Pine Barrens Tribune Dec. 24 issue

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Bass River Medford Medford Lakes Pemberton Pemberton Borough Shamong Southampton Tabernacle Washington Woodland

Vol. 1 - No. 17

Southeastern Burlington County’s News Leader

Elevated Walkway Proposed

December 24-30, 2016

Tabernacle Says Yes to Backyard Chickens

By Monica Hollenbeck

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

A concept plan has been created which includes the construction of an elevated walkway for bird watching.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

‘The Woods Of New Gretna’ Concept Plan Revealed

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

BASS RIVER—The Jersey Shore Live Steam Organization in partnership with Bass River Township has revealed their preliminary plans for the next phase of improvements to the “The Woods of New Gretna” railroad park on Oak Avenue.

The organization has worked with the township for the past nine years to recreate in

1/8” scale the once existing Tuckerton Railroad which was in operation from 1870 to 1938.

“We came in at a time when the railroad was supposed to be part of the seaport (Tuckerton Seaport) and that terminated,” said Tim Lovingham, president of Jersey Shore Live Steam Organization. “We needed a home and we worked with Rich Bethea, the mayor at the time, to put this together to help fund and get the park off the ground.”

The Bass River Board of Commissioners approved the construction of the railroad recreation in 2007. The board authorized the railroad recreation in an effort to secure funding and resources for the municipal park. The land had been previously damaged by off-road vehicles.

“There were no resources for the township

WALKWAY>>PAGE 4

TABERNACLE — After months of debate, Tabernacle’s Township Committee voted 4-1 to allow residents who live on more than one-half acre to have backyard chickens.

“The committee has done our work,” said Mayor Stephen Lee IV, “In terms of putting this together, based on input we’ve received from the public and Rutgers University and from our own thoughts, the LDB (Land Development Board) and I think we are done.”

Lee brought the idea to the committee last May after a discussion with residents revealed a lot of interest in allowing the birds. The ordinance was introduced in September and quickly became a hot topic among residents, many of whom came out to the committee meetings to voice their support or opposition.

Concern arose about manure management, noise and the spread of disease. One of the biggest challenges was determining the number of chickens to allow. A second vote to pass the ordinance was postponed in September so the committee could address these issues.

Lee decided to call in the experts from Rutgers’ Department of Animal Sciences to give the committee and public a presentation to educate them about backyard chickens.

The ordinance was also sent for review to the land development board, who made several recommendations.

With this information in hand, the committee revisited the ordinance at the Dec. 12th meeting and held a public hearing.

Several residents expressed concern early on in the discussion that an amended ordinance that accompanied the meeting’s agenda would allow up to 125 chickens and permitted one rooster on three acres or more of land.

“That’s not a backyard hobby, family kind of thing,” said resident Stuart Brooks, “That’s commercial production.”

He said a significant change like this needed to be re-advertised to the public for another hearing.

Lee explained that the document was a proposed draft and was put on the website in the interest of full disclosure to the public about the information they were going to discuss at the evening’s meeting. He said both documents would be discussed.

Township Solicitor Peter Lange said if there were no significant changes from the first draft to the final ordinance, it could be voted on that evening.

CHICKENS>>PAGE 5

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LOCAL NEWS

Four Firefighters Treated For Injuries After Southampton Dwelling Fire

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

SOUTHAMPTON—An early morning blaze on Friday, Dec. 16 injured four firefighters and presented a number of challenges to area first responders.

The New Jersey State Police, numerous fire departments, multiple emergency squads, and fire police agencies were called to 513 Ridge Road in Southampton at 2:09 a.m. for a reported house fire.

Upon arrival, crews found a late 18th-century farmhouse with heavy smoke showing from the second floor.

Firefighters entered the dwelling and encountered heavy fire conditions. As the firefighters pushed forward, additional flames were found inside the walls of the dwelling. The flames extended into the attic of the home due to the dwelling’s balloon frame-type construction.

Firefighters worked aggressively in high heat conditions and attempted to contain the fire.

However, the flames had already advanced far beyond their control.

All of the firefighters were ordered out of the dwelling due to deteriorating conditions.

An emergency evacuation plan had to be implemented.

“The fire consumed most of the house,” said Alejandro Goez, a spokesperson for the New Jersey State Police.

A second alarm was declared which allowed for additional resources to be called in to fight what was described as an “uncompromising fire.” The additional resources included a water-tender strike team to help provide a water supply to fight the flames.

Two firefighters were transported to the hospital due to high blood pressure measurements. One firefighter was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation. Another

firefighter was sent to the hospital due to minor injuries sustained in a fall. Four firefighters in all were examined and quickly released without complications.

No other injuries were reported.

“There were no injuries to troopers or any other residents,” Goez said.

Bitterly cold temperatures created icy conditions at the fire scene and at various water tender fill points. The fill points were at a hydrant located in front of Allen’s Oil and Propane on Main Street in Southampton and at a hydrant in front of University Park in Pemberton.

“Valves on fire apparatus were freezing shut which was causing water-supply problems,” said Barry Pratt, fire chief for the Vincentown Fire Company. “Firefighters who got wet quickly became encrusted in ice.”

Pratt served as the incident commander during the firefighting efforts.

The Tabernacle Rescue Squad had to set up a heated rehab. tent to accommodate firefighters. The Cherry Hill Deer Park Station 13-8 mobilized their canteen to provide hot food and beverages for the first responders.

Crews worked throughout the early morning hours to contain the fire.

The fire forced the temporary closure of Ridge Road between Buddtown Road and Pemberton Road. Ongs Hat Road, near Ridge Road was also closed for a time.

Authorities could not immediately identify the homeowner. However, officials did not anticipate requiring the assistance of the American Red Cross.

“This was a second home for the owner, so they had somewhere else to live,” Pratt said.

The fire is under investigation by the Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office.

However, the New Jersey State Police said that it appears the fire is not suspicious.

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Pemberton Weighs Enforcing Vacancy Rules On Commercial Properties

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON–This community, long-plagued by deteriorating vacant properties, is weighing a major toughening of the rules.

The proposal would use the current rules regarding residential properties against vacant commercial buildings. These are the measure’s highlights, discussed at the meeting and in a follow-up interview with Township Administrator, Dennis Gonzalez.

Years ago, the township moved against lengthy vacancies in homes. The key measure

was one that imposed fines to cover upkeep in residences vacant for over six months. The fines were used to help maintain the vacant homes. If the vacancies continued, the fines rose dramatically, climbing to $5,000 for vacancies of several years.

The same schedule is being considered for commercial properties. In the event of multi-business properties, the fines would grow more complicated. Gonzales gave this example: a 10-unit property.

As long as the building was more than

VACANCY>>PAGE 5

INDEX Automotive......................................12 Business Directory...........................13 Celebrating Christmas..................... C1 Classified..........................................11 Community........................................8 Fun and Games................................10

Health ............................................. 14 Home, Garden & Farming ............. 15 Local News....................................... 2 Opinion ............................................ 6 Scanner ............................................. 7

The Pine Barrens Tribune is published weekly by Pine Barrens Media, LLC. The newspaper is distributed free at select locations in Bass River, Medford, Medford Lakes, Pemberton, Pemberton Borough, Shamong, Southampton, Tabernacle, Washington and Woodland. This newspaper is protected under the Federal Copyright Act. Reproduction of any part is not permitted by mechanical or electronic means without the expressed written permission of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to revise or reject any advertisement. No liability shall be attached to the Publisher for interruption of publication or limitation of size and/or number of pages due to shortage of material, failure of transportation, flood, fire, severe weather, winter weather, riots, strikes, acts of God, or other causes beyond his or her control. It is our policy to promptly correct errors. If you believe that you see a mistake, please call (609) 801-2392.

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Pinelands Commission Passes Two Preliminary Pipeline Measures

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—In a meeting that can best be described as surreal, the Pinelands Commission passed two measures on Fri., Dec. 10 that advanced the proposed controversial South Jersey Gas pipeline, but did not actually approve the project.

An overflow crowd of about 125, hooted and jeered at the unanimous, 15-0 vote. Many obviously thought the approval was the final step in the long-contested pipeline project.

Actually, this is what was approved. The first approval was to continue the pipeline-planning process. The second step was to reject a proposal to take the issue to the N.J. Supreme Court.

The planning process will be taken up at a commission meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, in Manahawkin, starting at 9:30 a.m.

For those not familiar with the South Jersey Gas pipeline, here is a brief background. The pipeline will run for 22 miles from Millville to an aging coal-powered generating station in Beeseley’s Point, Upper Township. The majority of the line, 15 miles, is in the Pinelands.

It’s that part that’s causing outrage among the protestors. As one woman shouted to the commissioners, “You’re supposed to be protecting the Pinelands, not destroying them.”

The project has been voted down in the past, but for whatever reason, commission members opposing the project have, in many cases, been replaced by supporters.

As evidence of increasing public opposition to the project, even the time of the meeting, 9:30 a.m., drew hoots from many of those attending. The feeling was that the time was chosen to make it more difficult for people to attend. A man shouted out to applause, “that shuts out all of us who have to work.”

Despite their suspicions, 9:30 a.m. has

always been their starting time.

Although there was some solid support for the pipeline, most of those attending were strongly opposed to it.

The supporters were officials and members of three trade unions. That’s understandable since the project would mean well over a year’s worth of well-paying jobs for their members.

But the entire meeting appeared to reflect commission members’ desire to shut out the public as much as possible.

There was a shortage of seats, only about 60. Even those arriving before the start of the meeting had to cluster around the door of the meeting room or down the corridor leading to it.

The printed agenda did not list a vote on the two pipeline measures, which added to the attendees’ confusion.

Shortly into the meeting, the commission went into executive session, saying it would last for at least an hour or an hour and a half, and inviting those attending to leave and come back. Virtually no one did, rather crowding into a reception area. The break actually lasted only 38 minutes, again stirring skepticism that it was a ploy designed to persuade some in attendance to leave.

Whether intended or not, the entire process appeared odd. Later, many questions from the audience were simply ignored. This, in turn, led to more questions simply being shouted out, with no attempt by speakers to sign in.

The meeting ended, over an hour later, basically as it had run, in confusion.

A planned second pipeline, by N.J. Natural Gas, is also under consideration. If the S.J. Gas line wins approval, odds of success for the latter line will improve markedly.

Another date to keep in mind is the next regularly-scheduled meeting of the commission.

Friday, Jan. 13 at 9:30 a.m.

