Pine Barrens Tribune June 7, 2024-June 14, 2024

THE DOCTORS ARE

By Bill B onvie Staff Writer

MOUNT HOLLY—A hard-fought primary race involving a field of no fewer than nine candidates seeking to replace three-term Third District Rep. Andy Kim, now the Democrats’ official choice for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by indicted Sen. Robert Menendez, was quickly narrowed after the polls closed on June 4 to a choice in the upcoming general election between two physicians, veteran Democratic Assemblyman Dr. Herb Conaway and Holmdel cardiologist Rajesh Mohan, a newcomer to politics chosen by Republicans in the recently redrawn district to try to regain the congressional seat they lost to Kim six years ago.

While there is nothing unusual about having doctors in the House, or, for that matter, in the Senate (where there are currently 15 and 4, respectively), it is not every day that two end up competing with each other for the same congressional seat, which makes the near certainty that one will end up representing the district somewhat extraordinary.

Two other singular aspects of the Conaway campaign were pointed out in a press release it issued following the results, which noted that “If elected in November, Dr. Conaway will make history as the first Black member of Congress to represent South Jersey and as the first Black doctor with voting rights ever elected to Congress.”

As of the late afternoon of June 5, Conaway, a longtime leader in the state Legislature (along with being a lawyer as well as a doctor and former captain in the Air Force), had scored nearly twice as many votes as his nearest Democratic

Photo at Left By John Dooley, Photo at Right Provided

Assemblyman Dr. Herb Conaway and Holmdel cardiologist Rajesh Mohan are the victors of Third Congressional District Democratic and Republican primaries, respectively.

Tabernacle Incumbent Committeemen Who Supported Demolition of Town Hall Ousted, with One Also Losing County Committee Seat

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE—In what became a referendum on the decision to raze historic Tabernacle Town Hall and all the related intricacies that have come along with that decision, TabernacleTownship Committee incumbents Mark Hartman and Committeeman Samuel “Sammy” Moore lost their re-election bids in a June 5 Republican Primary.

Voters, instead, chose former mayor Joseph Barton and David Oiler to be the Republican nominees in a November General Election here, and by a wide margin too, bringing an end to what became a very heated, downright ugly campaign in a short period of time.

According to election results from the Burlington County Clerk’s Office, Oiler was the highest vote getter with 644 votes, followed by Barton, the second-highest vote getter at 638 votes.

Moore only got 252 votes, with Hartman, who also created waves in having previously implemented a twominute time limit on public comments (now four) and largely failing to respond to them, coming in dead last with 242 votes, despite being the current mayor.

All in all, Barton and Oiler got more than 35 percent of the vote each, while Hartman and Moore got only around 14 percent of the vote each.

It was an increasingly expected outcome

given immense outrage about the Town Hall decision and a related road closure, but nevertheless a stunning result, particularly with respect to Moore, given that the blueberry and cranberry farmer whose family spans some seven generations in town had been previously considered a “favorite son” for that reason alone in getting elected previously, with his known devotion to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service having also contributed in the past to what was his likability amongst voters.

But his decision to support the demolition of Town Hall, along with Hartman and now-former Deputy Mayor Natlie Stone, in a narrow 3-2 committee vote, changed all that, and rapidly, with voters believing that by tearing down the building at the center point of the town, the municipality’s image was on the line.

As this newspaper previously reported, numerous residents expressed a desire to not have the town’s image changed, and even went as far as to question how Moore, whose family has spanned several generations in town, could bring himself to vote to raze the historic Town Hall.

Moore previously responded it was a difficult decision, but he chose to listen to the professionals who sounded public safety alarms by contending the building is in imminent danger of collapse.

The local GOP chair, Mark LeMire, however, was opposed to the demolition

See OUSTED/ Page 11

Gift Ideas for 10 Different Types of Dads

Selecting the ideal gift for Dad can be challenging, but keeping his interests and hobbies in mind can result in a memorable and cherished present. Here are some Father’s Day gift ideas for 10 distinct types of dads:

1. The amateur cook Dad. Consider gifts like a premium-quality chef’s knife set, a sous vide precision cooker for mastering restaurant-style dishes at home or a cooking class voucher to refine his kitchen skills.

2. The sports lover Dad. Elevate Dad’s game day experience with tickets to a big game, autographed memorabilia from his sports idols or high-performance sportswear. Cap it off with a sports-themed gift basket filled with snacks and accessories for extra enjoyment on game nights.

3. The DIY Dad. Power up Dad’s handyman spirit with gifts like a comprehensive toolset for his next home improvement project, a woodworking or crafting magazine subscription or a personalized sign for his workspace.

4. The tech-savvy Dad. Techie dads will appreciate cutting-edge gadgets, like a virtual reality gaming system, noise-cancelling wireless headphones or a smart home automation kit.

5. The outdoor enthusiast Dad. Fuel Dad’s adventurous spirit with gifts like a rugged camping tent, a portable solar charger for off-grid expeditions or a national park membership for endless exploration opportunities.

6. The bookworm Dad. Indulge Dad’s love for literature with gifts like a collection of classic novels, a cozy reading nook complete with a plush armchair and reading lamp or a subscription to an audiobook service for literary adventures on the go.

7. The fashion-forward Dad. Help Dad look his best with gifts like a tailored suit from his favorrite designer, a luxury watch or personalized cufflinks.

8. The music lover Dad. Amplify Dad’s passion for music with gifts like a vintage record player, concert tickets to see his favorrite band or a premium-quality pair of studio headphones for an immersive listening experience.

9. The gardening Dad. Nurture Dad’s green thumb with gifts like high-quality gardening tools, heirloom seeds for his garden or a personalized sign for his outdoor oasis.

10. The travel junkie Dad. Dad’s wanderlust will soar with gifts like a durable travel backpack, a scratch-off world map to track his adventures, a personalized luggage tag or a travel journal to document his globetrotting escapades.

Whatever type of dad you’re shopping for this Father’s Day, remember to shop local and support businesses in your community!

Bonding with Nature and Dad: 5 Outdoor Activities for Father’s Day

Father’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate and strengthen the bond between dads and their children. What better way to do this than by enjoying some outdoor adventures together? Here are five activities perfect for making lasting memories:

1. Fishing expedition. Head to a nearby lake, river or fishing spot. Whether casting lines from the shore or renting a boat, fishing offers quality conversation and bonding while waiting for the big catch.

2. Hiking adventure. Choose a trail in a nearby park or nature reserve suitable for all ages and skill levels. Pack some snacks and enjoy stunning views, wildlife encounters and shared experiences.

3. Picnic in the park. Pack a lunch and spend the day lounging in a local park or garden. Spread out a blanket or play outdoor games like Frisbee or catch.

4. Bike excursion. Whether it’s a leisurely pedal along scenic paths or an adventurous mountain biking excursion, cycling together is a fun and active way to bond while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.

5. Camping. Pitch a tent, build a campfire and spend the night under the stars in your backyard or at a nearby campground. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, stargaze and enjoy the magic of camping together.

Prepare for your Father’s Day adventure by visiting local shops and stores.

10 Questions to Ask Your Dad on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a special time to celebrate the dads in your life. Beyond traditional gifts and gestures, connecting with your dad on a deeper level can create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. Here are 10 meaningful questions to ask your dad to learn more about this crucial person in your life:

1. What’s your fondest memory of your childhood?

2. What was the most trouble you ever got in as a kid?

3. How did you and Mom first meet and fall in love? (if applicable)

4. What values or lessons from your father have you passed down to me?

5. What’s something you still hope to accomplish in life?

6. What has been the most rewarding aspect of fatherhood for you?

7. What’s your biggest regret?

8. What have you always wanted to teach me but haven’t had the chance to yet?

9. How do you think being a father has shaped who you are today?

10. What’s one thing you want me to always remember or carry with me?

Take the time this Father’s Day to truly con nect and appreciate the special relationship you share with your dad.

