired as the featured singer at the Steel Pier in Atlantic City.

On election night of 2012, Scott wrote a song called "Red and Blue" about how divided our nation has become. Scott and his wife, Debbie, finished the song just before their son deployed to Afghanistan. The song was produced in a local studio by Paul Presto and has been played on the radio.

Scott and his wife, Debbie, along with Paul Presto, recently wrote a song called "Alone" about their personal experience with a Veteran suffering from PTSD. The song is resonating with people all over the country.

same song, from word to word. You can find Scott (Scott Gager Man of 100 Voices) on Facebook and YouTube. "Red and Blue" is available on iTunes.

GROUSER GIRLS

The Grouser Girls are a country-based sister duo from New Jersey.

From sharing their love of music in school shows to taking the stage at their alma mater, Casey and Carlie have been performing together for a lifetime. They officially began performing as a “duo” in 2017. With the support and guidance of family, friends, and incredible people that The Grouser Girls have met along the way, this sister duo has had the opportunity to perform at various establishments and events – near and far – such as wineries, breweries, restaurants, fundraisers,

weddings, private parties, and more!

“We take pride in our unique blend of harmonies and love getting our audience involved in the fun,” the duo declared. “Our love for singing and performing has been a huge part of our lives and continues to fill our journey with new and exciting places and people!”

The Grouser Girls are truly grateful for every single person, every establishment, and every minute that they are able to live out their dream – it is all thanks to you!

The Grouser Girls, of Columbus, will live that dream once more, performing in the Dining Pavilion on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.

The Grouser Girls.

Photo Provided

Scott Gager. Photo Provided

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

BULLZEYE BAND

Chatsworth’s own singer, song writer and guitar player Tom Baz, and the renowned Bullzeye Band, will offer “rockin’ country music” in the North Show Tent on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. Baz was born in 1973, in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Chatsworth. The son of a U.S. airman and seasoned New York bull rider, Baz was exposed to a diverse music collection at an early age.

Artists like Elvis Presley, Jim Croce, the Rolling Stones, Don Williams, Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams Sr. and Jr., Lynyrd Skynyrd, George Strait and Keith Whitley were staples in the Baz home.

Baz attributes his diverse taste in music to his entire family, but mostly to his father’s musical tastes and older brother, who is also a musician and artist. The musical influences do not stop with country though, as Baz’s unique sound

also comes from listening to rock bands such as Rush, the Stray Cats, Southern Culture on The Skids and Van Halen.

When he is not with his band, Baz performs in acoustic shows—solo—or with percussionist Johnny “Sticks” Anderson.

THE WOODSHOP BAND

The Woodshop Band comprising Marybeth Johns, Steve Makuka and George Cann performs

acoustic music for most occasions, folk – classic rock – blues – bluegrass – oldies. They will be performing in the Dining Pavilion on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.

VERBATIM

Verbatim is an experienced, dynamic and melodic cover band from the tri-state area that brings passion, high-intensity energy and professionalism to every performance while playing your favorite rock/pop hits.

Verbatim will be performing in the North Show Tent on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 8:30 p.m.

OTHER MUSICAL ACTS & PERFORMANCES

• Jim Skanes - North Show Tent - Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.

• Josh Holland - Dining Pavilion - Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

• The Presto Band - North Show TentWednesday, July 17, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

• Atonal Ascent (formerly Cascarella) - Dining Pavilion - Friday, July 19, 2024 at 8:30 p.m.

• Acoustic Explorer - North Show TentSaturday, July 20, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

• Retro Replay - Dining Pavilion - Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Tom Baz and renowned Bullzeye Band in a performance.

Photo By Ryan Marchese

Verbatim.

Photo Provided

The Woodshop Band. Photo Provided

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • MAJOR EVENTS

CHILDREN’S DECORATED WAGON CONTEST

This contest will take place on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the North Show Tent. Registration is at 5:30 p.m. the same day.

There are 2 categories for participation: Children age 10 and under, and Children age 11 to 13. Families may participate by decorating a wagon or stroller. Entries in the individual and group categories will be judged on neatness, originality, and theme.

Children 10 and under and families may participate by decorating a wagon or stroller. Entries in the individual and group categories will be judged on neatness, originality, and theme.

Entries are encouraged to use this year's theme, "Christmas in July", or "The Family Fun Fair", or go with your own. Be creative and have fun!

No open flames or fires allowed.

To pre-register or for questions, call Barbara Shinn at 609-410-2608.