WALKWAY FROM PAGE 1

itself to develop that wooded area or protect it from the damage that was done by quads and dirt bikes,” Lovingham said. “So we came in, stopped that and we were able to start the granting process with Burlington County.”

The non-profit organization has supervised the installation of almost 4,000 feet of train track. The tracks were installed with the assistance of West Point Cadets. The wooden railroad ties were crafted out of recycled boardwalk donated by Seaside Heights.

The organization operates an Atlantic steam locomotive which is currently the only small-scale locomotive in New Jersey. It is inspected annually as an ASME high-pressure boiler locomotive. There is also a 1.5” scale replica of the Tuckerton Railroad #6 locomotive.

There are several annual events held for school groups; including a pumpkin hunt, a haunted train ride, and a Christmas lights show.

The Christmas celebration consists of nearly 75,000 lights where riders wear 3D glasses, which creates the illusion of Christmas icons around the lights.

Open trails also exist throughout the approximately 65-acre parcel which can be explored seven days a week.

“There are approximately four miles of trails already open through this,” Lovingham said.

However, the non-profit group does not want to forget their original intent of addressing the environmental needs of the area.

“I don’t want people to think this is a railroad park out there,” Lovingham said. “The idea of it originally was as an environmental park with environmental stations throughout it so that you could then explore it."

Lovingham tasked his son-in-law, Michael Kuhlman Jr., to develop a concept plan for Phase IV of the “The Woods of New Gretna” project. Kuhlman is a graduate of NJIT and works for an architectural firm.

“We put together a concept to differentiate the township park from being a railroad park into an environmental park,” Lovingham said.

“I personally commissioned him with my own resources to put this concept together.”

The concept plan includes the construction of an elevated walkway in an effort to provide an aerial view of the park for bird watching.

Visitors would be able to walk through part of the park at a height of 12 to 15 feet above ground. Each walkway would be roughly 650 feet in length.

“Essentially what this would be is a raised platform built from train trestles,” Kuhlman said. “The actual bird walk itself would be built out of exterior grade wood and galvanized connections.”

Information areas would also be erected,

which would contain kiosks that provide detail on the animals and plants in the area along with other environmental aspects.

“This would have a low impact because it would be built over the existing trails that are there, allowing permeation of the water to go through and give you an upper aerial look, to see what the park itself looks like,” Kuhlman said. “Then at different periods, you would have different information places you could go to and interact with so you could learn more about environmental impacts and what is so special about the parks we have.”

LED panels may also be installed to allow visitors to walk through the park safely at night.

“Essentially what you would have is a platform system that would have LED light panels at the base,” Kuhlman said. “It could actually light up as you are walking along with low power consumption. There might even be the potential to integrate a solar-power aspect.”

The proposed walkway would share similarities with the elevated beach walk in Sea Isle City, elevated walk over the pens at the Cape May County Zoo, and an abandoned train system in downtown Manhattan, which has been converted into a walkway with multiple trees.

Despite the creation of two preliminary renderings for the proposed walkway, project organizers cautioned that additional research and planning is needed before the organization and town could carry out what the concept plan currently calls for.

“The next part of the phase would be to apply for a grant so it would be no cost to the township to properly pay his engineering firm to do the whole work up of it and then figure out phases and stages so that we know what the actual costs of it are,” Lovingham said. “This is an idea concept right now.”

The town is seeking grant funding from the Burlington County Municipal Park Development Program to build the infrastructure. However, the engineering fees are not covered by the grant program.

“We are exploring ways to get that cost covered,” Lovingham said. “Donations are appreciated that are earmarked for the project.”

The Bass River Board of Commissioners passed a resolution in November which certified that the town was committed to Phase IV of the “The Woods of New Gretna” project should they receive the funding from the county to build the infrastructure.

“Only if we get the grant, will we proceed with more formal plans,” said Amanda Somes, who serves as the township clerk for Bass River.

Town resident, William Aaronson praised the concept plan.

“I really commend you on your vision here and what you are trying to do,” Aaronson said.

“I think it would be a fabulous addition, if you can pull it off.”

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PAGE 5

Shamong Enters Into Shared-Services Pacts with Burlington and Tabernacle Townships

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

SHAMONG—In its continuing quest to hold down costs, the Shamong Township Committee entered into shared-services agreements with two county townships, but tabled a third one, at a Dec. 6 meeting.

Costs of the tax assessor will be split with Burlington Township. There is an extension of the existing agreement for two years, with an option of another two-year extension.

VACANCY FROM PAGE 2

two-thirds occupied, or seven of 10 being open, there would be no fines. But if the property had four vacancies, fines would be imposed There was both good and bad news in the area of drinking water. The good news is that the township’s well #11, long contaminated by radium, has passed a series of inspections and is scheduled to go back on line next month.

On the negative side, there is increasing evidence that water sources near Joint Base Dix-McGuire-Lakehurst may be affected by fire-fighting foam used by the services for many years. About 150 homes in the area are being inspected for possible contamination. There is no definite news yet, but this appears similar to a problem discovered several years ago at the now-closed Willow Grove (Pa.) Naval Air Station in Montgomery and Bucks counties.

In addition to the above action, there was a much longer agenda to act on, typical of end-ofthe-year legislation in area communities. Here are the highlights.

There were 10 consent agenda resolutions passed. Five were no more than end-of-the-year “bookkeeping” measures, but the other five are worth mentioning.

Council approved renewing the township’s sports accident insurance policy with QBE Insurance Corp.

Another approves supporting Senate and Assembly bills allowing the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) to invest in government bonds.

A third allows the township to sell unneeded public lands. This was explained as mostly fragments of acres, many of which might be of interest to adjacent neighbors.

The fourth was rejected as too high a bid to manage the Housing Rehabilitation Program, which provides grants to homeowners for needed repairs.

The last approves a contract for 2017 to administer the Township Employee Medical Benefits Program.

Most of the votes were unanimous, or 4-0, as Councilwoman Norma Trueblood was absent.

However, the lone Republican Council member Jack Tompkins voted no on the land sale and the government bond issue. Tompkins, who lost a

An agreement with Tabernacle approves a four-year extension, also for the tax assessor.

A proposed agreement with Waterford Township in Camden Co. was tabled for further study. It would share mileage reimbursement costs under the Uniform Construction Code.

Shared-service agreements are increasingly common, as small towns constantly seek to limit increasing costs.

In another development, the 2017 meeting re-election bid last month, will attend his final meeting as a councilman on Dec. 21.

There were nine purchases of over $2,000 last month. Here are the largest five.

The Finance Department purchased computer software and maintenance from Edmunds & Assocs. for $16,415. Also approved was the Public Works Department purchase of uniforms from Action Uniform Co., $12,860. Public Works also paid $5,000 for cleaning Wells #8 and #11 and an inspection of the wells from Pittsburgh Tank & Tower Group.

The police department spent $6,120 for Stinger LED flashlights from Lawman Supply Co., while the tax assessor needed $5,923 for assessment post cards from Micro System N.J. Gonzalez also passed on an efficient use of a state grant, thanks to employees of Public Works department.

The township earlier received a substantial grant from the state for the construction of soon-to-be-opened Mayberry Park. But instead of hiring an outside work crew to build the park, Pemberton turned the work over to its own Public Works Department. The workers built the entire site, which meant all the grant could be used for equipment, almost doubling the amount for that purpose.

There was a closed session early in the meeting, but no action was reported.

At the previous council meeting, a proposed regulation banning puppy and kitten mills in the township was poised for passage.

However, the proposal never came up for a vote.

Following Wednesday’s meeting, Mayor David Patriarca and Council President Jason Allen provided an explanation. It turns out the state legislature is weighing a similar bill. Both officials said a state-wide bill would be much more effective than town-by-town legislation.

The local legislation is in abeyance, pending action in Trenton.

The meeting, which drew only five residents, far fewer than normal, adjourned just before 8 p.m. Council meets next on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

A 2017 reorganization meeting is scheduled for Jan. 4. The time is undetermined.

Merry Christmas From e

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

schedule was approved.

The state Department of Transportation’s fiscal year 2017 aid program is due next Feb. 3.

In an unusual twist, not a single ordinance was introduced or discussed.

Fawn Lake Village won another extension of its operating license, but only until next Feb. 7, reflecting committee’s continuing concerns there, especially over repairs to its septic system.

The committee weighed a request to

permit a cell tower at the Crossroads Community Church, but took no action.

In a personnel move, Robert M. Sapio was named an appraiser for tax-appeal litigation.

The committee had a bare quorum of three as Committeemen Sean Gray and Michael Mozitis were absent, an unusual occurrence. All the votes were unanimous.

Four residents attended the meeting, which lasted 40 minutes and adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

CHICKENS

manure. They can put it out with their regular trash every two weeks or they can compost it in compliance with section 6 B which limits the amount of manure to two hundred pounds per one thousand square feet every three months.

The manure must be mixed in and not used on top of the soil.

The distance a chicken coop needs to be from residential structures was increased from thirty to sixty feet.

Throughout the discussion, Lee made it clear he did not want the ordinance to be so specific and onerous that it would turn residents off to the idea of getting chickens altogether.

Lee, Deputy Mayor Joseph Yates IV, Franzen and Committeeman Joseph Barton all voted yes.

Committeewoman Kim Brown was the lone no vote. Brown, who lives in an agricultural zone, said even though she doesn’t own chickens, her neighbor does and for the past 25 years she has had to deal with them.

“I really can’t support them in a residential area,” Brown said. “So, I’m going to vote no.”

In other news, the committee passed a resolution to continue a long-term agreement for facility use with the Tabernacle Athletic Association. The agreement was updated to include a new snack bar.

The next regular meeting will be on Thursday, Dec. 29 at 7:30 p.m. in the town hall. The committee will hold its annual reorganization meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

FROM PAGE 1

The original ordinance allowed up to nine birds but Lee wanted to increase that to 15.

He said the number is completely arbitrary because the Rutgers’ guidelines state one acre can support 125 chickens.

Committeeman Richard Franzen said the point of allowing the chickens is for families to have the opportunity to raise them, not for largescale production.

“Let the family have an activity together and pick up some eggs on the side for their breakfast,” Franzen said.

After about an hour of discussion, the committee agreed on several changes to the original ordinance.

Residents are now permitted to have 12 chickens on one-half acre or more of land in residential or agriculturally zoned areas.

The chickens must all be female, no roosters are allowed.

The updated ordinance removed a permit requirement. However, residents need to go through a zoning review to get a permit for the coop. This will act as a registry for knowing who has chickens. The registry would be used should any complaints arise that the ordinance is not being followed.

