Pine Barrens Tribune June 13, 2020-June 20, 2020

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Vol. 4 – No. 39 ♦

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June 13, 2020 – June 19, 2020

Recordings Reflect Agitation That Led to Fatal Encounter on GSP in Bass River

LIMITED-ACCESS REOPENING

Scuffle with Trooper Ended in Death of Black Motorist

By Bill Bonvie Staff Writer

Photo By Chris Pedota/State Press Pool-Gannett

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Administrator Brenda S. “Sue” Fulton.

Faced with a Monumental Three-Month Backlog of Transactions, the NJMVC Not Only Plans to Reopen in Phases Starting June 15, But to Maintain Separate Facilities for Licensing and Registration

By Bill Bonvie Staff Writer

TRENTON—Imagine a miles-long traffic jam that the authorities are painstakingly attempting to clear up by creating separate lanes to accommodate cars and trucks while diverting the flow of vehicles onto shoulders and off-ramps.

That is somewhat analogous to the massive backlog of business that the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) has to deal with as it begins a “phased” reopening of its offices on June 15 following a three-month closing of those normally busy facilities due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

NJMVC offices are being restructured so that motorists will now have to visit separate ones to get different missions accomplished.

While the announcement of a definite date for the process of getting things moving again may be somewhat encouraging to the numerous state residents whose transportation-related transactions and road tests have been continually put off for the last few months, it doesn’t mean that the resulting issues experienced are on the verge of being instantly resolved.

“The old NJMVC crowded a lot of people

into a lot of small spaces,” NJMVC Chief Administrator Brenda S. “Sue” Fulton noted in a June 5 press release. “We can’t operate like that in a COVID-19 world.

Our reopening plan re-imagines NJMVC workflows, with streamlined processes to clear the backlog and ensure that you spend as little time as possible at NJMVC. Our first priority is to ensure the health and safety of our employees and customers.”

In order to “limit crowds and speed services,” she said, the agency “will be reopening in phases,” with some of its offices designated as “licensing centers” dealing strictly with the issuing of drivers’ licenses and permits, and others as “vehicle centers” where registrations, titles and the like will be processed.

According to a list released by the agency, the Medford office will now be designated as a vehicle center, with the nearest licensing centers to be located in Delanco and Camden. In Ocean County, the Manahawkin office will also be just a vehicle center, with residents having to travel to Toms River or Cardiff, outside of Atlantic City, to obtain licenses or renewals.

In addition, six of the offices—including

three considered to be South Jersey facilities in Eatontown, West Deptford and Trenton— have been categorized as “regional centers,” where hearings will be scheduled and suspensions and restorations handled.

In the meantime, workspaces having already been extensively overhauled, according to Fulton, with the addition of Plexiglas barriers and the initiation of other social distancing measures. NJMVC employees, she said, were ordered back to their offices during the past week for health and safety briefings, hardware and software reboots, and training on new protocols.

While it almost goes without saying, the press release also emphasizes that eve r yone — mea n i ng cu stome r s a nd employees alike—entering an NJMVC office will be required to wear a face covering, and if a patron cannot do so, the agency “will make other arrangements for their transaction.”

“Other arrangements,” in fact, are still being actively encouraged whenever possible in the form of online transactions introduced during the closure.

See REOPENING/ Page 14

BASS RIVER—Hours before 28-year-old Jamaican immigrant Maurice Gordon was shot to death on the Garden State Parkway in Bass River Township during a scuffle with a uniformed New Jersey State Trooper early on the morning of May 23, he reportedly showed up at the home of a friend in the mid-Hudson Valley town of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he had been living, working and attending college, in a state of panic.

That friend, in fact, was so alarmed by the way he was acting and speaking that he picked up the phone to notify local police of his concern immediately after Gordon hastily departed to “go for a drive.”

But Poughkeepsie Police were unable to locate Gordon, and the drive he subsequently took turned out to be a nearly 200-mile trip south into New Jersey, down the Parkway, where he broke down or ran out of gas several times and was ticketed once and then stopped again for going at speeds in excess of 100 mph.

The second such occasion was on the left side of the parkway that spans the Mullica River and its surrounding marshes, where the officer who pulled him over, Sgt. Randall Wetzel, a 15-year veteran of the State Police, upon discovering that Gordon’s car was inoperative, called for a tow truck.

An audio and video account of much of that fateful journey, and the way it culminated, has now been made available by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office following a preliminary investigation of the incident, with the results expected to be given to a Grand Jury, according to Democratic governor Phil Murphy.

The released video shows Wetzel as seeming to be courteous enough toward Gordon, whom he invited to sit in the back of his police cruiser while awaiting the arrival of a tow truck— that is, until the two ended up in the deadly confrontation outside the squad car after Gordon unbuckled his seat belt and abruptly exited (so quickly as to drag the belt out with him) in response to Wetzel offering him a mask.

He then attempted twice to get in the driver’s seat after Wetzel sharply and profanely ordered him to get back in the police car—with the officer resorting to pepper spray on one of those occasions.

When he attempted to get in the driver’s seat of the police cruiser, Wetzel again ordered him to get back in the car—with the officer See FATAL/ Page 12

INDEX Business Directory...... 17

Job Board.................... 18

Marketplace................. 19

Father’s Day................ 10

Local News.................... 2

Worship Guide............. 12

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Governor Called ‘Hypocrite’ and ‘Hypocrat’ After Seen Violating Own Executive Order; Lifts Stay-At-Home Edict in Wake of Outrage

Saturday, June 13, 2020

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Democratic Governor Phil Murphy, and First Lady Tammy Murphy, attend a large protest in Hillside June 7, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with protestors, all while an edict from the governor was in place limiting outdoor gatherings to 25 people and calling for social distancing to be maintained.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

TRENTON—A photograph of Democratic Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy appearing at a protest attended by hundreds in Hillside on June 7, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with many of the protestors, all while holding a banner that read “Hillside Strong March to End Racism * Police Brutality & Embrace Diversity” has elicited bipartisan, strong public rebuke and shaming of the governor this past week.

The outrage, which has been palpable, isn’t over the protest message itself, but the fact that the governor participated in such an event while COVID-19 related edicts he implemented over the last few months remained in effect ordering residents to stay-at-home unless it’s for an essential reason, prohibiting outdoor gatherings of over 25 individuals, banning nonessential retail and indoor dining, disallowing funerals/viewings and postponing graduation ceremonies until next month. Such orders have caused major inconveniences, unemployment, increased costs and even bankruptcies.

Murphy, prior to his protest participation, had already faced tough questions about what appeared to be an unfolding double standard being applied by his administration, or how large protests, sparked by a now-former Minneapolis police officer’s recent apparent killing of George Floyd, were seemingly allowed in the state over the last two weeks with no police intervention, but those who organized protests over Murphy’s edicts were fined.

The governor also faced questions, including from this newspaper, leading up to last Sunday, about how businesses with potentially a handful of customers inside would pose a greater risk to the public health of the citizenry, necessitating closures, than a large protest.

Murphy, a day after a Monday grilling by the press over his participation in protests Sunday, the apparent double standard and a state senator’s letter calling on New Jersey State Police Col. Patrick Callahan to issue a citation to the governor, lifted the state’s stayat-home order and eased gathering restrictions.

By Wednesday, the governor and first lady took a test for COVID-19 amid fears that protests increase the risk of one contracting the virus.

The governor has been, as of press time, unapologetic about his participation in last Sunday’s protest.

State Senate President Stephen Sweeney, also a Democrat, has called for the immediate reopening of businesses, while Republicans in the state Assembly have called on the governor to explain his rationale to a joint session of the legislature.

Floyd, an African-American man, was arrested May 25 on a charge of allegedly passing a counterfeit bill at a grocery store in a neighborhood of Minneapolis. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, pressed his knee to Floyd’s neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds during the arrest. Two other white officers further restrained Floyd, while

another prevented disturbed onlookers from intervening. Floyd, who claimed he couldn’t breathe after a few minutes passed and cried out for his mother, became motionless in the final minutes of Chauvin’s maneuver, and an official autopsy later found Floyd died of cardiopulmonary arrest caused by subdual and restraint.

Video of the incident surfaced, infuriating the country, and led to the quick dismissal of the officers involved. Chauvin was arrested and charged with third-degree murder, later upgraded to second-degree, and the three other officers involved in the arrest have also been charged. However, the arrests were not immediate, helping to further fuel sentiment of racial injustice.

The sentiment led to nationwide protests, and in some cases, rioting and looting during the weekend of May 30 and 31. In New Jersey, most of the protests were deemed peaceful, though there were some reports of looting in Trenton and Atlantic City. But many of the protests in New Jersey, as evidenced by captured video, had a crowd that clearly exceeded 25 people and violated social distancing guidelines.

Murphy seemed to OK peaceful protests during a June 1 press conference, all as many small businesses still cannot open, or can open in limited capacity, causing many to express frustration.

“Could you please expand on how risks are greater for a restaurant or a small business such as a boutique when they open their doors?” the governor was asked by this newspaper June 1.

Murphy, in response, pointed to a timeframe he put out for small businesses to reopen, calling it a “responsible one.” The governor, on that same day, announced that outdoor dining can begin June 15, limited in-person retail can begin June 15 and hair salons and barbershops can reopen June 22. Summer camps can resume July 6. However, the governor, as of press time, has yet to announce a date for when gyms can reopen.