DRAFT HORSE PULL

If you enjoy Tractor Pulls, you’ll love watching the horses perform. Come out on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. The weigh-in starts at 3 p.m. and the pull starts at 6 p.m. The horses will pull at the same location as the tractors, next to Jacksonville-Jobstown Road, just west of the Farm Fair main entrance.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRY

All horses must have proof of a negative Coggins test dated within one year.

Animals originating from outside of New Jersey must be accompanied by a health certificate (CVI) completed by a veterinarian within 30 days of the event. Burlington County Farm Fair must be listed as the destination on the health certificate.

ANTIQUE

MACHINERY AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER

Come watch the parade of antique tractors, farm equipment and garden tractors every day of the fair at 5:00 p.m. Parade will be around the entire fairgrounds. Take a step back in time and visit these old tractors and a large assortment of other farm machinery. Antique cars and trucks are also on display. The Antique Farm Equipment Show has been growing each year at the Burlington County Farm Fair. Formerly coordinated by the late Mr. Coles Roberts of Southampton and the late Mr. Larry Cauffman of Masonville. Both of these men were Trustees and gave over 50 years of service and volunteer time to the fair. The Cauffman family of Masonville continues to coordinate the old farm gasoline engine section of the show. The putt-putt-sputter-putt of his machines serves as a calling for old engine buffs, and attracts thousands of people to the exhibit. Field corn will be shelled throughout the Fair with a

two-hole corn sheller, a slow process compared with our modern combines. Spectators may receive a souvenir corncob!

TRACTOR PULL

The tractor pulls are run by the Central Jersey Tractor Pullers Association (CJTPA). Both large and garden tractors will compete in separate events.

Please visit the CJTPA website at www.cjtpa.org for detailed information about tractor pulls at the Farm Fair and during other times of the year.

BUILD A RECYCLED SCARECROW

Build A Recycled Scarecrow Contest! Entries will be accepted on Monday, July 15, 2024, from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

RULES

• Scarecrow may be an individual, group, club or family project.

• Scarecrow must be 4 to 6 feet in height.

• Scarecrow must be constructed from recyclable or reused items/materials. Tape, wire, string, etc. can be used for assembling.

• Scarecrow must be free standing, propped up, or hanging for display during the entire five days of the Farm Fair.

• Scarecrow must have the name(s) of participating individual(s) or group plainly displayed for the judges.

Judges will consider age of participants, originality and creativity in the use of recyclable items, neatness, eye appeal and durability. The decision of the judges is final.

Interested participants must fill out an Entry Form. Contact the Farm Fair office at 609-784-8369 (you may leave a voicemail), or email entry information to bcffairmanager@gmail.com to register an entry. Bring the completed Entry Form with your scarecrow to the Farm Fair Dining Pavilion on Monday, July 15, 2024, from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Scarecrows should be picked up on Sunday, July 21, 2024, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Any scarecrows not picked up will be discarded for recycling by the Farm Fair.

Winners will be posted on the Burlington County Farm Fair website, and prizes will be mailed to winners.

Photo By Mark Fletcher

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • MAJOR

FARM FAIR QUEEN PAGEANT

The 2024 Burlington County Farm Fair Queen Contest will be held in the fair’s North Show Tent on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 8:30 p.m.

You can download an application from the fair website at www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com . Click on the “Events” tab, then click on “Farm Fair Queen Contest.”

If you have any questions, please contact Queen Pageant Chair, Jamie Padulese, by phone at 856-2961796, or email at jamiemontgomery650@gmail.com .

AWARDS

• Farm Fair Queen: $300

• First Runner-up: $100

• Second Runner-up: $50 (There Will be a Second Runner-up Only If There Are More Than Four Contestants. If there is no Second Runner-up, prize will be split equally among Queen and First Runner-up.)

• Essay Winner: $50

For complete list of rules, visit www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com.

FUTURE FARM FAIR QUEEN

The Farm Fair is looking for girls between the ages of 5 and 13 years old to participate in the Future Farm Fair Queen parade!

The parade will take place on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 8:30 p.m.

All interested girls are asked to report to the North Show Tent. This is not a competition. All girls between the ages of 5 and 13 years old are welcome!

For complete list of rules, visit www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com.

AX THROWING

This event will take place every day of the fair from 4:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. in two different locations. This will be a chargeable event for fairgoers.

GRIZZLY & CO. ADVENTURE FOR HIRE AX THROWING

This event will take place behind the food court next to the pig races.

DOWN THE HATCHET AX THROWING

This event will take place next to the military displays. MORE MAJOR EVENTS PREVIEW COVERAGE ON PAGE S10

Travis Garage Doors & Repair

Photo By Andrew King

BOOKMOBILE

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • MAJOR EVENTS

PLEIN AIR PAINTING COMPETITION

Held from Tuesday, July 16 – Saturday, July 20, 2024, (Rain or Shine). Sponsored by the Willingboro Art Alliance.