Shamong Township Republican Committeeman Who Ruffled Feathers in Responding to Concerns Over Proposed Animal Regulations Ousted Results Also in from Woodland, Pemberton GOP Primary Races

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG—A Shamong Township Committeeman who had ruffled some feathers last year in somewhat combatively responding to the fallout over what were then proposed animal restrictions, and didn’t disclose that he was on the township Land Use Board (instrumental in creating them) in doing so, has lost his re-election bid. Christopher Zehnder, who was narrowly chosen as deputy mayor of Shamong in January following a surprise, lively deliberation amongst his colleagues and the public over his response to the ordinance concerns last fall when Mayor Michael Di Croce had been absent, lost to a challenge from David Diamond, who ran alongside Committeeman Brian Woods instead, with the latter two having received the backing of the Republican Party. Woods, who had voted against Zehnder becoming the deputy mayor, received the most votes in the Republican Primary, collecting 275 of them, followed by Diamond with 236 votes, and Zehnder coming in third with 116 votes.

Prior to the primary, no Democrats had filed a petition to run for office, but there will be a period of time that any top writein vote getter on the Democratic side will have to accept any nomination (though it is reportedly harder this year to appear on the ballot due to a new state requirement setting a minimum number of votes). It was also not immediately clear whether anyone met the June 4 filing deadline to run as an independent.

Veteran Woodland Republican Staves Off Challenge

area was in Woodland Township, where a battalion chief with the Woodland Fire and EMS Company, Christopher Stopero, sought to unseat longtime Deputy Mayor Mark Herndon from the Woodland Township Committee.

Herndon, however, prevailed in that contest, staving off a challenge from Stopero, 138 votes to 71.

Just like in Shamong, prior to the primary, no Democrats had filed a petition to run for office in Woodland, and it is unclear whether any Independent filed before the June 4 submission deadline.

Full Pemberton GOP-Endorsed Slate Doesn’t Get Chosen

The final contested GOP Primary was in Pemberton Township, for Pemberton Township Council, where two of three Republican Party backed candidates prevailed, Perry Doyle, Jr., and Matthew Bianchini. The third party-endorsed candidate, Mildred Tuchez, lost to Harry J. Harper, who ran on his own, though some Republicans had called for voters to vote for Harper and Doyle, and some activists had called on voters to vote for Doyle, Harper and Bianchini.

Doyle was the top vote getter, with 919 votes, followed by Bianchini with 699 votes and Harper with 606 votes. Tuchez only received 512 votes.

Bianchini, Doyle and Harper will now face Democrats Gaye Burton (former council president), Frank Dickey and Leslie Kanfer in the November General Election as Democratic Councilpersons Paul Detrick (current Council President), Donovan Gardner and Elisabeth McCartney have all apparently decided to not seek re-election.

Corrections and Amplifications

Editor’s Note: A story recently published about the results of the May 14, 2024, Medford Lakes Borough Council election incorrectly stated that Councilman-elect Matt Bailey was still an active duty U.S. Marine, resident of Medford Lakes of four years and a construction worker. Bailey served in the Marines from 2002 to 2010, has lived in the borough for the past 8 years and is a federal project manager for a construction firm working on public and private projects. It should also be clarified that Bailey is a “fitness enthusiast.” We regret the error and apologize. Errors, as we learn of them, are promptly corrected as we strive for accuracy.

‘Save the LRHSD Libraries’ Has Formed in Hopes of Educating Community About Recent Library Specialist Eliminations, School Library Programming

LRHSD Superintendent Reportedly Pens Letter Announcing Rehiring of 65 Staffers, Restoration of Bowling, Gymnastics Programs, as Well as 5.7 Percent Tax Increase

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG—When spending cuts were approved by the Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD) Board of Education last month in adopting the LRHSD 2024-25 School Year Budget, all in response to an unanticipated $4.7 million state aid cut, as well as other purported funding inadequacies, the elimination of two School Library Media Specialists were not specifically highlighted by the school board in a presentation or through its budget pronouncement, and therefore the ultimate impact to the school library system got no public attention, but a new movement now intends to change that.

An effort titled, “Save the LRHSD Libraries” has been launched with the intent to bring to the attention of “all parents, students, educators and community members” that the “LRHSD has eliminated almost 70 percent of School Library Media Specialists in less than three years” when district budgets have been decided, and to highlight what a school library has been offering local pupils in terms of programming, and how it has become vital to their high school experiences.

For this budget cycle, it has been contended by one of the movement’s advocates that the district has eliminated “two out of five” remaining “certified” School Library Media Specialists for the district.

“Next year, there will be three librarians to serve four schools, 6,000 students and 800 staff members,” one of the effort’s advocates contended. “This cut will irrevocably change the academics, community and culture of our schools.”

The advocate further asserted, “If you believe in the importance of the school library program and a full-time School Library Media Specialist in each school, you must speak out now!”

A link is then provided to a special Google website for the movement, containing various ways one can contact LRHSD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carol Birnbohm, the school board, among others in the district administration.

“While district cuts were necessary

based on state school funding reductions, eliminating two out of five certified School Library Media Specialists for the 2024-25 school year is a disservice to our students and staff, especially with the new, New Jersey Information Literacy Standards and deluge of information our students must evaluate each and every day,” the movement’s website states. “These reductions leave our high schools without a full-time School Library Media Specialist and accessible Library Media Center Program on any given day.”

The movement outlines the “key roles of School Library Media Specialists” to include:

• “Develop a love of reading and life-long learning in all students by managing our book collections and websites which include available databases, subscriptions and resources;

• Support students becoming productive, responsible and informed citizens in our global society. Students engage with accredited information critically to develop skills to evaluate, synthesize and apply information;

• Support all curriculums, academic courses and levels by assisting teachers with instructional resources and materials, co-creating lessons, coteaching, professional development and technology;

• Assist students in all subject areas and levels by supporting their individual needs;

• Provide professionally reviewed research resources for students and staff in all subject areas to assist in planning lessons, projects and/ or assignments, as well as assist in developing programs that serve the students and staff;

• Collaborate with classroom teachers via resources, lesson planning, coteaching, technology and infusing Information Literacy Standards;

• Collaborate with all staff members and departments to support school-wide programs, events and initiatives;

Another contested race in our coverage

‘Incidents

of Violence and Vandalism, as Well as Harassment, Bullying

Decline Significantly from Post-Pandemic Highs in Pemberton Schools

While There Still Have Been Reported Altercations at Helen Fort Middle School, PTEA Leader Commends Principal, Superintendent for ‘No-Nonsense Discipline’

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

PEMBERTON—There has been a “significant decrease” in reported instances of violence and vandalism in the Pemberton Township School District, figures released by the district show, following post-pandemic highs.

According to Joseph Bowen, chief of school security for Pemberton Schools, there were only 53 such incidents for the first half of the current school year, compared to 103 incidents in the first half of the 2022-23 school year.

“These numbers are significant,” he said in pointing to the notable decline.

While violence and vandalism statistics for the second half of the current school year won’t be officially released until after the school year is over, and the school year is not yet finished, Bowen said there has been a “significant decline” in reported violence and vandalism instances, so far, “in the second reporting period.”

According to Bowen, it is rare that incidents of violence and vandalism are reported at the elementary level, with the majority of such incidents occurring over the years at Helen A. Fort and Marcus Newcomb middle schools, as well as at Pemberton Township High School (PTHS).

School-specific statistics released by the district show the level of decline, with, for example, at PTHS only seven fights reported for the first half of the school year, compared to 13 during the same time last year.

An even more dramatic drop in “fights” was observed at Helen Fort, dropping from 17 in the first half of the 2022-23 school year to just six in the first half of the 2023-24 school year.