“We have put a timeframe out for outdoor dining, for salons and barbershops,” the governor said. “We will be doing more with gyms and health clubs. We are trying to keep people alive, and as I said on protests, given the gravity of the killing and the stain of racism in this country, we have to acknowledge that there is a desire, and there is a right, to peacefully protest. I would ask you, please to wear masks and keep social distancing. This is about a loss of life. And it is about now, the beginning of the fifth century since slavery came to America and the hole that we continue to dig out from under. Thank you.”

Despite Murphy’s remarks about citizens having a right to peacefully protest, several instances emerged of individuals facing charges for organizing a protest of Murphy’s Coronavirus stay-at-home order. Kim Pagan, of Toms River, for instance, was charged by the state police with violating the order, according See GOVERNOR/ Page 6

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Man Who Clear Cut Along Paper Street Ordered to Remove Debris by June 30 Area Cleared is Site of Proposed Accessway for Planned Single-Family Dwelling Units, But Resident Claims He Made Firebreak; Town Awaits Commission Determination

Photo By Andrew King/Staff Photographer

A drone view of a 3-acre section of woods that was clear cut by a Woodland Township resident.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

WO ODL A N D — St a n le y Wo r r el l , a Woodland Township resident who just a little more than a year ago had a contractor clear cut a 3-acre section of woods designated as a township paper street, and that is also part of development applications filed with the Pinelands Commission, all while he contended to municipal officials that he created a firebreak, has “until June 30” to remove “trash piles” and “stumps” purportedly left behind from the project, according to Township Solicitor Evan H.C. Crook.

“If he doesn’t proceed to take care of it within that timeframe, the township will proceed with further enforcement action,” Crook said.

Crook recommended that the township committee implement the deadline during the Woodland Township Committee’s May 27 virtual meeting following concerns expressed

repeatedly at recent township committee meetings that the piles are posing a fire hazard.

The governing body voted unanimously to implement the deadline.

Previously, Township Clerk Maryalice Brown was to send Worrell a letter in late January asking that the brush piles be removed.

Brown contended in February that the letter was sent to Worrell and that he was working with the contractor on a date for removal of debris.

“Obviously, there has been some period of time where Worrell was unable to get people to come out to address the issue—contractors— because of COVID-19,” Crook said. “… At this point, the governor has opened up and (said) that contractors can do work. It is our understanding Mr. Worrell has had several contractors out (there) to give him quotes on See DEBRIS/ Page 7

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Developmental Center Food Service Worker Says State Reneged on Hazard Pay Promise

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

WOODLAND—One of some 22 employees who work in the main kitchen at the New Lisbon Developmental Center, who claimed the “essential” kitchen workforce is the “main factor of how this place runs,” is alleging that the New Jersey Department of Human Services (NJDHS) has reportedly reneged on a promise to provide them with emergency rate pay during the COVID-19 emergency.

“We cook all the food; we have 13 cottages here,” said the kitchen worker who contended he contacted the newspaper this week because the kitchen work crew needs someone to be their voice after being told by a union representative Monday that the emergency rate pay will not be coming through as promised due to a record state revenue shortfall resulting from the pandemic and state budget that is not that great. “People in the cottages could not do their jobs if they didn’t get the food.”

The man, who requested that his identity be withheld from publication due to fear of retribution, showed this newspaper a May 5 letter on NJDHS letterhead, and signed by Dave Thomas, CEO of New Lisbon, thanking him for his “dedicated service” to the clients of the facility. The man claimed that all of the employees of the state-run facility received the same letter, except it was personally addressed to each worker.

“Your role providing direct care and assistance to the individuals we serve is critical work and can be challenging in the best of times,” wrote Thomas in the letter. “As a result of COVID-19 and the current circumstances, you are performing extraordinary duties in an unprecedented situation. In recognition of your efforts, the Department of Human Services and

the Civil Service Commission have worked together to establish an emergency rate for the COVID-19 state of emergency.”

The emergency rate of pay, according to Thomas, is a “temporary 50 percent increase of an employee’s hourly rate.” The emergency pay rate, Thomas added, will only be paid on hours worked.

“Following NJDHS’s request for enhanced compensation for direct care and service staff, the Civil Service Commission has approved an emergency rate for employees at our developmental centers working in direct care and service titles performing at-risk, in person services,” Thomas wrote. “Staff performing out of title work that is a direct care or service function, as directed by a supervisor or management, will be eligible for the emergency rate on hours worked doing direct care. The emergency rate is in effect from March 28, 2020 until June 30, 2020, or the end of the public health emergency, whichever is sooner.”

Democratic Governor Phil Murphy on June 4 extended the public health emergency for another 30 days.

“None of us have received it,” the food service worker contended. “We have been promised. We have a letter stating that we would be a paid hazard pay with time-and-a half, or 50 percent of our pay rate or whatever our case might be.”

The man said two different unions represent the kitchen staff, and one of them came to New Lisbon on June 8, and when asked about why the emergency pay had not been paid out to the kitchen staffers yet, “handed us a bunch of junk” and said, “You should be thankful you got a job because we could furlough you See PAY/ Page 13

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Jet Skis, Boats Prohibited from Docking at Town-Owned Beach in Lower Bank Rewritten Law Satisfies Locals After It Clarifies Ban Will Not Apply to Private Land, Boat Ramps; Area Residents Turn to Concern Over River Road

Saturday, June 13, 2020

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A township-owned beach where the docking of boats and jet skis is now prohibited.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

WASHINGTON—After two months of rewriting, tabling and extensive public input, a measure that essentially eliminates jet skis and boats from “coming ashore, docking and staying” at a public beach off County Route 652 (also known as River Road), in the Lower Bank section of Washington Township, has passed.

The Washington Township Committee June 9 voted 3-0 to pass the ordinance, a form of which was first introduced by the governing body back in April. The one that was approved Tuesday night was “rewritten” from last month’s township committee meeting “in plain English, not lawyer speak,” according to Mayor Daniel James, clarifying that privately-owned properties and boat ramps from the Lower Bank Bridge to the township-owned beach line would not be subject to the prohibition in any way.

“It has been rewritten so that it only designates township property,” James said. “It has nothing to do with personal properties, or personal boat ramps, or anything else. It is just the township beach.”

The mayor then read into the record a key part of the revision, contending that the first draft of the measure actually only involved the township-owned beach, “but the way they wrote it made it real confusing.”

“W hereas the tow nship had made a determination that launching and landing of boats and personal watercraft on ‘townshipowned’ beaches is defined further in this ordinance on the Mullica River banks, in the vicinity of River Road, upstream of the Lower Bank Bridge, is disruptive to beachgoers, as well as private property owners,” said James as he read from the rewritten ordinance. “The (key word) is township-owned beaches.”

Several residents and local business owners along the Mullica riverfront, previously concerned with the way the ordinance in its draft stages had been written, expressed satisfaction with the outcome during a continuation of a public hearing from last month on the ordinance.

The River Road Clam House owns a boat ramp next to the beach that allows those on watercraft to access the establishment, along with LB’s Lunch Box, and part of the concern was that traffic on the water would be deterred or restricted from using the ramp, and hence patronizing the businesses.

“That sounds much better,” said Michelle Lubaczewski, owner of River Road Clam House.

Township Solicitor Tom Coleman was absent from the June 9 meeting. Coleman, during the April introduction, contended personalized

watercrafts are becoming somewhat of a nuisance and that disallowing watercraft from coming ashore, docking or staying at the public beach was an opportunity to allow people to continue to enjoy the beach without having to share it with jet skis.

This newspaper asked officials during last month’s township committee meeting to explain what nuisance was being posed by the watercraft, in light of Lubaczewski, owner of River Road Clam House, previously contending that she does not see any problem from the watercraft and that the beach is not used a lot.

The mayor, in response to this newspaper’s questions, described that the municipality had received complaints from township residents that they could not launch their kayaks from the beach, which abuts the Mullica River.

Samantha Silfies, a resident who resides off River Road, and whose husband owns Tigercraft, which specializes in composite jet ski hulls, parts, and accessories and hosts two large gatherings twice yearly to help promote the business, and strongly opposed the measure last month given the way it had been written at the time, pointed out Tuesday night that she filed an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request since that meeting for copies of the complaints, and received a response that no complaints were recorded. She said this left her to wonder why this has become an issue when nothing was recorded about it.

Silfies did not receive a reply to her question, but this newspaper pressed officials if there was an answer to it.

“There was a (previous) ordinance there,” James said. “That was always a beach for non-motorized recreation. It wasn’t designed for boats and jet skis. It was designed so that people could put their kayaks and canoes in.

If you wanted to go wading in the river, or you wanted to let your dog swim in the river, that was basically what that beach was always designed for.

“But because of the amount of traffic that is now on the Mullica River, it has become an issue. You are right, there have been no formal complaints, but as the committee, we have discussed this amongst a few of the residents.

There were some concerns, so all we are doing is making sure that the beach is being used for what it was originally designed for and we maintain its use.”

Given considerable interest in the issue among River Road residents, a number of them attended the meeting held by telephone.

