Pine Barrens Tribune Feb 4 2017

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

Vol. 1 - No. 23

Southeastern Burlington County’s News Leader

Southampton Resident and Boy Scout Troop 31 Honored For Patriotic Acts

February 4-10, 2017

Teacher Prevents Pupil From Choking

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—At last Thursday’s Pemberton Township School Board meeting, a surprise recognition ceremony was held for a first-year teacher who prevented a fourth-grade girl from choking. She may have saved her life.

The teacher is Ashley McMichael of Voorhees who works at the Denbo school. The incident happened on the day before Thanksgiving when classes had just ended. Students were already scrambling aboard buses for home.

McMichael noticed a girl, 9, who was in distress. She stepped to the girl’s side and asked her what was wrong. The girl was unable to answer clearly.

McMichael asked if she was choking. The girl nodded, “yes.”

Without delay, the teacher spun the girl around and began to apply the Heimlich maneuver.

After just a few seconds, the young girl spit out a piece of peppermint candy. It had a round

TEACHER>>PAGE 21

Tabernacle Committee Narrowly Supports Pipeline PHOTO BY RON HESTON Pictured from left to right: Butch Sharp, Julian Bozarth, Mayor James Young, Justin Danser, Kent Young, Mack Megee, Troop 31 Senior Patrol Leader Conner Heffernan, Scoutmaster of Troop 31 Jim Heffernan.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

SOUTHAMPTON–It was a trip that unintentionally gave purpose.

A little more than a year ago, Clarence “Butch” Sharp, a 76-year resident of Southampton, visited Ephrata, Pa. As he traveled through the center of the borough, he observed banners hanging from utility poles showcasing those who served or are serving in the military.

Upon further investigation, Sharp found out that the banners were developed through a fundraiser sponsored by the Ephrata Merchants Association and the Ephrata VFW. “I thought if I could get this in our township, that would be great,” Sharp said. “My father was a veteran, so that is why I was interested. I had four uncles in the service.”

Sharp took the idea back to the Junior Order of United American Mechanics (Junior OUAM) Council #17, a civic organization which meets regularly in the Vincentown section of Southampton.

He found that the “patriotic organization”, with a current membership of approximately 75 people, was in favor of spearheading the project.

“It caught on fire and went,” Sharp said.

On Jan. 19, 2016, Sharp made a presentation to the Southampton Township Committee.

He provided photographs of the banners hung throughout Ephrata to the committee.

Sharp asked for help in seeking the necessary permissions to hang the patriotic banners on the light poles in the Vincentown Village section of Southampton. Permission was needed from both the committee and PSE&G. He quickly got permission from both entities.

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The Junior OUAM Council #17 distributed brochures throughout the township seeking donations for the cause. Each banner cost $150.

Sharp thought the organization would receive enough money to purchase roughly 30 banners.

“We were able to purchase 204 banners,” he said. “Every pole in town got covered. We got more coming.”

The banners were created by Acme Lingo Flagpoles in Southampton. They were hung with the assistance of the Department of Public Works throughout five streets in the village.

They were on display from just before Memorial Day to Veterans Day. “The township was great,” Sharp said.

Each banner includes a picture, name, branch and era of service for each service member.

If a banner showcased a service member who

TROOP>>PAGE 19

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE– South Jersey Gas Company’s application to build a natural gas pipeline has been controversial. It has drawn hundreds of project proponents and opponents to Pinelands Commission meetings.

Last year, the commission voted down a memorandum of agreement which would have allowed for the construction of the new pipeline.

However, commission members opposing the project have, in many cases, been replaced by supporters. The commission is now reviewing a second application submitted by South Jersey Gas Company.

If approved, the pipeline will run for 22 miles, from Millville to an aging coal-powered generating station in the Beesley’s Point section of Upper Township. The majority of the line, 15 miles, would run through the Pinelands.

A resolution in support of the proposed natural gas pipeline to enhance reliability for electric

PIPELINE>>PAGE 20

Now Direct Mailed to Over 2,250 Homes in LeisureTowne

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LOCAL NEWS

All-Day Pipeline Hearing Does Little to Clear Air as Hundreds Wait in Rain and Wind

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—Over 300 speakers discussed the pros-and-cons of a proposed South Jersey Gas company pipeline, much of it which runs in the Pinelands during a nearly eight-hour hearing on Jan. 24. While there was strong support for the pipeline, about 80 percent were forceful and forthright in their opposition to the project.

Like so many Pinelands Commission activities, the hearing was often disorganized, almost to the point of chaos, especially in the morning portion of the meeting.

The first mishap was about the worst.

Following complaints over a recent meeting at the commission’s headquarters that most trying to attend the meeting could get no closer to it than an adjacent hallway, the commission rented space here at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

The church has a spacious and comfortable meeting room, which for a normal hearing would have been ideal. But there’s a catch. Its capacity is limited. Some at the hearing said 200, others, 260. Regardless, the room was totally inadequate for the estimated 600 plus who attempted to attend.

For critics of the commission, many of whom had warned them in advance that attendance would be at least 500, this was just further evidence of the government body trying to limit public participation in any way possible.

The meeting was slated to open at 9:30 a.m.

The day was rainy and very windy, yet the doors were not open until 9:20 a.m. The second-floor room filled in minutes and the doors were closed, with a N.J. state trooper barring entry.

Those left outside numbered at least 300.

There were many women with small children and some who were pregnant. While a few were able to enter, after some early comers left, hundreds were stuck in the rain, many for over three hours.

Even at 12:30 p.m., the waiting crowd outside numbered about 50-75.

Hours later, when the meeting finally staggered to an end at 5:20 p.m., two of the commissioners apologized to the audience, saying that perhaps a second session might be held to hear those who didn’t get a chance to speak.

There was the large state police contingent patrolling the premises. While they wouldn’t comment on their number, there appeared to be at least eight to 10 officers regularly patrolling, with a minimum of three in the meeting room itself.

Certainly, a police presence is needed at a meeting where tempers are certain to run high, but some thought this was overkill.

They were needed only once. Around 10:30 a.m., in the midst of testimony, a young woman in the back of the room stood and started screaming, “Shut it down, shut it down, shut it down” over and over again. A few others picked up the chant.

When she ignored police requests to stop and sit down, she was gently, but forcibly removed.

It turned out she was ejected, but not arrested.

About three hours later, she re-entered the room and sat quietly for another two hours. Ironically, she sat in one of the three back rows, heavily populated by union supporters. Both she and her union foes seemed to politely ignore each other.

That was the only issue of misbehavior throughout the meeting.

Nevertheless, the anger of those opposing the pipeline shouldn’t be underestimated. Many of the pipeline foes were biting and caustic in their remarks, both on the project and the commission itself. Large numbers waved and flourished signs in opposition.

Here’s a little background on the S.J. gas pipeline project. It is 22 miles long, with 15 miles in the Pines. It runs through Millville and is designed to supply the aging B.L.England coalfired power plant in Beesley’s Point. If the pipeline wins approval, chances of a second planned line will improve greatly.

The testimony began after hundreds signed up to speak. There were short breaks from time to time. After four or five hours, gaps appeared in the number of speakers called to the microphone. Near the end of the day, the gaps grew larger. Sometimes five, six or seven names were called, but those summoned had already left.

The quotes from the speakers are far too numerous to list in their entirety with names. Here are samplings of those who spoke, pipeline foes first, then supporters.

However, one speaker cannot remain nameless. He is Bob Johnson, a former Pinelands Commission member, who was kicked off the panel by Gov. Chris Christie (R-NJ) after voting against the pipeline. When he described his removal, Johnson won a standing ovation from the crowd.

The pipeline has actually been voted down three times in recent years. The last vote was a 7-7 draw as there was a vacancy on the panel.

But since the vote was to overturn an earlier defeat, the previous denial was upheld.

Interestingly, there was a noticeable difference in gender regarding the pipeline. Women were overwhelmingly opposed. Only one woman spoke in support, an official with the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce.

INDEX Automotive......................................23 Business Directory...........................11 Classifieds........................................18 Community......................................14 Fun and Games................................16

HEARING>>PAGE 20

Health ..............................................13 Home, Garden & Farming ............. 22 Local News....................................... 2 Opinion ............................................ 6 Scanner ............................................. 7

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State Police Called to ‘Suspicious Person’ Incident in Tabernacle

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE– A neighborhood here is on edge after a man used his vehicle to prevent a woman, who was accompanied by her son, from pulling out of her driveway on Jan. 24.

The incident happened just before 6:40 p.m. on Mulberry Court.

In a video tape of the incident obtained by the Pine Barrens Tribune, the son of Gregory and Karen Nixon goes outside to start his mother’s vehicle in the family’s driveway.

“He warmed it up to go to wrestling,” Gregory Nixon said.

Once he started the vehicle, the boy went back inside the home. He came back outside a few minutes later and sat in the passenger seat of the vehicle.

After he entered the vehicle, a gold-colored, four-door sedan was seen passing the home.

The driver of the sedan turned around at the end of the cul-de-sac and parked near the victim’s driveway with the lights of the vehicle turned off.

“He came back with his lights off and sat in front of the house,” Gregory Nixon said. “My wife came out and got into the car. She started to back out and the car moved up slowly.”

The driver of the sedan turned on his headlights and pulled up to the driveway. He blocked it off with his vehicle, preventing the family’s vehicle from being able to exit.

The man exited the sedan.

Gregory Nixon said his wife observed the man take something out of his vehicle. He approached Nixon’s vehicle with his right hand behind his back.

“She was afraid he was going to hit her with something and pulled the car forward,” Gregory

Nixon said. “She leaned on the horn.”

After hearing the car horn, Nixon walked outside to see what was going on and the man drove off. He said the man was wearing a blue flannel shirt and khakis. He said the man looked like he was in his 50s.

“My wife said he was acting very irrational,” Gregory Nixon said. “He walked in circles near a tree. He kept pointing at my son.”

After the incident, he reached out to his neighbors to see if they recognized the man. He said that two of his neighbors saw the man parked on Mulberry Court when they came home from work around 5 p.m.

“My neighbor said that he was sitting there for an hour and half between two mailboxes and trees before this happened,” Gregory Nixon said.

“Was he just scoping the neighborhood out or was he just getting to us first?”

The family has had difficulty getting the New Jersey State Police Red Lion Barracks to pursue an investigation into the incident.

Karen Nixon called 911 at 6:35 p.m. on Jan. 24. She was on the phone with Burlington County Central Dispatch for four minutes.

“I had three police cars and three troopers at my house,” Gregory Nixon said. “Two guys and one woman.”

He showed the state troopers video surveillance of the incident taken from cameras positioned outside his home.

After the state troopers left, he called 911 again about a half-hour later. He requested that the troopers return to his home so that he could show authorities clearer footage of the incident.

He said the state troopers did not respond.

“They didn’t come back,” he said. “They never called back.”

SUSPICIOUS>>PAGE 21

Saturday, February 4, 2017

Tabernacle Officials Hope to Merge Positions and Repair Oak Shade Road

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

TABERNACLE–Officials in Tabernacle are planning to improve a main thoroughfare, merge two positions, and rehab their buildings and grounds.

The Tabernacle Township Committee unanimously introduced an ordinance at their meeting on Jan. 23 which would combine the fire protection inspector and fire protection sub code official positions into a single position of fire inspector.

A second reading and a public hearing on the changes has been scheduled for Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

“Some time ago, as it was explained to me, those duties were divided,” said Township Solicitor Peter C. Lange Jr. “So, you have an inspector right now who performs the field inspections. You have another inspector who performs the reviews of the plans and specifications to ensure compliance with the uniform construction code.”

Officials believe the township will save $2,500 to $3,000 by hiring a person in a consolidated position. The salary range for the new position is $2,000 to $2,500.

“It is believed the township will save a fair amount of money by combining those positions,” Lange said. “It will require a reapplication amongst the individuals that currently discharge those duties. It is unusual in the first place to have those duties spread among two individuals.”

He cautioned that the changes will not apply to state related fire inspections or compliance issues because they are handled through a dif-

ferent position.

A second ordinance was unanimously introduced which will grant consent and permission to South Jersey Gas Company to use public streets to furnish gas for light, heat and power in the township.

A second reading and a public hearing on this proposed ordinance has also been scheduled for Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

The township granted a 50-year license to South Jersey Gas Company on Jan. 1, 1967 for the purpose of allowing the company to use municipal streets for their utilities.