At Newcomb, the number of fights over the same time period dropped from 10 to 6.

“Assaults,” however, remained steady at PTHS and dropped slightly at Newcomb, but at Helen Fort, in the first half of the previous school year there had been 13, with there only being 8 reported in the first half of the current school year.

That is not to say, however, that there recently hasn’t been a “slew of ugly physical altercations” occurring at Helen Fort, as

reported in recent remarks delivered to the Pemberton Township Board of Education by Rob Horn, president of the Pemberton Township Education Association (PTEA), but he is crediting both Principal Aaron Eyler and District Superintendent Jeffrey Havers for addressing the situation with “firmly” applying a “no-nonsense discipline policy.”

According to Horn, “immediate suspensions” are now given out at Helen Fort for students “engaged in physical aggression, even if it is allegedly just ‘horse play.’”

“As a teacher at Helen Fort, we have been asking for stricter discipline in dealing with out-of-control student behaviors for a very long time,” Horn said. “Students kicking, slapping and pushing others throughout our hallways has been an ongoing problem.”

Horn continued that “this type of behavior has no place in our schools” and that it has “created an unsafe environment that affects morale of staff and students.”

Eyler, he added, is doing an “excellent job” in trying to “change the culture” at Helen Fort by working “collaboratively” with the staff and association to accomplish this, with Horn “complementing” Havers and the district administrative team for “supporting” the Helen Fort principal “in his responses to the recent violence incidents,” including sending a communication to parents that “aggressive behavior nor horseplay will be tolerated.”

Horn, however, conveyed that he would like to see the same posture extended down to the elementary school level, pointing out that purported instances of students biting each other, for example, should not be tolerated.

The district’s Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) figures for “reporting period one” of the current school year also show an encouraging trend with a “bit less” founded instances of harassment, intimidation and bullying compared to the immediate aftermath of the pandemic.

For the first half of the current school year, there were 24 founded HIB incidents, compared with 31 such instances three years

See VIOLENCE/ Page 11

Reclosure of Medford-Lakes-Tabernacle Road in Town Hall Dispute Causes Sheer Chaos, with Bicyclist Struck Near Church Entranceway

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE—The reclosure of Medford Lakes-Tabernacle Road in Tabernacle Township, which was ordered by a judge for the pendency of a dispute over the structural integrity of Town Hall and put into effect on May 28, has led to sheer chaos, severe impacts on local commerce (see separate story) and an apparently dangerous situation in the municipality, appearing to far exceed the pandemonium that occurred the first time the road was closed by the Tabernacle Township Committee in late March through part of April.

The road was reopened initially not only because of strong public pushback, but because Mayor Mark Hartman had ultimately contended, following multiple incidents, that the issues the initial closure had been posing in the community “appear to outweigh the risks the building poses.”

The latest incidents are the result of several things – the first being detour signage that was reportedly poorly positioned, and limited, in the initial days of the now-second closure.

Additionally, as was the case the first time, there are a number of locals who believe the allegations of local officials that the building is nearing collapse into the road is simply a farce, and therefore, they chose to disregard the closure.

But this time there is an added, but predictable element – Medford LakesTabernacle Road, also known as County Route 532, is a significant thoroughfare from late May to September for traffic seeking the shore points, hoping to avoid the busier, somewhat less serene Routes 70 and 206. And so, the out-of-town motorists also came down the road hoping to get through or find a short cut.

It all reportedly led to scores of vehicles to pass by what signage there was and disregard the closure this past weekend, and again use the church parking lot of Holy Eucharist Roman Catholic Church as an illegal cut through.

And in one instance, the end result was a casualty having occurred, according to the Tabernacle Township Office of Emergency Management.

“Today, because of peoples’ choices to drive around not one, but two road closed

signs, a bicyclist was struck by a vehicle in the area of Holy Eucharist,” a frustrated local emergency manager wrote. “As EMS and emergency crews were treating a patient, several cars continued down the closed road, ending up in the crash scene, putting responders at risk. Not one of them lived on the road, nor were attending church services. Every one of these drivers decided to ignore the posted road closed signs.

“Regardless of the circumstances of how the road became closed, it IS closed. Please use an alternate route and do not drive down a closed road.”

New Jersey State Police, as of press time, did not return this newspaper’s messages seeking comment on this story, including a confirmation of the incident and nature of the injuries.

Within minutes of the local emergency manager’s pronouncement, locals blasted the township officials underneath the social media posting.

“Open the road,” one man declared. “This accident is on the decision makers.” A woman, in joining the calls of that person, wrote, “The building survived the da** earthquake, open the road! This is insane!” A second person asserted, “So, open the road.” That particular comment led the emergency manager to contend, “Only a judge can open the road.”

It led another person to ask if the township had filed a motion of reconsideration for the reclosure to be reversed (rather than the injunction), to which the local emergency manager replied, “I was not made aware if anyone has or not.”

“I plan on obtaining more information Monday to help answer questions and keep residents informed,” the emergency manager added, noting he purportedly found out that the road was going to be closed at the same time the residents learned of it.

But additional information to answer the growing number of questions, as of press time late on June 5, never was disseminated.

And in response to the local emergency manager’s rebuttal that only a judge can reopen the road, a resident, John Druding, asserted, “This is only part of the story. The road is closed because the town petitioned Burlington County to close it. When the

Farming Community of Tabernacle Feeling Major Impacts from Reclosure of County Route 532 Near Town Hall, Farmer Says in Plea for Reconsideration

By D ouglas D. M elegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE—A Tabernacle Township farmer, Robert Eckert, of R.T. Eckert Farms, LLC, is speaking out about the severe economic impact the reclosure of Medford Lakes-Tabernacle Road, in the vicinity of Tabernacle Town Hall, has brought about on his operations to date, and the shortcomings of local officials in instituting the closure of what is also known as County Route 532. He is also wanting to let the public know he is open for business in Tabernacle’s downtown, as well as is neighboring farmer and close friend Anthony Russo, Jr., of Russo’s Fruit and Vegetable Farm, among other businesses, including Nixon’s General Store, Tabernacle Pub and Ware’s Farm Supply.

Eckert told this newspaper that he farms approximately 500 acres of farmland in and around Tabernacle, declaring of the road closure, “we are kind of stuck in the middle with this, where the farm location is, right off of Medford Lakes-Tabernacle Road, right next to Holy Eucharist.”

It is there that Eckert maintains some 160 acres of farmland.

Given the position of Eckert’s farm, he told this newspaper that “a lot of our ground is, unfortunately, on the other side of the road closure.”

According to Eckert, he has to travel a quarter mile to the intersection of Carranza and Medford Lakes-Tabernacle roads, but the “detour is 3 miles long, which on a tractor feels like 6 miles long.”

And it is not just a matter of him “now losing time” and money, but there are significant safety concerns being posed in getting his farm equipment back and forth to his crops.

“It is basically an unsafe situation traveling down the state highway with machinery back and forth,” said Eckert of a detour plan that involves Route 206. “Plus, Hawkin Road (which is a narrow, 25-mph road that runs through a residential area and is also part of the detour) is not a suitable road. Some of our machines are tall and wide, and are not suitable for that road, for us to have access to the fields.”

Eckert, who operates a “first generation farm” that he and his wife purchased some five years ago now, grows hay and straw, with this being prime time now for harvest, with the first cut coming about. He continues farming until November, he noted.

The hay is not only sold locally, according to Eckert, but he also sells it to prominent national horse racecourses, such as Belmont and Saratoga. Additionally, “our straw is used on Kentucky Derby horses.” Eckert, in initially trying to navigate

around the detour during the first closure with a round hay bale, told this newspaper that he got “pulled over” by New Jersey State Police and while he was not ticketed at that time, he was given a “verbal warning” after he impressed upon a State Trooper there was “no other way to get around” the detour with his farm equipment, without using the church lot.