Manure management was discussed at length and it was decided that residents will have the choice to either compost or throw out the

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OPINION

Letters submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribune must include the name, address and phone number of the writer. Letters may be edited for length, clarity and taste. Because of space limitations, letters should be 150 words of less.

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Guest Commentary submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribune can be submitted by an appointed or elected official, political candidate, organization leader, or community leader. Guest commentary submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribue must include the name, photo, address, affiliation, title, and phone number of the writer. Commentary may be edited for length, clarity, and taste.

Because of space limitations, commentary should be about 450 words or less.

Letter to the Editor:

Editorial:

Rotary Mulls Future of Medford’s Dickens Festival

Merry Christmas!

More than 10,000 people flocked to Main Street in Medford on Dec. 3 to enjoy the annual Dickens Festival – and many had a wonderful time. Fortunately, the weather cooperated and, while it was a bit chilly, visitors were able to mill about, enjoying food, music, entertainment, camaraderie and a host of holiday festivities.

Every year since 2010, members of the Medford Sunrise Rotary collectively put in hundreds of hours getting ready for and then running this popular annual holiday event in downtown Medford. Many work tirelessly for months getting everything set up.

Years ago, the event was hosted and paid for by the merchants along Main Street in conjunction with the Township of Medford.

In those days, there were plenty of people and financial resources that helped make the event easier to run. Unfortunately, the Historic Medford Village Business Association disbanded and the merchants no longer participated. At the same time, the township had to tighten its budget and could no longer pay for police coverage or overhead lighting. The festival was slated to be discontinued and so our Rotary stepped in and took it over in the spirit of continuing the tradition.

Admittedly, it’s gotten away from the original “Dickens” Village concept but sincere efforts have been made to make it a community event that is fun for all ages. (Years ago, it was easier to hire people who would dress in Dickens-era costumes and roam the Village, but that’s no longer the case.) Nevertheless, for the most recent festival, many of us took time off from our day jobs on the Friday before the event, in order to make sure everything was in place and to decorate the area where Santa would greet children for hours on end. We also worked a good portion of Saturday both before and after the event, and then we gathered early

on Sunday morning to pick up trash and tidy up.

We wanted to make sure our lovely Main Street Village was put back in order.

The Medford Sunrise Rotary is a nonprofit organization whose members have a sincere passion for community service. Four times a year, we prepare and serve meals to families of sick children who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Camden. We regularly collect and donate funds and items to be sent to our troops through Operation Yellow Ribbon. We provide scholarship money to YMCA Camp Ockanickon, Inc. to send children to camp who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford to go. We produce the Medford Community Calendar and mail it to more than 12,000 homes and businesses each year. We join with our fellow Rotarians everywhere to raise money for vaccines to eradicate polio throughout the world. Recently, we spent a Saturday putting together food packages for needy families in Haiti.

Our goal in hosting the Dickens Festival has been to continue a tradition that brings members of our community together during the holiday season, not to make a profit, as some have alleged. In fact, it’s very expensive and the income from various vendors, coin drops and other fundraisers barely comes close to covering the costs of entertainment, lights, police services and other expenses.

As an organization, our Rotary is seriously considering whether we will be able to continue hosting the Dickens Festival, moving forward.

We would love to hear feedback from the community. Please send your comments to MedfordSunriseRotary@gmail.com.

Jim Robinson, President, Medford Sunrise Rotary Linda Mackey, Medford Dickens Festival Chair Medford, New Jersey

Political Cartoon:

PAGE 6

We want to wish all of our loyal readers a Merry Christmas! May the peace and joy that Christmas brings always be with you and your family.

Christmas is all about love, family, and children. It doesn’t matter what we eat or what presents we get. We hope you will be able to

spend the holiday weekend with loved ones.

To our men and women serving overseas who may be reading the electronic copy of the newspaper online; May God bless you and keep you safe. We hope you’ll be able to rejoice in the spirit of Christmas wherever you may be stationed.

Social Media Sound Off (Re: LRHSD Unveils New Curriculum Program and Relaunches Graduation Initiative) They need to be pushing trades as well! Not every student is going be able to go to college.

Skilled tradesman are in demand and can make a really good living.

James, Lumberton, New Jersey (Re: Police Searching For Suspect(s) After Fatal Shooting in Browns Mills) Please, anyone with information please contact police. This was my cousin and my family deserves answers.

William, Toms River, New Jersey (Re: Bass River Officials Receive Earful After Roberts Pond Is Emptied) Great memories for sure. I have to say that I asked my mom if we ever had water in our yard from the septic system in the woods and she said never! We are at the end of Ash Road and never had a problem. The whole thing is sad. I want to support my friend and town but it looks like “we” messed up. It needs to be fixed ASAP!

Pamela, New Gretna, New Jersey

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE Established 2016 Douglas D. Melegari, Publisher, CEO George L. Blount, Jr., MBA, Director of Operations Pat Carney, Senior Graphic Artist Bob Bradley, Sales Representative Casey Forte, Sales Representative Adam Tait III, Copy Editor, Reporter Robert Urban, Copy Editor Colleen Jordan, Copy Editor, Graphic Artist Jayne Cabrilla, Reporter Scott Kern, Reporter Judy Cohen Minches, Reporter Monica Hollenbeck, Reporter P.O. Box 2402, Vincentown, NJ 08088 Locally owned and published.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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SCANNER

State Police Find Cocaine During Traffic Stop in Bass River BASS RIVER—The New Jersey State Police arrested a motorist during a motor vehicle stop on Wednesday, Dec. 14. at 2:54 a.m. in Bass River Township.

A state trooper pulled over a vehicle for a traffic violation at milepost 52.2 on the Garden State Parkway. The vehicle was traveling northbound.

State Police say that during the traffic stop

Tabernacle Fire Hosts Breakfast with Santa

they discovered that Omar Benaouda, 44, of New York, NY had one-half ounce of cocaine in his possession. Benaouda attempted to discard the cocaine during the stop.

Benaouda was charged with possession of CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with evidence, and distribution. He was lodged in Burlington County Jail on $100,000 bail with no 10 percent option.

Police Investigate Forced-Entry Burglary At Femmina Italian Grill MEDFORD—On Sunday, Dec. 11, Medford Township Police were dispatched to Femmina Italian Grill located on Stokes Road for a report of a burglary.

Employees discovered that the business had been broken into during the overnight hours. A police investigation revealed that an unidentified subject(s) gained entry, by force,

thru the front doors and stole an undisclosed amount of cash from a register.

Police believe the incident took place between 2:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m.

Anyone with information or possible leads are urged to contact Medford Township Police Detectives at 609-654-7375 or the anonymous citizen tip line at 609-714-0302.

Marijuana Discovered During Traffic Stop MEDFORD—On Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 10:15 p.m. patrols conducted a motor vehicle stop on an Acura sedan for a motor vehicle violation on Church Road in the area of Hartford Road.

Upon their approach of the vehicle, patrols observed in plain view suspected marijuana inside the vehicle, where the driver, Kenneth R. Leek Jr.,19, of Marlton was seated. A search of the vehicle was conducted on scene and an additional amount of marijuana was found

Santa and his helpers.

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inside the vehicle.

Leek was subsequently arrested, transported to Police Headquarters, and charged with possession of marijuana under 50 grams, possession and additional motor vehicle violations.

He was released on a summons complaint, pending his court appearance in Medford Township Municipal Court.

State Police Make Arrest After Power Tools Were Stolen and Pawned WASHINGTON—The New Jersey State Police have arrested a Camden County man after a nearly three-week investigation.

State troopers from the Tuckerton Barracks were dispatched to a home on Turtle Creek Road in Washington Twp. at the end of November for a report of a theft.

Troopers determined that several power tools

were taken from the residence. Further investigation revealed that the power tools were pawned at a local pawn shop.

As a result of the investigation, police identified and charged Brian Eaton, 26, from Atco with theft.

He was released with pending a court hearing.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Down through the firehouse came Saint Nicholas.

Cell Phones for Soldiers Collection

BROWNS MILLS —Old and damaged cell phones are being collected by Browns Mills Methodist Church by Linda and Joe Vaughn.

The location is 2 Browns Mills-Pemberton Road, Browns Mills.

The cell phones, in any condition, are sent to a recycler for credit towards free 60-minute calling cards for our troops. Nancy Seibert, who is the area collection agent in Ocean County, has been collecting them for 10 years.

Overall, she has collected over 18,000 cell phones and donated over 68,000 calling cards to our troops serving overseas that they may keep in communication with their families at home.

If you have a loved one serving overseas in need of calling cards or you have any questions on the project, please call Nancy at 732-606-6040.

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PHOTO SUBMITTED Santa’s frolicking firefighters.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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COMMUNITY Events

December 27 Location: Browns Mills, Whitesbog Village Event: Christmas Bird Count Details: Meet in front of the General Store with our experienced leader at 9 a.m. for a walk through Whitesbog to see which birds call us home in the winter months. The event is free. Registration is requested by calling 609-893-4646, or email WhitesbogPreservationTrust@gmail.com.

Location: Medford Event: Winter Camp at YMCA Camp Ockanickon Details: When schools are closed, YMCA Camp Ockanickon, Inc. in Medford is in session! Starting Tuesday, Dec. 27, kids can enjoy their school break by exploring the winter wonderland of camp. They’ll tackle the challenge course, go hiking, build campfires, explore creative arts and participate in fun sports and games.

Overnight Camp (ages 7-16), Dec. 27-31, $250 per child. Day Camp (ages 5-14), Dec. 27-30, $60/day per child, $50/day per child for School’s Out participants. Go to www.ycamp.org, click register, sign in or create an account, then click “2016 Family Programs.” Call 609-654-8225 for more information.

January 1 Location: Medford Event: Medford United Methodist Church New Year’s Day Worship Service Details: Medford United Methodist Church will be holding one service at 10 a.m. on New Year’s Day. All are welcome.

Come start the New Year off right! 2 Hartford Road, Medford.

January 3 Location: Whitesbog Village, Browns Mills Event: Quandrantids Meteor Shower Peak Viewing Party Details: Join us for a walk out to the bogs to look at the

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meteor shower at its peak! Whitesbog’s dark skies make them ideal for night viewing. Advance reservations requested by calling 609-893-4646. 120 W. Whitesbog Road, Browns Mills.