PROSPECTUS

Paint the Burlington County Farm Fair, featuring family fun including farm animals, tractors and antique cars, a carnival midway, and entertainment. Any location on or visible from the Farm Fair Grounds is eligible. Artists may paint anytime during the five days of Farm Fair from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cash prizes offered!

CHECK-IN AND REGISTRATION

Artists may check in to register at the WAA Table located outside the Farm Fair Office (Enter Gate 2) at any of the following times:

• Tuesday, July 16th, 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, July 17th from 9:30 am to 11:00 a.m.

• Saturday, July 20th, 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Once registered, participating artists will recieve a Parking Pass courtesy of the Farm Fair Management.

ENTRY FEE

$15 for Members, $25 for Non-Members

Additional Entries $10 per piece – NOTE, only one winner per artist Print and fill out Entry Form

Make checks payable to: Willingboro Art Alliance

For complete list of rules, visit www.burlingtoncountyfarmfair.com.

Judging, awards, and sales take place Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. in the Dining Pavilion.

BOOKMOBILE

The Burlington County Bookmobile will visit the fair on Friday and Saturday evenings. Location is across from the 4 - H Animal Tents. Please bring your library card or sign up for a new one!

HOME ARTS & CRAFTS

Every night of the Farm Fair, including on Saturday, there will be Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent. They will be held every night.

Photo By Andrew King

RED EYE RODEO

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • MAJOR EVENTS

Join us for the 1st Annual Burlington County Farm Fair Rodeo on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

For years this has been in the works! The rodeo will feature bull riding, breakaway roping, barrel racing and team roping. Rodeo is a growing sport all across the country and our goal is to extend the love of the sport to our home base here in New Jersey.

We welcome you to come out and attend the rodeo and watch the various Cowboys and Cowgirls competing.

OPEN PET SHOW

The Annual Pet Show is open to all Burlington County residents and will be held in the North Show Tent at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024.

Registration will begin at 6:30 p.m. All categories will have junior (ages 1-15) and senior (16 and older) divisions. Bring your pet and possibly win a blue ribbon!

OPENING CEREMONIES

In keeping with our annual tradition, the Farm Fair’s opening ceremony will take place in the fair’s North Tent at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday with a performance and singing of the National Anthem by area entertainer Scott Gager.

Visitors will also be greeted by representatives of various fair events, and groups such as the Boy Scouts of America, Burlington County Chapter, the Future Farmers of America and the Burlington County 4-H Program.

Officers and trustees will then assemble for the Pledge of Allegiance and Springfield Mayor David Frank, the fair’s official host, will join other local government leaders to give visitors a “country welcome.” On opening night, at the fairgrounds, the farm fair will have fireworks provided by Pyrotecnico. The show begins at 9:45 p.m. with music and fireworks, weather permitting (RAIN DATE – 9:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, 2024).

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2024

10:00 A.M. 4 - H Meat, Fiber and Dairy Goat Show – North Show Tent

Tractor Driving Contest – Tractor Pull

P.M. Commercial Exhibits Open to Public Robotech Robotics Team Exhibit – County Commercial Tent Home Arts & Crafts Tent Opens

4 - H Exhibits Open to Public

Amusement Rides Open – Wristband Special – $30 Per Person 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. – $35 Per Person 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

4 - H Goat Exhibition and Obstacle Course – North Show Tent

4:30 – 10:30 P.M. "Down the Hatchet" Ax Throwing – Located Next to Military Displays Grizzly & Co. Adventure for Hire Ax Throwing – Located Next to Pig Races

5:00 P.M. Antique Farm Equipment and Garden Tractor Parade

Jr Equestrian of the Year Contest Followed By Sr Equestrian of the Year Contest – North Show Tent Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

5 – 7:00 P.M. Meet the 4 - H Horse Clubs! – Skillet Throw Ring next to Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

5 – 9:00 P.M. Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent

5:45 P.M. 4-H Top Chef Event – North Show Tent

6 – 7:00 P.M. Plein Air Painting Registration at Gate 2

6 – 9:00 P.M. Gary the Balloon Man Appearing at the Flag Pole Plaza

6:00 P.M. Arram Dawn Farm Drill Team Exhibition – Horse Arena Adult Tractor Pull – Tractor Pull Arena

6:15PM 4 - H Parade of Animal Breeds – North Show Tent

6:30 P.M. Musical Entertainment: Scott Gager – North Show Tent

7:00 P.M. Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Milking Demonstration – Milking Tent

7:30 P.M. Farm Fair Opening Ceremonies – North Show Tent Quilts of Valor Presentation Will Be Given During Opening Ceremonies

Musical Entertainment: The Woodshop Band – Dining Pavilion

8:00 P.M.