During the meeting, a number of them raised concerns about River Road, particularly the See DOCKING/ Page 8

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Card Access for Town Dump Explored

♦ Page 5

Expanded Outdoor Restaurant Seating Permitted in Medford for Time Being

By Obtaining Permit from Township Town’s Retail Businesses Will Also Need to Seek Permit to Conduct Outside Sales

The entranceway to the Woodland Township dump.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

WOODLAND—Residents of Woodland Township could soon be issued access control cards, or magnetic cards, to gain access to the municipal dump off Russ Anderson Boulevard.

Mayor William “Billy” DeGroff, during a May 27 Woodland Township Committee meeting, contended that there has been an “unbelievable amount of trash” dropped off recently at the municipal dump.

“We have had to call the company (Garden State Removal) in to remove the dumpsters early,” the mayor said. “I don’t know if it is because everybody is off (from work and school due to the COVID-19 pandemic), and doing spring cleaning, or we have outside people coming in. I believe it (the reason) is a little bit of both.”

DeGroff said his suspicion had led him to ask an official to investigate the cost of installing a “gate inside the current gate” that can only be opened by using a card.

Photo By Andrew King/Staff Photographer

“Then we can issue all the residents a card and that may stop a lot of outside residents coming into our dump,” DeGroff said. “I know Dave, (landfill attendant and assistant road/ maintenance man #2), can’t get to everybody all the time, but he is trying.”

According to Township Clerk Maryalice Brown on June 9, the estimates received by the municipality for such a device have been approximately $15,000.

“It hasn’t even been discussed yet—you’re way ahead of the game,” she said in response to an inquiry, that in part asked if the device had been purchased yet. “I’ve sent the estimate to committee, but until we have a meeting, it won’t be discussed.”

Woodland’s next township committee meeting is scheduled for June 24. Woodland residents rely on the township dump to discard their trash as the municipality has no trash collection service. The dump is currently open on Tuesdays and Saturdays, Brown said, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Braddock’s Restaurant, which already had outdoor seating availability, in Medford Township.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

M E DFOR D — Mu n i c i p a l r u l e s a n d regulations that restricted outdoor restaurant dining in Medford Township have been temporarily relaxed due to an executive order signed by Democratic Governor Phil Murphy, which remains in effect as of press time, that will allow for outdoor dining beginning June 15, but still prohibits indoor dining due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Medford Township Council, during a special June 9 meeting, voted 4-0 to the relax rules and regulations until at least Nov. 15, or until the issuance of a subsequent executive order (or other regulation) by Murphy allowing for “unrestricted indoor dining.” Council also reserved the right to amend or repeal the resolution that enacted the relaxations

at any time. Councilwoman Lauren Kochan was absent from the meeting due to a prior obligation, but previously voiced that she was in favor of the measure.

“Most of our restaurants don’t have an official place for outdoor seating,” said Mayor Charles “Chuck” Watson, who proposed temporarily relaxing some township regulations to assist restaurants in town, at a prior council meeting.

“I would like us to pass a resolution, similar to the one sent out in Stafford Township, that allows them to use some of their property—we are not going into public rights-of-way as we don’t have that ability here—or some of their parking lots (for outdoor dining).”

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

GOVERNOR (Continued from Page 2)

to a press release from New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal and Callahan.

“It’s one thing to protest … I don't want to make light of this and I’ll probably get lit up by everybody who owns a nail salon in the state,” said Murphy when asked by another media outlet about the apparent double standard.

“But it is one thing to protest what day nail salons are opening, and it is another to come out in peaceful protest, overwhelmingly, about somebody who was murdered right before our eyes, and is yet, if that weren't enough, yet another data point of the trail of data points that highlights systemic racism and the stain that slavery still leaves in our country today. I put those into different orbits.

“I will say this, there were a lot of masks being worn, which is encouraging. And I would say to anybody who goes out, you have the absolute right to go out peacefully and rightfully protest, but please be smart about your health.”

Murphy, heading into last weekend, urged anyone protesting the death of Floyd or racial injustices, to “be responsible” and “to be healthy.”

The governor’s public schedule disseminated to the media did not list any public appearances for him on June 7.

At 2:42 p.m. last Sunday, however, a Facebook posting appeared on the governor’s page accompanied by the statement, “Today, in Hillside, we marched for justice (and) for George Floyd, and for the many before him— who lost their lives for being Black.” Included among that posting was the photograph of the governor standing shoulder-to-shoulder with protestors, and others showing that the event attracted hundreds.

Mur phy had issued an edict May 22 increasing the limit on outdoor gatherings from 10 to only 25 people, and extended June 4 the “public health emergency” edict for New Jersey, for another 30 days due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

“I am so confused by your message!” wrote Carla on the governor’s Facebook page. “Stay home! Stay 6 feet apart! Keep business closed!

Protest in large crowds.... oh, and get tested afterwards. WTF! Which one is it? If I can protest, then I can get my hair done and support small businesses, no? At least help the economy while doing so?”

Another woman, Arlene, wrote on the governor’s Facebook page she was done following him, reinforcing it with “DONE.” “Blah Blah Blah, who can believe you anymore?” the woman asked. “You don't practice your own EO (executive order).”

Jonathan Daverso, a former Burlington County Young Republicans organization l e a d e r , a s k e d o n t h e g o v e r n o r ’s Facebook page if he could confirm that the limit on outdoor gatherings is still 25.

Photo By Governor’s Office

Democratic Governor Phil Murphy, and First Lady Tammy Murphy, taking a knee at a June 7 protest, all as one individual in front of them is not wearing a mask. Murphy denied seeing any protestors without a mask.

“If so, will you cite the organizers of this protest like the Randolph business owner who was cited?” he asked.

Another commenter, Lois, asked the governor on his Facebook page if her daughter, and her class, can have a regular outdoor graduation ceremony with all family and friends present “since protests and gatherings seem to be permitted now.”

“I definitely count more than 25 people, and that is definitely not 6 feet of social distancing,” wrote Lisa to the governor on his Facebook page. “You can’t break your own executive order for one protest, but issue citations to others for their protest. You are a hypocrite!”

Marie told Murphy on his Facebook page that there are “no words” to express her feelings of “what you Governor, have done to this state and put hardworking people through” and contended that he was continuing “with the madness.”

“Shame on you!” she wrote.

The comments critical of the governor kept piling in throughout the rest of Sunday, into Monday. Murphy was shamed on local radio programs, and throughout all sorts of various social media channels in the state. Residents appeared to reach their breaking point with the governor’s executive orders, which have been unprecedented. Previously, the governor defended his decision to include churches and other houses of worship in his state’s strict social distancing guidelines to stop the spread of the Coronavirus in the face of questions from Tucker Carlson of Fox News.

“The Bill of Rights, as you well know, protects Americans' rights—enshrines their right to practice their religion as they see fit, and to congregate together to assemble peacefully,” said Carlson as he interviewed the governor.

“By what authority did you nullify the Bill of Rights in issuing this order? How do you have the power to do that?”

Murphy replied that it “was above his paygrade.”

“I wasn't thinking of the Bill of Rights when we did this,” the governor said. “... We looked at all the data, and the science, and it says people have to stay away from each other.

That is the best thing we can do to break the back of the curve of this virus, that leads to lower hospitalization and ultimately fatalities.”

Another commenter, David, after looking at the June 7 photograph on the governor’s Facebook page, asked the basic question of, “What happened to social distancing?”

“So, this is OK, but God forbid anyone protests against your bulls*** executive orders!” wrote Amy to the governor. “If we do, we get fined, have to go to court and are facing jail time! I am in no way trying to diminish the cause people are protesting about, but this worthless piece of s*** ‘governor’ of ours needs to stop picking and choosing what is allowed and what isn't to fit his agenda of complete dominance!”

Jennifer wrote to the governor, following the posting of the picture, thanking him for “this public notice that New Jersey is now 100 percent open.”

“That is great, but why are people getting issued summonses for holding peaceful protests about businesses being closed?” wrote Judy to the governor. “Why can't people see their elderly loved ones in nursing homes? Why can’t the dead be honored with proper funeral services? Why are you so hypocritical?”

This newspaper previously reported that the state banned open casket viewings due to the pandemic, and after some backlash, the edict was changed so that members of the immediate family of the deceased may now view the person’s body in an open casket for the purpose of “identification” for a “minimal period of time,” meaning no more than perhaps 15 minutes. “‘Murph’ being the great Hypocrat that he is,” wrote Daniel on the governor’s Facebook page. “Vote him out in 2021!”

Prior to Murphy’s Coronavirus 2:30 p.m.

press briefing on June 8, state Assemblyman Jay Webber, a Republican representing the 26th Legislative District, wrote to Callahan that he trusts the superintendent of the state police will uphold his “public duty” to the “fair and consistent enforcement of our laws” when he sits next to the governor at the press briefing.

“In the ongoing effort to clamp down on those who would commit acts that our governor has lectured us would threaten the public health and safety of us all, I write to inform you of two separate violations of Executive Order #148 that occurred yesterday in Westfield (a second location where Murphy protested) and Hillside.