January 8

Location: Medford Event: Medford VFW Steak Night Details: Where’s the beef? Come join us at the Medford VFW for Steak Night on Sunday! We open the doors at 3 p.m. and serve until 6 p.m. It includes a delicious steak, potato, green beans, salad, roll and coffee or tea, all prepared by our chef Denny. Only $12 per person! Take-out available. 317 Church Road, Medford. (Just east of Kirby’s Mill). Phone 609-654-9823.

Location: Browns Mills Event: Burlington County Art Guild Winter Art Exhibit Details: The Burlington County Art Guild, Inc. presents their Annual Members’ Winter Exhibit, from January 8th through February 24th, 2017. The show takes place annually at the Pemberton Library Branch of the Burlington County Library System. Participating members may enter up to three pieces of any subject matter, media and/or a variety of styles. Visitors may see this show any time the library is open. All artwork is for sale.

Pemberton Library is located at 16 Broadway, Browns Mills.

609-893-8262.

January 10

Location: Whitesbog Village, Browns Mills Event: Shinrin Yoku Wellness Walk Details: Step lightly on this guided nature walk. This is a free event beginning at 10 a.m., in front of the Whitesbog Village General Store, 120 W. Whitesbog Road, Browns Mills. Advance reservations requested by calling 609-893-4646.

January 13 Location: Whitesbog Village, Browns Mills

Event: Family Hike Details: Meet at the Whitesbog Village General Store at 10 a.m. to explore the sights and sounds of our trails with an experienced leader. Reservations are encouraged by calling 609-893-4646. There is a $5/family donation request.

January 16 Location: Whiting Event: Thyroid Support Group Details: January is Thyroid Awareness Month. The next meeting of the Thyroid Support Group will be held on Monday, Jan. 16, at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 180 Route 539, Whiting. The meetings help to educate, support and answer questions about thyroids. For more information, call Stefanie, the group facilitator, 732-350-2904.

January 28 Location: Little Egg Harbor Event: Sunshine Foundation Fishing Flea Market Details: The Southern Ocean County Chapter of the Sunshine Foundation will hold its 2d Annual Fishing Flea Market on Jan. 28, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Little Egg Harbor Community Center, 319 W. Calabreeze Drive, Little Egg Harbor.

The Sunshine Foundation helps fulfill the dreams and wishes of terminally ill, chronically ill and abused children. For additional information, call Tom Siciliano 732-267-6451, or Frank Muinos 908-380-8491.

March 14 Location: Whiting Event: Philadelphia Flower Show Details: The Crestwood Village Garden Club will be going to the Philadelphia Flower Show, March 14. The theme this year is “Holland: Flowering the World.” The cost is $61 per person.

Contact Stephanie for more information, 732-350-2904.

How To Care For Your Christmas Cactus

By Bonnie McNamee

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

A Christmas cactus is easy to grow and is widely available this time of year. By following a few simple guidelines, your cactus will reward you year after year with beautiful blooms. Cacti plants will bloom from Thanksgiving on and sometimes again in the spring. Most of the Christmas cacti sold are timed for the holiday, but they are usually Thanksgiving cacti and will bloom in following years at Thanksgiving. These cacti are not desert cacti they are, in fact, tropical cacti which means they cannot tolerate very dry soil. If the soil gets too dry, the flower buds will drop, and the plant will wilt. Water your cactus thoroughly, letting it drain well, and then check to see that the top inch of soil has dried completely before watering again.

Place your plant in a north or east facing window away from direct sunlight. If your home is dry provide humidity by placing the container on a tray of moist pebbles. Fertilize your plant monthly between April and October with an all-purpose fertilizer, such as Miracle

Grow, but stop feeding by the end of October before the buds appear. Your cactus should start to bud from November to early December.

After your cactus has finished blooming, continue to grow as a houseplant. In late May, after the danger of frost is past, place your cactus outside in a shaded area. The best time to trim your plant, in order to shape it nicely and encourage branching, is in June. When the weather is hot and sunny, water your plant every two to three days and fertilize monthly.

Bring your cactus back indoors around October, before a frost. During this time water less frequently in order to promote blooming.

Cooler night temperatures can also be used to trigger blooming. When buds begin to appear on your plant, again, resume watering thoroughly. This will keep the flowers blooming longer. When repotting, don’t use a container that’s too big, because the Christmas cactus flowers best when it’s pot-bound.

If you have questions or need more information, please call the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Burlington County Helpline at Christmas Cactus plant.

609-265-5050.

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Saturday, December 24, 2016

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CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS Medford Welcomes the Holiday Season – 27th Annual Dickens Festival

By Scott Kern

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

MEDFORD—For nearly three decades, the residents and local businesses of Medford transform the tree-lined thoroughfare and historic homes that dot Main Street into a recreation of 1840s London.

Locals dressed in “turn-of-the-century” garb greet guests, play holiday songs on wrap-around porches and sing Christmas songs to families strolling down the avenue.

This year, the festivities began with the traditional parade down Main Street, which included Santa and Mrs. Claus riding atop a Medford Township fire truck along with characters from the popular Disney movie “Frozen,” Olaf, Elsa and Anna. Santa and Mrs. Claus took up a temporary residence from the North Pole at the gazebo located in the center of town to preside over the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. Shortly thereafter, they welcomed adults and children to visit for photos and to hear of their special Christmas “wishes.”

Throughout the night, Olaf mingled with the crowd, posing with families and children for photo opportunities. There was also a Disney Frozen themed moon bounce set-up for the younger kids to enjoy. Kiera and Marcie Dumas of Medford, along with Caroline and

Tina Kenneran of Shamong, enjoyed a cool paparazzi photo-op moment with Olaf. The Lamborn family, including family friend, Tori and family dog, Leo, also enjoyed a night of ‘hanging-out’ and starting the weekend off on a fun note. Relocated from Washington four years ago, this was the family’s second Dickens Festival.

Food trucks and craft vendors were also on hand to create a winter-wonderland marketplace, providing delicious food and beverage options, along with unique one-of-a-kind gifts for the holiday season.

The Medford Sunrise Rotary (MSR) was this year’s festival organizer. Linda Mackey, President Elect, explained how her organization got involved.

“It used to be run by the Medford Business Association and they decided not to do it anymore, about six years ago,” Mackey said.

“So, we picked it up.”

Mackey is a charter member of the Medford Sunrise Rotary. She and her family have called Medford home for the last 20 years after moving from Illinois.

“We loved it - the minute we saw it,” Mackey said, citing “The quaintness of the town.”

Always looking to add to the tradition of the Dickens Festival, this year MSR added jugglers,

a pony ride station, moon bounce and Olaf character.

“The kids love it,” Mackey said. “The families love it. We love it.”

Offering the community a “family friendly” event remains the primary focus of organizers and businesses alike. This year there was a platform stage erected, spotlighting members of the NJ School of Music, Voorhees Ballet Theatre, Shawnee High School Singers, Ava Cravens and the Moorestown Jazz Students, performing hours of non-stop music and art performances for the crowd to enjoy. Medford Boy Scout Troop 26 sponsored an outside movie screen where parents and kids could enjoy animated movies while munching on sweet treats and sipping hot cocoa.

Local businesses used this event to thank many of their long-standing clients for their year-round patronage, along with attracting new customers to better understand the products and services they offer the local communities. Many stores offer complimentary drinks, snacks and sundry promotional items to broaden their exposure within the town.

Pat Worley, owner of Twilight Blue Photography and a Medford Lakes resident for nearly 25 years, opened her gallery space (6 S. Main Street) to guests looking to purchase fine

art photography or inquire about the other photography services she offers.

Worley has participated in the last four festivals. “My fondest memory is really a collective thought,” Worley said. “I truly enjoy seeing all the new people come through the exhibit and talking with them.”

This festival is important for business owners such as Worley, trying to compete with other service-oriented businesses.

“Since my gallery is an office building, and not a regular store front, the only time a large number of people come into the gallery is when we have ArtWalk on Main or the Medford festivals,” Worley said. “I’m always happy when new people come in during Dickens. To me, Dickens kicks off the holiday season.”

The annual Dickens Festival allows us to briefly step back in time for just a few hours.

It provides us all with a timely reminder of the importance of community and holiday spirit in an age when, living tethered to technology and within an instantaneous lifestyle, we need it the most.

You can read more about the Medford Sunrise Rotary and the good community service work they provide here at http://medfordsunriserotary.org/

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN Characters from Disney’s movie Frozen, Olaf, Elsa and Anna left spirits of Medford’s Residents.

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN The Lamborn family and friend, Tori and dog Leo, enjoy “hanging-out” at the Medford event.

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN Hours of entertainment were provided by various groups during the festival.

Santa and Mrs. Claus share the spirit of the season.

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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Operation Yellow Ribbon of South Jersey - Helping Soldiers Abroad, Begins at Home

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN

Corporate partners present a gift of $5,000 to support Operation Yellow Ribbon for our troops.

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN Sally Stenson, a veteran, takes pride in serving as an Operation Yellow Ribbon member.

By Scott Kern

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

MEDFORD—Upon meeting Dave Silver, his outward appearance and demeanor suggest middle-aged dad, friendly neighbor and devoted husband. All of these qualities are true. What people may not know is that he is also the President of Operation Yellow Ribbon of South Jersey (OYRSJ). He is trying to change that.

Originally founded in Marlton under the moniker “The Yellow Ribbon Club”, Silver first became involved with this group in 2009.

When this organization ceased to exist in 2012, Silver with the help of others continued their efforts renaming the new organization – Operation Yellow Ribbon of South Jersey (OYRSJ).

“I was naïve that the military even existed,” Silver said. “I was born and bred to go to school, to get grades, to go to college, to get a job. I just love my freedom. I see the sacrifices these families and these brave men and women are making, over 15 years in Afghanistan and over 13 years in Iraq. I just want to give back.”

Give back. That’s exactly what Silver and his roughly 30 full-time volunteers do on a weekly and monthly basis throughout the calendar year.

“I have volunteers that give 10-20 hours a week,” Silver said. “People give whatever time they can. No one gets paid a dime.”

The culmination of these efforts are best exemplified during their annual Holiday Cookie/Baked Goods Drive that took place earlier this month in Medford.

With the help of corporate sponsors: Chick-fil-A, Rabbit’s Family Marlton Shop Rite, Verizon, and NJ Shares, along with their friends at the 8th Legislative District; Senator Dawn Marie Addiego and Assemblyman Joseph Howarth, they work to meet that objective.

Verizon and NJ Shares representatives were on hand and presented OYRSJ with a check in the amount of $5,000.