Musical Entertainment: Scott Gager – North Show Tent

8:30 P.M. Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

9:45PM FIREWORKS AT THE FAIR! Brought to You By Pyrotecnico

10:00 P.M. 4 - H Exhibits Close for the day

10:30 P.M. Farm Fair Closes for the day

Photo Provided

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR •

FARM FAIR QUEEN CONTEST

The longest running farm fair event since the fair’s inception in 1947, and one of its most anticipated, is the Farm Fair Queen Contest.

This event held on the second night of the fair (Wednesday), traditionally draws young women who have an interest in the preservation of agriculture in Burlington County.

The queen-elect must be entering either her junior or senior year in high school or its equivalent in a home-school program. Contestants are judged on poise, stage presence and the ability to express themselves verbally, based on their answers to an essay question which is judged at a time other than the evening of the contest.

The queen’s duties are to serve as the official hostess of the fair and to visit all parts of it during the week.

The trustees serve as the queen’s official drivers in various county parades during the year. Emcee Paul Pestritto has been running the contest and announcing the queen since 1996.

In addition, the queen is eligible to compete in the State Agricultural Contest in which the winner represents the state at all county farm fair events. The outgoing queen returns each year to crown her successor. Each queen is expected to complete a “give back” project for the fair. This can be in the form of visiting schools to promote the fair in the spring, or a project that the queen comes up with and runs by the contest director, Jamie Padulese, who is a former queen herself.

Moore’s Meadow

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17, 2024

7:00 A.M.

Open Schooling Dressage Ring – Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

9:30 – 11:00 A.M. Plein Air Painting Registration at Gate 2

10:00 A.M. 4 - H Poultry Show – Small Animal Tent

11:30 A.M. 4 - H Meat, Fiber and Sheep Show – North Show Tent

12 – 4:00 P.M. Wedding Ceremonies by Joanne Schwartz, County Clerk – Dining Pavilion

3:00 P.M. Draft Horse Pull Registration – Tractor Pull Arena

4:00 P.M. Commercial Exhibits Open To Public Home Arts & Crafts Tent Opens

4 - H Exhibits Open to Public

Amusement Rides Open – Wristband Special – $30 Per Person 4:00–6:00 p.m. – $35 Per Person 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

4:30 – 10:30 P.M. "Down the Hatchet" Ax Throwing – Located Next to Military Displays

5:00 P.M.

Antique Farm Equipment and Garden Tractor Parade

Futu re Farmers of America Presentations – Visit the FFA Tent for the Times of These Presentations: Turfgrass Management, Hunting Dogs, Fermenta tion, Agriculture in NJ

5 – 9:00 P.M. Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent

5:00 P.M. Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

5:30 P.M. 4 - H Livestock Dressed Animal Parade – North Show Tent

6 – 9:00 P.M. Gary the Balloon Man Appearing at the Flag Pole Plaza

6:00 P.M.

6:30 P.M.

7 – 9:00 P.M.

7:00 P.M.

Musical Entertainment: Jim Skanes – North Show Tent

Draft Horse Pull – Tractor Pull Arena

Children's Tractor Pull Registration – Northeast Corner Tent

Registration for Women's Skillet Throw –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Women's Skillet Throw –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Children's Tractor Pull Contest – Northeast Corner Tent

Registration for Men's Spike Driving Contest –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Milking Demonstration – Milking Tent

7:30 P.M.

Musical Entertainment: Josh Holland – Dining Pavilion

Men's Spike Driving Contest –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Musical Entertainment: The Presto Band – North Show Tent

8:30 P.M.

Future Farm Fair Queen Parade – Open to All Girls Ages 5 -13 –North Show Tent

Farm Fair Queen Contest – North Show Tent

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

10:00 P.M. 4 - H Exhibits Close for the day 10:30 P.M. Farm Fair Closes for the day

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • THURSDAY, JULY 18

BURLINGTON COUNTY 4-H CLOGGERS

Having been around for almost 40 years, the Burlington County 4-H Cloggers are the oldest clogging group in New Jersey. They are a wonderful group of 4-H youth in grades K-12. The club is very active, performing locally and around the tri-state area at events, fairs, and many service oriented performances like nursing homes and senior citizen events. The members learn to improve their public speaking skills while announcing at performances, and develop their citizenship and leadership skills with the yearly community services projects they perform, all while having fun learning the art of Clog Dancing.