The license expired on Jan. 1. If the ordinance passes on second reading next month, the license will be retroactive to the beginning of the new year.

The committee is leaning towards a five or 10year municipal consent agreement.

“I’d be more comfortable with five years,” said Committeewoman Kim Brown. “You can always revisit it. With 10, you are kind of locked in for 10.”

Township Administrator and Director of Public Works Douglas Cramer said that Verizon had a similar agreement granted in 1983 which is good until 2023.

Mayor Stephen Lee IV said the timeframe element in the proposed agreement will be discussed further during the scheduled public hearing.

Four resolutions that were on the meeting agenda were acted upon.

The committee authorized an execution of a shared-services agreement with Shamong Township for certified recycling coordinator

REPAIR>>PAGE 19

Seneca High School Students Collect 61 Pints of Blood and Participate in Other Activities

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG– Seneca High School students Allison Lyons and JJ Scarpello were selected to give a presentation to the Lenape Regional High School District Board of Education (LRHSD) on Jan. 18.

The two students shared highlights from academics, athletics, community service and school activities held at their high school during the first half of the 2016-2017 school year. They also previewed upcoming events that will happen as the second part of the school year continues to unfold.

“They just really show who we are and what we are about at Seneca High School,” Scarpello said.

The year kicked off with “Frosh Fest” which is a day for freshman to get to know the school and each other. The event was hosted by the Seneca High School’s Student Council and Government.

“Basically, in our school gymnasium, the kids are broken up into groups and they go through a couple of ice-breaker games,” Lyons said. “They get to ask any questions about fears. We also give them a tour of the school and take them to our activities fair where students are able to see previews of different clubs. They can also sign up there.”

In October, over 90 juniors and seniors participated in a Student Council blood drive. 61 pints of blood were collected.

“Each pint saves three people,” Scarpello said.

“We saved 183 lives with the blood that we donated from Seneca High School.”

42 students were first-time blood donors.

“It shows that people are willing to get out there and are willing to donate blood to help others,” Scarpello said. “We have another one coming up in February. We hope to have as many donors, if not more.”

The school also held a “Safe Trick-or-Treat” event. Parents in the community brought their children to the high school for an alternate and safe way for kids to trick-or-treat.

Different school clubs created themes which were on display to entertain guests. Students also collected canned food for the school’s food pantry. The canned food drive ended in November and 31 families picked up canned food.

Activities were also undertaken to raise awareness for breast cancer. Special pink t-shirts were sold at athletic games to raise money in support of the cause.

Seminars were offered to students during their Physical Education and Health classes to teach students about what not to say to people. Students were encouraged to stand up to bullying and discourage hateful philosophies.

“One of the things that we did is we made a link of chains,” Scarpello said. “Each kid was responsible for a strip of paper and they put down what they would do the next time they saw bullying. Everybody had great ideas as to how they would stop it and how they would step up.

They stapled it together and made a big, long chain. We had the chain up in our cafeteria and it went all the way across the length of it. It just shows that we are all together at Seneca. We are all here as a family to stand up against hate in our school.”

STUDENTS>>PAGE 21

PHOTO SUBMITTED Seneca High School’s Student Council sponsored a toy drive to support South Jersey children and families in need.

PHOTO SUBMITTED Seneca seniors Allison Lyons and JJ Scarpello spoke to the LRHSD BOE about various student activities at Seneca.

Saturday, February 4, 2017

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PAGE 5

LRHSD BOE to Prohibit Operation of Drones on Their Property With Few Exceptions

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

SHAMONG–The Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD) Board of Education is planning to move forward with a policy which prohibits the operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones or model aircraft, on district property with only a few exceptions.

The board unanimously approved the first reading of the policy on Jan. 18. A second reading is required before it can take effect.

Officials have been tight-lipped on what the policy is designed to accomplish and why they have proposed it. The board has also not publicly discussed drones at prior meetings.

The Pine Barrens Tribune obtained a copy of the proposed measure through an Open Public Records Act request.

“The LRHSD Board of Education prohibits the operation of UAS on LRHSD property, the launching or landing of UAS on LRHSD property, or flying of UAS over LRHSD property at all times,” the proposed measure reads in part.

“However, the LRHSD Board of Education may authorize the use of UAS by contractors on and/ or over school grounds for an approved district purpose.”

A contractor must own and operate the drone or model aircraft to obtain permission from the board. The contractor must also agree that no

UAS will be flown over people that are not directly involved with the flight and that the devices will never be out of their visual line of sight.

Any contractor seeking approval to fly an UAS on and/or over school grounds would be required to supply the board with an active Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilot Airman Certificate for the Proposed Pilot in Command (PIC), an active FAA UAS Registration Certificate for each UAS to be used, and a medical certification for the PIC. A contractor would also be required to submit proof of compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations pertaining to the operation of UAS. Additionally, the board would require a contractor to submit the manufacturer name, model and serial number for each proposed UAS that will be operated and flown along with a pre-flight checklist.

Contractor approval for the use of a UAS is also contingent upon the board receiving a signed hold-harmless agreement in favor of the LRHSD for any and all actions arising from the contractors use of the UAS on or over LRHSD property.

If the board approves the use of a UAS by a contractor, they would then dictate the minimum amount of insurance coverage necessary for the pilot to conduct a flight on district property.

Dr. Carol “Lynn” Birnbohm, superintendent of schools for the LRHSD, or her designee

Pemberton School Superintendent Discusses Possible Financial Cuts

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—With a 27-page agenda, those attending last Thursday’s Pemberton School Board meeting might have thought they were going to be in for a long night. They were wrong.

While the agenda was massive, much of it was routine. The major event was the listing of possible financial challenges ahead for the district.

There was also the recognition of a new teacher for possibly saving the life of a choking student (see separate story).

All nine members of the board were present.

After spending the first 20 minutes in executive session, but taking no action, here’s a list of what happened.

The meeting got off with a bang, as student Siobhan McGuinness came racing down the center aisle, shouting that action must be taken against that scoundrel, Prof. Harold Hill. It was, of course, a plug for the school’s upcoming production of “The Music Man.” McGuinness will play the female lead of Marian, the Librarian.

It’s going to run Feb. 3-5 in the school auditorium.

If Siobhan’s drama was a good sample of the play, it should be a real hit. The play was also touted by student representative Anthony Joseph.

A highlight of Superintendent Tony Trongone’s report was that math testing will be done only once a year, instead of twice. Pemberton’s scores have been weak: this may be a move to concentrate efforts to boost scores.

Trongone’s also adding more advanced placement courses. He commented on Governor Chris Christie’s (R-NJ) plan to equalize school spending across the state. While on the surface, this may seem fair, it also means that a disadvantaged district, such as Pemberton, would lose massive funding.

The superintendent cited an annual loss of $52

million for the district. Of course, all of this will need legislative approval. With the governor in his last year in office and his approval ratings in the high teens (he stands 49th in gubernatorial approval ranking), none of this is guaranteed.

Trongone also cited a study that declared that in one of four low-ranked schools, one-third of the students come from minority and/or financially distressed families.

There were reports by all the board committees. All were routine. There were also several pages of changed or added curricula, but again, most were routine. They involved special education, high school, middle school and elementary grades.

In the high school, English honors I-IV, Algebra I-III, Calculus and Geometry honors, U.S. History I-II honors and both French and German honors I-IV are offered.

Approval of several grade-school assemblies was given, most with moderate costs. A new Jazz club was authorized. It will be led by Band teacher Ray Quattrochi.

A host of professional improvement courses were approved. One, in particular, seems interesting. It’s called “Motivating the Unmotivated: Practical Strategies for Teaching the Hard-to-Reach Student.” The workshop will be offered in Cherry Hill in March. Two Harker-Wylie teachers, Cherie Spils and Karyn Burke will attend.

Another workshop is “Effectively Dealing with Disruptive Students: Practical, Classroom-Proven Techniques.” Bridgette Cieslinsky of Stackhouse will take part in that class.

Three student teachers and a speech pathologist were named. Field experience will be provided for one other person.

Home instruction tutors were also named and several current employees picked up additional duties at nominal fees.

FINANCIAL>>PAGE 21

would be permitted to authorize the use UAS

by LRHSD staff on and/over LRHSD property.

Faculty members would be required to make a formal proposal to Birnbohm. Faculty members would be ineligible if they do not hold an active FAA Remote Pilot Airman Certificate.

The proposal would have to include a pre-flight plan that covers the purpose, date, start/end time and location of the flight. The preflight plan would have to specify that the pilot is directly responsible for the safe operations of the UAS. It must also make clear that the only staff permitted to pilot a board-registered UAS are LRHSD approved PICs. Under no circumstances can the flight path be over people not directly involved with its operation.

Students would only able to pilot a drone when under the present and direct supervision of an LRHSD approved PIC. Birnbohm did not return messages seeking comment on the policy.

She also declined to comment on whether there had been safety incidents at the district’s five schools involving unmanned aircraft systems.

The proposed policy states that the board is concerned for the safety of all staff members, students, parents, community members and visitors while on school grounds.

“The LRHSD Board of Education recognizes the operation of an Unmanned Aircraft Systems

on or over LRHSD property presents a public safety issue as LRHSD property is populated during many hours of the day by students, staff members, parents and community members,” the proposed measure reads in part.

School districts in Fort Lee, East Rutherford, and Moorestown banned drones from flying, launching and landing on school grounds last year.

Members of the FAA have been visiting schools throughout the country to explain the details of drone registration and regulations to students.

FAA regulations for UAS recreational use differ from UAS commercial use.

Recreational flyers must register their drone, free of charge, with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds. A license is not required. Pilots must always be in visual contact with the aircraft.

If pilots wish to fly drones for commercial reasons, they must be at least 16-years-old. Prospective pilots would also have to pass a Transportation Safety Administration background check and a Remote Pilot Airman Certification test. Drones flown for commercial purposes cannot exceed an altitude of 400 feet unless they are being used to inspect a structure.

The FAA has been actively recruiting students to major in UAS and drone operations.

JBMDL Gets Public Feedback on KC-46A

By William Kelly

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

The Air Force held a public meeting on Jan. 17 at the New Hanover Senior Citizens Center to receive community feedback on the proposal to base a new fleet of KC-46A Pegasus refueling jets at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL), replacing the aging KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-10 Extenders that are already based there.

While the meeting was primarily concerned with obtaining public response to the environmental impact the planes will have, most of those in attendance called attention to the positive economic effect the planes will have on the local economy in the long run.

The study will be primarily concerned with environmental issues and any effect on the wetlands, endangered species, emissions and quality of life. However, the economic impact is also

an important consideration.

“These planes will be the cleanest and safest we’ve ever had,” said Clark Martin, a former major general and military and defense economic ombudsman.

None of the residents who attended the meeting had any complaints about pollution or noise, one of them saying, “that’s the sound of freedom.”

The meeting was held as part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) that was enacted to address concerns federal actions have on the environment. It requires the United States Air Force to compile an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and detailed analysis of what effect the KC-46As will have if JBMDL is designated the home base for the new fleet.

The Air Force has selected JBMDL and Travis Air Force Base in California as the two

KC-46A>>PAGE 20

Special Committee Meeting to Discuss Southampton Municipal Budget Canceled Again

By Douglas D. Melegari For the Pine Barrens Tribune

SOUTHAMPTON—Officials in Southampton can’t seem to make up their minds as to when they want to meet to discuss the financial status of the township.

For the second time this year, officials abruptly canceled the first of three special township committee meetings to discuss and put together the municipal budget.

The meeting was scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 17. Residents and the media showed up to find the municipal building locked and the lights turned off. A meeting can-

cellation notice was nowhere to be found.

Later that evening, at a regular committee meeting which began at 8:00 p.m., officials announced three new dates for special budget work sessions.

“The first one we rescheduled for Jan. 31,” said Kathleen D. Hoffman, township administrator and clerk for Southampton Township. “It is a Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. That is where we will go over the red lines that were presented to you tonight and any other items you so desire. The next one will be Feb. 7 at 6:30 p.m. and Feb.21 at 6:30 p.m. if need be.”

Committeeman Ronald Heston said the “red

BUDGET>>PAGE 8

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OPINION

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How to Send Items to the Editor: letters@pinebarrenstribune.com, put “Letter” in the subject line.