Additionally, Brian LeBlanc of the Atlantic Can Company in Westampton heard of the cause and donated Christmas themed cookie tins to package the cookies for distribution to the troops.

Who are these soldiers that OYRSJ help recognize?

Meet Jill Lucas. Lucas’s son, Sean, received the “Rock Star Welcome Home” treatment upon his return from Afghanistan. He served in the Army.

“The Warrior Watch Riders greeted him at the nursing home where his Grandmother lives,” Lucas said. “They escorted him from Lumberton to Burlington Township. The motorcycle riders were joined by members of

PHOTO BY SCOTT KERN When a loved one retruns home, Operation Yellow Ribbon of South Jersey (OYRSJ) is here to welcome them. the Burlington County police department arriving at their home on Beverly Road.

Friends, family and neighbors had gathered. Town Council was there, including three of the members who had known Sean during his school years. He got citations from the State, different VFWs, American Legion. It was just a great day.”

Sally Stenton served in Afghanistan as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) with the Air Force from May 2010 until May 2011, when she received her first care package.

“Lawyers are often not popular, but I became the most popular person in my wing when these boxes would come through,” Stenton said. “They were so great. They were such a morale booster.”

Later that year, Stenton lost her dear friend Frank Bryant along with eight other airmen who were killed in action. When she returned home to Cherry Hill on Memorial Day weekend in 2011, only three weeks after the massacre, she came home to her very own welcome home surprise celebration.

“They did it at the Woodcrest Fire Station,” Stenton said. “I had no idea. I got this amazing Rock Star Welcome Home. My mom was there.

I wear this dog tag. My mom was a World War II Veteran. That’s when I met Dave Silver who

is truly a personal hero of mine. What he does for the troops is amazing. I felt such love and gratitude.”

Today, she proudly displays her silver dog tags along with her mom’s gold ones. When Stenton retired in 2014, she began to volunteer for OYRSJ. She loves giving back to others and has made connections with total strangers she now considers “family.”

“I look forward to the day when Yellow Ribbon can just be a family of people that have done good things and we don’t send any more care packages because everyone is home,” she said.

This month’s efforts culminated in OYRSJ donating 6,259 pounds of food and supplies consisting of 216 large care packages of food, holiday treats and stocking stuffers for the troops overseas.

The OYRSJ also held a Care Package Drive on Dec. 17 and 18 at the Shop Rite located in Marlton.

Check out their website at www.Operation YellowRibbonSouthJersey.org or contact them at OperationYellowRibbonSJ@gmail.com to notify OYRSJ when a loved one has returned home from serving overseas or if your wish to volunteer and make a difference.

OYRSJ is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization registered in the state of New Jersey. They are actively looking for corporate sponsorship to help defray operations costs.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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Santa Visits Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Larry Stern “hits it out of the park” as Santa.

By Judy Cohen Minches For the Pine Barrens Tribune

FT. DIX–Santa may have had more fun than all the wide-eyed kids combined who came to see him on Dec. 13 at the Jim Saxton Community Center, located at the Joint Base McGuire, Dix, Lakehurst.

Although an annual holiday event, this is the first time that Larry Stern—a pest-control officer charged with taking care of military families by keeping their housing free from pests—donned Santa’s heavy red suit and burly white beard.

Stern, a man of the Jewish faith, said he was “ecstatic” when he was offered the opportunity to morph into Santa for an afternoon and to celebrate the holidays with all the branches of the military and related civilians coming together.

He was awed even before his stint began by

the festive atmosphere that employees of United Communities (the company which owns McGuire-Dix private family housing) had created in hosting the party.

About 100 families with kids ranging in age from three months to 14-years stopped by, delving into the large collection of gifts from the toy drive, baked goods, freshly made popcorn, and lots more. A designated photo area for Santa’s pictures and holiday music in the background further created the merry atmosphere.

Stern said he experienced an “emotional tremor” when he saw the faces on the children once he [Santa] came into their view.

“Hearing some shout, ’Mommy, there’s Santa!’ or ‘Mommy, Santa waved at me!’” was thrilling,” Stern said. “Lots of kids jumped on my lap as soon as they could. I got hugged, kissed, high-fived and lots of smiles.”

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Stern said that while many kids looked happy, squeals of fear came out of the mouths of others. He also noted that when the children were scared, parents too had angst, wanting to relieve their kids’ traumatic experience [of seeing Santa]. Some asked him to “hang on” while photos were taken; others removed their scared children while leaving an older sibling on his lap to enjoy the occasion.

Stern, who has two grown daughters, said several parents asked if he had experience holding infants. It was clear that fathers especially were concerned that Santa could drop their children.

“I assured them that a man of my age, over 200 years old, had plenty of child rearing practice,” Stern joked.

At almost 65 years old, Stern said that his work with the military has brought to mind the sad realization that he “cannot remember if our

world was ever at peace.”

His oasis during off-work hours is his garage, where he has found his own personal serenity in a unique hobby that allows him to decompress after a day on the base.

“I transform dirty, disgusting and oily steel into wine rack sculptures,” said Stern. “I bend, coil, weld, decorate, paint, sign and date my craft and am always surprised with the finished product.”

His online gallery at www.mrvinerack.com shows his right brain at work.

“Santa is the universal joy giver, a symbolic figure of love and tenderness,” Stern said.

Spreading joy to all these children and their families was a very special honor for him.

“I try to give all that I have in the hopes of making a difference,” Stern said, and the time he was Santa will always stand out as “one of those days I hit it out of the park.”

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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Veteran Pemberton Choir Director Marks Retirement With 109th Concert

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—Back in September 1979, a new, probably nervous teacher, stood at a podium facing her first class of pupils at the high school here. What she and her students thought can only be imagined now.

But last Friday night, that distinguished career came to a thrilling end at the annual Christmas concert, the 109th concert at the school led by Gayle Rubinstein.

Again, the thoughts that crossed the minds of all those involved can’t be fully expressed.

Respect and liking, of course, even love. But there’s sadness at the end of such a fine career.

Certainly, some regrets. But there also has to be

deep satisfaction, not only for Rubinstein, but for those students she taught so ably for 37½ years.

The most telling proof of this was the presence on Friday of well over 150 choir alumni taking part, several of whom flew some distance to join the younger singers. One came from Germany. The alumni met at 5 p.m. last Friday to rehearse, just prior to the concert.

Rubinstein can take pride in her students’ accomplishments, including those who have, in a sense, taken up the baton and are, themselves, now teaching a younger generation. Two students have made it to Broadway.

But as in all real life, there are remembrances of darker moments, as well. She recalls a student suicide and a fatal auto accident. That was on

Arney’s Mount Road, which continues to take a toll today.

There was also one moment of wild hilarity.

Rubinstein was rehearsing with students when she lost her balance. As she put it, “As a short person, I was having trouble seeing some of my singers. The school woodshop students built me a huge platform.”

Perhaps directing overenthusiastically, “I lost my balance and fell off the platform.” No serious injury resulted.

Rubinstein is a native of Highland Park and a Trenton State graduate.

Her biggest “like” is interacting with her students. Conversely, Rubinstein’s biggest “dislike” is the ever-increasing load of paper work and state testing. She says it cuts into teaching and preparation time.

Another peeve is increasing technology use by students. She cites cell phones as a particular bane.

Rubinstein’s own musical tastes run a wide gamut: classical of course, but also gospel singing. She credits her students turning her on to that genre, saying, with a chuckle, it wasn’t something she had been exposed to in her youth.

She says she has no specific plans for retirement and will just “wing it.”

Rubinstein will be succeeded by fellow music teacher Christina Pinto, wife of Mike Pinto, Coordinator of Communications Services.

Pemberton High School Choir Director Ends Career in Brilliant Finale

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—A triumph! That is the only English word that correctly describes the Winter Concert at the local high school last Friday night. Brilliant, majestic or a tour de force all seem inadequate.

While it was a joint performance by Pemberton’s Concert Band and Concert Choir and both performed with distinction, the evening clearly belonged to Gayle Rubinstein, who retired this week after 37½ years, all spent here. It was her 109th concert.

In addition to the nearly 100 members of the current choir, more than 150 alumni took part. The oldest alumni member was Joyce Nicholson, class of 1980.

The entire evening was one of outstanding music, from the moment the audience entered the auditorium lobby to the finale, more than two hours later.

The lobby quartet was excellent. They

appeared to be adults and many mistook them for faculty. Actually, all were students, which made their performance all the more impressive.

Kudos go to Anthony Joseph, trumpet; Nina Moncion, French horn; Taylor Curlis, trombone and Heather Ockens, tuba.

Even while arriving 30 minutes early, the auditorium was nearly packed.

The Concert Band performed first, with four selections. Their opening work, “Thematic Variations on Dona Nobis Pacem”, was excellent. This was followed by “Whisper to Their Souls,” based on “Greensleeves,” “March of the Toys” and “Sleigh Ride,” all crowd favorites.

Then it was time for the Select Women’s Ensemble. All the young ladies were in formal black gowns and looked lovely. Their first two numbers, “And the Angels Sang” and “Breath of Heaven” were outstanding.

This was followed by a complete change of pace, a deliberately sultry “Santa Baby,”

Angelic Melodies by the Concert Band.

Retiring Gail Rubinstein shares the emotion of her last concert.

PHOTO BY TOM WALKER

PHOTO BY TOM WALKER

subtitled, “For all our hubba-hubba moments.”

Next was “Mary, Did You Know?” and an ethereal “Blessing in the Leaving,” dedicated to the memory of Dianne Hoyt, a math teacher. It left the audience almost silent.

After that, it was time for a change of pace, which was amply handled by a male group, the Testostertones. They sang a trio of works, “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” from Disney’s “Mulan,” “Legacy” and, in nearly perfect Italian, “O, Sole Mio,” leading to intermission.

Following the break came the most unusual work of all, a version of Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik,” with words. Not actually words, as such, but sounds, mostly “Fa, La, La,” which brought roars of approval from the audience.

This was followed by “Glow” and the Nigerian “Betelehemu”, ”No Time,” and a jaunty “Walk in Jerusalem.”

Then, for a finale, the alumni poured onto the stage for three works. All were splendid: “Christmas in Three Minutes” and “Bridge Over

Troubled Water,” before, what else, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.”

Along with the rest of the performance, it was wonderful and seemingly mesmerized the audience, who, at its conclusion, rocked the auditorium with applause and shouting.

I heard the same work performed two days later at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. It was hard to say which performance was better.