For county 4-H members, exhibiting at the Farm Fair is a required activity—and an especially exciting one for the Cloggers, a 4-H dance troupe with about 40 members ranging in age from 5 to 18.

The Burlington County 4 -H Cloggers are supported by hard-working parents who take an active role in the club. Club members, leaders, and parents can all attest to the fact that Clogging is a terrific experience for these 4 -H'ers.

Since clogging has its roots in Appalachia, country music is the group’s prevalent genre, but they include some pop music routines in their repertoire, as well.

The Burlington County 4 - H Cloggers will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the North Show Tent on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2024

7:00 A.M.

Open English Horse Show – Skillet Throw Ring next to Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

10:00 A.M.– 4:00 P.M. Children's Tour of the Fair

10:00 A.M. 4 - H Exhibits and Animal Tents Open

Farmer for a Day Tent Open with Live Animal Presentations

Children's Photo Op Center – Sponsored By the Burlington County Board of Agriculture Women's Committee

Cook, Sew and Grow 4 - H Club Fashion Show – North Show Tent

11:00 A.M. 4 - H Dress Animal Contest – sponsored by the Fur, Feathers and Four Legged Friends 4 - H Club – North Show Tent

12:00 P.M. Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Cowboy Larry and Brave Beth Entertainment – Dining Pavilion

1:00 P.M. Livestock Handling Clinic – Livestock Tent

4:00 P.M. Commercial Exhibits Open to Public

Home Arts & Crafts Tent Opens

Cowboy Larry and Brave Beth Entertainment – Touring the Fairgrounds

Amusement Rides Open – Wristband Special – $30 Per Person 4:00–6:00 p.m. – $35 Per Person 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

4:30–10:30 P.M. "Down the Hatchet" Ax Throwing – Located Next to Military Displays

Grizzly & Co. Adventure for Hire Ax Throwing – Located Next to Pig Races

5:00–9:00 P.M. Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent

Antique Farm Equipment and Garden Tractor Parade

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

5:30 P.M. Butterfly Release by the 4-H Club Pollinator Protectors – North Show Tent

6–9:00 P.M. Gary the Balloon Man Appearing at the Flag Pole Plaza

6:00 P.M. 4 - H Awards Presentation – North Show Tent

6:30 P.M. Children's Tractor Pull Registration – Northeast Corner

Registration for Women's Skillet Throw –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

7 – 9:00 P.M. Women's Skillet Throw –

Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

7:00 P.M. Children's Tractor Pull Contest – Northeast Corner

Registration for Men's Spike Driving Contest –

Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Milking Demonstration – Milking Tent

Men's Spike Driving Contest –

7:30 P.M.

Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Women's Skillet Throw 41 and over group –

Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Burlington County 4 - H Cloggers – North Show Tent

8:30 P.M. Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

10:00 P.M. 4 - H Exhibits Close for the day

10:30 P.M. Farm Fair Closes for the day

Photo By Andrew King

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR • FRIDAY, JULY 19

DONATIONS & SPONSORSHIP

For over 78 years, the Burlington County Farm Fair has become a tradition, drawing tens of thousands of visitors every summer. The Burlington County Farm Fair Association is responsible for the planning and execution of the Fair. Organizing an event as large as the fair is an enormous undertaking. Everything from the tents, electric, structures, security and supporting infrastructure is brought in and must be in place in order for the fair to open. This is a huge financial responsibility and we are so grateful to our sponsors who contribute so much to the Fair's success!

We are a non-profit organization whose mission is the promotion and education of agriculture in our community. Please help us continue our mission and the tradition of this annual event by supporting our organization with a contribution.

We have numerous sponsorship opportunities available for your consideration. From sponsorships for each day the fair is held, tent sponsorships, activity sponsors and Friends of the Fair, we are hoping that you can support our efforts.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any sponsorship opportunities please contact Farm Fair Trustee, Carolyn Shelby, at clshelby@icloud.com or 609-847-1460.

2024 FRIENDS OF THE BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

PURPLE RIBBON - $500 AND UP

Burlington County 4 - H Leaders Council Inc.