“Photographic and written evidence on social media indicates that one Philip Dunton Murphy, of Middletown, openly and brazenly defied Executive Order #148 by purposely, repeatedly, and wantonly associating with others in groups of greater than 25 individuals, and aiding and abetting such behavior. Consistent with the treatment of other individuals who have committed similar acts, that behavior appears to merit a criminal citation for violations pursuant to N.J.S.A. App.A 9-49(h) and 9-50. A violator of those laws ‘shall be adjudged a disorderly person and shall be subject to imprisonment for a term not to exceed six months or shall pay a fine not to exceed $1,000 or to both a fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of the court.’

“As you yourself have warned, ‘Because lives are at stake, enforcement action will be taken without hesitation against those who are blatantly placing the lives of others at risk.’”

Webber also mentioned Grewal’s past comments in the letter, in which he told residents that state law enforcement “were done with warnings” and would take “strong law enforcement action against anyone who failed to heed the governor’s COVID-19 related emergency orders.”

“The whereabouts of Mr. Murphy are unknown to my office at this time, but I have reason to believe that he will be seated about 15 feet to your right at 2:30 p.m. today at the War Memorial in Trenton,” referencing the daily Coronavirus briefings held by Murphy, which have, since March, included Callahan, who is often asked by the governor to report on “compliance” with his executive orders.

It’s unclear whether Murphy received any citation. Callahan, when asked during the June 8 briefing by this newspaper to provide a response to Webber’s letter, replied “it is a local law enforcement decision,” and “two, that for the last three months, I think we have been striking that balance between public safety and public health.”

“I think we have seen that every day for the last three months and that is my response to that correspondence,” Callahan said.

A not he r re por t e r w it h W K X W-F M radio (NJ 101.5 FM) pointed out during the press briefing that a “growing number of people, Democrats and Republicans and See GOVERNOR/ Page 8

Saturday, June 13, 2020

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

♦ Page 7

Photo By Andrew King/Staff Photographer

A ground view of a 3-acre section of woods that was clear cut by a Woodland Township resident, which follows a paper street, and contains several piles of debris from the project.

DEBRIS

(Continued from Page 3) it (the work.) It would be my recommendation to the committee to advise Mr. Worrell that he has until the end of the month of June in order to address the trash piles and stumps, as required, and was previously impressed upon by the town when we filed our stop work order.”

Brown, in a June 9 email to this newspaper, when asked if the brush and trash piles had been addressed since May 27’s meeting, replied that a “letter was sent to Mr. Worrell giving him a deadline of June 30 to remove the brush piles.”

Worrell contended during a July 24, 2019 township committee workshop meeting that even though the pathway he created in the woods, which runs from Savoy Boulevard to Prince Street, follows the township’s 13th paper street, he cleared a 55-foot-wide firebreak, with “firebreak” being the operative word.

Worrell, when asked if he planned to comply with the township’s May 27 mandate to remove the debris, told this newspaper in a June 10 email that the “firebreak project is active as of this writing.”

“Our intention from the very beginning was to totally complete the firebreak project, including the clean-up,” Worrell said. “On July 23, 2019, we were issued a ‘cease and desist’ letter by the Woodland Township Committee.

Since that time, we have had the full intention of completing this project.”

While the township committee had expressed at the time that they are in favor of a firebreak due to residents in the area really not having an escape route if a wildfire occurs, Deputy Mayor Mark Herndon had said on the record that he recalled a time when Worrell approached the Woodland Township Land Use Board wishing to clear 13th Street.

“Years ago, he came to the Land Use Board and said he wanted to clear a street, 13th Street,” said Herndon last year. “He wanted it to go straight. He took it to (the) Pinelands (Commission); and they said, ‘We don’t want you to take it to the street. We want you to make it with a jog in it, a dog leg.”

Herndon, when Worrell appeared before the committee last year, again brought up his recollection, but Worrell appeared to suggest the issues are separate.

“To me, what we are discussing is for this firebreak,” said Worrell at the time. “It is not the discussion with the road, although it is in the same place as the road.”

Worrell told the township committee last year that he felt a sense of urgency to put in a firebreak after the Spring Hill Wildfire threatened the area. The wildfire, which started on March 30 of last year on the border of Washington and Woodland townships in the Penn State Forest, and eventually spread into the periphery of Ocean County, ended up consuming over 11,000 acres and was the largest state wildfire since 2007.

Paul Leakan, a communications officer for the Pinelands Commission, told this newspaper last year that an application for a road requires

commission review. However, he said an application for a firebreak does not require commission review. Thus, if Worrell made a firebreak, it would not have required approval before he proceeded with the project.

Worrell, last year, was issued the stop work order from the municipal code enforcement officer at the direction of the Pinelands Commission shortly after the clear cut had been observed by officials and residents.

The township then issued a citation against Worrell so that he be mandated to appear in court and file an application with the Pinelands Commission.

The township committee, claiming to be following the advice of Pinelands Commission staff on how to rectify the issue, unanimously authorized Worrell to file a retroactive application for the project with the commission, on behalf of the township.

Brown said last year that the court date was negated because Worrell filed the application.

Leakan then told this newspaper that Worrell filed an application for dwelling units.

“Is it a firebreak or road?” Leaken said. “We are working closely with the town to determine what is being proposed, and are going to work swiftly with the town to find a resolution.”

In September 2019, Mayor William “Billy” DeGroff told concerned township residents that the matter was “out of the township’s hands” and “Mr. Worrell’s issues were not with the township, but Pinelands.”

Brown, after the township committee faced renewed questions a month later about the status of the matter, contended that the Pinelands Commission wanted a certified forester to determine whether or not Worrell had cut a firebreak.

“Pinelands has not approved this yet and it is still sitting at Pinelands,” said then-township solicitor William Burns in October 2019.

“What was presented to the township was a firebreak, and the township has no authority over a firebreak. … I am sure Pinelands is going to take a hard look at it. What he said he was going to do was a firebreak, which he does not need approvals for. When it came out that it was more than a firebreak, the committee took action, got him to file an application and we are waiting to see what Pinelands says. It is not done—it is not over—it is still pending.”

Burns, following a call that Worrell be fined by the township for creating a roadway, replied that “when it’s determined what it is, and if it is a road, the township then can fine him.”

The mayor then replied he needs to review paperwork because there “may have been action taken years ago to approve.”

DeGroff, in December 2019, in response to additional resident questions posed about the clear cut, replied that the township is not discussing Worrell’s property while it is under Pinelands’ investigation. In January, Burns told residents that “in regards to the P-shaped firebreak,” he had been directed to “take any and all legal action,” but that he could not comment further on what that action is.

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Page 8 ♦

LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

GOVERNOR (Continued from Page 6)

Independents who support the Floyd protests and what they stand for” are “confused and concerned, and in some cases angered,” that the governor is “picking and choosing how the executive order is being applied.”

“Why are protests with hundreds and thousands of people shoulder-to-shoulder, some without masks being allowed, but other small gatherings that affect people’s livelihoods and other things like graduations that can be social distanced properly, are still not being allowed?” the reporter asked the governor. “You have repeatedly talked for weeks, and actually months, about how one standard based on science, data and fact should be applied to our entire state, and yet this seems to be changing for protests.

Why doesn’t the executive order apply to this situation?

“A nd as was referenced previously, yo u a t t e n d e d a c o u p l e of p r o t e s t s over the weekend, so you're violating your own executive order. Doesn’t this seem hypocritical when you are asking the entire state to follow everything else that you are saying?

But in this case, there is an exception based on your take on it. I think the key here is the logic. People don’t understand the logic of this.”

The gover nor replied that his chief counsel, and the superintendent of the state police, would want him to “remind folks” that this is “up to local law enforcement, in any case.” However, many of the citations seen issued across the state have been initiated by the “State of New Jersey,” and reports have surfaced that local police, in some cases, were reluctant to issue summonses until pressure was applied from Trenton.

“And if it's not true, then I stand corrected that in any other non-anti-racism protests that I am aware of that was related to COVID-19 that has occurred, A) there have been very few citations, but B), they've been directed only at the organizers,” Murphy said. “And, so I walked away from Hillside, I walked away from Westfield. I am going to say a couple of thousand in Hillside, probably more than that in Westfield.”

The governor then contended that this is a moment in time, perhaps unlike any in our nation’s history.

“There is an overwhelming amount of anger and passion and by the way, it has all been incredibly peaceful,” Murphy said. “I mean overwhelmingly so, particularly in New Jersey, and we should be very proud of that. I can’t imagine what it would look like if we said to people actually you have to stay in. You have to ignore systemic racism. I am sorry, just ignore it. Just stay inside. You can't go out and voice your anger, your rightful anger. I can’t imagine what that looks like as it relates to public safety. And, so I would add that dimension to my answer, which is I think this is literally unique in our nation's history. I do think this is an inflection point. I do believe this does feel differently this time.”

The gover nor also during that press briefing said he did not see anyone without a mask, despite at least two women seen in the photographs posted on the governor’s Facebook page without one.

Assemblyman Ryan Peters, a Republican who represents the 8th Legislative District, which includes many Pinelands municipalities, told this newspaper June 8 that he spent his entire adult life in the service, fighting for freedom, so he is a “staunch believer” in the ability of people to peacefully protest, and that is no different from his views for the current protests.

“People have a right to do this, and I am glad they are exercising that right,” Peters said. “But first amendment rights extend to everyone, so

WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM even if you don’t agree with protests to open up the economy, you can’t fine people for it and shouldn't be calling them knuckleheads, which this governor has done.