A crowd immediately surrounded Rubinstein, exchanging hugs and best wishes for close to a half hour. But little by little the numbers slipped away and she quietly walked behind the stage.

Her outstanding career had ended.

One final note. The concert program was truly a work of art. It included names of all the performers, past and present, photos of her career spanning the entire time, two pages of reminiscences from singers, and three pages of memories from Rubinstein.

Her able successor, Christina Pinto, will be stepping into a very large pair of shoes.

“Blessings in the Leaving”– Leaves audience almost silent.

A stunning performance by the Joint Choir.

PHOTO BY TOM WALKER

PHOTO BY TOM WALKER

Saturday, December 24, 2016

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

Seniors Celebrate Christmas at Garden State Diner

By Ebba Liguori

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON–An annual tradition for Pemberton Township seniors is the Christmas Party at Garden State Diner in nearby Wrightstown. Last Saturday 130 seniors gathered at the diner in spite of the inclement weather. The morning dawned very rainy with some snow and ice and seniors were telephoning the diner to ask if the party had been canceled. Because the weather was predicted to clear up by noon and the dinner was scheduled at noon, the decision was made to continue with the celebration.

By 10 a.m. a few seniors had arrived to enjoy an early breakfast to begin the day. By 11 a.m. the staff was worried that there could be food wasted if they continued on with the plans.

Very few had called to send regrets, so food was prepared for more than 100 seniors. By 11:30 a.m. at least 120 seniors had arrived and the dining room was full. Later, the sun was almost shining as seniors left the diner with very happy faces and full tummies.

“Side Car Charlie” arrived before 11 a.m. and began setting up his music. “Side Car” is a talented musician who is also as good as a band, all in one piece. He has a large keyboard with some attachments and he is able to produce almost any music one could request. He specializes in music for dancing and easy listening. He performs Country and Oldies as well as Christmas Carols. He has a very mellow voice and knows the words to a multitude of songs.

He has entertained at a few local bars in the past and will do private parties. His prices are excellent and very competitive, so do not be afraid to call him to spice up your next party.

The seniors have already reserved him for both the Valentines and Christmas parties in 2017.

If you are interested, “Side Car” can be contacted through his web site, www.sidecarcharlie.mysite.com or email at sidecarcharlie@musician.org . His phone is 609-893-0144. He is local and the seniors highly recommend him for parties, Many seniors were up and dancing throughout the party, slow to fast and even the twist.

The meal was fantastic and began with a fresh fruit cup. This is a great way to begin a feast.

Soon the salads with the house dressing were brought to the table. Before long, homemade vegetable soup was served. In between all these courses, seniors were up and dancing or visiting with each other. Some seniors are only able to participate in a dinner locally as they have no transportation. Friends get together and pick up friends and there is a great opportunity to

socialize. Very soon the entrees were brought out. Choices were prime rib of beef, and what a large portion was served, half a roasted chicken and again the portions were very large, and a stuffed flounder with multiple pieces of fish that were fully stuffed. All the meals were superb and tasty and portions super large. No one left without a “doggy bag.” A large baked potato was served and family-style steamed carrots were available. Of course, their famous cinnamon and cheese rolls were brought piping hot to the tables. Dessert was finally served, whipped cream layer cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. ​ There were a multitude of door prizes donated. Mayor Dave Patriarca sent in a large box of prizes since he was unable to attend this year. Senior Services Director, Paula Kosko, attended and brought numerous prizes. Some seniors also donated prizes. Helga Rischewski, John Ward, and Fred Liguori each donated several. Seniors were delighted at the many choices and happily brought their winnings home. Between the prizes, the excellent food and the terrific music, this was one of the many memorable parties celebrated by Pemberton seniors.

The group will return to the Garden State Diner for the annual Valentine’s Day party and “Side Car Charlie” has already agreed to play for the group. The menu will remain the same as these are the favorites of most of the seniors. Tickets are for sale for this next event and will be available at the senior center daily between 9 a.m. and noon. Seating is limited to 120.

The center will be closed on Friday and Monday for the Christmas holiday. The center will be open Tuesday through Friday with numerous activities scheduled. On Tuesday, Margaret Graiff will visit the center with Bingo in the morning. Wednesday, there will be a trip to the Delaware Park Casino followed by late lunch at the Old Country Buffet. The group will then head to the Wilmington and Western Railroad and a holiday lights tour. The neighbors along the rail route have decorated their back yards for the season with holiday lights. Riders will able to view the many displays along the route. The seniors will then head back to Browns Mills with arrival scheduled before 9 p.m. All seats are sold out. There is always a chance for a last-minute cancellation, so a wait list is maintained.

Thursday, seniors will go to Aspen Hills for a buffet breakfast and another morning of Bingo.

Aspen Hills provides this Bingo and breakfast as part of their Community Relations Program.

Reservations are required because seating is limited. Signups are held the first week of each month until space is full.

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PAGE 9

PINE KNOTS COLUMN St Ann’s Church Choir visits Aspen Hills with Christmas Caroling

By Ebba Liguori

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON–St. Ann’s Choir has a long-standing tradition of visiting Aspen Hills, formerly known as Buttonwood, on the third Sunday of December. This tradition began in the 1970s and has continued uninterrupted through the years. The choir members may change, but the choir continues to remain faithful to the residents of Aspen Hills.

Members begin arriving about 1 p.m. and set up with song sheets for all to join in.

There are bags and boxes of cookies ready to be served to residents. There are bananas for slicing and sprinkles to spread and members begin slicing and scooping. Soon close to 100 ice-cream sundaes have been completed and served to residents. Trays of cookies are passed around the room and everyone has a chance of their favorite.

Leon Zankiw, One of the local senior citizen residents of Aspen was celebrating his birthday with a number of his relatives. The choir sang a lively rendition of “Happy Birthday” to help Zankiw celebrate.

The residents seemed happy to join in the

song and good wishes. Everyone clapped and cheered loudly as the song was completed.

St. Ann’s Church in Browns Mills has been visiting the facility on a regular basis through the years. Once a month, Father Edwin Mathias visits and says a Mass for the residents. He takes time to visit with those wanting to talk with a priest. Eucharistic Ministers visit the facility on a regular basis to give communion to residents, but the monthly mass is a long-standing tradition. The youth of the parish have been involved through the years with the “monthly social” when residents are treated to cookies and sundaes.

Christmas is just one example of the outreach to Aspen Hills. As church organist, I (writer, Ebba Liguori) provides piano music during the monthly mass, and accompaniment for the annual Christmas Caroling event. The St. Ann’s Choir numbers more than 20 people. The choir has made two CD’s of music. The first contains some favorite hymns of the choir and the second contains a selection of favorite Christmas music.

These CD’s are available at St. Ann’s Church in Browns Mills, 22 Trenton Road or from any choir member. Each is priced at $10 and makes a nice Christmas gift for a loved one.

Two “First-Day Hikes” at Bass River State Forest

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

BASS RIVER–Begin the New Year with your choice of two free, guided, family-friendly hikes on Jan. 1, 2017 starting at 10 a.m. The “CCC Trail” is a shorter hike, about 3.5 miles, through pine plantations with stops at the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) memorial, the former CCC camp and the historic Contact Station now used as the Interpretive Center.

Option Number One: Meet at the Forest Office parking lot at 762 Stage Road. Children over 10 accompanied by a responsible adult are welcome. No pets are permitted with the exception of service animals.

Bass River State Forest officials suggest bringing water and snacks. However, hot chocolate and cookies will be served at the forest office at the end of the hike around 12:30 p.m. Attendees are asked to dress for the weather. Registration is not required, but is recommended so that individuals can be contacted with information in case of cancellation. Those interested in this activity are asked to call 609-296-1114 to register.

The “West Pine Plains Ramble” is a 7.4 mile hike in Bass River “North” which encompasses the West Pine Plains Natural Area and the “Pygmy Pines” – the world’s largest acreage of this globally rare forest community. Long sections of the hike will be through places

Merrry Christmas From e

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

where the mature trees are scarcely taller than the hikers themselves. The hike will traverse several ridges that will provide fantastic views of the surrounding area which is a rarity for this part of the state. The hike will pass Coyle Field – the New Jersey Forest Fire Service air attack base and possibly include a brief view of the facility.

Option Number Two: Meet along Route 72 (Barnegat Twp.) at the eastern boundary of Coyle Field. The location is approximately 10.4 miles east of the intersection of Route 72 and Route 70 and approximately 3.5 miles west of the intersection of NJ 72 and Ocean County Route 539. N 39 49.238 W 74 25.819 are the exact coordinates of the meeting location.

Children over 10 accompanied by a responsible adult are welcome. No pets are permitted with the exception of service animals. Attendees should bring water and snacks. There are no restrooms available. The hike will end around 1:30 p.m. Registration is required and capped at 35 participants. Those interested in this activity are asked to call 609-296-1114 to register. The hike is canceled if there is snow on the ground and/or it is raining or snowing.

The forest office will be open on New Year’s Day from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. for more information or to confirm in case of bad weather. Forest information and additional event information can be found at www.njparksandforests.org.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

FUN AND GAMES Are We There Yet?

By Lori Clinch

Lori Clinch was born and raised in North Platte, Nebraska, a hotbed of material for writers whose passion it is to make people laugh. Lori Clinch is the mother of four sons and the author of the book “Are We There Yet?”

A Dose of Tough Love From My Kids There are all sorts of things to worry about in the world today.

We have world peace to consider, global warming to ponder and certainly we must muse the thought of whether or not Putin helped Trump get elected.

Points to consider for sure and certainly topics for dinnertime discussion, if you’re fortunate enough to be dining with like minds.

I stay in touch with these subjects. I’m not ignorant, uncaring or oblivious. Yet, what has my undivided attention at this moment, what is at the forefront of my mind and has me complaining to no one in particular is this—the storage on my iPhone is full and I cannot do the things that I need to do.

It’s trivial, I know, yet it’s quite bothersome.

I cannot download apps or important information, and worse yet, I cannot take pictures.

Some might think it minuscule, but here we are in the heart of the Christmas season and I’m having to let one Kodak moment after another go undocumented.

Why, It’s a shutterbug’s nightmare!

I could go to settings and manage my storage, see what’s taking up all of my memory and click things away like it’s my job. But I don’t want to. More importantly, I don’t know how.

I am fortunate enough to have four brilliant and very techy sons. They have their finger on the pulse of technology, are a step ahead of the game and could solve “Mom problems” with a mere couple of clicks and an ounce of ingenuity.