Wayne & Carolyn Shelby

Michael & Nancy Perry

BLUE RIBBON - $200 TO $499

Burlington County 4 - H Cloggers

Dave & Joelle Wentz

Block Party Quilts

Burlington County 4 - H Small Animal Advisory

More Than Hair Salon

Susan Wenger

RED RIBBON - $100 TO $199

Barnyard Bandits 4 - H Club

Ken & Joanne Tice

Young Riders 4 - H Club

YELLOW RIBBON - $1 TO $99

Louise Stewart Crafty Cats 4 - H Club

Burlington County 4 - H Horse Advisory

Hamilton Rod & Gun Club

Nancy Horrisberger Liquor Loft

2024 BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR SPONSORS

TENT SPONSORS

SIGMA Corporation – 4 - H Small Animal Tent

Burlington County Board of Agriculture Women's Committee – Farmer For A Day Tent

EVENT SPONSORS

Laurita Winery LLC – Antique Tractor Parade

FENCE BANNERS

J.S. Braddock Agency

Rutgers Cooperative Extension 4 - H

ACME Lingo Flagpoles

Champion Disposal

Burlington County NJ

Central Jersey Equipment

Central Jersey Tractor Pullers Association

Cherry Valley Tractor Sales

Columbus Farmers Market

National FFA Organization - Agricultural Education

Fox Chase Farm

Garden State Council - Boy Scouts of America

J&L Amish Depot

Pine Barrens Tribune

T. Brooks Web Design

7:00 A.M.

12:30 P.M.

4:00 P.M.

FRIDAY,

CHILDREN’S TRACTOR PULL

Small children will have the opportunity to simulate a “tractor pull” by driving a peddle-driven toy tractor and pulling a small sled behind them to see how far they can drag the sled. The Children’s Tractor Pull Tent is next to the Farmer for a Day Tent.

JULY 19, 2024

Open Western Show – Horse Arena or Skillet Throw Ring

Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

Open Dairy Cow Show – North Show Tent

Commercial Exhibits Open to Public

Home Arts & Crafts Tent Opens

4 - H Exhibits Open to Public

Amusement Rides Open – Wristband Special – $30 Per Person

4:00–6:00 p.m. – $35 Per Person 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

4:30– 10:30 P.M. "Down the Hatchet" Ax Throwing – Located Next to Military Displays

Grizzly & Co. Adventure for Hire Ax Throwing – Located Next to Pig Races

5–9:00 P.M.

5:00 P.M.

5:30 P.M.

Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent

Antique Farm Equipment and Garden Tractor Parade

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Registration for Children's Decorated Wagon Contest – North Show Tent

6– 9:00 P.M. Gary the Balloon Man Appearing at the Flag Pole Plaza

6:00 P.M.

6:30 P.M.

7 – 9:00 P.M.

Children's Decorated Wagon Contest –North Show Tent (Sponsored by the Farm Bureau Women's Group)

Garden Tractor Pull – Tractor Pull Arena

Family Fun Game Night – Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

Musical Entertainment: The Grouser Girls – Dining Pavilion

Children's Tractor Pull Registration – Northeast Corner

Registration for Women's Skillet Throw –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Women's Skillet Throw –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

DWExtreme TreeCutting

7:00 P.M.

Children's Tractor Pull Contest – Northeast Corner

Registration for Men's Spike Driving Contest –

Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Milking Demonstration – Milking Tent

7:30 P.M.

8:30 P.M.

Musical Entertainment: Bullzeye Band – North Show Tent

Men's Spike Driving Contest – Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Musical Entertainment: Atonal Ascent (formerly Cascarella) – Dining Pavillion

10:00 P.M. 4 - H Exhibits Close for the day

10:30

Photo By Andrew King

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR •

CLOVERBUD FUN DAY

This event is open to non-4H members.

Entry Fee: $25 day rate

Classes may be canceled/combined at the discretion of the Show Committee.

All riders will receive participation ribbons for each class and one participation award for the day.

Minimum age for riders is 3 years old. Maximum age is 3rd grade (as of the 2023-2024 school year).

Horses may be used by 2 different riders.

English or Western tack may be used.

Cantering is not permitted on Cloverbud Day.

Attire: long pants, shirts with sleeves and boots. No sneakers, no tank tops.

OPEN GAME NIGHT

This event is open to non-4H members and is intended for our more competitive gamers!

Entry Fee: $15/class or $50 day rate

Classes may be canceled/combined at the discretion of the Show Committee.

English or Western tack may be used.

Attire: long pants, shirts with sleeves and boots. No sneakers, no tank tops.

Horse and rider must enter the ring unassisted at the walk or trot. Riders must wait for the gate to close before crossing the starting line.

A horse/pony may only be used once per class. No more than 10 classes per horse/pony.