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Editorial

Letter to the Editor

Recreation Fields With Sinkholes Should Remain Closed

Reading and Understanding The History of the Pinelands Is Important

The Little League field and T-Ball field at the Red Lion Road Baseball and Softball Complex in Southampton Township is plagued by sinkholes.

Southampton’s Administrator, Kathleen D. Hoffman, attributed the sinkholes to the trash contained beneath the surface of the ballfields.

The fields were built on top of a landfill.

The sinkholes appear suddenly because rusted appliances underneath the surface collapse as people pace on the fields.

She has put out some dire warnings to the public. She has also warned the township committee members against reopening the fields.

A prominent coach in the township’s baseball community, who has firsthand knowledge of the situation, joined Hoffman last month in warning about how precarious the situation is.

Based on our reporting and the details provided by the two officials, it is now abundantly clear that the fields are no longer suitable for any person to be on them, let alone play on them.

Any decision to reopen the fields this year would be reckless. We’re highly doubtful any meaningful repairs can be made in time for the spring.

It is virtually impossible to remove

decomposed waste at a depth of 30 to 40 feet without spending millions of dollars. This is money that the township does not have.

Site surveys and environmental impact studies would also have to be completed before the removal process could begin.

Local, county and state officials have been unable to confirm whether these fields have been periodically tested for contamination or potentially harmful gases.

If they have been tested, we’ve been hard pressed to find the test results.

With few answers, valid concerns, and spring just around the corner; the township has a responsibility to look for temporary fields for the children who want to play ball until new fields are constructed at another site.

Unfortunately, the township may have to ask a neighboring municipality to share their fields.

However, inconveniences are surely worth it when it comes down to the safety of our children.

A special township committee meeting in December was a good start, because a long-term solution to this problem must be found and mutually agreed upon by the majority of Southampton residents.

I am shocked that so few people that live in the Pinelands know so little of the history of it.

At one time, they mined cider from the swamps of the Pinelands.

The storms would blow the bigger trees over and they would sink into the swamp muck. The iron and magnesium would be absolved into the wood, making it like stone. This wood was prized for ship building because it did not rot or soak up water because of the mineral content of the wood. The deeper the tree was in the muck, the better the wood was for this use.

Special saws had to be used to cut it, much like the ones used to cut stone. Some of these trees were found 50 feet below the muck of the swamp. They had to be mined out of the swamps.

Iron and magnesium is what gives the water of the Pinelands that iced-tea color. The foam that we see at waterfalls is what led to the mining of

bog iron in the Pinelands.

Hanover Furnace used this bog iron to produce wood-burning stoves and cannon for George Washington’s army during the Revolutionary War. They even produced the sixteen pounders that went on the flagship that lead the attack of Tripoli.

There is a lot of American history in the Pinelands.

The White family of Browns Mills worked to grow the then wild blueberries for market.

The mills were at one time owned by the Brown family, hence the name “Browns Mills.”

Yes, one could write a book about all of this.

In fact, there are several of them out there to read.

There is much to learn about the Pinelands of Southern New Jersey.

Lloyd E. Koon Jr. Browns Mills, New Jersey

Political Cartoon

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?

E-mail us: letters@pinebarrenstribune.com

Social Media Sound Off (Re: State Police Investigate Suspicious Incident At Ongs Hat Road Dwelling) They should be careful as most residents have “In-House Security.”

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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 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 P.O. Box 2402, Vincentown, NJ 08088 Locally owned and published.

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PAGE 7

SCANNER Police Find Drugs and Pistol Ammunition After Executing Narcotics Search Warrant PEMBERTON—On Jan. 18 at approximately 10:15 p.m., Pemberton Township Police arrived on Ursinus Court in an effort to make contact with an individual in reference to a motor-vehicle accident investigation.

Upon meeting Shakira West, 25, of Browns Mills, police officers immediately smelled the overwhelming odor of raw marijuana coming from her apartment.

Shortly thereafter, police removed all of the occupants and secured the apartment.

After a brief period, police returned to the apartment and executed a search warrant.

While searching the apartment, patrols located controlled dangerous substances throughout it.

West and her boyfriend, Charles Fickling III, 31, of Philadelphia, were charged with the possession of marijuana over 50 grams, posses-

sion of heroin, possession of crack cocaine, distribution of marijuana, distribution of crack cocaine, distribution of controlled dangerous substances within 1,000 feet of school property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of pistol ammunition without possession of a New Jersey Firearms Identification Card.

Malcolm Rowe, 26, of Philadelphia and Wanya Johnson, 24, of Philadelphia were both charged with the possession of marijuana under 50 grams.

Anyone with any information about this incident or any other suspicious or criminal activity is asked to please contact the Pemberton Township Detective Division at 609-894-3310 or the Police Confidential Tip Line at 609-894-3352.

Juveniles Accused of Stealing Vehicle and Discarding Its Contents onto Fire Trail PEMBERTON—On Jan. 20 at approximately 3:50 p.m., Pemberton Township Police responded to the area of Tecumseh Trail for a report a suspicious vehicle with two juveniles sitting inside it.

A witness observed the juveniles dumping the contents of the vehicle onto a fire trail that connects to Tecumseh Trail.

Upon arrival, police observed a male and female in a 2014 Honda Civic. The vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of Lakeview Blvd. in the Browns Mills section of Pemberton earlier in the day.

The victim of the stolen vehicle started it, walked back into the house, and left it running

Tabernacle Rescue Squad Trains in Rope Rescue

PHOTO SUBMITTED G.Acerbo discusses a pulley system being built to move a patient with instructor B. Kennedy.

in their driveway to warm it up. Upon returning to the vehicle, the owner found it was missing.

A 17-year-old male and a 17-year-old female, both from Browns Mills, were charged with receiving stolen property and possession of marijuana under 50 grams. Both juveniles were released to their parents pending court.

Anyone with any information about this incident or any other suspicious or criminal activity is asked to please contact the Pemberton Township Detective Division at 609-894-3310 or the Police Confidential Tip Line at 609-8943352.

Driver and Passenger Observed Jumping Out of Moving Vehicle, Schools Lock Down PEMBERTON—On Jan. 20 at 3:40 p.m., Pemberton Township Police observed a 2007 Nissan Altima that fled a Motor Vehicle Stop in Mount Holly at approximately 3:00 p.m.

Officer Adam Wills observed the vehicle travelling on Rancocas Road. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. However, the driver did not stop and continued to drive for a short distance.

The driver and passenger jumped out of the vehicle while the vehicle was still moving and fled on foot.

Both suspects ran towards the Alexander Denbo and the Aletta Crichton Schools while students were present and about to be dismissed for the day.

Both schools were notified and as a precautionary measure, they implemented a lock down.

The teachers and students returned to their classrooms to shelter in place.

The school lock down lasted approximately 30 minutes while patrol officers and the Pemberton Township K-9 Unit searched the area for the suspects. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident after being observed walking along Rancocas Road.

Nazmier Kennedy, 19, of Browns Mills, and Tajee Crawley, 22 of Burlington, were charged with resisting by flight and possession of marijuana under 50 grams. Crawley was also charged with eluding as he was identified as the driver. Both suspects were lodged in the Burlington County Jail.

Anyone with any information about this incident or any other suspicious or criminal activity is asked to please contact the Pemberton Township Detective Division at 609-894-3310 or the Police Confidential Tip Line at 609-8943352.

Capt. S. Cramer rappelling from the tower.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Driver Uninjured After Ford Explorer Catches on Fire SOUTHAMPTON—On Jan. 26, the New Jersey State Police, Hampton Lakes Fire Company and Vincent Fire Company responded to the intersection of Route 206 and Route 70 for a report of an automobile fire.

Upon arrival, crews found a 1995 Ford

Explorer with an engine compartment fire. The fire was extinguished.

The driver was able to get out of the vehicle uninjured. The vehicle was towed from the scene.

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PHOTO SUBMITTED Last week, nine volunteers with Tabernacle Rescue completed 20 hours of training for Rope Rescue I. This training course is for members of the Burlington County Technical Rescue Task Force.

They reviewed skills and concepts including: knots, mechanical advantage, patient packaging, equipment, anchors and rappelling. This training allows rescuers to safely remove patients who may find themselves in precarious positions.

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Vehicle Strikes Utility Pole and Tree on Retreat Road SOUTHAMPTON—On Jan. 23, shortly after 3 a.m., the New Jersey State Police received a report of a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Route 206 and Ridge Road.

Troopers responded and were then notified that the accident had actually taken place at 40 Retreat Road.

Upon arrival, troopers found a Toyota RAV4 driven by Michael Hayes, 64, of Mt. Laurel, had run off the road and struck a utility pole and tree.

“The driver was trapped, but was able to get

out,” said Trooper Alejandro Goez, a spokesperson for the New Jersey State Police. “He was checked out by EMS on scene and was not transported to a hospital.”

There were no passengers inside the vehicle at the time of the crash.

The accident scene was cleared out quickly and the roadway was reopened just before 4 a.m.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Saturday, February 4, 2017

Accidents In Medford

Landscaping Truck Bed Catches on Fire MEDFORD— On Jan. 28 at 11 a.m., Medford Township Police and Fire Units were dispatched to Old Marlton Pike and Hartford Road for a vehicle fire.

Upon arrival, it was discovered that a bed of a landscaping truck had caught on fire. Workers related that they had just cut down a tree and

were on their way to get rid of the debris when a large amount of smoke was seen coming from the bed of the truck.

Crews were able to extinguish the fire without incident. The only damage sustained was to the wood contents of the bed of the truck.

Wallet Stolen from Purse Left Inside Unlocked Vehicle MEDFORD—On Jan. 26 at 6 p.m., a resident of Cove Lane reported a past-tense vehicle burglary that had occurred earlier in the day.

The victim reported that between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., she parked her vehicle in the driveway.

The vehicle was left unlocked and contained her purse.

When the purse was later retrieved from the vehicle, the victim discovered her Kate Spade

PHOTO SUBMITTED A tractor trailer tried to turn around on Trimble Street and struck a utility pole on Jan. 23.

wallet was missing.

Inside the wallet was $280 cash and miscellaneous credit cards.

The Medford Police are actively investigating this incident.

Drivers are reminded to lock their vehicles when left unattended and to hide or remove any valuables in the vehicle.

Vehicle Strikes Curb, Tree, Retention Wall, Front Steps, Porch of Residence and Overturns MEDFORD—On Jan. 23 at 10:21 a.m., the Medford Township Police, Fire and EMS were dispatched to the area of South Main Street for a report of an overturned motor vehicle.

Upon arrival, police observed a Honda Accord on its side. The driver, Olivia Wheaton, of Medford Lakes, was still inside the vehicle.

The Medford Fire Department removed Wheaton from the vehicle. She was turned over to Medford EMS and Virtua Paramedics for a hand injury.

The police investigation revealed that the vehicle was traveling northbound on S. Main St. when Wheaton lost control and struck the curb.

The vehicle then went over the curb, struck a tree, a retention wall and the front steps and porch of a residence.

BUDGET FROM PAGE 5

lines” on the budget worksheets are for line items that require an “in-depth discussion.”

“Also, on the line items, even if it is not marked off, if you want to talk about it, you can,” said Mayor James F. Young, Sr. “Oh yes, by all means,” Heston said. “I was just trying to show the ones that were glaring and that we really need to look at.”

The Pine Barrens Tribune learned on Jan. 31 that the special meeting scheduled for that night was cancelled.

“We can always advertise and cancel the meetings,” Hoffman said. “If we can get it done in those three meetings, that is great. If we can get it done in two meetings, that is even better. But this way we have it setup and you know ahead of time.”

The residence was deemed safe to be occupied once the vehicle was removed.

The accident is still under investigation.

While units were operating on Main Street at the accident scene, a call came in for another motor vehicle accident on Mill Street near Trimble Street.

A driver of a tractor trailer tried to turn around on Trimble Street according to Medford Township Police Lt. Arthur Waterman.

The tractor trailer struck a utility pole. The pole split in half and wires fell to the ground causing a loss of electricity in the area.

There is no word on whether the driver of the tractor trailer was ticketed or if he sustained any injuries.

The struck utility pole dangled over the road.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

She did not comment on the fees associated with re-advertising the meetings in the newspaper.

Hoffman also confirmed to the Pine Barrens Tribune that the reorganization meeting scheduled on Jan. 24 for the township environmental commission was cancelled.