Alas, they will not. When I hand them my phone, they become mystified and shocked at the amount of little red do-hickeys in the corners of my apps that apparently indicate I have unfinished business.

“Look at this!” one will exclaim as he draws his brothers in. “She has 72 unread text messages, 16 Snaps and apparently hasn’t looked at her reminders for the better part of

a week!”

Since I’m convinced that my lack of storage has nothing to do with my Snaps or apps for that matter, I try to keep whatever son I’ve corralled for the time being, on task. But to no avail.

“You have 712 notifications on Pinterest, 475 on Dropbox and do you even have an inkling of what you’re doing with Twitter?”

“I just want to take pictures!” I say in my defense. “Is that too much to ask?”

Ultimately, they go into a very complicated lecture that commences with, “All you have to do is…” I would tell you what they say after that, except that I mentally check out at this moment and hear nothing but, “Blah blah blah.”

They could do these things for me, you understand, but they want me to be “grown up enough” to learn how to do it myself.

Typically, I offer up a rebuttal to this argument by reminding them of things I’ve done for them throughout the years that are just as important - laundry, cooking and homework!

Not to mention the wonderful childhood that I gave them.

“What about the Cloud?” I asked during our most recent conversation concerning the lack of storage on my phone.

“What about it?” asked my son.

“Perhaps I could use the Cloud to transfer all of my pictures to our main computer and then Cloud them back if I need them on my phone.”

“Do you even know what the Cloud is?”

“It’s a type of Internet based computing that provides shared computer processing resources and data to computers and other devices on demand?”

“She has no memory, yet this is the type of stuff that she keeps in her head?” he responded.

They’ll all be home for Christmas break in a day or two, and I’ll tell you this—unless they can figure out a way for the Cloud to help them with their laundry, they’ll be doing it all by themselves.

© 2016 LORI CLINCH

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C R O S S W O R D

ACROSS 1 Roam 4 Got ready for company, perhaps 9 Norse shape-shifter 13 Word often following “further” 14 One adopting a puppy, say 15 The Tempter 16 Trivial amount 17 *Bargain dairy product?

19 Go out 20 Dedicated lines 21 Eliminates completely 22 Bar supply 24 Farm cries 25 Vessel with a spout 26 Database command 27 Spots 30 __ of roses 32 *Nickname for a roller coaster highlight?

34 Reclined 35 Easily provoked 36 Soap containing ground pumice 37 *Security workers asleep on the job?

39 Only Dwarf without a beard 40 Had 41 Goes after

P U Z Z L E

42 Oath for toondom’s Dick Dastardly 43 Provide money for 44 It’s named for a trapeze artist 47 Turkish tabby 50 Deaden, as a piano string 51 Reason for an extra period 52 *Really hot cold drink?

54 Violin ending 55 Cuckoopints, e.g.

56 Merge 57 “Well now!”

58 Bar offerings 59 It’s a stunner 60 Reject DOWN 1 They may be noble 2 __ Reader 3 Holiday rate, perhaps 4 Loser-to-be?

5 Stray 6 Arab potentate 7 Muscle mag display 8 Green Day drummer __ Cool 9 Lorenzo of “Renegade” 10 Man with rising aspirations?

11 Iron-rich cabbage 12 Signs

15 Layered clouds 18 Neighboring 23 Bluegrass characteristic 24 Transvaal settlers 26 Shakes off 27 2002 Cage/Streep film 28 Honky-tonk 29 Fix, in a way 30 Goya’s “The Duchess of __” 31 Stretched 32 Overused 33 Unsportsmanlike look 35 Regional animal life 38 Seizes unlawfully 39 Medicine dispenser, and, in anotherway, a hint to the answers to starred clues 42 Bump at the office, maybe 43 Bar heads 44 Blue gem, briefly 45 Hindu sage 46 Withdrawal process 47 Open a touch 48 Not 49 Kindergarten staple 50 Spanish lady 53 Hardware item

S U D O K U

@PineBarrensNews ANSWERS ON PAGE 15

Saturday, December 24, 2016

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PAGE 11

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

CLASSIFIEDS Submit a Classified! E-mail sales@pinebarrenstribune.com to receive a form and pricing.

Help Wanted

Pine Barrens Tribune, LLC– Searching for a sales representative. The right candidate will be highly organized, collaboAutomobiles/Trucks rative, and creative closer who thrives in Rears 4x4 F-250 1979. 410-gears not a deadline driven sales environment and complete. 1 axle missing. $450, 66 bird demonstrates a passion for both print and 390 C.U. IN. Motor did run. $400. digital advertising sales. The job includes 856-371-5076. Fred. prospecting leads, making calls, daily territory travel, setting up appointments, and the use of technology. Previous newspaAuto Parts and Svcs per and/or sales experience is a plus, but Phillips Heat Inc. – Part-time/ full-time/ not necessary. Strong face-to-face written, seasonal home oil delivery, CDL/ tanker/ and verbal communication skills with an air breaks/ hazmat, good driving record, eye for detail are a must. Candidates must Call (609) 859-8654 ask for Bill. possess a valid drivers license and a reliable vehicle. Please include your resume, cover letters, and professional references Farm Equipment and send to letters@pinebarrenstribune.

1948 Farmall Cub Tractor with belly com. Competitive salary plus comission mower. Excellent condition. Call 609- with opportunity for advancement.

758-2260.

Pine Barrens Media, LLC– Searching for freelance journalist/reporter with strong General Merchandising areporting skills and great storytelling Genuine Down Comforter King. Orig. abilities to join the Pine Barrens Tribune Tag. Excellent condition. Orig. $500. news team! The ideal candidate will have excellent news judgment and be able to Now $150. 609-790-6305.

develop sources to allow them to break major stories both in-print and online. We are seeking a motivated, energetic, creative and aggressive reporter who can think and preform outside the box. The candidate should be able to develop story ideas and gather information for the newspaper and website, have sound writing skills, a great work ethic, strong interpersonal skills, and a can-do attitude. The best person for this job will have excellent writing skills and thrive on breaking stories. Video editing, photographic editing, and graphic artwork experience is a huge plus, but not required. A college degree in Journalism / Mass communications or related field of study is required. The average work schedule will include evenings and weekends. Please include your resume, cover letter, three writing samples, and professional references and send to letters@pinebarrenstribune.com Pine Barrens Media, LLC–Accepting applications for a newspaper delivery driver to work in the Burlington County area. This is a great part-time income opportunity for a motivated

individual. A personal vehicle is necessary and a large van, cargo van, SUV, or extended cab pickup truck is preferred. Working hours may vary depending upon delivery arrival time. The ideal candidate should be available Thursday through Saturday.

Responsibilities include lifting up to 25 pounds and delivering newspapers to racks and local businesses. Excellent reading, comprehension, organizational, and written and verbal skills are required. A valid drivers license, insurance card, and reliable transportation is a must! Please call 609-801-2392 and ask for George. The pay rate is competitive for new hires.

Miscellaneous Brotherton Indian Tribal Offices Brotherton Indian Reservation, Tribal Lands Office of the Chief Brotherton Indian Reservation Indian Mills, New Jersey 08088 Attention Dr. Sam Beeler, Chief 973-222-1920 973-432-8894 Experienced, respectful outdoorsman seeks permission to help remove problem beavers in your area only. Please call George at 856-784-2891. Thank you.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 12

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

AUTOMOTIVE New Vehicle Buying Guide Compiled by Motor Matters

E-mail Questions To: info@motormatters.com Mail Questions To: PO Box 3305, Wilmington, DE 19804

2017 RAM 1500

For 2017, Ram introduces a new special-edition Night package for the 1500 model that gives truck enthusiasts straight - from - the - factory customized looks.

Based on the Sport model, Night adds blacked-out features, including wheels, grille and badging, to pump up the already bold visual presence of the Ram’s monochromatic performance package.

The Ram 1500 Night starts with key Sport appearance cues, including body-color fascia and body-color rear bumper with dual chrome exhaust tips, body-color power-folding mirrors and door handles. Also, adopted from the Sport, are black-bezel bi-functional projector headlamps with LED marker lights and black-bezel tail lamps to match forward lighting.

The Night package is available on Regular Cab, Quad Cab and Crew Cab 1500 Sport models, in both 2WD and 4WD, long and short bed lengths and with a choice of V-6 or HEMI V-8 engines.

A list of options and upgrades are available on Night editions, including the lighted and lockable RamBox cargo management system with adjustable

tie-down cleats and dual-purpose bed extender/divider, Sport performance hood and Black running boards.

Mopar performance parts options include a cat-back exhaust and cold-air intake. The 1500’s link-coil suspension can be enhanced with the addition of an optional Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension System with multiple driver-selectable ride heights and load leveling features.

The 2017 Ram 1500 features fuel-saving systems, including first-insegment technologies such as thermal management system, pulse-width modulation and active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension.

Ram engine options include: 3.0 liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine, featuring 240 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque; 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with 305 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. of torque; 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque.

Base model estimated mpg: 17/25 Estimated starting price: $26,295 Compiled by Motor Matters

2017 Dodge Ram 1500.

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*Offer ends February 28th, 2017, discount applies to Gutter Helmet and/or Helmet Heat, minimum job size applies. **Subject to qualifying credit approval, call for more details. Financing provided by 3rd parties unaffiliated with Lednor Corporation, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lenders, all subject to credit requirements, approval, and satisfactory completion of finance documents. Interest accrues during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid within the 18 months. Offer must be presented at time of consultation and subject to change without notice. Not valid with any other offers/promotions. Void where prohibited by law. †Helmet Heat is an optional self regulating heating element for Gutter Helmet. NJ Reg# 13VH04341800 © 2017 Lednor Corporation.

Saturday, December 24, 2016

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 13

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Diana Grover

REALTOR

Certified Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource Search for homes from any cell! Text DIANA1 to 87778

Removals Shrub Trimming

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at Home 2835A Route 206

P.O. Box 311 Medford, N.J. 08055

Columbus, NJ 08022 Office: (609) 456-4742 Fax: (609) 784-8061 Cell: (609) 647-7564 dianagrover@remax.net www.DianaGroverSellsHomes.com ww Each office is independently owned and operated

C: (856)-203-2872 PO Box 2402 Vincentown, New Jersey 08088

Robert H. Griscom Fully Insured

(609) 654-6602 NJ Lic. 13VH06395500

Safeguarding your home and environment since 1985 Commercial

Residential

Medford : (609) 953-5444 Tabernacle: (609) 268-1002 Cherry Hill: (856) 429-9934 Marlton: (856) 988-0518 Manahawkin / LBI: (609) 978-0505 SafeGuardPestServices@gmail.com

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$10 Watch Battery Service Watch Link Adjustment Services Watch Polishing Crystal Replacement General Watch Repair

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Sales Associate

2835 A Route 206 Columbus, NJ 08022 Direct Phone: (609) 456-4740 Email: JACKRYAN@REMAX.NET WWW.JACKSELLSNJHOMES.COM Office Phone: (609) 784-8021 Each office is independently owned and operated

BILL’S ODD JOBS AND LIGHT HAULING REMOVAL OF SHEDS, DECKS & OLD FENCING BRUSH HAULED ATTICS, BASEMENTS AND GARAGES CLEANED GENERAL HOUSE AND YARD CLEAN-UP FURNITURE HAULING

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Estate Clean Outs Barter Option Available

Sawmill

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We are a family owned business for over 50 years supplying top quality lumber products.