SATURDAY,

JULY 20

BURLINGTON COUNTY FARM FAIR

SATURDAY, JULY 20, 2024

8:00 A.M. Open Cloverbud Fun Day – Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

8:30 – 9:30 A.M. Plein Air Painting Registration at Gate 2

8:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Open Dairy Cow Show – North Show Tent

12:00 P.M. Adult Tractor Pull – Tractor Pull Arena

1:00 P.M. "Kiss the Pig" Contest – North Show Tent, Followed by 4 - H Small Animal Club Award Presentations

4:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. Front Porch Demonstrations at the Home Arts Tent

4:00 P.M. Commercial Exhibits Open to Public

Home Arts & Crafts Tent Opens

4 - H Exhibits Open to Public

Amusement Rides Open – Wristband Special – $30 Per Person 4:00–6:00 p.m. – $35 Per Person 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

Musical Entertainment: Acoustic Explorer – North Show Tent

4:30 P.M. Plein Air Awards Presentations – Dining Pavilion Paintings Will be for Sale by the Artists

4:30 – 10:30 P.M. "Down the Hatchet" Ax Throwing – Located Next to Military Displays

4:30 – 10:30 P.M. Grizzly & Co. Adventure for Hire Ax Throwing –Located Next to Pig Races

5:00 P.M. Antique Farm Equipment and Garden Tractor Parade

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

6:00 – 9:00 P.M. Gary the Balloon Man Appearing at the Flag Pole Plaza

6:00 P.M. Open Game Night – Horse Arena Email burlington4h@njaes.rutgers.edu for information or questions

6:30 P.M. Children's Tractor Pull Registration – Northeast Corner

Registration for Women's Skillet Throw – FINALS –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

7 – 9:00 P.M. Women's Skillet Throw – FINALS –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

7:00 P.M. Children's Tractor Pull Contest – Northeast Corner

Registration for Men's Spike Driving Contest – FINALS –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Hot Dog and Pig Racing Show – Located Near Dining Pavilion

Better Milking Demonstration – Milking Tent

7:30 P.M. Men's Spike Driving Contest – FINALS –Located in the Special Events Area Next to Horse Arena

Open Pet Show – North Show Tent

Musical Entertainment: Retro Replay – Dining Pavilion

8:30 P.M.

Musical Entertainment: Verbatim – North Show

AUTOMOBILES/TRUCKS

PAID FOR YOUR CAR

Cash Paid for Your Car. Looking to buy better than junk cars. Call 1-866261-5277. We come to you.

BLUEBERRIES FOR SALE

You can buy blueberries from William Poinsett Farm at Edie’s Beauty Salon, 524 Lakehurst Road, Browns Mills, NJ. Open Tuesday through Saturday. Closed Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. Call 609-744-5522 for more information.

FURNITURE REPAIR

Adam’s Furniture Restoration, LLC. Fully insured. Furniture repair, kitchen cabinet refinishing, touch-ups, and in-home services. Call 1-856-9796210. Visit www.facebook.com/adamsfurnres .

MAYOR

(Continued from Page 3)

newspaper in a later interview that he very much intends to remain active in the community, still the chair of the Canoe Carnival Committee, a position he has held for the last 10 years. He is also involved with a local summer camp

HISTORY

(Continued from Page 3)

in DECA, Distributive Education Clubs of America, a non-profit organization that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

Outside the school walls, Catie took part in an FBI Academy Youth Leadership Program, which she said was the driving force that led her to choose the military. Her mom was a state trooper, but outside of her grandfather who was in the U.S. Navy, there was no military in her family, so she said she came up with joining the military “on her own.”

“There were only 62 students who went to the FBI Academy,” she said. “I made

CLEANUPS/LAWN CUTTING

Summer cleanups, lawn cutting, and gutter cleaning. Shrub pruning and some tree work, along with hauling. Free estimates=reasonable rates. Call or Text Bob at 1-609-880-3789.

HAULING

Household appliances. Televisions, furniture, etc. for disposal or transport. Garage and yard cleanups along with lawn cutting and gutter cleaning. Free estimates. Call or Text Bob at 1-609-880-3789.

HOME HEALTH AIDE

Experienced certified home health aide. Companion and caregiver. References available. Call or text Cindy 609-227-9873.

LAWN SERVICE

Lawn Service: Mulching, trimming, cleanups, and design. Servicing the area for 30 years. Call 609-410-8033.

•

and intends to continue working on a project he helped to initiate during his time on council – exploring the creation of a new museum for the borough that he hopes will be a “welcome and conference center,” which has been a “dream of mine for many, many years.”

“I feel maintaining and displaying the heritage of Medford Lakes is extremely important,” he said, envisioning children

a lot of new friends, but it is also where I realized I wanted to join the military. While taking part in the program, we visited the U.S. Marines War Memorial and I just knew. I said, ‘This is what I want to do with my life.’”

She chose to study Arabic, which she told this newspaper she feels will help her reach her goals of one day becoming an Ambassador or Secretary of State. Until then, she said she plans to major in International Relations and Affairs and Arabic and stay in the Army for a while, traveling.