“We have a problem,” said Eckert of the situation. “It is almost a crisis for me and him (Russo) as far as our livelihoods. How do we get our crops home from our fields, when they completely shut our roads down?”

In order to harvest a hay field, there is so much equipment used in that process, according to Eckert, pointing out it is just a “several-day process to cure dry” the hay.

Eckert described to this newspaper his operation produces 25,000 square bales annually, and “14,000 to 15,000 bales have to pass through the public road where the closure is.”

Now, given the circumstances, Eckert told this newspaper he is having to ask neighbors if they will allow him to cut through their properties to gain access to his fields, and it is “not fair to them” to “take the burden because there is no viable solution for the road closure” that accounts for the farmers of the area.

“For us, in looking at it – we see this as an agricultural community, and this is the time and place for farmers to make an income,” declared Eckert, noting it is the “worst possible time” for the road closure to be in effect.

The farmer further declared “we need a date” from officials as to when the road might reopen.

Additionally, Eckert described to this newspaper that “everything we grow, we sell out front,” having set up a self-serve shed, in addition to offering larger pickups.

“I have not sold one bale today,” Eckert told this newspaper on June 4. “I usually sell 15 to 20 bales a day, just with the self-serve shed.”

Eckert noted he reached out to various agencies for help, and had even suggested so much as a sign from the county pointing out the existence of the businesses in the downtown, such as his, similar to the signs he has seen posted in the past throughout the county for bridge closures, but it has been to no avail, thus far.

A county spokesman, when asked about the possibility of establishing such signing by this newspaper, contended the county simply allowed the road to be closed at the request of the township, and to inquire of the township about a sign.

Russo could not be reached for comment on this story, but this newspaper observed

‘Food Truck Fridays’ Launch in Pemberton Borough, Establishing Sense of Community, with Neighbors Hanging Out with Neighbors

By Jenn lucas Staff Writer

PEMBERTON BOROUGH—In looking for a way to foster a greater sense of community in Pemberton Borough, one council person here recently made their dream a reality when the borough hosted its first of many “Food Truck Fridays” on May 10.

While campaigning for council, Andrea Martin promised, if elected, she would bring more fun family events to town. After being seated on the dais, she approached Mayor Bonnie Haines with the idea for Food Truck Fridays.

“The Fall Fest and other events had faded out,” Martin said. “Food truck events grow into something other towns hear about and come to, so I thought ‘maybe we could do that.’ I brought it to council and the mayor supported me. The idea ‘waffled’ for a little while, but we were able to pool our resources and got it going.”

Haines declared to this newspaper, “I am thrilled that Food Truck Fridays has finally become a reality.”

“It has been a vision of Andrea’s for quite some time and her persistence paid off in a big way,” the mayor added.

By approaching local businesses, the borough was able to raise money via sponsorships and use that money solely for the event that gives back to the community. The supporting businesses get their names on a sign, which is hung at every borough event, she said, and the money is used for games, entertainment and the odds and ends that go into running an event like Food Truck Fridays.

The event kicked off May 10, Martin said, and despite mother nature throwing the worst at them with cold and wind, the event went off better than planned.

“The weather wasn’t cooperating, but we had about 200 to 250 people show up regardless,” Martin said. “We only had two food trucks, who both sold out, and four dessert vendors. It is hard to gauge when you start up a new event.”

Haines added that “the overwhelming support of our residents at our first event

was such a pleasant surprise.”

The borough has seen a lot of changes over the past few years, according to Haines. What were several run-down or vacant properties had been purchased, renovated and sold, she said, so there has been an influx of new residents who the town officials could not wait to meet. So, when deciding on ways to market the event, Haines and Martin started with social media but also “physically walked the town getting the word out,” Martin said.

T he next Food Truck Fridays event is scheduled for June 14, which promises to be bigger and better, Martin said, as they build off the momentum of the first one. She said there will be more trucks, between three and five, one to two dessert trucks, as well as a handful of non-food vendors selling things like T-shirts, arts and crafts, and other fun things. There will also be expanded games and live entertainment from a local duo, “The Random Notes.”

The event is held at Mill Creek Park and Mary Street, which was the perfect spot, Martin said, since it has a pavilion that is great for the non-food vendors to set up and a playground on site to help keep the kids engaged so parents can hang out.

“COVID kept us all in our houses for too long.” Haines said. “It is time to become a community again and these types of events accomplish just that – neighbors hanging out with neighbors. I want our residents to be proud of our little town and I think this is definitely a step in that direction.”

For Martin, it is also about bringing the people together, with her noting it is important for council to help put on these types of “valuable events” to show their love for the town and to bring people together because, for her, that is what being a community really means.

If these events are successful, Martin said she hopes to expand with food trucks at the annual holiday tree lighting, for example.

If you would like to become a vendor, email amartincouncil@gmail.com .

If You Go

• WHAT: Food Truck Fridays

• WHERE: Mill Creek Park and Mary Street

• WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. June 14, then the second Friday of each month through October

• WHO: June 14 Food Trucks: Walking Taco, Matty G. Dogz, Rolling Kusina, Cousins Maine Lobster, Kona Ice, Mr. Softee, The CupKates

Photo Provided

Locals lineup to taste the food offerings from various food truck vendors at Pemberton Borough’s first Food Truck Fridays event.

Photo Provided

Farm equipment positioned to turn around due to closure of Medford Lakes-Tabernacle Road.

Marlton Lakes Becomes Seventh Neighborhood in State to Receive Title of ‘Certified Wildlife Habitat Community’

For the Pine Barrens Tribune EVESHAM—Marlton Lakes, a neighborhood located at the southern end of Evesham Township, recently became the seventh in the state to receive the title ‘Certified Wildlife Habitat Community’ by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF).

The process of becoming a Certified Wildlife Habitat Community involves a series of requirements outlined in a point system by the non-profit NWF, which is focused on the conservation and restoration of wildlife habitats to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment for future generations.

Through the NWF’s program, individuals and communities learn to create or restore habitat through gardening practices that provide basic needs for welcoming wildlife, while fostering a sense of community.

Certified individual gardens are designed to offer basic provisions for wildlife, such as food, water, cover and places to raise young. Additionally, the practice of sustainable gardening is encouraged. Some of these practices include reducing water usage, planting native plants, removing invasive plants and eliminating the use of pesticides.

The certification process began for Marlton Lakes when two friends and longtime residents of the neighborhood introduced the “Gardening for Wildlife Garden Certification Project” to the community in March 2023.

Dr. Aili Pogust and Amy Gonzalez are two gardeners and lovers of nature who have been living in the Marlton Lakes community for more than 38 years. However, in their time living in Marlton Lakes, both observed “habitat loss and a decline in various forms of wildlife in their community,” a press release from Evesham Township explained.

According to the nonprofit Pinelands Preservation Alliance, in the Pinelands area of Southern New Jersey, there are 34 species of mammals, 36 species of fish, 24 amphibians, 30 reptiles, 144 birds, and more than 10,000 invertebrate species that are considered “threatened or endangered” due to human impact and habitat loss.

Knowing that Marlton Lakes is within the Pinelands boundaries, and with knowledge of these statistics, Pogust and Gonzalez reportedly felt compelled to invite neighbors to consider their surroundings and work together with conservation and preservation in mind, the press release stated.

Pogust and Gonzalez had purportedly both already personally certified their own individual gardens through the NWF in years

prior, and they had “excitedly exchanged reports” between each other regarding the increase in bird species visiting their properties.

The women are said to have believed that the use of the NWF’s Certified Garden Program was the “perfect template” for the restoration of habitat in their community as a whole.

Pogust initiated the registration process with the NWF and took on the role of administrator. This included regular contact with the federation to report on the progress of the community and provide documentation of completed goals.