“The meeting was cancelled due to a lack of quorum,” Hoffman said. “The commission hasn’t determined a new date.”

The seven-member commission, with two people serving as alternates, has not created a meeting schedule because of the cancelled meeting.

State law requires public bodies to adopt a meeting schedule seven days following an annual reorganization meeting or no later than Jan. 10 of such year if a reorganization meeting is not held.

More Local News on Page 16

PHOTO SUBMITTED A driver lost control of her Honda Accord and it landed on its side on Jan. 23.

Saturday, February 4, 2017

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E-Mail Story Ideas and Community Events: news@pinebarrenstribune.com

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

COMMUNITY Events

February 4

February 7

Location: Medford Event: Medford VFW Vendor Fair Details: The Medford VFW is hosting a Vendor Fair, Feb. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. There will be wonderful local vendors so you can pick up great gifts or something for yourself. Admission is free, but a donation of socks, hats, gloves, or toiletry items to support Vet Haven South would be appreciated. 317 Church Road, Medford. 609-654-9823.

Location: Medford Event: MEF’s 11th Annual Dine Out for Education Details: The Medford Education Foundation (MEF) is hosting the 11th Annual Dine Out for Education on Tuesday, Feb. 7. Dine Out for Education is an annual fundraising event that helps support the Medford Township Public Schools through donations and grants. Dining Out is an ordinary act that will make an extraordinary impact on our children and our schools. This charitable event will be held at 17 participating restaurants in the Medford area that have pledged to donate up to 15% or more of each customer’s bill to the MEF. Participating are: Zinc Café, Ginger Asian Cuisine, Illiano Cucina Mediterranea, Braddock’s Tavern, La Bella Pizza, Riveria Pizza on Stokes, DiLisi’s Pizza, La Campagnola, Rustic Grille, Femmina Italian Grill, Jasmine Oriental Cuisine, Medford Bagle Shop, Tarantella Ristorante, Fortune Cookie Chinese Restaurant, L.B. Daniels Restaurant, Ott’s Restaurant, and the Pop Shop–Medford. For more information, please visit www.medfordeducationfoundation.org or email medfordeducationfoundation@gmail.com.

Location: Browns Mills Event: Winter Bird Exploration Details: Meet at the Whitesbog General Store at 8:30 a.m. for a walk around the Village, trails, and into the bogs to look and listen for the many types of birds that make Whitesbog their home. No reservations required. Free event. 609-893-4646.

February 5 Location: Browns Mills Event: Tundra Swan Workshop Details: Meet at the Whitesbog General Store Classroom at 1 p.m. for a workshop on Tundra Swans, led by educator, Len Little. Follow him into the bogs to get close to these beautiful birds that call Whitesbog home during the winter months. $8 per person. Advance reservations requested 609-893-4646. 120 W. Whites Bogs Road, Browns Mills.

Location: Medford Event: Guitarist Keith Calmes at MAC Details: The Medford Arts Center (MAC) proudly presents the fourth appearance of Guitarist Keith Calmes, Sunday, Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. Tickets at the door: Adults $10; High School Students, $5; Children are free. 18 N. Main St., Medford. Calmes made his Carnegie Recital Hall debut in 1992 and has written several books, including, Guitar Music of the 16th Century and Gospel Favorites for Classical Guitar. For more information call Anthony Femiano, Ph.D. 609-654-1855.

PAGE 9

February 8 Location: Medford Event: Medford Area Newcomers Club Luncheon Details: The Medford Area Newcomers Club will host its next luncheon Wednesday, Feb. 8 at noon at Ginger Asain Cuisine, Route 541 at Wilkins Station Shopping Plaza (across from Merritt’s gas station). New and not-so-new are invited to join us. For more information and RSVP, please call Kathy at 856-983-4921.

February 9 Location: Medford Event: Woman’s Club of Medford “Death by Chocolate” Details: Do you love all things chocolate? If so, the next meeting of the Woman’s Club of Medford is right for you. The meeting theme is “Death by Chocolate” and is on Thursday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. Please join the members in enjoying chocolate treats - and

maybe a surprise or two. The club meets on the second Thursday of each month, September through May at 7 p.m., at the Medford Memorial Community Center, 21 S. Main St. Membership is open to women over 18 from Medford and surrounding areas.

February 11

Location: Vincentown Event: Create a Portrait in Oil Details: Adult oil portrait painting classes will be held on Saturdays, Feb. 11, 18 & 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The cost is $30 (Must attend all three classes). Start by creating a 5”x7” blackand-white study of a portrait; the following week you will focus on value and composition; in the last class you will complete your portrait with colors and depth. Class size is limited. Pre-registration is required, please call 609-859-0607 or email dfascenda@ comcast.net. Old Town Hall, 25 Plum St., Vincentown.

February 12 Location: Medford Event: Medford VFW Steak Night Details: Come join the Medford VFW for Steak Night! Sunday. Doors open at 3 p.m. and we serve until 6 p.m. Dinner includes a delicious steak, potato, green salad, roll & butter, and coffee or tea. All prepared by our own Chef Denny. Only $12 per person. 317 Church Road, Medford. 609-654-9823.

February 13

Location: Medford Event: Pinelands Garden Club Details: The Pinelands Garden Club of Medford meetin at Medford Leas Auditorium, Rt. 70, Medford, Monday, Feb. 13 at 10 a.m. The program will be “Saving the Bay and Commercial Fishing Today” which deals with pollution and environmental issues. Visitors welcome.

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PINE KNOTS COLUMN Pemberton Twp. Mayor Provides Progress Report on Township Initiatives

By Ebba Liguori

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON– The BMIA general meeting was held Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. at the BMIA Building. The guest speaker was Pemberton Township Mayor Dave Patriarca. He presented an interesting program on community updates.

Annually, the BMIA meets with the mayor and presents a “Wish List” of problems in the community which need attention. Patriarca told the residents he welcomes this list and other input from residents so he is aware of the local needs.

The first area addressed was the former “Acme Shopping Center.” He is continuing talks with the owner and has very little progress to report. A few years ago, a Master Redevelopment Plan was designed for the Juliustown Road section of Browns Mills. Using some proceeds from the Urban Economic Zone funds, several properties have been acquired and torn

down. Additional properties are in this process and soon there will be a parcel of developmental land available and prospective developers are in the planning phase.

The roads have always been a major concern for the community. Putting road construction out to bid costs about $125 per linear foot, meaning only a few miles of road can be improved annually. Through careful planning, the township has been able to purchase road building equipment and the Maintenance Department learned how to successfully rebuild roads. The actual costs are now running closer to $25 per linear foot. This has resulted in township workers having the ability to complete many more road projects and thereby maximizing tax funds.

They are also completing additional work including drainage and underground piping during the process.

Using county, state and federal grant monies, many improvements have been made to the available recreational facilities. The most re-

cent improvement was in Bayberry Park making it more user friendly. Improvements have been made to all the township-owned buildings, again by using township workers, the funds have been maximized. New sports fields are under construction to accommodate youth sports. Reflections Park will be expanded and improved. Sidewalks, handicapped curb cuts and other walker-friendly projects will be completed soon.

Deborah Hospital is adding a medical building to their complex. It will include professional offices for specialists, X-ray and diagnostic services, and an outpatient same-day surgery suite. This will be a tax ratable for the township as well as an asset to the community. Future plans include repurposing Rowen College at Burlington County–Pemberton campus and minimum-security prison facilities to best serve the township and securing new ownership for the several vacant business properties in the downtown Browns Mills area and establish new

businesses.

Questions were raised about many concerns and Patriarca shared solutions under consideration.

The overall picture was quite positive. Residents had time to enjoy refreshments and speak further to Patriarca about more individual problems.

The Browns Mills Improvement Association, known as the BMIA, is the oldest local civic organization in Pemberton Township. Meetings are held on the fourth Sunday monthly, September through June, at 2 pm at the BMIA Building on Arbutus Street, near Mirror Lake Beach. The building is handicapped accessible and there is ample parking. Check out our Face Book page “BMIA – Browns Mills Improvement Association” or check the township website under Community Links. Annual dues are only $15 per family. Checks may be sent to: BMIA, PO Box 395, Browns Mills, NJ 08015.

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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Saturday, February 4, 2017

Saturday, February 4, 2017

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 15

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

HEALTH

Dear Pharmacist

By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph.

Suzy Cohen is the author of “The 24-Hour Pharmacist” and “Real Solutions.” For more information, visit www.SuzyCohen.com.

Pharmacists Are Never Sure if We Should Say it Out Loud

When I worked in retail stores, one of the most common questions I had was, “What side effects will this drug cause?” I remember some of my customers, especially the funny ones or those who gifted me with tokens like flowers, hand-made jewelry or pickled herring, which I craved during my pregnancy in 1993. I had a good relationship with all of my patients.

I used to work 14-hour shifts, day-afterday back in the 90’s and 2000’s. I ‘floated’ all around central Florida whenever a pharmacist called off. The pharmacy would be closed, and I was the pharmacist called upon to go open it, hence “float.” I thrived in this position, basically walking into a mess, and catching the store up, making all the customers suddenly happy.

But there’s a ton of mental chatter to reconcile in our brain when we are not sure that you need what the doctor prescribed, or if there’s a natural vitamin for that, or we realize the side effects will be far worse for you than your condition itself. We are never sure if we should say it out loud.

People trust us. Americans have deemed us to be among the most honest professions, maintaining the highest ethical standards. That’s why pharmacists have been rated in the top two “most trusted professionals in the United States” yet again. (Gallup Survey).

Pharmacists can: 1. Keep you safe. As medication experts, we reduce risk of miserable side effects. Occasionally, one drug is intended, but another drug is prescribed by accident. Maybe Zyrtec for Zantac, Actos for Actonel or Neurontin for

Noroxin. Your pharmacist should catch these errors.

2. They’re accessible and fast. Pharmacists are always on duty if a pharmacy is open. You don’t have to make appointments weeks in advance to get advice.

3. They’re intelligent. If you have a skin rash from poison ivy or a bee sting, your pharmacist can suggest an over-the-counter remedy, if you are constipated or have the flu, we got your back.

4. They’re not paid off. Pharmacists work for YOU, not the pharmaceutical companies that probably sent a drug rep over with delicious meals, trinkets and trips. This colors the decision-making process of some (not all) physicians. Capiche?

5. You save money. The ‘Pharmacy Tech’ expertly runs your prescription through your insurance company online; they’ll check the cash price against your insurance co-pay in case it’s lower. Some will phone your insurance company to authorize cheaper alternatives.

6. Pharmacists know about food too. They’ll suggest you avoid grapefruit if you take statins, or avoid MSG with sedatives. Bananas are constipating, you should avoid those with hydrocodone, but eat them with some diuretics like HCTZ. Tips like this are worth their weight in gold.

Your pharmacist may be high up and partially hidden behind glass (that’s for security reasons… you do realize they are in charge of millions of dollars of drugs right?!) but I highly recommend that you develop a relationship with your local pharmacist. We are on your side.

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

For more information, please visit www.SuzyCohen.com. © 2017 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.

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Can You Use Homeopathic Products to Relieve Your Child’s Illness?

By Sue Hubbard, M.D.

I am sitting here writing this while sucking on a honey-lemon throat lozenge and drinking hot tea, as it is certainly cough and cold season and unfortunately I woke up with a scratchy throat. I am trying to drink enough tea to drown it out. While I am not sure it will work, drinking hot tea all day will not hurt you!

At the same time (multitasking), I am also reading an email from a mother with a 4-month-old baby, and they are out of town.

Her baby now has a fever and runny nose, and she sent me a picture of a homeopathic product for “mucus and cold relief.” She wonders if it is safe to give to her infant. The short answer is NO. (Even though the product says BABY on the label and has a picture of an infant.)

Although homeopathic medicines were first used in the 18th century and are “probably safe,” it is still unclear if they really work.

Unfortunately, there have been adverse events and deaths associated with some products (see articles on teething tablets). The principle of homeopathy is that “ailments can be cured by taking small amounts of products that, in large amounts, would cause the very symptom you are treating. In other words, “like cures like.”

These products contain “natural ingredients” that cause the symptoms that you are trying to treat, but that have been so diluted as to hopefully stimulate your body’s immune system to fight that very symptom. In this case, congestion and runny nose due to a cold.