“It is incredibly hypocritical for him to shame other protests, continue to lockdown most businesses in the entire state and limit gatherings to 25 people, while posing for pictures, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of people at a protest this weekend.

We are the only state in the entire nation still under complete lockdown, so it must be infuriating for business owners losing everything they have ever worked towards to see the governor saying loudly that his rights are more important than theirs’.”

Jason Smith, chief of staff of the 9th Legislative District delegation, directed this newspaper to a joint statement issued by all 28 members of the state Assembly Republican Caucus calling Murphy out for his “all protests are not equal” policy.

“The governor’s problem is the unequal application of the law and a double standard,” the Republican Caucus said. “He has refused to hold himself accountable to the ver y r ules he set and expects the general public to obey, but is then surprised when people call him out when he violates those r ules. Meanwhile, as recently as last weekend, multiple peaceful protesters have been cited by state or local police since his stay at home order went into effect back in March.

“It is nothing short of complete hypocrisy to protest for equal protection under the law, but then as governor decide that people who hold views different from him are not equally protected.”

Jon Bramnick, state Assembly minority leader, who is from Westfield, said in a press release that the governor needs to call a joint session of the Legislature and answer member's questions.

“Clearly, if Governor Murphy can go on national television, he can appear before the legislature and answer questions from the representatives of the people," Bramnick said.

“There are many questions regarding your recent decisions and the public is entitled to hear this important debate.”

On June 6, two days before the loud upheaval over Murphy, Sweeney wrote that small business owners around the state will find creative ways to operate their businesses in a safe and responsible manner.

“Delaying them any further does not help them, or New Jersey,” he said. “Now more than ever is the time to listen and collaborate with our small business community.”

Reporters arrived at a June 9 Coronavirus press briefing, the first one held since Murphy was grilled a day prior, to find the famed sign where Murphy has been giving his daily remarks that said in big, bold white letters “Stay at Home” replaced with “Public Health Creates Economic Health.”

“Today, the stay at home order, which has been in place since March 21, is being lifted,” the governor said. “With more and more of our businesses reopening, we are no longer requiring you to stay at home, but we are asking you to continue to be responsible and safe. And when you do go out, please continue to wear face coverings and keep a social distance from others whenever possible.

“My second order raises the limits on both indoor and outdoor gatherings. Effective immediately, indoor gatherings will be permitted at whichever number is lower: 25 percent of a building’s capacity, or 50 persons in total, and all attendees at indoor gat her i ngs must wea r face cover i ngs and stay 6 feet apar t. Also, effective immediately, the limit on outdoor gatherings will be raised from 25 to 100 people.

Again, effective immediately, and there will now be an exception explicitly allowing outdoor gather i ngs of more than 10 0 See GOVERNOR/ Page 12

Saturday, June 13, 2020

DOCKING (Continued from Page 4)

stretch maintained by the county. Ahead of scheduled paving of the road, one resident expressed concern about the condition of bulkheads alongside the road, while another expressed apprehension about how the county might try to resolve a sinkhole issue.

A third resident contended that the last time the road was repaved, it caused storm runoff to flowtoward her home, until railroad ties were inst alled, which have since disintegrated.

Concern also developed after Township Engineer Kevin Dixon and other officials indicated that the township did not have a “line of communication” with county officials to answer for various aspects of the upcoming county paving project.

Dixon, during his engineer’s report, told residents that there is a delay in paving the municipal portion of River Road, and it is believed it is because the contractor had not gotten started on the asphalt paving related to the county work the firm is doing.

Dixon attributed the communication and slowing of work to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, adding that people not reporting to a physical workplace, or not showing up to work, was responsible for the communication being spotty.

Officials said that they would try to establish a better line of communication with the county and then reach out to residents regarding when the repaving will start, and details of any temporary, resulting traffic patterns.

Another concern expressed during the meeting entailed a traffic pattern at the intersection of River and Lower Bank roads, or where the Lower Bank Bridge intersects with River Road.

Currently, traffic coming off the bridge, or in other words turning off Lower Bank Road onto R iver Road , on ly have to yield at the intersection as it is regulated by a yield sig n. T here is no sig nage to regulate River Road traffic passing th roug h the i ntersect ion. Several resident s descr ibed al most bei ng h it as they passed through the intersection to go straight, rather than turn onto the bridge.

“I can’t tell you how many times people have almost gotten slammed into because cars do not yield,” said one woman, calling for the yield sign to be converted to a stop sign.

“It is really dangerous.”

James replied that it was “not a new issue,” and that the township “took it to the county a couple of times.”

“Because it is coming off of a bridge, that is why they had a yield sign there,” James said.

“We can try to see if they will change it, but last time they said they wouldn’t.”

Township Clerk Kathleen D. Hoffman contended that the county recently said that it was looking to “redesign that area.”

“But I can follow-up with the county engineer and confirm that,” she said.

Charlene Webster, who has taken over spokesperson duties for the county, at least in the interim, after last week’s departure of Nicholas Gangemi who was said to have left to pursue new opportunities, did not immediately return inquiries about River Road.

James during the township committee meeting hinted at the next significant ordinance that might be considered by the governing body, which would also impact the Lower Bank section of the township.

“I received a report, third-person, of a feral cat infestation in Lower Bank,” he said. “I contacted Tom (Coleman) to find out about creating a feral cat ordinance. He said he would look into and start working on that.”

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Crews Restore Power Following Derecho

SEATING

(Continued from Page 5)

Photo By PSE&G

Numerous wooden, high-tension power poles were snapped by a derecho on June 3 in Medford Township.

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

MEDFORD—All three of the area’s electric utilities, including Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), have restored power to customers who were affected by a June 3 derecho, a “very rare and specific” severe thunderstorm event.

PSE&G, the hardest hit utility, had over 115,000 customers without power at the peak of the storm.

One of the final repairs that PSE&G completed was in Medford Township on June 6, at the intersection of Eayrestown Road and Route 70, where some four wooden, hightension power poles were snapped, with the poles and wires hanging over Eayrestown Road.

“Our line workers cannot go up in bucket trucks when winds are 35 mph or higher,” said Lauren Ugorji, a spokeswoman for PSE&G. “Since high winds and storms continued throughout the restoration, this did cause some delays. However, we were able to compensate by sending more crews to work on specific jobs simultaneously, in situations where many downed poles and wires were involved.”

Some 20 PSE&G work vehicles were

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observed by this newspaper at the site last Saturday, with a large contingent of work crews.

“Bot h t ree a nd const r uct ion crews responded,” Ugor ji said. “Restoration work included clearing trees and damaged equipment, and then resetting or setting new poles and equipment.”

Ugorji told this newspaper that local officials would be able to provide more details about the incident.

“It ended up being an extended repair just because PSE&G had a lot of infrastructure damage related to the storm,” said Medford Township Department of Fire & EMS Lt. Robert Dovi Jr., also the municipality’s emergency management coordinator. “It was Saturday night by the time everything was completed. There was a good portion of PSE&G customers in Medford out of power related to that incident.”

The derecho, which produced wind gusts of up to 92 mph, downed numerous trees across the area. Dovi said that in Medford, there were several instances were trees fell onto homes or cars.

“There were no injuries directly related to the storm,” he said.

June 10, restaurant owners will need to obtain a temporary activity permit from Medford Township in order to offer expanded outdoor dining. A previous draft posted on the township website had said that restaurant owners would need to “put forth an application” to the Medford Township Zoning Board and obtain a “temporary zoning permit.” Council, in making the last-minute change, wanted to make clear that business owners do not need to obtain a variance, nor will they need to go before the township’s Zoning Board to receive such a permit.

Each applicant will need to submit a plan, according to the final resolution, that includes a confirmation of existing approved tables/ seats; a depiction of all aisles; routes of ingress and egress; clearances/distances between tables and between the seating area and any curb line or sidewalk line; and an illustration, rendering and/or photographs of all proposed furniture, umbrellas, trash receptacles and any proposed structures to protect the outdoor seating area from the elements. The plan is subject to review and approval by the township’s zoning officer, construction official, police department and fire chief for safety purposes.

In addition to the creation and/or expansion of the outside dining area, the plan may include proposed temporary awnings, tents, pergolas and other similar devices to protect the outdoor dining area from the elements. However, no outside cooking may be proposed or permitted, according to the final resolution.

“The application and plan for a Temporary Activities Permit may propose outside and/ or expanded retail sales areas, or expanded outside seating/dining areas including, not limited to, decks, patios, sidewalks and parking lots adjacent to or contiguous with the establishment, provided that any area proposed for outside retail sales or outside seating/dining must be accessible from the establishment and shall not obstruct the free flow of pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic,” the final resolution states.

Councilman Frank Czekay, prior to the

♦ Page 9

council approving the measure, pointed out that the draft version of it contained a sentence that would have required proposed tables, chairs, umbrellas, trash receptacles and similar furnishings to be of “like and similar nature to the furnishings currently used at the establishments.”

“Quite frankly, I would just cut that language out,” Czekay said. “If someone brings plans in and they got wood chairs, and want to put metal ones outside—as long as it is safe, I really don’t care what kind of chair or table it is.”

Watson said he knows there are establishment owners buying picnic tables to use as seats because “they know they are not going to be using them long-term” and they are “the cheapest things they can buy,” but that the establishments traditionally utilize fancywrought iron chairs, tables and umbrellas.