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Saturday, December 24, 2016

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PAGE 14

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

HEALTH

Dear Pharmacist

By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph.

Presbyopia A Normal Part of Aging, But Regular Eye Exams Recommended By the Mayo Clinic

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I’m 43 and have your eyes checked regularly. For adults who Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour started having trouble with my vision while don’t wear prescription glasses, have no Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions”. For more reading. I know this is common for someone my symptoms of eye trouble, and are at a low risk information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com. age. I do have “readers” that I sometimes use, for eye diseases, such as glaucoma, the but am hoping to put off regular glasses as long American Academy of Ophthalmology as possible. Am I doing harm by waiting? How recommends a baseline eye exam around age 40. often should I have my eyes checked?

After that, exams are recommended every two to ANSWER: It’s true that the vision changes four years between 40 and 54; every one to three you’re noticing are very common in people in years between 55 and 64; and every one to two their 40s. But you are not harming your eyes by years beginning at age 65.

Before the advent of synthetic compounds, This herb can support healthy cholesterol waiting to get reading glasses. You may find it If you have a family history of glaucoma or expensive medications and injections, the hu- ratios while decreasing platelet aggregation like useful to get an eye exam now, though, to see if other eye diseases, or if you have additional man body was accustomed to natural herbs a blood thinner. It can inhibit Angiotensin- glasses could be helpful and to check for other factors that put you at higher risk for eye proband spices. Our planet Earth has thousands of Converting Enzyme (ACE) acting similarly to eye problems. Regular eye exams are lems, you need eye exams more often. A typical healing plants that grew during biblical times. the drugs lisinopril and enalapril. recommended for adults beginning at age 40. schedule in that case would be every two to four Even though I am a pharmacist, I believe that Myrrh- Known as Commiphora myrrha; I As we age, our eyes gradually lose their ability years up to age 40; every one to three years for we can heal with what grows on Earth. Today keep this essential oil handy for cuts. It smells to focus on objects nearby. The people between ages 40 and 54; and every one to I’m listing 8 incredible herbs, all mentioned in awful, no lie, but it’s worth having because it’s medical term for this process is presbyopia. two years for age 55 and beyond. the bible, as well as their medicinal benefits: a strong antiseptic and anti-everything. It could It typically becomes noticeable in the early to Regular exams can help ensure your eye health Almonds- Known as Prunus dulcis, almonds help reduce infection by a parasite, bacteria mid-40s and continues to get worse through the by catching eye problems early, sometimes contain salicin which go on to form “salicylic or fungus. mid-60s. Many people become aware of before you notice any difference in your vision. acid.” This is the primary by-product of Olive- Known botanically as Olea europaea. presbyopia when vision seems blurry at a If you become aware of problems with your aspirin. We all know what aspirin is for, don’t The olive branch conveys a universal symbol of normal reading distance, and they have to hold vision, schedule an appointment with your eye we? Eating a handful of almonds each day peace. Olive oil contains oleic acid which is a reading material farther away to see it clearly. doctor as soon as possible, even if you’ve is like consuming natural aspirin. A study fatty acid. This compound works in conjunction Presbyopia is a normal part of aging for almost recently had an eye exam. published in The Journal of Nutrition found that with vitamin D to support immune health. everyone, and the process will continue If you have sudden loss of vision in one eye, almonds can decrease post-prandial (after Saffron- Known as Crocus sativus; saffron whether you get glasses or not. For someone in experience sudden hazy or blurred vision, or eating) blood acts like a natural antidepressant, anxiolytic and your situation who does not need prescription see flashes of light, black spots or halos around sugar, as well as insulin and free radical sedative. It contains many biologically glasses for other vision problems, like lights, contact your health care provider right damage. active compounds including crocin and nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, away. These could be symptoms of a serious Black Cumin- Known as Nigella sativa these safranal which protect your levels of dopamine, the over-the-counter reading glasses you are condition, such as glaucoma, stroke, or a retinal jet black seeds can be used to flavor bread and serotonin and norepinephrine. Because saffron using now may be all you need. tear or detachment. other baked goods. You can buy black cumin provides cofactors for the SOD enzyme, it may Most nonprescription reading glasses range in If changes in your vision start to interfere with seed oil as a dietary supplement which I often be helpful if you have an SOD polymorphism. power from plus-1.00 diopter to plus-3.00 your ability to do your day-to-day activities, or recommend for people dealing with Sage- This herb was studied on patients with diopter. When selecting these glasses, start with if you can no longer read easily with neurological problems. If your child had mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and the lowest power and work your way up until nonprescription glasses, make an appointment to intractable seizures, please mention Nigella researchers concluded that sage “produced you find the magnification that allows you to see your eye care professional. At that point, you sativa supplementation to your pediatrician a significantly better outcome on cognitive read easily. If you find that the reading glasses may need to get prescription glasses to correct because the research is easy to find, and very function.” Interestingly, sage was shown in are causing headaches, an eye exam is your vision so you can see comfortably. positive. lab studies to help reduce flare-ups of herpes- recommended.

Michael Mahr, M.D., Ophthalmology, Mayo Frankincense- Known as Boswellia serrata, related viruses such as cold sores and genital Even if you are able to see up close with non- Clinic, Rochester, Minn. this is a gummy resin that contains compounds herpes. prescription glasses, it’s still a good idea to have that might relieve joint pain by inhibiting the If you love this information, just write to me at SEEKING TALENTED MEN AND WOMEN inflammatory cytokines that lead to discomfort. ScriptEssentials@gmail.com and request your Research suggests that boswellia could improve own copy of “Medicinal Herbs from the Bible” WITH OUTSTANDING : ovarian and bladder health, and studies have ebook. I’ll send you the PDF as my gift for the already been conducted on people with those holidays. types of cancer producing positive results.

Garlic- I love roasted garlic on my pizza!

8 Incredible Medicinal Herbs from the Bible

This information is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose your condition.

For more information, please visit www.SuzyCohen.com. © 2016 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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HOME, GARDEN, AND FARMING Farm and Food File

By Alan Guebert

Alan Guebert is an award-winning ag journalist and expert who was raised on a 720-acre, 100cow southern Illinois dairy farm.

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25 Year Family Business

Howard’s Priceless Gift of Simple Giving The Christmas tree was a scrub cedar hacked from the edge of the woods that bordered the farm. Big-bulbed lights, strung in barber pole fashion, generated almost as much heat as the nearby wood stove. Yellowed Christmas cards, saved over the years and perched like doves in the untrimmed branches, served as ornaments.

“I believe this is the prettiest tree I’ve ever had,” Howard proclaimed as we stood in its glow. “And its smells good, too.”

The only scent evident to me was a mixture of wood smoke and the remains of a fried pork supper but I lied and said, “Sure does.”

Howard beckoned me to sit. We had shared this Christmas Day in the dairy barn and it was his request that we share a bit of the night, also.

He knew I was alone because my family, his employer, was visiting relatives. I knew he was alone because he was always alone, a bachelor for nearly 40 years.

“I’ll get us some Christmas cheer,” he offered as I sank into the sofa. In untied work shoes he shuffled toward the kitchen. A minute later, he returned with two water glasses filled with rhubarb wine. We raised them to the day.

“It’s been a good Christmas, ain’t it Allie-Boy,” he asked as he sat in a ladderback chair by the stove.

He had called me Allie Boy for as long as I could remember. I had taken to call him Hoard the Dairyman, after the title of a farm magazine my father subscribed to.

I nodded. It had been a good day. Two wobbly newborn calves greeted us when we arrived at the dairy barn 16 hours earlier.

Wet and shivering, we dried them with the past summer’s straw before showing them how to find breakfast at their mamas’ side. One was a bull, the other a heifer.

“We ought to name ‘em Mary and Joseph,” Howard now said as we rehashed the day, “on account of them being born today.”

Mary and Joseph? Generally, Howard had only one name for all cows: Succum. None of us knew what it meant or where it came from,

but from the time he arrived on the farm in 1965 every cow was always Succum and every heifer was always Little Succum. A group of cows or calves were simply Big Succums or Baby Succums.

“Mary and Joseph they will be,” I said approvingly.

Silence hung in the stale air. I reckoned that if you had bached it for 40 years, silence wasn’t a void that always needed to be filled. So I worked on my wine and said nothing. Howard reached for his pipe and the big red can of Velvet that had been my Christmas gift to him that morning.

“You want to roll yourself a smoke, Allie? I got some papers here.”

I shook off the offer.

“Yep,” Howard said as if to himself, “that’s the prettiest tree I’ve ever had. And this is shaping up to be the nicest Christmas I’ve ever had because you came by.”

I looked at the tree and then at the old man ringed in tobacco smoke staring at it and I felt sad. Not for him. I felt sad for me. I had agreed to come to his house to accommodate him, a favor for a hired man.

But he had not wanted a favor. All he had wanted was the chance to share his Christmas good fortune with me. He had some new wine, a warm fire, his best Christmas tree ever and week’s worth of tobacco. He was happy and he wanted to give me some of that happiness.

As I stared at the silhouette of Hoard the Dairyman in the glow of the Christmas lights I saw a man of great warmth, vast wealth and pure honesty. He didn’t have a checking account or credit card but he was far richer than the condescending college boy on his sofa.

“Well Hoard,” I said a very quiet minute later, “I better go. We both have got to be at the barn early tomorrow.”

He led me to the back door. “Don’t forget,” he said as I headed for the truck, “we’ll call those calves Mary and Joseph.”

Almost 30 Christmas Nights later, I have not forgotten two calves named Mary and Joseph and Howard’s priceless gift of simple giving.

© 1994 AG COMM. CROSSWORD

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