Alex, after realizing early on he most likely wanted to join the military, said he “put all his eggs in the JROTC basket” and by his junior year realized he needed to “expand his college resume and learn a little bit more” about what he was thinking of pursuing if the military didn’t work out,

taking field trips to the future facility, where it will serve both the youth and older residents. “I see this as being very much needed and a wonderful addition to our community.”

He also noted in the interview that he feels he has turned the borough over to two people “who have the same mindset,” finding “Matt and Gerald equally dedicated to the town.”

which was business. He joined DECA, becoming an officer, and Future Business Leaders of America, FBLA, which ended up solidifying the fact he wanted to join the military full time.

His list of high school accomplishments isn’t short in any way. A member of the National Honor Society and the Slovak Honor Society, he was also learning Russian for the three years that Seneca offered it.

“It was only one of 30 schools in the country that had Russian,” he said. “I took part and medaled in events with it.”

Since his parents are first generation Americans who speak Polish, he was able to learn a good deal of that language. He grew up near Fort Dix, but has no military in his family. Challenges such as reaching the Eagle Scout rank played a big part in helping him choose the military.

“Serving this wonderful borough all these years has been my distinct honor,” Miller declared. “I can only hope that I was able to please the residents and do well by the borough. I look forward to staying active in other endeavors as we move forward.”

Borough Clerk Mark J. McIntosh, on June 27, said of Miller that “your Medford Lakes love is something to be said.”

Despite getting his feet wet in other aspects of high school life, it was the AFJRTOC program that really grabbed him and held on tight, he said.

“I was learning so much, I just kept investing in it,” he said, noting all that dedication landed him the prestigious position of Corps Commander.

Looking ahead, Alex said he will be sticking with the Army, majoring in defense and strategic studies and hopes to enter into the military intelligence field, which he said he knows is a “lofty goal,” as it is a “very competitive field.”

“I hope to shadow a lieutenant, a first officer, and see their daily tasks,” Alex declared. “I think that will help me get a better understanding of what job I would want to go into.”

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY Local

students, but those of us who are on the forefront of an everchanging world – I am afraid it could be shortsighted when we look at the big picture,” Smith declared. “Media and technology are changing so rapidly, and the resources our media specialists provide are helping us navigate that world.”

When the public hearing was closed by LRHSD BOE President Charles D. Roseboro, he turned to LRHSD Superintendent Dr. Carol Birnbohm to address what was said. None of the 11 LRHSD board members

responded to the concerns.

“We do recognize the significant role our media specialists play, in our school system and in our community libraries as well,” Birnbohm said. “The decision to reduce staff, including our school media specialists, has been an incredibly difficult one. These decisions are based on severe reductions by the State of New Jersey, as well as a trending reduction in enrollment.”

The LRHSD superintendent went on to describe how “tough” of a decision it is to make and that the administration “doesn’t want to say goodbye” to staff, adding, “all of whom are very valuable to all our schools and students.”

But despite the actions being taken by the

board with apparent support from LRHSD administration, Birnbohm maintained the LRHSD remains “committed to our mission” of ensuring “students are going to have a career or college choice.” And as far as the implementation of the referenced “information literacy standards,” she described it as being “everyone’s responsibility.”

Birnbohm, in recognizing the evident formation of an “advocacy” coalition to “Save LRHSD Libraries” (previously highlighted by this newspaper), urged those involved to “take it to Trenton,” adding, “You would not be here if it weren’t for yearafter-year-after-year-after-year-after-year of cuts in state aid,” with Stow, at the beginning

of the hearing, emphasizing state aid to the LRHSD declined from $28 million in 2019 to just under $19 million for 2025, with it being a “race to zero” in state assistance.

“We got a little short-term relief,” Stow said. “What we really need is long-term stability.”

After the LRHSD BOE session on June 26, however, came word from local Assemblywoman Andrea Katz’s office that the final $56.7 billion state budget enacted by Murphy on June 28 reflects an additional $450,000 in aid to the LRHSD for Fiscal Year 2025, so it is a possibility, albeit remote, the final chapter may not be written on this just yet.

Stock, on June 26, urged the LRHSD board and administration to look at the “terrific” financial value of having school library media specialists.

“Financially, media specialists are a terrific value because of the multiple jobs they perform,” Stock declared. “They are reading promoters, tech specialists, program administrators, literacy specialists, information specialists, co-teachers, informational literacy instructors and professional learning facilitators. There is no other employee who interacts with staff and students in this matter, all for the benefit of student learning. Most parents know excellent schools have fully-staffed libraries.”