“The idea behind it was where we have outdoor seating already, to try to encourage establishments to match what they already have out there,” said Township Solicitor Timothy Prime.

Council struck the sentence from the resolution before voting to pass it, concluding it was too onerous.

“I certainly don’t think we need to make them buy something fancy,” Watson said. “This is temporary. I would tend to take it out so there is no subjectivity to it, frankly.”

The mayor had previously discussed that the intent of the relaxing the municipal rules and regulations is to help businesses out as they recover from the governor’s shutdown orders and the pandemic itself.

Murphy’s recent executive orders related to the pandemic have also placed restrictions on many retail businesses, only allowing them to offer curbside pickup services, and to operate at 50 percent capacity beginning June 15.

The resolution passed Tuesday says that all retail businesses are temporarily permitted to conduct outside sales of goods and merchandise “pursuant to a temporary activity permit.”

T he r e solut ion , of not e, s ays t h at “municipalities are in the best position” to make decisions on allowing restaurants or bars to expand their service footprint on their property, and potentially into shared spaces in a way that comports with public safety.

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FATHER’S DAY

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

4 amazing dads from movies Father’s Day is just around the corner. A great way to celebrate the occasion is by watching a movie with your dad. Here are four that feature fantastic fathers.

1. LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL Guido Orefice is an optimistic, cheerful man. When he and his family are interned in a Nazi concentration camp, Guido turns the experience into a game to spare his young son the cruel truth.

2. THE INCREDIBLES Bob Parr, also known as Mr. Incredible, is a loving and proud father of three. What’s more, he considers being a supportive and involved dad just as important as fighting crime.

3. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS After his wife abandons them, Chris Gardner must raise his son alone. Based on a true story, this father does everything in his power to ensure his child’s well-being, even when they’re forced to live on the street.

A Gift for Every Dad Are you looking for the perfect Father’s Day present but don’t know what to buy?

Here are some gift ideas for several types of dads.

THE ATHLETE

If your father’s a fitness enthusiast, he’ll likely appreciate: • A sturdy, insulated water bottle • A membership to a specialized gym • A duffle bag for his workout gear • A pair of high-quality running shoes • A set of wireless headphones

THE FOODIE

If your father loves to cook (and eat), you can’t go wrong with: • A cookbook featuring international recipes • An assortment of spices • A set of knives • A barbecue and/or accessories for the grill • A meal at a five-star restaurant

THE BOOKWORM

If your father always has his nose in a book, consider: • A personalized bookmark • A new release by an author he loves • A patterned book sleeve • A gift certificate from a bookstore • An e-book reader

4. ANT-MAN Several Marvel movies are known for their problematic father figures, but Scott Lang is an exception. Even after he becomes AntMan, this dad’s number-one priority is his daughter, Cassie.

Regardless of the gift you choose, remember to include a heartfelt card that shows your dad how much he’s loved and appreciated.

There are countless admirable fathers portrayed on the big screen. Who’s your top pick?

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THEY

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How single fathers can get the support they need It’s not easy being a single parent, which is why it’s important to surround yourself with family and friends who can help. This Father’s Day, reach out for the support you need so you can keep being an amazing dad.

RELY ON FAMILY

Loved ones are an invaluable source of support for single parents and there’s no shame in asking a relative or friend to babysit while you take a much-needed break. In fact, giving yourself time to recharge allows you to be a more engaged and energetic parent. Let your kids be spoiled by their grandmother or doted on by their aunt. Taking time to relax and unwind is sure to do you good.

FIND YOUR TRIBE

You might feel isolated as a single father, but you’re not alone. In fact, the number of households in the U.S lead by single fathers has grown by nearly 35 per cent in the last two decades.

Though it’s challenging to cultivate a social life as a single parent, it can be immensely rewarding to build friendships

with men who share your experiences, struggles and commitment to being a good dad. Plus, play dates are a great way to connect with other adults when you have young children.

So whether it’s at the office, the gym or when you pick your kids up from school, take the time to meet and connect with other single fathers.

Being a single parent isn’t easy.

However, by reaching out to others you can share some of the responsibilities involved and give yourself time to recharge.

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This Fat h appreciaer’s Day, show watch h tion by offerin your is This way kids for a few g to hours. , he ca earned bn take a wellreak.

FATHER’S DAY

♦ Page 11

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

Photo By Governor’s Office

Democratic Governor Phil Murphy, and First Lady Tammy Murphy, take a test for Coronavirus on June 10 after attending two protests over the weekend and violating social distancing standards.

GOVERNOR (Continued from Page 8)

persons for first amendment protected outdoor activities, such as political protests of any persuasion or outdoor religious services. Given the growing body of evidence showing the reduced risk of transmission outdoors, we believe such a rule appropriately prioritizes individuals’ rights to speak and worship freely.”

Murphy added that he anticipates being able to raise the limit on non-protest and nonreligious activities to 250 people on June 22, and to 500 people on July 3.

“This means that school districts planning graduations should prepare for a 500-person limit to be in place by the time graduations can resume on July 6,” the governor said.

“However, as I have noted many times before, should we see any troubling signs in the data indicating a spike in cases, or a backslide in our fight against COVID-19, either or both of these steps may not happen. Obviously, we hope they do.”

Murphy was asked by a reporter following his pronouncement if the “strong pushback” he got since he marched in the two protests had anything to do with his decision on changing the rules for outdoor gatherings.

“Wasn't related to the pushback, it was—I thought that, you know, I think we all thought, and Matt Platkin (governor’s chief counsel) is here with us,” said Murphy, appearing to struggle to answer the question. “We have to be consistent. We have to recognize this moment in time. This is unlike any other moment in our nation's history. We have to acknowledge

FATAL

(Continued from Page 1) resorting to pepper spray on one of those occasions.

From simply watching the video recorded by a camera in the back of the squad car, it’s unclear who initiated the physical engagement that ensued, but Wetzel can be seen firing his service revolver six times shortly after it began, then handcuffing Gordon, before calling for help.

William O. Wagstaff III, a New York-based civil rights attorney hired by Gordon’s family, after viewing the video, contended that the killing was racially motivated by saying that if Gordon had been a white male, “he’d still be alive.”

Wagstaff has also condemned the way the state has handled this case, and charged that the state was engaged in an effort “to establish a narrative where the white New Jersey State Police sergeant’s shooting of a black man he knew to be unarmed was justified.”

The case, he contended, appeared to him to be a “repetition of the long, dark history that has led to a swell of citizens filling the streets in protest,” an apparent reference to

that. We have to allow folks to get out there rightfully and peacefully, but angrily protest and express themselves, and we have to do it in a way that is consistent with the law.”

Murphy, during that same briefing, declared, “it all comes down to this: social distancing must remain our practice and our priority, covering our faces must remain our practice and priority, and that is because it has worked.”

Webber is now calling on Murphy to pardon those who had received citations for violating his orders, after the governor participated in rallies this past weekend.

“I think I have said everything I am going to say about the assemblyman, and I appreciate his input,” said Murphy when asked by a reporter about whether he would pardon those who got cited.

A picture appeared on Murphy’s Facebook page June 10 of the gover nor and the first lady taking a test for Coronavirus following their participation in the protests.

Murphy was asked by a reporter during a June 10 Coronavirus briefing if he thinks he set a bad example.

“I don’t think anyone who stands up and joins others with great passion and speaks out against the stain of racism in this country, which is now clocking in at 401 years, is setting any kind of bad example,” Murphy said. “We need leaders. We need rank and file. We need people all over this country, just as they’re doing by the way, this time it is different. It feels different. And please God, I am right about that and that we are right about that. Stand up peacefully and demand action. Now, do it with a face covering. Get tested. We just did this morning.” the nationwide convulsion over the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer now charged with his murder.

But a somewhat more nuanced perspective on the shooting of Gordon has been provided to the Pine Barrens Tribune by an expert in police practices who has a leading role in a state organization dedicated to improving the way law enforcement personnel interacts with the communities they serve.

In the view of Richard Rivera, co-chair of the Latino Leadership Alliance of New Jersey and former chairman of the New Jersey Human Relations Council, who was himself a member of the West New York Police Department, what is relevant here is not the death of George Floyd that coincidentally occurred shortly after Gordon’s, but state Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal’s acknowledgment that police officers, in order to reduce use-of-force and deathin-custody incidents, need expanded Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training to help them respond to situations involving individuals with mental health issues.

“Based on my experience, what I am witnessing is someone who needed help,” said Rivera in a June 10 phone interview Wednesday.

Rivera’s idea that Gordon may have been in

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the throes of such a crisis when he encountered Wetzel is further supported by his friend in Poughkeepsie telling the police in that partially redacted phone call that Gordon appeared “very panicked” on the visit to his home, reportedly having had a “paranormal experience.” The friend claimed that Gordon remarked that the Airbnb where he was staying was “really scaring me” and that he asked if he looked “possessed.”

There was also the claim that Gordon’s former girlfriend, Denielle Morrison, made in an earlier interview with this newspaper, that he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, for which he had been hospitalized several times and was taking medication.