I looked at all of the ingredients, which in-

cluded Byronia, Euphrasia, Hepar and Natrum to name a few. Byronia is used as a laxative for constipation, Euphrasia is supposed to help with inflammation, Hepar is for people who tend to get “cold and therefore cranky and irritable” and Natrum is used for inflammation due to “too much lactic acid.” This is the short version. The bottle also says contains less than 0.1 percent alcohol, but it has alcohol!

While the FDA does monitor how homeopathic medications are made, it does not require these companies to show proof that these medications do what they say they do, as they are “natural.” With that being said, natural does not always mean effective or safe. Just as overthe-counter cold and cough medications are not recommended for children under the age of 2, I, too, would not recommend homeopathic products be given to an infant.

Best treatment for a cold and cough in young children? Use a saline nasal spray, followed by nasal suctioning to relieve the nasal congestion and mucus. I would also use a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room to keep moisture in the air and help thin the mucus (especially once the heat is on in the house). Make sure the baby is still taking fluids (breast or bottle); you may also add some electrolyte solution to give your baby extra fluids if you feel as if they are not eating as well. Lastly, always watch for any respiratory distress or prolonged fever, and check in with your pediatrician!

PAGE 16

By Ebba Liguori

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Saturday, February 4, 2017

Another Busy Week for the Pemberton Seniors

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON–Tuesday, Jan. 24 began quietly, but soon the center began filling with seniors. This was the first Aspen Hills sponsored Bingo for 2017. Margaret Graiff arrived with all her supplies and Bingo machine to begin the games. Graiff is a public-relations representative for Aspen Hills and reaches out to the local community as part of her job. One outreach is the once-a-month Bingo held at the Pemberton Senior Center. She brings the equipment, cards and markers, and runs several games where prizes range from $10 gift cards at Dollar Tree to similar cards for Wawa and Acme. Winners are delighted when they open the bags and find which card they have won.

She also gives door prizes for attendance and these gift bags can hold almost anything.

Again, winners are delighted as they check out the contents. Sometimes more than one winner calls out a single Bingo game, but Graiff is always prepared with an extra bag to fill the need.

As if coming to the center and hosting Bingo games is not enough, this week also included a monthly Bingo Breakfast at Aspen Hills. One Thursday a month, Graiff hosts the seniors for a buffet breakfast. This week, both Bingos fell in the same week.

On Thursday morning by 9 a.m., seniors were driving into the Aspen Hills parking lot where the maintenance crew served as valet parkers.

No tips were accepted. The day was slightly overcast so seniors were delighted to have this service. Inside, hot coffee and tea were waiting along with three choices of fruit juice. Seniors

gathered eagerly to catch up on the latest news.

The center runs a senior bus for non-drivers and soon Will Mahoney pulled into the parking lot and let those seniors off. By then all 64 seats were full and Graiff began calling the tables up for breakfast.

The breakfast has a nice assortment of scrambled eggs, sausage, split bagels, fresh fruit, and small pastries. Seniors visit the buffet line and choose their breakfast items and are soon feasting. Once breakfast is finished, Graiff begins the Bingo games. This month Kevin Eisenchink, Patient Care Coordinator, was assisting her. Eisenchink visits the local hospitals to assist patients in their decision to attend a rehab center following hospitalization. He makes all the arrangements for a smooth transition and is the man to ask for assistance. Each time someone said they had “Bingo”, he helped confirm the correct numbers. Local seniors enjoy these social events and look forward to the monthly games. Reservations must be made to attend, but there is no charge. Aspen Hills phone number is 609-836-6010 and the receptionist can register seniors. There is a limit of 64 seats available.

Usually Pemberton senior trips come off without a problem as the drivers are mostly regulars and the destinations are well known. But this week a large problem arose, thankfully just after the trip to the Bethlehem Sands Casino. The news reports came out the following day that the New Jersey/Pennsylvania Turnpike Bridge had developed a crack and was closed to all traffic.

This news came out within 24 hours of the last

trip. This means an alternative route must be followed and will take additional travel time.

Until the bridge is repaired, all trips heading to Pennsylvania will need to leave Browns Mills at least a half hour earlier. Seniors are advised to check at the center within a few days of each trip. The next trip affected by this change will be on Feb. 28 to the Mount Airy Casino. The bus will leave the Acme parking lot at 8:30 a.m., one half hour earlier than originally scheduled.

Seniors are asked to be at Acme by 8:15 a.m. to begin boarding.

February is beginning and the Senior Gazette is now available with listings of the latest trips and the new monthly menu. The Couponing Club will visit on Monday, Feb. 6, with the latest information and money-saving tips. These ladies do a great job instructing ways to use coupons to maximize their value. They also bring extra coupons to assist seniors who do not receive newspapers and coupon packs. This is a great service that can save seniors real money.

They usually speak at 11 a.m. and spend about 30 minutes informing seniors of the latest bargains.

Monday is also the day Ralph West brings surplus breads and pastries to the center. He picks up surplus at local groceries and delivers them for free to seniors. Very few seniors need to purchase bread products, thanks to West. He also brings surplus pastry products to the center on Wednesdays and fresh vegetables on Friday mornings. Seniors are fortunate to have West willing and available to provide these services, so a big “Thank you” to our friend and neighbor.

Don’t forget that Elisabeth White McCartney will be bringing her FNA (Future Nurses of America) club to the senior center on Friday, Feb. 10 to check blood pressures and spend time with the seniors. This activity helps the students become comfortable with the seniors as many will enter health-care professions and have contact with many seniors. They will sit at tables and visit, call bingo games for the players, and join in the exercising and line-dance groups.

They will be at the center from before 9 a.m. until about 11:15 a.m. before returning to the high school.

There are a few tickets remaining for the Valentine dinner at the Garden State Diner on Saturday, Feb. 18. The menu choices are roast prime rib of beef, half a roasted chicken, or a baked stuffed flounder. The meal includes fruit cup, tossed salad, hot soup, and dessert of cake and ice cream. Senior residents pay only $15 for this meal and most will bring home a generous “doggie bag” with left-overs. Side Car Charlie will provide music for entertainment and dancing. This is a great chance for seniors to celebrate during daylight hours. The diner is located in Wrightstown, so it is a quick drive to and from. The meal will be served at noon.

Tickets are available at the senior center daily between 9 a.m. and noon. A sell out is expected, so stop in soon to be included. The senior center is located on Brook St. across from the Browns Mills Post Office. It is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily. Information is available on the township website, or phone 609-893-4400.

Pemberton Borough Moves to Update Aging Firefighting Equipment

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON BOROUGH—The town’s firefighting equipment, hampered by one wrecked truck and its second, now 28 years old, was the major topic at the Pemberton Borough Council meeting on Jan. 17.

The first truck was so badly damaged in an accident, it won’t be repaired. The second, while still in service, is clearly nearing the end of its useful life.

In the meantime, the borough has been leasing a new truck, but at the cost of $2,500 a month.

Pemberton Township is also available to help in any emergency, but neither of these moves are part of a long-term solution.

According to Mayor Harold Griffin, borough officials and firefighters think a possible solution is to continue paying for the newest truck under a lease-payment option.

After a period yet to be determined of possibly two years, and one final, larger payment, the borough would then assume ownership of the vehicle.

That still leaves the problem of the 28-yearold truck. The borough is simply too large to be safely protected with only one truck, no matter how up-to-date it is.

The truck issue was by far the most important of the six consent-agenda items taken up by the council last Tuesday. Two others, however, will be of some interest.

The first authorized two payments for repairs to Nichols Street, to Kline Construction. The second also involves street repairs as the borough seeks bids for resurfacing, sewer pipes and

other repairs to Davis Street.

The other three resolutions all involved routine end-of-the-year cancellation of small balances and overpayments, and refunds of a few larger overpayments.

An ordinance on COLA (cost-of-living adjustments) and pay scales for the coming year for borough workers was introduced. Whatever the final pay package will be, COLA will be a minor factor as it was up only 0.5 percent in 2016.

There was a new face on the council. Robert Brock replaced Stacy Stockton, who resigned last month for health reasons. Brock, a Republican, will serve a two-year term, expiring in January 2019.

In another noteworthy matter, Abigail Lake, who attends almost every council meeting, said she had her sleep interrupted a few weeks ago, when she found two young burglars in her home.

Lake said that she hollered, loudly, for them to “Get out of my house!” She said the intruders did so quickly. Very little of value was reportedly taken from her home.

Also during the public portion of the meeting, resident Steve Fenster, who attends almost every meeting, protested the end of releasing monthly crime statistics by the borough police. There was a brief, polite disagreement with Griffin, which ended with a compromise. The crime stats will be listed on the borough’s web site.

The meeting, which adjourned at 7:25 p.m., drew about 25 residents, far greater than usual and probably attributable to the fire engine issue.

Council will meet next on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m.

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PHOTO SUBMITTED Pemberton Borough Mayor Harold Griffen (left), administers oath of office to new council member Robert Brock, whose wife, Linda, holds the Bible.

Pinelands Commission’s 65-Minute Meeting Closed to Public For 58 minutes

By Adam Tait III

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—One day prior to its marathon public testimony hearing on the proposed Pinelands pipeline, the Pinelands Commission held just the opposite: a meeting lasting 65 minutes, 58 of which were closed to the public.

The commissioners met only to get legal advice concerning a motion to stay a resolution and to review a development application.

The meeting, slated to begin at 9:30 a.m. actually started eight minutes late. At 9:42 a.m., the commission went into executive session,

lasting until 10:40 a.m. Three minutes later, they adjourned.

Eight people, including four members of the press, attended the meeting. All left knowing no more than they had at the start. After a protest, copies of both measures, a total of 18 pages, were handed out.

Both involve the hotly-disputed South Jersey Gas company pipeline proposal through the Pinelands.

In an earlier court decision, the appellate division of Superior Court ruled the

PINELANDS>>PAGE 21

Saturday, February 4, 2017

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PAGE 17

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?”

This ‘Empty Nesting’ Has Its Pluses Although I don’t mind shopping, I loathe the task when it involves groceries.

There is simply nothing fun about picking out green beans, pondering paper towels or getting a door buster on cream cheese.

I am not alone in this aversion. I know this because I see it on the face of my fellow shoppers every time I visit the grocery store. Most folks offer up a friendly hello, some are polite with the “excuse me,” but body language gives way to despair as we all stand in long lines at the check out, knowing that this task is only the tip of the iceberg.

From the cart to the conveyor belt, the bag caddy back to the cart, the cart to the car, the car to the kitchen counter and finally the kitchen counter to the doggone cupboard.

It’s a never-ending cycle.

Most likely there are people out there who think me a bit dramatic. But you show me a person who thinks I’m overreacting, and I’ll show you someone who has never shopped for a husband and four hungry young men.

Not to mention their friends, guests and the family dog, Sadie, who not only is as big as a horse, but eats like one.

But things have changed recently. Our nest has emptied, appetites have returned to their campus homes and our back entryway is no longer a revolving door with direct access to the pantry.

I had a physical heartache after our four sons left and it lasted right up until I looked into an empty laundry hamper. My emotions went back and forth. I longed for their wit, humor and hugs. But I found solace in the fact that instead of being that woman who hauled two grocery carts to the car every week, I was going to become the lady carrying a basket with a bundle of grapes and a quart of milk.

Although this empty nest breaks my heart, it’s not all bad. In fact, just the other day I turned my eyes toward the sun, gave my hair a shake and smiled at my new-found freedom.

Just after the holidays, I even skipped a week of grocery shopping as I could think of nothing that we needed. We had fruit, a single loaf of

bread was more than enough, and as long as we had enough cream on hand for my coffee, we could withstand any storm that Old Man Winter wanted to throw at us.

“Should we go to the grocery store after church this morning?” my beloved spouse of many years proposed to me the first Sunday following the boys’ departure.

“What for?”

“There’s nothing to eat around here,” he replied.

“What?” I asked. “What do you need that we don’t have?”

“Everything,” he said matter-of-factly.

“And what,” I inquired, “is ‘everything’?”

He simply answered, “Everything.”

So off to the store we went. “I’m going to let you man this thing,” I said as I pushed the cart his way, “and see what you can come up with.”

Although my Pat is a very healthy and strong man on the outside, his inner person is a little kid. And I quickly learned that turning him loose in the grocery store was a bad idea.