Eventually, a Facebook page named “Marlton Lakes Nature Community” was also created to reach and educate members within the neighborhood with important messages pertaining to wildlife and habitat issues. The creation of the page moved the project forward and became the means by which many Marlton Lakes residents were introduced to the goal of making Marlton Lakes a “Certified Wildlife Habitat Community.”

The NWF requires that a certain percentage of homes within a community have their individual gardens certified, which can often be a key goal that many communities interested in the Habitat Community status struggle to achieve.

However, many Marlton Lakes residents were said to have embraced the idea to certify their individual gardens. According to the press release, each individual certified garden contributes to the greater whole in making the entire community more hospitable for wildlife and pollinators.

“Even the smallest changes can have a great impact, for good or for bad,” Gonzalez said. “We want to introduce the small changes that have a positive impact on wildlife and offer positive experiences for people.”

As the work continued toward certification, Marlton Lakes neighbors were said to have cheered for one another and congratulated each new household that registered their garden. An online countdown was even “watched with anticipation” as the goal number of homes came within reach.

Gonzalez and her husband also began awarding residents with homemade blue bird houses as a “thank you” and perk for joining the movement.

In addition to the Facebook page, Pogust also accomplished additional education and outreach goals through the founding of the Marlton Lakes Nature Club.

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DOCTORS

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rival, Assemblywoman Carol Murphy, his political partner in the 7th Legislative District who stands for many of the same liberal values. With some 93 percent of the votes unofficially tallied, Conaway’s count stood at 25,328, or 49.5 percent of the total, compared to 12,936, or 25.3 percent for Murphy. A third Democratic contender, civil rights attorney Joe Cohn, had an unofficial count of 6,033, or 11.8 percent.

On the Republican side, the results were considerably more competitive. With some 92 percent of the votes counted, Dr. Mohan’s unofficial tally was 12,591, or 38.1 percent of the total, compared to his closest competitor, Shirley Maia-Cusick, who had reportedly garnered 10,132, or 30.6 percent.

Two other GOP candidates, Michael Faccone and Greg Sobocinski, had unofficially garnered some 5,593 votes, or 16.9 percent, and 4,743 or 14.3 percent respectively, with the total for Faccone, a member of the Freehold Borough Library Board of Trustees who advocated party unity, transparency and accountability, coming as somewhat of a surprise, since this newspaper was unable to find a website for his campaign and had to refer to Ballotpedia for information on his positions. Sobocinski, by contrast, ran on a “God save America” platform complete with a website that enumerated various highly conservative positions.

What soon became apparent from viewing the results on a countywide basis was that the relative popularity of the candidates, at least on the GOP side, appeared to have been influenced by the geography of the newly reformulated district.

Whereas Dr. Mohan, a native of India, easily won with 52 percent of the vote total in Monmouth County, his home base, and 51 percent in the part of next-door Mercer County that falls within the district, he only got 30 percent in Burlington County, where the Brazilian-born-and-educated Maia-Cusick, a Medford resident who described herself as a “Latina mama bear,” received 34 percent.

In a speech to supporters at a watch party following the announcement of the results, Conaway said he was “very honored and really humbled that so many people have contributed so much to this victory.” He then went on to thank the many individuals who “took time out of their lives when they could have been doing a lot of other things” to make the thousands of phone calls that led to the success of the campaign and to those who made contributions to it, whether they consisted of $5, $10 or larger amounts.

Noting just how important it is to be able to live under a system that allows for such a collective effort, Conaway pointed out that “a lot of people don’t get to do that around the world.”

“We are the essential nation in the world—we are a democracy,” he said. “But we have to protect it and we have to keep it.”

The importance of maintaining civility in that process was something he also remarked on. Noting that he had just received a congratulatory call from Murphy and Joe Cohn, he said, “I congratulate them on a race that was free of acrimony, that was focused on the issues as it should be.”

Cohn, he added, had also extended an offer of help to his campaign, which he said “is the kind of thing we need going forward.”

“Together we can achieve all we need to do,” he said. “I am very appreciative of

their effort.”

Rep. Kim, Conaway pointed out, was especially deserving of credit for having captured the 3rd District seat at a time when the district leaned Republican and held it for the party up to the present time.

“We are here today, I’m here today because of the path that Andy Kim has forged,” Conaway contended. “He has achieved really remarkable things by organizing people on the ground, by doing the business of representing people in the Congress, reaching out to them more than just about anybody can remember.”

Conaway said he both aspired to follow in Kim’s footsteps and looked forward to working with him as our next senator,” eliciting cheers from the crowd.

Conaway also made a point of expressing his gratitude to now-retiring Burlington County Democratic Chairman Joe Andl for his 30 years of service to the party, contending that many of those present would “never know the sacrifices he has made for this Democratic party when we were in the wilderness struggling to get any traction at the county level.”

“This has been a team effort from the beginning,” he told the crowd of supporters, but reminded them that it is “just the end of the beginning,” and there is still “a long campaign going forward. But for 26 years,” he said, “we’ve been developing a coalition of working families, of labor unions, of teachers, of public section workers, of just plain folks,” as well as veterans and elected officials, “who want to build a better community.”

Finally, after reviewing some of his policy aims, he vowed that “What I have done in the Assembly, I am going to do with your help in the Congress.”

Mohan, whose campaign held no such planned event on primary night (it did subsequently send out invitations to one scheduled the night of June 6, after this newspaper’s deadline) but issued a press release following confirmation of his win, left no doubt about the way he views those aims with a headline that says he is “set to challenge Socialist Democrat Herb Conaway in November.”

Dr. Mohan's candidacy, according to the release, “is built on a vision of a stronger, more secure America. With a distinguished career as a quadruple boardcertified interventional cardiologist with an MBA and a proven successful track record of leadership, Dr. Mohan brings a wealth of experience, passion and a commitment to public service.”

Describing himself as being honored and grateful for the support he has received from the residents of the district, Mohan said he is “determined to bring solutions to our nation's critical issues.”

Mohan further maintained that “unlike my Socialist Democrat opponent’s support of open borders and illegal immigration, I will work to secure our borders and stop illegal immigration,” along with vowing to make “healthcare patient-centric, not profitcentric and decrease healthcare costs.”

“Instead of bankrupting Social Security and Medicare, I will preserve and protect them,” he added. “Unlike the socialist policies of making regulations and pushing paper by my Democratic opponent, I will cut regulations, incentivize businesses and keep jobs at home. Unlike my Democrat opponent who is weak on Israel, the Jewish people will have in me a strong and loud voice in Congress.”

The release goes on to emphasize all the

Photo Provided

Deputy Mayor Ginamarie Espinoza (far left) and Councilwoman Pat Hansen (far right) with members of the Garden Club of Marlton at the garden club’s annual plant sale.

OUSTED

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of Town Hall, and ultimately, when Hartman and Moore refused to reconsider, announced his support for Barton and Oiler, and the party line was also awarded to the pair of challengers over the incumbents.

Giving a sense of just how much support Moore lost over his decision are the results

VIOLENCE

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ago, according to District Anti-Bullying Coordinator Dr. Jessica Knier. Again, most of the incidents were reported at the district’s middle and high school levels.

According to Knier, at PTHS, “we are seeing a lot occurring on cellphones and the internet,” with “kids posting things on Snapchat and Instagram about each other.”

At Helen Fort, a “majority” of the HIB incidents were found to have occurred in the classroom, while for Newcomb, a majority occurred on school buses, Knier noted.

The district has added counseling for those faced with detention or suspension from school, “so that they understand the impact of their behavior,” and another new focus has been implementing “restorative practices” in which those found to be in engaging in bullying or harassment have to “sit down with the person they said or did something to” with the intent to “repair the relationship.”

In addition to the restorative practices which encourage “empathy,” the district has also been having some violators participate in training sessions, either through video or activities, “to learn why” what they did was “wrong” and why they “should not be engaging in that behavior.”