That allegation was subsequently mentioned in a June 9 article on the shooting in The New York Times, which linked to the Pine Barrens Tribune article containing it. According to the Times, Wagstaff and Gordon’s mother, Racquel Barrett, and a sister, who are both residents of the United Kingdom, “neither confirmed nor disputed that,” but they said it “was irrelevant to his death.”

“I don’t think his mental health has anything to do with it,” Barrett was quoted as saying.

While privacy considerations make it difficult to determine if Gordon did in fact

suffer from a psychiatric condition, parts of what his friend said in that phone conversation with police seem to support that claim—for example, that he “has a history of men___ (redacted)” and “was doing really good for a long period of time” prior to exhibiting the behavior that prompted the friend to notify the authorities.

Other parts of that call tend to back up what Morrison told this newspaper as well— including his friend’s assertions to police that “he had a girlfriend who ended up with a restraining order (against him) at some point for some type of falling out that they had,” but that he was also “a law-abiding citizen” and “a completely harmless guy” who had no access to weapons.

Morrison had maintained in the interview with this newspaper that Gordon was actually fearful of firearms.

The friend who called police referred to Gordon as “a devout Christian,” who carried a Bible in his car.

Another statement the friend made to the Poughkeepsie police—that Gordon had been staying at his house, but had to leave because his sister was pregnant and the family was See FATAL/ Page 15

Saturday, June 13, 2020

DEBRIS

(Continued from Page 7) Pinelands to assure all requirements are met either for a firebreak identification, or any other application being filed,” said Burns in January.

Brow n, i n t he Ju ne 9 email to t h i s n e w s p a p e r, c o nt e n d e d t h a t t h e Pinelands Commission has not reached a det e r m i nat ion yet rega rd i ng whet he r Wo r r e l l’s cl e a r c u t w a s a r o a d o r fi rebrea k. T he tow n sh ip cle rk , whe n asked if the mayor reviewed paperwork and determined if action was taken by the township to approve the road, contended that “the township allowed Mr. and Mrs. Hatfield to open the paper street to allow them access to their property.” She also said the matter “is not in the courts at this time.”

Da rle ne a nd M i lt on Hat field , who Brown referred to in her reply, have been extremely upset over what occurred, not because they are against a firebreak, but because, in part, of what they had to go through to put in access to their home—including spending a lot of money and seek ing commission approval over a lengthy period of time.

Leakan on June 9 sent this newspaper May 8 Pinelands Commission correspondence s e nt t o Wo r r el l , a n d c o pie d t o t h e township administrator, zoning officer and construction code official via email. In that letter, Chuck Horner, director of regulatory programs for the Pinelands Commission, wrote that “in response to the statement contained in your April 1, 2020 letter, please note that we do not agree that it was established that a ‘P’ shape firebreak is a configuration that is consistent with generally accepted forest fire management practices.”

“Our letters indicate that we have not determined whether or not at least one part of the clearing is in fact a firebreak,” Leaken said.

Brown did not return, as of press time, an email asking if she had received Horner’s May 8 letter. The Pinelands Commission letter contends that correspondence received i n Apr il f rom Wor rell i nd icates t hat he is actually proposing the development of nine single family dwellings on the “referenced parcel” in the “current application.” Horner wrote that Wor rell previously initiated with the Pinelands Commission an application for the development of 13 single-family dwellings “On July 17, 2017, we received a letter from you indicating that you would like to revise the previously initiated application to propose the development of only four-singlefamily dwellings fronting on improved Kossuth Avenue,” Horner wrote. “A Certificate of Filing (CF) for the proposed development of four dwellings on Block 4013, Lots 1-32 and Block 4017, Lots 1-32 was issued on September 29, 2017. The applicant proposed

♦ Page 13

WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM to consolidate those lots by deeds to create four building lots. To date, the four single dwellings have not been constructed. That CF remains valid and is transferrable to future owners.

“The current application proposes to develop the remaining nine single family dwellings (13 - 4 = 9 dwellings) subject of the previously initiated application. The proposed nine single family dwellings will front 12th Street, 13th Street, Lincoln Avenue and Prince Avenue. “… By letter dated July 23, 2019, we indicated that approximately 3-acres were cleared of forest vegetation within the rights-of-way of 12th Street, 13th Street, Prince Avenue and Kossuth Avenue. The vegetative clearing that occurred in the above referenced r ig hts- of-way pr ior to the c omplet ion of a n ap pl icat ion t o t he commission constitutes a violation of the application requirements of the Woodland Township Land Use Ordinance and the Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan (CMP).”

Horner said that Worrell could “resolve the violation” by including “associated road improvements” within the 12th Street, 13th Street, Prince Avenue and Kossuth Avenue rights-of-way in any application “ f o r t h e p r o p o s e d d e v e l o p m e n t of nine single-family dwellings,” or electing t o eit he r s u bm it a s che d u le for t he restoration /revegetation of the cleared rights-of-way or development application for just the forest vegetation clear ing that occu r red within the above noted rights-of-way.

“In our letter, we advised (Worrell) about the information that is required to complete an application with the commission to build nine dwellings and undertake any proposed road improvements,” said Leaken to this newspaper on June 9. “The application must address any road right-of-way forest clearing that occurred.

“As you'll see in our May 8 letter, we listed five items that the applicant must provide to resolve the existing violation and complete the application. Among other things, the applicant must provide the township’s written consent to include the proposed road improvements to all concerned municipal rights-of-way, including 12th Street, 13th Street and Prince Avenue. We are currently awaiting receipt of the information. With respect to removal of the piles of forest vegetation cleared from the above referenced rights-of-way, we are in receipt of a Feb. 10, 2020 letter from the township to Mr. Worrell indicating that the forest vegetation piles must be removed.”

Worrell told this newspaper in the June 10 email that he has been in discussions with the commission “throughout this firebreak process.”

“No final decision has been reached regarding the firebreak,” Worrell contended, noting that the cost of the final phase is unknown at this time. “There have been no fines levied by the Pinelands Commission or Woodland Township.”

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(Continued from Page 3) and then you will have days off with no pay.”

The man said of that response that “this is not modern-day slavery” and “we are not slaves.”

“We (the kitchen workers) have not received anything,” the man said. “People who work in cottages got it, people in maintenance and grounds got it. They came to us with a letter telling us about this pay, it is not like we asked them for it.”

The man contended “half” of the kitchen workforce “would have called out” if they knew that the promise was not going to be kept.

“They would not have been able to service clients on the grounds because we are the main kitchen,” the man said. “We are the main factor of how this place runs. It runs from the main kitchen. We feed the clients; we feed everybody.

We would have called out together.”

The man said a walkout is unlikely now, however, because the workers “have bills to pay.”

“You can’t bite your nose off to spite your face,” the man said. “You can’t do that. But it is not fair, especially if the governor promised to give it to us. Who are you to deny us this pay when the governor set the wheels in motion for us to be taken care of?”

Thomas, in the letter, also discussed changes to New Lisbon overtime compensation during the COVID-19 state of emergency, including overtime compensation beginning at the 36th hour worked each week and, for non-exempt employees, at one-and-one half times an employee’s hourly rate based on the employee’s regular hourly rate, plus the emergency rate.

Thomas Hester, a spokesman for NJDHS, told this newspaper on June 10 that “these payments are underway.”

“A Civil Service Commission-approved emergency rate is in effect for developmental center employees performing in-person direct

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care and service functions, which includes food service staff when working in resident areas,” he said.

Hester, when asked if New Lisbon has a contingency plan in place to feed both New Lisbon residents and staff should the kitchen workers go out on strike, replied that “as with all functions, the division engages in contingency planning for services, including food service.”

As this newspaper previously reported, New Lisbon has been besieged by Coronavirus, that as of press time, infected 194 of its residents and 129 of its staffers (a total of 323 cases). NJDHS data released June 7 indicated that there were no additional cases from last week, showing that the spread of infection may have finally been halted.

However, 10 of those residents have since died from the virus, and one staffer has also passed away from it, according to the NJDHS report.

Thomas has been under fire for New Lisbon’s response to COVID-19. New Lisbon maintains the highest number of resident COVID-19 cases of any State of New Jersey-run developmental facilities, and is in the top-tier for state longterm care facility outbreaks.

This newspaper previously reported an employee’s account that contended that the reasons for the concentration of community sprea d at t he center i ncluded “cross contamination,” PPE issues, inadequate facilities being used to quarantine ill residents and the inability for many non-verbal residents to communicate that they are feeling ill.

The man told this newspaper that the kitchen staff are currently unaware of who the staffer is who passed away.

“They have kept that a secret,” he contended.

“We didn’t know of the clients infected, and the staff who were infected. They did not make that known. Everything has been kept hush-hush, or a secret. But you are playing with people’s lives. Somebody needs to take over this joint if you ask me.”

PBT

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LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

REOPENING (Continued from Page 1)

“The com mission continues to u rge customers to use NJMVC.gov to renew or replace licenses, renew or replace registrations, or change their address,” the release notes, adding that customers can also contact the agency by email for help with a suspension.

According to the release, the NJMVC will also be processing registration/title transfers for private sales via “a new combination on l i ne a nd m a i l-i n p r o c e d u r e.” T he inability to obtain necessary documents for such sales has been a particular source of vexat ion reflected i n some of t he postings from the public on the agency’s Facebook page. Customers will be able to sign up for this option at NJ MVC. gov, wh e r e f u r t h e r d e t a i l s , it s a id , would be provided within a few days.