His “everything” included, but wasn’t limited to, red licorice, frozen yogurt and five-meat stuffed-crust pizza. He lamented about our shortage on strawberry jam, grabbed low-fat chips and all but screamed out, “Eureka!” when his eyes fell upon the Rice Krispie treats.

On the healthy side, he threw in some cherries, bananas, grapes and a kale medley as a basis for a side salad.

“That’s everything?” I asked as I looked into a half empty cart.

“Everything,” he replied.

Stating that we had plenty of jam left and the chips were still in good supply, we happily skipped the grocery shopping last Sunday. Yet as the week goes on, I know that we aren’t going to make it much longer without going to the store.

Sadie is low on dog food, and while Pat might be able to do without his red licorice for a few days, I am declaring a full-blown emergency because you see —we’re out of coffee creamer.

© 2017 LORI CLINCH

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C R O S S W O R D

P U Z Z L E

ACROSS

1 Year in which Salieri was born 6 Spunkmeyer of cookie fame 10 Sports __ 13 Key artery 14 Seattle’s __ Place Market 15 Hazmat suit hazard 16 Nail the Miley Cyrus impression?

19 “Madam Secretary” star 20 “Family Feud” source 21 Stately tree 22 “... __ the set of sun”: “Macbeth” 23 Disney title girl from Hawaii 24 Permanently deleted electronic message?

30 Cinch 32 “Ah, broken is the golden bowl! the spirit flown forever!” poet 33 GPS suggestion 34 Prod 35 Michaels et al.

36 End notes?

38 Pay extension?

39 It goes around in winter 40 Antarctic transport 41 Minor trade adjustment?

45 Majestic quality 46 Playboy nickname

47 Kentucky Colonels’ org.

50 “The Caine Mutiny” Oscar nominee 53 Genealogical record 55 “The spasm preceded the other symptoms, Doc”?

57 Used to be 58 Hendrix hairdo 59 Royal __: scheduled 2016 British Open site 60 Unmatched 61 The Taj Mahal, e.g.

62 Garden plant that thrives in shade

DOWN 1 Lackluster finish 2 Wooden pin 3 Vanilla treats 4 Key not used alone 5 Bass Islands locale 6 Wrote an essay, maybe 7 Polynesian carving 8 Turner of entertainment 9 Vacation area 10 Oregon State athlete, for short 11 Rather red 12 Legion 15 Lose illegally 17 Winner of six David di Donatello acting awards

18 __ film 23 Some August babies 25 Be selfish about, in a way 26 Low grade 27 Fox commentator who was the 1992 N.L. Rookie of the Year 28 Singer James 29 Try 30 Self-appointed expert 31 Online TV giant 35 Moreover 36 Common liquor purchase, once 37 Scary squeezer 39 Homburg, for one 40 Nobel, for one 42 “__ when that happens” 43 Buster?

44 Tough syndicate 48 Get drunk 49 Insurance giant 50 USAF stealth plane 51 Due 52 Prepare, as for action 53 Chicken __ 54 Early copter 56 One may be a CPA

S U D O K U

facebook.com/pinebarrenstribune @PineBarrensNews ANSWERS ON PAGE 22

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Saturday, February 4, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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

Automobiles/Trucks Rears 4x4 Ford F-250 1979 410 gears, not complete, 1 axle missing $450. 66 CU in motor did run $400. 856-371-5076 Fred.

Auto Parts and Svcs Auto body repair technicians, experienced professional, collision technician, busy shop, with insurance DRPs. Valid driver’s license a must. Top salary offered. Call 609-893-8292.

Automotive technician Class. A tech busy automotive repair center. All makes and models. All computer diagnostics done on site. Top pay offered. 609-893-8292.

Maintenance person able to do all types of housing repair, painting, spackling, etc.

Call 609-893-7721.

Help Wanted SERVER FOR BUSY DINER. Experience preferred but will train right individual. Apply in person. Ask for Cynthia.

NO PHONE CALLS. Red Lion Diner at the Red Lion Circle, Southampton, N.J.

HOSTESS/CASHIER. Job requires ability to stand/walk up to eight hours and good communication skills. Apply in person.

Ask for Cynthia. NO PHONE CALLS. Red Lion Diner at Red Lion Circle, Southampton, N.J. Pine Barrens Tribune, LLC– Searching for a sales representative. The right candidate will be highly organized, collaborative, and creative closer who thrives in a deadline-driven sales environment and demonstrates a passion for both print and digital advertising sales. The job includes prospecting leads, making calls, daily territory travel, setting up appointments, and the use of technology. Previous newspaper and/or sales experience is a plus, but not necessary. Strong face-toface written, and verbal communication skills with an eye for detail are a must. Candidates must possess a valid drivers license and a reliable vehicle.

Please include your resume, cover letter, and professional references and send to letters@pinebarrenstribune.com.

Competitive salary plus commission with opportunity for advancement.

Pine Barrens Media, LLC– Searching for a freelance journalist/reporter with strong reporting skills and great storytelling

abilities to join the Pine Barrens Tribune news team! The ideal candidate will have excellent news judgment and be able to 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 perform 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

and a large van, cargo van, SUV, or Miscellaneous extended cab pickup truck is preferred.

Working hours may vary depending upon Brotherton Indian Tribal Offices Brotherton Indian Reservation, delivery arrival time. The ideal candidate Tribal Lands should be available Thursday through Office of the Chief Brotherton Saturday. Responsibilities include lifting Indian Reservation up to 25 pounds and delivering newspapers Indian Mills, New Jersey 08088 to racks and local businesses. Excellent Attention Dr. Sam Beeler, Chief reading, comprehension, organizational, 973-222-1920 and written and verbal skills are required.

973-432-8894 A valid drivers license, insurance card, and PIANO LESSONS WITH LYDIA. Certireliable transportation is a must! Please call fied teacher. 25 years experience. All ages/ 609-801-2392 and ask for George. The pay levels. Medford N.J. Call for information/ rate is competitive for new hires. registration. 609-654-1087.

Bernie Sanders our revolution monthly meeting. Pemberton N.J. See Facebook.

Home Improvement “Our Revolution South Jersey.” Feel the bern.

Redefine spaces. Your one-stop shop home improvement contractor. Kitchen and baths, doors, windows, and siding.

Tile, hardwood, drywall, and painting.

Call John for free estimate. 609-4585371.

Will Do Citizens Anything We Haul It. Estates, Attics, Basements, Space Places, Odd Jobs, Yardwork Demolition, Pools Removed, etc. Call Earl 609-694-9356.

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

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PAGE 19

TROOP FROM PAGE 1

is related to a family in the village, the organization tried effortlessly to hang it as close as possible to the family.

“It brings back memories of all these people we once knew,” said Grace Hicks, a resident of the village, who had multiple family members in the service. “It kind of keeps them alive.”

At a November township committee meeting, Mayor James F. Young, Sr. read a proclamation honoring Sharp and declared Nov. 9, 2016 as “Clarence ‘Butch’ Sharp Day.” “Butch Sharp approached the township committee with an idea of placing veteran’s pictures on the poles in Vincentown,” Young said. “The township committee was very happy with what he was going to do. He was surprised and sold over 204 pictures. He made a lot of people happy who lost their loved ones in the service.

The township committee felt that we should do something for Butch.”

The project has been embraced by the community and has inspired neighboring Burlington County municipalities to follow in Southampton’s footsteps.

“There are a lot of other communities that are going to duplicate what you did Butch,” said Deputy Mayor Bill Raftery at the time. “It really turned out special.”

The banners were taken down for the winter.

However, Young wants the banners to be rehung just before Memorial Day. He hopes that the rehanging of the banners after winter becomes an annual township tradition.

He asked Boy Scout Troop 31 to create a database of the banner locations to assist volunteers and township employees with the process of rehanging them. He recognized that many of the banners were hung in specific locations.

“He thought it was wise to create a database of their locations,” said Bert Creswell, a committee member for Boy Scout Troop 31. “In

response, the scouts spent time surveying each banner, recording its’ location and other interesting data such as Branch of Service.”

The Scouts presented the township committee with (2) three-ring binders full of collected data on Jan. 18.

“I am proud to present tonight, a survey of locations of the veterans’ banners that were displayed in the Village of Vincentown, from Memorial Day until Veterans Day,” said Senior Patrol Leader Conner Heffernan. “We were proud to undertake this survey as requested

by Mayor Young. Troop 31 recognizes that it is from the work and sacrifice of the people on those banners, that we have the privilege to meet here tonight. One of the ‘Aims of Scouting’ is to develop citizenship. This project helps in that goal.

“We are happy and proud to assist our community in any way possible to recognize those who have served our country; and in some cases, made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

We present two copies of the survey, one for the committee and the other for our township workers to rehang the banners this Memorial Day.” Young recognized each scout for their assistance that they provided to the community.

Sharp also joined the mayor in honoring the scouts. Each scout received a certificate for their efforts.

“This is what small communities are about,” Young said.

Sharp shared similar sentiments.

“I’ve lived here all my life,” he said. “I was born and raised here. I’ve been here 76 years.

It’s a nice town. It’s quiet with good schools.”

Donations are still being accepted so that more banners can be purchased. Sharp said that our readers can reach out to the township for more information on how to get in touch with him.

PHOTO BY GRACE HICKS One of the many veterans banners that lined the streets of Main St. in Vincentown.

REPAIR

necessary improvements to a NJ DOT project in the area.

He pointed to the resurfacing of Tuckerton Road and Sooy Place Road as some examples.

There were a few items of interest discussed during professional and committee reports.

Lange said an abandoned structure at 14 Moore Road is presenting a hazard to the health and welfare of the residents. He said the property is a haven for rodents, vermin, and other wildlife.

The township called for the owner of the property or his designee to appear for a Jan. 18 hearing on the matter. Cramer was the administrative officer. The property owner sent his attorney.

At the end of the hearing, Cramer ordered that the property be cleaned up and free of all debris, trash and refuse by Feb. 20.

The owner must also submit a plan for construction along with a structural report from a structural engineer by March 20.

If the plan and report is approved and accepted by the township, all permits would have to be applied for by May 1. All reconstruction must be completed by Sept. 15.

If the owner misses any of the deadlines or a structural engineer concludes the property cannot be repaired, the structure will be demolished by the township. All of the demolition fees would be assessed to the owner of the property.

Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests were also discussed at great length.

“We received an OPRA request asking for job resumes for the deputy clerk position,” said Committeeman Joseph Barton. “There were 70 applicants for that position.”

Barton said Township Clerk La Shawn R. Barber had to contact all of the individuals who applied for the position to obtain permission to

distribute their resume.

“It took a lot of labor to accomplish that,” Barton said.

He suggested the township include a release form with any future job postings.

“There was also an OPRA request for the Request for Proposals for professional positions this year,” Barton said. “Those proposals are in a box this big. I can’t begin to tell you how many pages are in those documents.”

He said that the township needs to look at a more economical way to satisfy OPRA requests.

“The OPRA requests require a lot of labor,” Barton said. “I think we need to be a little more mindful and be a little smarter about how we handle and process them, while recognizing that we are obligated to do it. Sometimes the information requested is overwhelming.”

Lee said the committee may have to talk about hiring someone specifically to handle OPRA requests for the township.

“In thinking about the process and looking at the budget at this point, we may be at the point now where it is time to hire somebody to specifically handle OPRA requests,” he said.

Following the OPRA discussion, Lee announced that officials are looking to make changes to the town’s buildings and grounds.

“We have spent time over the last seven to 10 years looking at long-term revisions for our buildings and grounds, specifically the operations that we have for the township and our residents,” Lee said. “We have this building, the court and the construction office. We are seriously looking at options for facilities for our residents that will provide residents with an opportunity to be able to have a good place to go to essentially pay their taxes, go to the construction

FROM PAGE 4

services.

The agreement authorizes Cramer to review and certify recycling grant reports prepared by Shamong Township which provides for a cost savings for both government entities.

“Under state law, it is required to have a certified recycling specialist sign off on it,” Cramer said. “That is what I do. I review the report and submit it through my e-mail.”

He said that he currently provides the service to Springfield and New Hanover, in addition to Tabernacle.

The township gets paid $200 by each municipality that utilizes Cramer to certify their reports.

Raffle licenses were granted to Holy Eucharist Roman Catholic Church. The church will be holding a “50/50 Drawing” and a “Chinese Auction” on April 2.