The district is also required to release twice yearly “substance abuse” statistics for each of its schools.

Bowen, in displaying the latest figures, noted that “of all of our reported substance abuse offenses, 11 included marijuana possession, and of those 11 incidents, seven involves marijuana cartridges inside a vape.”

“The prevalence of vapes and the misuse of vapes absolutely drifts down into our student population,” Bowen declared. “They (the vapes) are very easily concealed and can be passed off.”

Bowen noted that many boys and girls are simply hiding them in their

from a lesser-known contest for a local GOP county committee seat, which are typically unchallenged, low-key affairs.

Former mayor Rick Franzen, now president of the Tabernacle Historical Society who has vehemently opposed the demolition of Town Hall, decided to challenge Moore, also a former mayor, for that county committee seat and easily prevailed over Moore in that contest, 196 to 55 votes, with Franzen garnering nearly 79 percent of the vote.

underwear because they know the searches school officials can conduct of their person are limited.

Recreational use of marijuana, a couple years ago now, was decriminalized, but only for adults. Still, according to Havers, “our kids are getting a mixed message.”

While school officials have been emphasizing to pupils that marijuana is “not healthy,” at the same time, “we have cannabis stores popping up” in the area. He recognized that there has been a “societal change” with marijuana “now decriminalized” and its usage “out in the open.”

“It is so easy to use, so widespread and so out in the open,” Havers said.

The superintendent, however, acknowledged that while there are also liquor stores in the area that sell alcoholic beverages, and it is the “same thing” with there being an underage prohibition, one key difference is that alcohol is “not easy to bring to school” because it is hard to conceal.

After Havers pointed out of marijuana one isn’t allowed to bring it to school and those underage “should not be using it,” Board Member Sheri Lowery questioned whether parents should be called in and educated about the subject.

“During the 2017-18 school year, I recall that every other student who got caught with a vape, their parents were asking me if I can have it back,” Bowen responded. “Now, nobody calls, and nobody asks for it back, because it is so prevalent. I think the viewpoint on vape usage, marijuana usage has changed dramatically in the last four to five years.”

Havers recognized that there have been some occasions now when he goes to educate a parent or student about the dangers of using marijuana, and he feels like he is being looked at “as some old guy.”

“It is a real challenge,” he declared, noting that officials are faced with a “whole different ballgame” given that by using a vape to consume marijuana, there is now no flavor and very little smoke emitted.

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injunction was filed, the judge mandated a status quo until the independent inspector looked at the building. The town then reopened the road, and the judge demanded it be re-closed because he had ordered the status quo remain. In that hearing the judge actually offered to allow the town to withdraw their Motion for Reconsideration (of the injunction). Presumably doing so would have caused the judge to lift the status quo order and allow the road to be opened. The (Township) Solicitor (William) Burns refused to do so and therefore that means the Committee WANTS the road closed. This cannot be pawned off on the judge, the road is closed because of the township committee.”

The motion for reconsideration on the injunction is now scheduled for June 7, according to a Burlington County Superior Court spokeswoman. The reconsideration hearing date has been reportedly pushed back a few times now.

Among other reports, is that some motorists were even taking to farm fields in the area, to turn around, damaging crops.

The Pine Barrens Tribune requested an opportunity to interview Judge Richard L. Hertzberg for this story and learn more about his decision-making process pertaining to the reclosure order and whether he is fully-aware of the facts on the ground that have been taking place since his supplemental order was issued on May 22 (as it appeared previously he hadn’t even been aware that the road was reopened for more than a month until he issued the supplemental order), but this newspaper was told in a June 5 email from the director of communications for the Administrative Office of the Courts, MaryAnn Spoto, that “please know that judges are not permitted by the canons of judicial ethics to speak about cases they are handling or have decided.”

Also, in response to the weekend’s purported incident, locals, in again raising the prospect of a possible farce, pointed out that it was just days earlier that the township’s Memorial Day program was held (May 25) at the Town Hall complex.

Those locals took note that there were patriotic banners hung from the construction fencing blocking off public access to the building’s exterior and cars parked in and around the now-closed off area, along with pedestrian traffic. One local had even responded with

observations that loudspeakers were utilized for the event, despite the claims of the building posing an imminent danger of collapse (vibration can sometimes cause buildings in true danger of collapse to fail).

Yet another local, who appeared to have some familiarity with remediating dangerous buildings, pointed to a case in a city where special netting was utilized to allow a key thoroughfare to remain open (that person posted a picture of such netting). The netting, the person pointed out, would catch any debris and dust in the event of a possible collapse.

Hertzberg had ordered the “immediate” closure of the road on May 22. The local emergency manager had written later that night to residents he anticipated it to go into effect by late on May 23.

But it never went into effect on that date, and for days there had been no further follow-up communications from the town.

“Just an honest question here, if the road was supposed to be closed all along due to the pressing and eminent danger of the building collapse, yet the road was opened for a period of multiple days including (to allow for) the planning and execution of a large Memorial Day Parade that brought township residents to the parking lot of the same building that was supposed to be collapsing, would this not be a violation of the judge’s order during that same time period?” asked resident Dan Dilks. “And if so, who is liable and responsible for this?

“The road closure is just silly, and people and businesses are getting hurt.”

Dilks question did not receive a reply from the local emergency manager, as of press time.

Township Solicitor William Burns denied to this newspaper last week that township officials intentionally kept the road open during the holiday weekend, despite the obvious implications any closure then would have had, contending county approval was needed, as well as proper resources. But roads, of course, can be closed much more quickly than what had occurred, using fire police, for instance.

What the local emergency manager did say in reply to another person’s question about what happens if the township keeps the road open or decides to open the road again on its own volition is that it would be a “violation of a judicial order,” which amounts to “contempt of court.”

“If someone removed barricades or gave the order to remove them, that person can be arrested and charged,” the local emergency manager added, with there having been reports of some of the road closure signs and barricades yet again being pushed to the side

See RECLOSURE/ Page 15

LIBRARY

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• Provide a central location with a consistent recognizable School Library Media Specialist who helps students and staff in a wide range of issues they need assistance with (i.e. account issues, Chromebook issues, printing, etc.);

• Provide a positive “cultural hub” of the school, which is a welcoming environment for all students and staff to use and enjoy academically as well as socially;

• Support the new, New Jersey Information Literacy Standards to combat the challenges our current students face regarding the rate and access of information and technology they’re bombarded with unlike any generation before. (It is important to note that certified School Library Media Specialists are the only personnel in the building who obtained Master’s Degrees to be trained in information literacy instruction.)”

• For those, particularly in the field of education who have been touched or impacted by the libraries at the LRHSD’s Cherokee, Lenape, Seneca and Shawnee high schools, or really by any school library for that matter, the advocate posed the following questions in asking for help:

• “Have you seen those heartwarming pictures of students holding certificates in front of beautifully organized, genrefied (categorizing the fiction by genre instead of by author’s last name) library bookshelves?

• Did you hear about that time when a kid really connected with a book because they were able to choose from a carefully curated and selected collection of books?

• Do you know a student who needed to print out a double-sided brochure and was able to do it in color?

• How about that research article that could only be accessed using high quality databases selected according to the school’s curriculum and class needs?

• Remember that class where kids learned about finding, evaluating, using and citing information that was an important lesson for their post-high school lives?

• What about that kid who hid in the shelves, discovered the next graphic novel in their favorite series, created a book display or started a book club?

• Remember the outrage you felt when you learned about books being challenged and banned across the country and the importance of students’ right to read?

• How about the beloved place where staff members and students can congregate to celebrate, collaborate, share and complete a community crossword puzzle?”

“These are not magic,” the advocate declared. “These are because your School Library Media Specialist spent YEARS developing a successful program, collection and space. If you believe in the value of the school library program and a certified School Library Media Specialist

in every school, … find out how you can advocate to keep this successful culture alive and thriving.”

According to a “provided” overview on the movement’s website, until 2021, the LRHSD had nine certified specialists, with the first elimination having occurred in the spring of 2021.

Three additional such specialists were then eliminated in the spring of 2022, the website states (in 2022, the three affected staff members were reassigned to other roles in the schools).

As for the two specialists purportedly eliminated just a couple weeks ago, a pronouncement on the site contends “these were the only two tenured staff members who were rifted (eliminated) in the LRHSD for the upcoming fiscal year.”

It was also pointed out that “these tenured certified School Library Media Specialists had 16 and 17 years of service in our schools.”

The Pine Barrens Tribune also learned from the movement advocate that the two tenured specialists let go last month by the LRHSD are purportedly “the only two tenured positions (Reduction in Force) RIF’d within the last 30 plus years.”

It was also pointed out to this newspaper that their positions have “created robust, lively, collaborative programs where all students and staff feel welcome.”

“Our positions are the only ones that affect every student and staff member,” the advocate further declared.

Among other things the movement’s website states is that, “The School Library Media Center Programs in the LRHSD have been a source of pride for the district, winning multiple state and national library program awards and garnering two state association Presidents” (Presidents of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians) and that, “Under the direction of the LRHSD Certified School Library Media Specialists, our students are prepared to engage with information critically.

“Academically, students develop a love of reading and become productive citizens of the world because of their exposure to the world, whether in a book or online,” it continues. “Equally as important, students and staff find safety, collaboration, windows to the world, and a sense of community within the library walls. With these cuts, our students and staff will immeasurably lose out.”

The Pine Barrens Tribune previously reported that during a district budget presentation on May 7, the night the school board adopted the 2024-25 school year budget, it was announced that the budget called for over 90 “non-renewals of nontenured staff” and also eliminated two positions through a “Reduction in Force.”

But at the time of the presentation and decision, restorative aide legislation was pending, with Board Member David Stow, also the chair of the board’s Finance Committee, noting if it was passed, it “will restore jobs and programs in the LRHSD.”

This newspaper also reported that the restorative aid legislation passed and was enacted by Democratic Governor Phil Murphy on May 14, establishing a “Stabilized School Budget Aid Grant Program” in the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) to provide grants equal to 45 percent of a school district’s state school aid reduction for the 2024-25 school year.

A-4161, according to the governor’s office, appropriates $44.7 million to

support the program, and in addition to providing supplementary state aid, the legislation allows certain districts experiencing reductions in state aid to “request increases in their adjusted property tax levies” above the 2 percent cap established under current law.

Now, Birnbohm has reportedly written a letter to the community, contending, in part, that in light of the enacted legislation, “our administration and board have reworked the numbers to propose a solution to restore many, though not all, of the necessary and devastating budget cuts planned for the 2024-25 school year.”

“It is not feasible to restore everything, nor is it fiscally responsible to do so, in light of enrollment reductions,” she reportedly added.

Birnbohm is also said to have announced that the district would be moving forward with “a one-time additional 5.7 percent increase” in regional school taxes, which “will make it possible to fulfill our commitment to preserving the quality high school experiences our students deserve and our community expects.”

Of the 90 non-tenured staff let go in May, Birnbohm reportedly contended that the district is planning to rehire 65 of them. The district, she reportedly added, also intends to restore its bowling and gymnastics programs, as well as maintain all its club and stipend positions.

There was no mention, however, of the RIF’d specialists in the purported correspondence, something that Tricina Strong-Beebe, advocacy chair of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians (NJASL), pointed out to this newspaper.

The association gave this statement to the Pine Barrens Tribune:

“The New Jersey Association of School Librarians (NJASL) urges the Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD) to reconsider its decision to eliminate the two tenured certified school library media specialist positions. The Lenape Regional High School District’s school librarians play an important role in the lives and education of the students, staff and community members.

According to the New Jersey Administrative Code, ‘all school districts shall provide library-media services that are connected to classroom studies in each school building, including access to computers, districtapproved instructional software, appropriate books including novels, anthologies and other reference materials, and supplemental materials that motivate students to read in and out of school and to conduct research. Each school district shall provide these library-media services under the direction of a certified school library media specialist.’

“LRHSD has eliminated almost 70 percent of School Library Media Specialists in less than three years. Yet, the LRHSD School Library Media Center programs have won multiple state and national library program awards and have two school librarians that served as President for the NJ Association of School Librarians (NJASL). Lenape Regional High School District eliminated 16- and 17-year tenured educators. The only tenured positions to be cut in 32 years.

“Unequivocally, there is substantial research that indicates the value of certified school librarians. Academic librarians in New Jersey recently published an awardwinning study (Valenza et al, 2022) that makes a clear connection between K-12 instruction by trained school library media

specialists and student preparedness for college-level research. Not surprisingly, they found that students who receive instruction from a school librarian have higher levels of reading comprehension and academic achievement. Other nationwide longitudinal studies (Lao, 2016, Lance, 2011a and 2011b) have proven time and time again that school librarians enhance the development and education of all students and directly increase overall student success (“Research Confirms Value,” 2019). In fact, when poverty is a factor, this research shows school libraries are the only thing that matters when it comes to closing gaps in literacy levels.

“Additionally, on January 4, 2023, Gov. Phil Murphy signed S-588 into law (P.L.2022, c.138), requiring school districts to incorporate instruction on information literacy as part of the district’s implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Those information literacy standards are being written now and the law requires the NJDOE to consult with certified library media specialists in their development because they are THE highly qualified experts in information literacy.

“School libraries and librarians help combat the digital divide and provide equitable access to resources and materials. The school librarians work with teachers to help students develop both traditional and emerging literacies. In partnership with classroom teachers, they develop instruction that leads to authentic learning experiences where students develop critical thinking skills, evaluate resources and fine tune their 21st Century skills. School library media specialists select and curate materials that reflect diversity, cultivate social and emotional development and build on a student’s zest for learning. These resources support standards-based learning and encourage independent exploration with selfselected reading. School libraries promote a lifelong interest in learning. Certified librarians affirm equity, diversity and inclusion.

“Those of us who work in education have experienced the learning loss and gaps in our students' education because of the quarantine. Additionally, Governor Murphy has been strongly focusing on increasing literacy rates throughout the state due to state test scores dropping dismally in English language arts and performa. If state officials want to create a plan to ensure students are reading, why are we cutting this vital role? It is never a good time to cut school library media specialists, but the current timing could not be worse. Lenape Regional’s library media specialists have been working harder than ever this year to support their students’ academic and social-emotional needs, and students and staff will need them just as much, if not more, next year and into the future. It’s simple, school librarians are essential to a student's lifelong success.”

Save the LRHSD Libraries, meanwhile, asks the community to email school administrators, in part, that, “I/We were happy to learn that some state funding has been reinstated to the LRHSD. In light of this news, we strongly urge you to restore certified School Library Media Specialists. Students will feel the impact of losing a full-time certified School Library Media Specialist in every school.”

Those who send such a letter are asked to let the superintendent and other key decisionmakers know “one to three personal things that make your Library Media Center and/or School Library Media Specialist impactful for students/community/staff.”

Visit https://sites.google.com/view/ savethelrhsdlibraries for more information.

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Spring 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.

CHARITY PICKLEBALL EVENT

Join us for a Charity Pickleball Event on June 29, 2024, at Marlton Field House! Support the fight against homelessness. Organized by the Christian Caring Center of Pemberton. Contact Randy Holston at (609) 793-3917 for more info.

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 .

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DOCTORS

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issues on which Dr. Mohan holds strong views “and will fight to bring common sense solutions to issues that all Americans want,” whether they be Republicans, Independents or Democrats.