Additionally, Cramer was reappointed as the township’s public agency compliance officer.

Officials also discussed the need to repave Oak Shade Road from Medford Lakes Road to the township line. The road is showing signs of deterioration. The committee approved the submission of a grant application to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) seeking financial assistance for the repairs.

Cramer said in an interview after the meeting that he is prepared to explore other options should the township be passed-over for grant funding.

He said that in the past, when repairs could no longer wait and grant funding was not awarded to the township, he worked to develop partnerships with neighboring towns or connected the

office, and go to court if they need.”

He said that Committeeman Richard Franzen spearheaded the review process and that the committee was going to begin to look at the long-term plan for facilities in earnest.

“We have a community center on Hawkins Road that we need to do something about,” Lee said.

He also said that he would like to get a contract between the township and Tabernacle Rescue Squad complete. He would like to wrap up the negotiations in the next month or so.

Lee ended his remarks by saying that he attended the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump. Trump was sworn in as the 45th president of the United States on Jan. 20.

“Regardless of who you vote for, to witness the peaceful transfer of power is a pretty moving experience,” Lee said. “To be there as an elected official and to have responsibility of being a public servant for the folks back here in Tabernacle and witness that was pretty special for me personally. It only amplified my charge to be the best public servant I can be and do whatever I can to ensure that Tabernacle continues to be a safe place to live.”

During public comment, resident Fran Brooks questioned several charges on the bills list. She also wanted to know how much the dual fire inspection positions have cost the township.

She said that she filed the OPRA requests for the job resumes and Request for Proposals.

She said Barber never called her seeking an extension and that Barber could have asked for a 30-day extension and she would have given it to the township.

“Previously, I have been criticized for submit-

REPAIR>>PAGE 20

PAGE 20

PIPELINE FROM PAGE 1

and gas customers in Cape May and Atlantic Counties narrowly won approval from the Tabernacle Township Committee on Jan. 23.

The measure was added onto the committee’s regular meeting agenda. A copy of the resolution was provided to the public minutes before the meeting was set to begin.

Mayor Stephen Lee IV said that he helped put together the resolution of support. He apologized for the last-minute addition of the item.

He said he was unable to submit the resolution prior to the meeting due to his attendance at the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump.

“South Jersey Gas has become a pretty good partner with Tabernacle Township,” Lee said.

“Some time ago, our only heating sources were fuel oil and propane. South Jersey Gas spent quite a bit of capital investing in Tabernacle Township, providing residents a cheaper alternative in terms of gas.”

The township granted a 50-year license to South Jersey Gas Company on Jan. 1, 1967 for the purpose of allowing the company to use municipal streets for their utilities. The license expired on Jan. 1. The township was unaware of the expiration date until recently.

It is expected that the township will grant a new license to the company on Feb. 13. The license will be retroactive to the beginning of the new year, if an agreement is approved.

“Six months ago, South Jersey Gas came to us and said we need permission to be able to do work in your town,” Lee said. “They are the ones that brought to our attention the relationship that we have with all of our utilities; Atlantic City Electric, Verizon, and South Jersey Gas. They came to us and said we are supposed to be doing this and we didn’t even know about it. We had to do some research to figure out what the story was.”

Lee said the reason for bringing the resolution of support forward is the company has been a good partner for the township. He said that he thinks that it might help expedite work that still needs to be done in the township if the committee shows some support for the project.

“I would have rather had a little bit more time only because of the issues that I do know exist in the town and areas that they have cut off service,” said Township Committeewoman Kim Brown. “So, I’d rather have more time to look into what their plans are to service those people.”

Lee said he spoke with a resident who was affected by a stoppage. He said he is hopeful that if the pipeline is okayed by the Pinelands Commission, it will allow South Jersey Gas Company to improve and expand the infrastructure that they started in the municipality.

“Their focus has been on getting this pipeline complete,” Lee said. “They spent a lot of capital trying to get this done because what it will do is benefit their whole operation and it provides them with capital to be able to continue to invest

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

in other towns like ours.”

He said the utility’s expansion ability will be limited if their application does not get approved.

Committeeman Joseph Barton, who worked in the gas and utility industry for 46 years, was opposed to the committee voicing an opinion on the matter.

“There are also two other pipelines that are involved in the state,” he said. “I have a concern about the town weighing in on a project that is really under the jurisdiction of the Pinelands Commission. The Pinelands Commission has already heard this case. They turned it down once. They have a second application.”

Barton said that to get natural gas to the B.L. England Electric Generating Station, the pipeline has to go through the Pinelands. He said that it is not a permitted use. He said when a company puts gas lines throughout a municipality, there is more work involved to have to protect the environment, but the difference is it is a permitted use.

“My position is, as an elected official in Tabernacle, it is not my concern or our concern,” Barton said. “It is something that Pinelands commision is going to decide probably in the very near future. For that reason, I am not in support of the resolution supporting the utility.

I’d rather be neutral and let Pinelands make that decision.”

Committeeman Richard Franzen said that a year and a half ago, two residents came before the committee and asked them to pass a resolution against the pipeline. He said he has been following the issue.

“I think as a public official, I do want to stand up and be heard on this,” he said. “I would like to say the same thing I said a year and a half agoto the two residents and that is that I support this pipeline. I would be in favor of this resolution tonight.”

Following the comment period by the committee, Township Clerk La Shawn R. Barber conducted a roll call vote on the measure.

Barton voted no. Franzen and Lee voted yes.

Brown abstained. Committeeman Joseph Yates IV was absent.

Brown’s abstention permitted the resolution to narrowly pass and avoided a tie.

Resident Stuart Brooks voiced his dissatisfaction with the decision during public comment.

He said that it was a disservice to the residents to consider a resolution on the matter in the absence of real notice. He said that he does not buy into the fact that South Jersey Gas will be making an investment into Tabernacle simply because the committee showed support for them.

“I think this issue is so complex and it is out of your jurisdiction,” Brooks said. “This is not one that you should have passed.”

No one else from an audience of about 15 voiced an opinion on the resolution of support.

A certified copy of the resolution will be sent to several state politicians.

REPAIR FROM PAGE 19

ting too many OPRA requests,” Fran Brooks said. “So, I have been putting multiple questions into one OPRA request so that the number of OPRA requests is fewer.”

She called on the committee to define the role the deputy township clerk plays in fulfilling OPRA requests.

Resident Stuart Brooks asked the committee to consider holding a paper shredding event once or twice a year.

He also said that he was concerned because

sometimes members of the public do not receive a response from the committee after comments are made. He said the other side needs to be heard too.

Lee said the township will consider holding a paper shredding event in conjunction with household hazardous waste drop-off day.

Also of note, a parade permit for the “Pine Barons Enduro Rider Annual Clock Run” was tabled at the request of Barber.

Deputy Mayor Joseph Yates IV was absent.

HEARING FROM PAGE 2

There was much more pipeline support from men, even though they were in the minority.

A South Jersey Gas Company official was in favor. A few politicians spoke, mostly for it.

Members of unions were strongly supportive, which is to be expected, with the large number of well-paying jobs in the offing.

Here are some of the quotes from the opposition: “This is a national issue and this is the front line; Hearing is a sham; The pipeline doesn’t serve the Pines; The pipeline violates court order; Commission—do your job, stop the pipeline; Stand up for the Public; No pipeline in the Pines; I’m absolutely opposed; The Pinelands will be lost; Does not meet the needs of the residents; What will you do if the Pines are damaged?; Please do your job; The Pines deserve to be protected; Implement your own rules (drew heavy applause); It’s disheartening you’re not paying attention to us; I moved here 35 years ago--you’re threatening the future of the environment; The pipeline violates the rules; There is no safe level of benzene and other chemicals (heavy applause); I’m a descendent of 1700’s settlers and a true Piney—I’m opposed; There’s 17 trillion gallons of pure water in the Pines, it’s all threatened; Your job is to protect the Pines, take it seriously.”

More from the opposition: The pipeline’s not safe and not necessary; The pipeline violates the rules; There is no need for the pipeline; Follow your own rules; Will it serve the Pines?; The pipeline is built to carry much more than the Pines need; Protect the Pines; Do your duty, uphold your responsibilities, do your job (loud applause); There’s no way to build it safely; You’re to serve only the people in the Pinelands—Shameful; People are standing out in the rain—we need a robust discussion (loud applause); Let them in—you’re violating your own rules; There’s no change from the 2014 rejection; you’re violating your own rules; you’re violating your own standards; Fire safety will always be an issue; Plants, animals will be at risk; Fossil fuels are on the way out; What will your legacy be?; You’re setting a dangerous precedent; You are the guardians of the Pines; Your job is to worry about the Pines, not jobs;

Saturday, February 4, 2017

There are things in the Pines that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Please just vote no.

You’re (the Commissioners) just a bunch of marionettes.”

Much later in the day, one woman opponent grabbed everyone’s attention in her allotted three minutes of speaking time. After saying no pipeline anywhere was safe, she bolstered her argument by quietly reading a list of oil pipe failures, starting from last week. She listed dates, places, and where necessary, deaths.

In her three minutes, she got back only to last August, five months in all.

Now let’s hear from pipeline supporters. A vice president of South Jersey Gas, saying he had deep respect for both supporter and opponents, added “Most of us have children and grandchildren living here. We (S.J. Gas) are going to great lengths to minimize disruption while building the pipeline. We’ve practiced safety in the Pines for years.” This drew heavy applause from the unionists. But his final sentence, “There are virtually no negatives,” drew a round of boos.

More quotes: “This will give us energy independence; The pipeline will give us plenty of good paying jobs; We need this, without a pipeline, the shore area faces a deteriorating power grid; My family owns property there; I’m in favor of the pipeline; natural gas is cleaner than oil; yes, they’re temporary jobs, but all jobs are temporary; natural gas is the cheapest alternative to oil; The Chamber of Commerce in Atlantic City is in favor; Natural gas is reliable.”

By mid-afternoon, when it appeared that whatever could be said had been, this writer began compiling a list of speakers in groups of 10how many in each group were opposed and how many in each group were favor of the pipeline?

In the first group of 10; six were opposed to four in favor. That was the closest of all groups.

The next was 8-2 opposed. The following groups were opposed by 9-1, 6-4 again, and 8-2.

The tally of the final 78 speakers was 63-15 opposed, or just under 81 percent.

Since the meeting was strictly to hear testimony on the pipeline, there was no other action.

After the semi-apology from the two commissioners, the meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m., a total of 7 hours and 50 minutes.

KC-46A FROM PAGE 5

bases they prefer. A decision must still be made by the Department of Defense and the current administration. Other bases were under consideration.

JBMDL will mark its 100th anniversary this year, 1917-2017, but obtaining the new air tankers is critical to its long-term survival. Since the new planes will also refuel Army, Navy and Marine planes in the air, as well as the Air Force, the joint-base status helps as it will allow easy coordination within the services.

The new KC-46As, currently being built by Boeing, will be ready for delivery by January 2018, and eventually replace the 32 aging KC10s and eight KC-135s that are currently based at JMBDL. Thomas Cathers of nearby Whitesbog was there to support the new mission, saying it was important to keep the base open because of the economic impact it has on the area.

Tom Harper, mayor of Wrightstown, said the whole economy of his community depends on the base.

“Without the base, there is no Wrightstown,”

he said.

Bob Smyth, who works for Congressman Tom MacArthur (NJ-3) said it was vital the KC-46s come to JBMDL because the base was the second-largest employer in New Jersey after the state government itself.

Standing tall above the crowd, Col. Michael Warner, a former base commander and head of the New Jersey Defense Enhancement Coalition, who also worked to preserve and enhance JBMDL, said that it was important for the Air Force to designate the base as the home of the new tankers. He cautioned that it is not yet a done deal and that every effort must be made to ensure the continued survival of the base.

It was noted that the economic activity at the base is strong when we are at war, but then declines during peacetime - “We win the war but lose the peace,” and there must be a way to stabilize the economy through war and peace.

“That’s what we are trying to do,” Warner said.

Comment forms were handed out for local citizens to add their input, and anyone interested can obtain a form on line at www.KC-46A-mob4. com.

Saturday, February 4, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

SUSPICIOUS FROM PAGE 4

On Friday, the family went to the barracks to see what progress had been made on the case.

“I was told there was no incident report filed,” Gregory Nixon said.