“I believe in the profound strength of empathy and that the power of God grows exponentially,” he concludes. “I am more than ready for the big fights ahead for the good of the people. I invite all residents

JUNE

JUNE 8

Medford Lakes Garden Tour

Location: Medford Lakes Borough Events and special promotions happening locally next month!

of Burlington, Monmouth and Mercer counties in New Jersey’s 3rd District to join us in the good fight, the big fight and help build a brighter future for our children and grandchildren."

Asked by the Pine Barrens Tribune whether he is ready and willing to debate the issues involved in this campaign, Mohan replied, “I am looking forward to it,” adding that residents of the district deserve to hear such a debate.

When the same question was put to Conaway, he responded, “I am not opposed to it at this point.”

To promote your event on this page contact Jayne Cabrilla at 609-801-2392 or email news@pinebarrenstribune.com

Details: Medford Lakes Garden Club presents its annual Garden Tour of eight homes in Medford Lakes and Medford Twp., on Sat., June 8, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (rain date, Sun., June 9). A ticket booklet is available for $25, or two for $35. The booklet is your ticket to visit these delightful gardens and includes a map of the homes and highlights of the tour. You may purchase tickets (cash or check) at the following locations: Vaughn Hall Colony Office, 79 Tecumseh Trl.; The Painted Turtle, Stokes Rd. and Trading Post Way; Wild Bird Oasis, 741 Stokes Rd. Proceeds raise funds for the annual scholarship award to a graduating student of Shawnee or Seneca high schools who plan to pursue an environmental science degree. For more information, contact Karen Lieberman at 973-223-3019, or email leebirman4@aol.com . Visit https://www.medfordlakescolony.org/gardenclub/home .

HOME SERVICES

*Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091.

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*Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888872-2809. Have zip code!

LAWN SERVICE

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

LAWYERS

or email Erwinapell@gmail.com .

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LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING Tabernacle Township, County of Burlington, State of NJ

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:4 ET. Seq., the Open Public Meetings Act, please be advised that the Township Committee of Tabernacle Township has scheduled a special meeting on June 7, 2024 for the purpose of selecting a candidate to fill the existing vacancy. The meeting will be held at 6:30 pm. The meeting will be held at the Tabernacle Fire House, 76 Hawkin Rd., Tabernacle, NJ 08088. Action will be taken at the meeting. Any questions, please call Maryalice Brown at (609) 268-1220 x115.

Maryalice Brown, RMC Clerk/Administrator

Pub. Date June 7, 2024 Ptr. Fee: $5.00

Buying – Old Cranberry and Blueberry Pickers Tickets from anywhere in Southern New Jersey. Purchasing 1 or 1000 in any condition. Also purchasing tickets with other berries and vegetables printed on them, marked Cranberry scoops, Huckleberry knockers, Peck boxes. Call Eric: 908-319-0057.

Erwin Apell Attorney, Browns Mills. All legal matters - free hotline 24/7. Visa, Mastercard. Call 609-220-3059

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY Local

HABITAT

(Continued from Page 10)

The club meets once a month in the clubhouse for the private community, where Pogust creates an informative, interactive and fun learning experience for participants. The curriculum is described as being “friendly toward all age groups and intergenerational engagement is encouraged.” The nature club is the platform for community connection, education and action, as well as a place for new friendships to begin between neighbors.

RECLOSURE

(Continued from Page 11)

of the road by increasingly disgruntled locals. Another unanswered question, as of press time, given the ongoing troubles, is why officials have not chosen to use Jersey Barriers. But the severity of the situation has now forced Holy Eucharist to announce it has closed its Medford Lakes-Tabernacle Road entrance on June 5, until further notice, with parishioners asked to access the church from Carranza Road.

Reynolds & Sons Tree Service

According to Pogust, the club is, “a vehicle to serve and engage with others.”

Just some of the activities the club and other volunteers have participated in include birdhouse making, neighborhood trash removal and beautification projects, and caring for three certified rain gardens that were installed at Marlton Lakes common areas, as well as the landscaping at neighborhood entrances.

One other important item required for the NWF Community Certification process is engagement with government.

To that end, Pogust and Gonzalez presented at a meeting of the Evesham Township Environmental Commission to display the work residents of Marlton Lakes were accomplishing.

The commission was described as having “enthusiastically supported” the project. Additionally, the township administration issued a formal letter in support of the Marlton Lakes Community and their work.

“I am so truly impressed by the remarkable achievement that Dr. Aili Pogust, Amy Gonzalez, and all the other residents of Marlton Lakes have brought to their neighborhood

IMPACTS

(Continued from Page 9)

his normally nearly full parking lot for the farm market on June 4 had a single car in it at around 2 p.m., which grew to only two cars over the course of about 10 minutes.

“We rely heavily on shore traffic in the summertime, as everyone wants to come out here to buy local, fresh products on our farm, and this is our major source of income,” Eckert said.

through their passion for environmental stewardship and improved biodiversity,” said Councilwoman Heather Cooper, who serves as Evesham Township Council’s liaison to the Evesham Environmental Commission.

“These residents have preserved and protected the ecosystem of their neighborhood, which in turn benefits our township as a whole.

This grassroots effort serves as a testament to what can be accomplished when friends and neighbors work together for a common goal to better their community.”

Pogust also remained diligent in furthering her education by participating in “several intense courses” offered by the Rutgers Environmental Stewards Program, as well as other curriculum that is significant to the Pinelands environment, including a course that highlights water health and invasive plant species. This commitment to learning also earned points toward NWF certification.

Members of the community also became educated by guest speakers from the Pinelands Preservation Alliance and The Native Plant Society. On another occasion, residents brought lawn chairs to enjoy an educational film under the stars, lakeside, on an outdoor screen.

Mayor Jaclyn “Jackie” Veasy also appointed Gonzalez as a full member of the Environmental Commission during the process, which allowed Gonzalez to “remain engaged, educated and able to gain resources

For those responsible for the road closure, he asserted, “they are not seeing it the way we are, as far as our community (being heavily agricultural).”

“I just want to put this out there, as we are a community strongly agriculturally rooted as it is, and there has been no consideration for farmers to do their livelihood, which is a concern for me, and it should be talked about,” said Eckert in contacting this newspaper.

The Pine Barrens Tribune requested an opportunity to interview Judge Richard L. Hertzberg for this story, the ordering judge in this matter, but it was told “judges are not

that would be helpful to the environment of Marlton Lakes,” the township said.

This also helped to move the Certification Project closer to completion, as involvement with such positions is encouraged by the NWF.

With new relationships and resources, Gonzalez was able to participate in town-wide opportunities to educate others about Certified Habitat gardening, thereby advancing the NWF mission and closing in on the necessary points for the Community Certification. All these efforts were recorded and reported to the NWF throughout the process, and on May 7, the NWF added the Marlton Lakes neighborhood of Evesham Township to their map of Certified Wildlife Habitat Communities.

It is a title that indicates an “awareness and sensitivity toward their special location,” the township declared, and “holding the title promotes good stewardship of their natural resources and properties for the benefit of the wildlife and people living in the Pinelands area of Evesham Township.”

“Undoubtedly, the lively neighborly spirit that has always existed in Marlton Lakes was provoked in a new and exciting way throughout this process,” the township added. “It is because of the communal bond and love for their natural setting in the Pinelands that Marlton Lakes neighbors came together to meet this goal.”

permitted by the canons of judicial ethics to speak about cases they are handling or have decided” (see separate story).

But Eckert said he wants the “judge to be aware of the agriculture” of the municipality, and that he can’t tell his crops to obey the order, or in other words, wait to come due until after the road is reopened.

“Mother nature is not going to wait,” Eckert declared. “I don’t want to see another farming community go through what we are going through. Just figure something out –our biggest asset here is farms.”