He said the troopers at the barracks told him that the responding troopers didn’t feel there was a need to file an incident report. He also said that the troopers told him that a license plate number from the vehicle was needed for the agency to create an incident report.

“I can’t comment on the decision that the troopers or detectives make,” said Trooper Alejandro Goez, a spokesperson for the New Jersey State Police. “The decision is made at the local level. The woman has to talk to the station.”

On Jan. 26, when the Pine Barrens Tribune first reached out to the New Jersey State Police for comment on the incident and referenced surveillance video posted to social media, Goez could not locate the incident in the agency’s database.

Goez then checked with a detective at the barracks. He later told the Pine Barrens Tribune that the detective was unaware of the incident.

“They sent three troopers out in three separate vehicles,” Karen Nixon said. “I don’t know how they can have no report or record of this.”

On Jan. 27, when the Pine Barrens Tribune provided the date and time stamp of the 911 call from the victim’s cell phone to Goez, the incident was quickly located in the agency’s database.

Goez blamed an incorrect time stamp on the surveillance video for the mishap. The time stamp was approximately an hour ahead of the actual incident.

He confirmed that state troopers responded to a report of a “suspicious person.”

“A person got out of a vehicle, the victim

STUDENTS honked their horn, and the man left,” Goez said.

“He didn’t trespass.”

However, the video surveillance footage does show the man trespassing onto Nixon’s property.

Gregory and Karen Nixon have visited the barracks several times since Friday. They have pleaded for an incident report to be filed.

“Honestly, I didn’t get anything accomplished,” Karen Nixon said. “The officer I talked to didn’t know anything. He said he would have to wait until tonight to talk to the officers that were dispatched on Tuesday night. He did not see anything. He tried looking to see if there was a report made.”

She added that the trooper on duty took the time to watch the surveillance video and asked for a digital copy.

Earlier on Friday, when her husband visited the barracks, he asked for the agency to take the video tape and get it enhanced to see if a license-plate number from the sedan could be determined. He said that he was told that the barracks does not send out video tapes for enhancement.

He said he was shocked at the response because several years ago, when there were vehicle burglaries in his neighborhood, troopers took video from his camera system and enhanced it at a local sports video business.

“What does it take?” Gregory Nixon said.

The family is asking anyone with information to contact the New Jersey State Police.

“Terrorizing a woman, especially mine, doesn’t sit well with me,” Gregory Nixon said.

Hours after this story appeared on our website, two detectives visited with the Nixon family and promised further investigation.

Readers can log onto our website to view the video of the incident.

TEACHER FROM PAGE 1

FROM PAGE 4

Seneca High School’s DECA club held a “Character Breakfast” right before Halloween.

Children from the community were invited to eat breakfast with students dressed up as Disney movie characters. Bingo, tattoo art, and face painting were offered at the breakfast.

The senior pinning for the Class of 2017 was held. Over 150 Seneca families participated in the event. The event provided an opportunity for high school seniors to exchange pins with their parents and express gratitude for their support over the years.

For the first time in school history, the Seneca Girls Soccer team was division champions.

For the second time in school history, they were South Jersey Group 3 champions.

Additionally, for the past several years, the high school participated in a “One Book-One School” initiative.

Students, staff, faculty, and administrators were required to read the same book over the summer. Students and staff would then participate in at least three activities each month during the school year which were related to the book. The students were split up into groups and points were awarded to the group based on their knowledge of the summer reading book.

The initiative was replaced this year at Seneca with the “Green and Gold Games”.

“We looked for a better event that could get all of the kids involved because not everybody likes to read a book,” Scarpello said. “Everyone has different genres that they like. This was a way for us to bring our school together.”

The school was split up into two teams. One team consisted of seniors and sophomores. The other team consisted of juniors and freshman.

One team was “green” and the other team was “gold.”

The teams competed in games during “Community Lunch and Learn” in November. Activities included hula-hooping, grilled-cheese making competition, pumpkin decorating, and a lip-syncing battle.

“It is just a way for the school to connect and come together,” Scarpello said. “It was definitely more effective than our “One Book-One School” event.

The events culminated into a pep rally at the end of November. A male and a female captain were chosen for both the “green” and “gold” teams. A student must demonstrate school spirit to become a team captain.

Seneca High School also decided to hold a non-traditional homecoming dance this year.

The school’s small gymnasium was transformed

FINANCIAL FROM PAGE 5

PHOTO SUBMITTED Denbo School principal Brett Thorp (left) with 4th grade teacher Ashley McMichael.

Ten employees resigned and nine more retired.

The longest-serving were teachers Diane Hoyt, high school, 36 years; Claire Starr, teacher, Ft. Dix, 35 years; Anne Martinez, Early Childhood Center, 25 years and Joan Perry, high school, 20 years. Together, the nine have accumulated 164 years of service.

New hirings totaled 28, including 12 teachers.

shape, which may have aided its expulsion.

The girl was frightened, but safe. After a final check, she boarded her bus for home.

McMichael called the girl’s mother, explained the situation and that all was now well. We can only imagine how relieved the mother was.

Just minutes into the meeting, McMichael was called in front of the audience of about 40, and publicly recognized and honored for her quick action. She received a loud round of applause and a public citation.

This reporter spoke to McMichael after the

commission erred in its interpretation of the Pinelands Protection Act and that the commission itself, rather than the Board of Public Utilities, was required to make the decision that the proposed pipeline conformed to the standards of the Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan.

The commission then set up a procedure to review and finally make the decision.

On Jan. 17, the Pinelands Preservation

meeting. She’s young and enthusiastic and relayed the incident with little drama. The Rowan University graduate simply said she assessed the situation and applied the Heimlich, which she had learned years earlier at a life-saving class.

Coming from a family with many teachers, I remember some of them frequently saying, “Good teachers are born, not made.”

In Ms. McMichael’s case, that appears to be a given.

PINELANDS FROM PAGE 16

PAGE 21

into a dance floor while the school’s big gymnasium contained food, games and a photo booth.

This allowed for students who were uninterested in dancing to still participate in the homecoming celebrations.

In addition to a homecoming king and queen, a school spirit king and queen were chosen.

Seneca High School’s Student Council sponsored a toy drive to support South Jersey children and families in need. Toys were collected

by Indian Mills Middle School, Cranberry Pines Elementary School and Olsen Middle School.

The Medford Police Department provided the toy drive with 18 brand new bikes.

Seneca High School’s Student Council, National Honor Society and Air Force JROTC members helped various agencies shop for specific toys, books, puzzles and more. Representatives from the ARC of Burlington County, Christian Caring Center, Pemberton Emergency Squad, Camden Boys Club and Dudley Schools of Camden, picked up the toys to bring back to their agencies for distribution.

“We received a bunch of cards from the kids who received the toys,” Lyons said. “It was really cool to see the change we had in their lives and how we got them through Christmas.”

The student council also bought gifts for a family who was affected by HIV and worked with the Pinelands Family Success Center to collect 100 coats for needy families.

“During December, our community service clubs and many other organizations at each of our four high schools worked to collect and distribute gifts, food, winter apparel, and other monetary donations for many members of our own communities and charitable organizations,” said Dr. Carol “Lynn” Birnbohm, superintendent of schools for the LRHSD. “I am just not sure that people understand our teenagers’ capacity for giving and their ability to mobilize around these various causes. I really think they should all be commended as well as the teachers and advisers who organize the endeavors.”

The first half of the 2016-2017 school year at Seneca High School concluded with a National Honor Society induction, “Our Town” fall drama and DECA Fashion Show.

For the remainder of the school year, students are looking forward to Sophomore Cotillion, a junior dinner dance, a “Golden Eagle Pageant,” senior prom, “Brain Day,” senior trip, an art show, “Senior Day of Service,” a “3rd Annual Goldies” recognition program, a spring musical, and graduation.

“That is a wonderful presentation of why kids want to come to school,” Birnbohm said. “That is for sure.”

Several new courses won approval. Many, but not all, were arts related.

Finally, 42 employees will attend a professional workshop in Atlanta in late June at a cost of $92,568.

This meeting, which attracted about 25 attendees, lasted just over an hour after the 20-minute executive session.

The school board will meet next on Wednesday, Feb. 16, at 6:30 p.m.

Alliance (PPA) appealed, seeking a stay and summary judgment. The court denied the stay.

The PPA claimed irreparable harm will result if the pipeline is built. The court rejected that claim as premature. That degree of harm, the court wrote, could “only result if the commission ultimately approves the proposed development. The commission also found that the Alliance has not shown a reasonable likelihood of success on the merits of this claim…”

The court also ruled against the Alliance’s claim that the balance of hardships favors a stay and denied the motion.

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Saturday, February 4, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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, 100-cow southern Illinois dairy farm.

Sunny And Chair

The chairman gaveled the Ag Committee to wake-up shot to the chair, “my experience in the order. big-dog-eat-big-dog world of global grain and “We’re here today,” he announced in his best fertilizer merchandising affirms my bona fides radio voice, “to rapidly confirm our President’s to run USDA and, ha ha, even the Humane Socinominee for secretary of agriculture. He is, like ety—if any of you folks ever need a tiny favor.” most us, self-made, rich, manly—” A lame silence followed the lame joke; the “Mr. Chairman!” interrupted a female voice chairman coughed to fill it. from the far side of the horseshoe-shaped dais.

“Mr. Sunny,” he asked, “does this committee “What are you talking—” have your assurance that any former or future The sharp rap of the chairman’s gavel shat- dealings with agribusiness will have no influtered the interruption. ence on any decision you make as our next sec“Order!” thundered the chair. “I have the retary of agriculture?” floor! What’s more, I have my rules and my Sunny and the chair had rehearsed this quesfacts and we will follow both as long as I am tion while hunting so the answer was still clear chairman!” Another rap from the gavel seemed in his mind. “Not just my word, Mr. Chairman,” to silence the whole world.

Sunny said, “but my solemn word.” His voice “Now,” continued the still angry chairman, cracked on “solemn.”

“I ask the gentle lady from the great state of “So, there are no free suitcases in your closWherever to cork it unless she and her mem- et and no free football tickets in your pocket?” bers want to do right now what agriculture’s asked the chair in an obscure reference to the real friends came here to do later: approve this last USDA chief, a Demopublican, from a gritscandidate and save us valuable time and her an- and-gravy state. other Valium!”

A tight-lipped Sunny shook his pink, hound A low murmur began to rise in the packed dog jowls right to left before announcing: “No, hearing room. It was frozen in its tracks, how- sir.” ever, with a climate-changing stare from the “Well, then,” said the chairman as he grabbed chairman. his ruling gavel, “having been assured this nom“Mr. Sunny,” the chair called out, “if you inee can ably run our beloved Department of are ready, the Committee will now hear why we Big Agriculture, I move that we declare, by acwill approve your nomination.” clamation, Mr. Sunny be recommended for full Mr. Sunny was ready. He was no stranger confirmation.” to public testimony having served two terms Dozens of voices suddenly screamed “Mr. as the Republicratic governor of one of the na- Chairman! Mr. Chairman!” Not one, however, tion’s bigger cotton, poultry, and football states. was louder than the chair’s that shouted, “All in So, on cue, he leaned forward. favor say ‘Aye!’” “Mr. Chairman,” he began, “Ranking memA loud crack of the gavel followed and then: ber, committee members, and fellow cogs in “The ‘Ayes’ have it!” the global agriculture supply chain. I begin by And they did. humbly and modestly noting that if one can run Later, in his small, hideaway office, the a tractor, a chicken barn, and an off-shore, de- chairman handed Sunny a glass half-full of rivatives-based futures trading firm, he can cer- brown liquid, then poured himself one. Each tainly run the United States Department of Big took a small sip and smiled.

Agriculture.”

“Well,” said Sunny, “you did it.”

He paused to look up and quickly eyeball “All I did was speed up the process,” the each committee member before adding, “I am chair correctly observed, “you were a shoo-in.” that one.”

He paused, then asked: “You’re not going to disThe chairman smiled. His boy had made a appoint me, are you?” great start so his mind sped back to a quail-huntSunny looked into his glass for the right ing trip he and Sunny had enjoyed the weekend answer. A few seconds later he shot a sly grin before. toward the chairman and crooned, “I got you, “… And, in closing,” said Sunny, firing a babe.” © 2017 AG COMM.

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CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

Saturday, February 4, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 23

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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Saturday, February 4, 2017