If all goes as plan ned, the NJ M VC reopening schedule now will proceed as follows: Starting June 15, the agency will be processing and validating permits from driving schools and high schools, which may be dropped off at designated licensing centers, and processing registration and title work from dealers at designated vehicle centers (such as the office in Medford). In addition, license plates no longer in use can also be dropped off in designated areas of the latter offices.

“These activities will clear a three-month backlog from our March 15 closure,” the release contended.

However, as Fulton explained at a June 5 press briefing, that initial reopening date won’t accommodate “walk-in customers.” But an announcement made at the commission’s website notes that it plans “to open agencies to walk-in customers for limited transactions June 29” and that “a list of those transactions will be released soon.”

The target date for the second phase of the reopening to commence is June 29, when road tests and the issuing of new licenses and permits, another major source of consternation, “are tentatively expected to start (subject to change), but still on a limited basis to prevent crowding.” Such transactions will also be

Photo By Andy Milone/Staff Photographer

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission’s Medford Township facility, which will now be designated as a vehicle center. conducted only at designated licensing centers, as will the issuing of REAL IDs for those whose appointments to obtain them were previously cancelled.

To expedite the administration of road tests, the agency claims to have has tripled its capacity in this area, adding 11 courses and reassigning over 100 safety specialists to serve as road-test examiners for 30 to 60 days. This, according to the release, is expected to expand the number of such tests from an average of 5,800 per week to about 16,300, and should clear up the backlog in 60 days.

Those whose road tests were canceled during the shutdown will be contacted

by NJMVC and provided a secure link to have their appointments prioritized, the release says.

Also tentatively scheduled to start June 29 will be “some additional transactions” like out-of-state transfers and private sales registrations, which will take place at designated vehicle centers. However, any transactions t hat ca n be done on li ne w ill not be conducted on an in-person basis, according to the release.

Fur ther innovations, Fulton claimed, “are coming to speed our service, while keeping our customers and employees safe,”

and that the agency looks forward to sharing such plans as they are finalized.

“I know that you want to hear that on June 15 we are going to throw the doors open and reopen everything, but we have to clear the backlog,” the administrator said in commenting on the new schedule at Democratic Governor Phil Murphy’s June 6 press briefing.

Dispensing with all those accumulated bulk transactions, she maintained, “is necessary to make room for walk-in customers.

“We’ll also be turning systems on the week of June 15 that will allow you to make appointments for road tests and REAL ID, so that when we start walk-ins, we’ll be able to serve everyone,” she explained.

Fulton also took the opportunity to elaborate on what the NJMVC, which has been subject to criticism for not coming up with more expeditious solutions, has done during the three-month closure “so that we can reopen in a way that protects the safety of our 2,783 employees and the six million customers we serve every year.”

During that 12-week period, she said, the agency has extended expiration dates, assisted over 60,000 motorists with suspended license cases, done over 17,000 registration

a nd t itle t r a n sa ct ion s, a nd val id at ed about 500 permits, as well as added online services of which many people are taking advantage. She estimated that “customers renewed or replaced about half-a-million registrations and a quarter-million licenses online, just during our closure.”

“The more folks who use online transactions, t he fewer people w ill come i nto t he agency, and the more we can keep people healthy and safe,” she asserted.

I n elaborat i ng on how the changes had come about in the NJMVC’s way of doing business, Fulton also described her having initially advised the members of her operations team that “we have a one-time chance to change” as a result of the pandemic-related closure.

“I said, ‘Go away, think about it and come back,’” Fulton said. “They said, ‘We don’t need to go away. We know how to do this; we have just never been able to do it.’”

Their proposal to have separate licensing and vehicle centers, she explained, is similar to the systems used in California’s big cities, Florida, Georgia and Pennsylvania.

“It is more efficient and it is faster,” she contended.

Whether New Jersey drivers will consider it to be either, however, remains to be seen.

On Tuesday, a number of them made known their displeasure and frustration with the NJMVC on its Facebook page for taking this long.

“You have had close to 3 months, what could possibly take this long to plan?” asked one, who noted that several big-box stores and grocery stores could manage the crisis. “Why can’t MVC? ... The backup you have created by delaying opening is going to be a disaster.”

The individual termed the agency “essential” and called the hold-up of its operations “disgraceful and embarrassing” for the state.

“My son is stuck here in New Jersey because he can’t get a temporary registration for a used car,” said another individual. “He has a date scheduled in Virginia to register it, but it is before New Jersey opens to the public on the 29. Seriously, why do dealerships get to go first?”

“I reimagined that NJMVC was open, but was sadly disappointed!” declared a third person.

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FATAL

(Continued from Page 12) concerned that Gordon might be exposed to the Coronavirus in his job as an Uber driver— also jibed with Morrison’s account. The friend, however, added that a landlord from whom Gordon was about to rent an apartment had reneged on the arrangement and given him his deposit back, forcing him to remain in temporary lodgings.

However, while both Morrison and Wagstaff have speculated that his early-morning trip to New Jersey might have been related to his job for Uber, he apparently never mentioned that as being the reason to either his friend, or to the officers he encountered along the way who queried him on his encounters with them, resulting either from breakdowns or traffic stops, along the Parkway in Brick, Waretown (where he was given a ride to a Wawa by another driver to get gas), Stafford and finally, Bass River.

Rivera, whose organization, working through its attorney C.J. Griffin of the legal fi r m of Pa sh m a n St ei n Walde r Hayden, of Hackensack, has filed dozens of Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Requests in cases involving police misconduct, and believes that better training could help officers to identify and assist individuals in psychological distress before situations get out of hand.

In Gordon’s case, the fact that he was “demonstrating unusual behavior” was something that the officers who stopped to assist him needed to be aware of, he noted, adding, “If they don’t recognize it, they don’t have the ability to intervene.”

Rivera said that is why when he took over the state Human Relations Council, among the first things he did was to bring in mental health specialists, which was directly related to getting officers better training.

One way of helping promote such awareness, he maintained, is not to “defund” the police, as some have recently suggested in the wake of the Floyd killing, but rather to reallocate funds for better training of officers, less lethal force options and de-escalation initiatives.

Rivera, who also serves as expert witness in police practices litigation, and is a police ethics trainer, said the footage from the video wasn’t sufficient for him to determine at this point whether Wetzel, who has been placed on paid leave, used excessive force.

“I need a lot more information when I analyze something,” he said. “People jump to conclusions because the authorities don’t give us enough information.”

But even if Gordon had been attempting to take the police car, as Wetzel alleged, Rivera was left to wonder whether the officer was equipped with a taser and whether its usage would have been more appropriate in this incident.

As for the other reason that Wetzel gave for firing the fatal shots—that Gordon was threatening to take his service revolver, Rivera maintained that would not even be an issue if officers were provided with a Level 3 safety holster, from which a weapon can’t be so easily yanked (although using one takes training). But those types of holsters, he noted, are more expensive than the conventional ones.

LOCAL NEWS / FEATURES

WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM Jeffrey Flynn, a spokesman for the New Jersey State Police, told this newspaper June 10 that “some of the officers” of the state police were equipped with tasers, and that the types of holsters used are only Level 2.

Rivera also said he felt the lack of candor by state officials made this incident another “missed oppor t unity to lear n valuable lessons” on how to prevent such tragedies.

T he l i m it at ion s on i n for m at ion t h at officials are now required to provide, he said, stem f rom a couple of incidents that occurred two decades ago, including one in which State Troopers on the New Jersey Turnpike fired into a van carrying four young black and Hispanic men on their way to a basketball tryout, wounding three of them.

“Prior to that, grand juries in New Jersey sat and reviewed evidence and asked hard questions why police do what they do,” he said. “But after those incidents, the attorney general issued a statewide directive prohibiting g rand ju r ies f rom issuing i ndependent repor ts i nvolvi ng use of force by police. It was absolutely a step backwards because we had people using common sense, which could have led to police reforms and improved training for officers.”

But while Rivera declined to judge how culpable the officer was without knowing more, he also indicated this incident, unlike the one involving the shooting of the occupants of the van, did not appear to be a typical case of racial profiling.

“I don’t see anything racial in trying to help a disabled motorist and offering him a mask to keep him from getting sick,” he maintained.

While much media attention was being devoted to Gordon’s death and the controversy attached to it with the release of the video and audio recordings, a tribute to his academic accomplishments was posted by Pamela Edington, the president of Dutchess Community College (DCC), in Poughkeepsie, where he had been a student since the summer of 2017.

“Maurice was studying science and part of our CSTEP program,” Edington noted. “He had been identified as a standout who could take advantage of research opportunities, and was looking forward to beginning this work next semester. By all accounts, Maurice was a smart, involved, affable young man – a loving son and brother – who was destined for great things.”

In a phone conversation this week, DCC Communications Director Judy Stokes told this newspaper that Gordon was three-quarters of the way toward obtaining a degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, that “chemistry was his passion,” and he had been selected to embark on a research project during the next semester.

“He knew that getting a college education was very important,” Stokes added.

Col. Patrick J. Callahan, superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, following the attorney general’s release of the video, said that he is a tremendous man of faith.

“I have prayed every day for Maurice Gordon’s family for a devastating loss,” he said during a Coronavirus press briefing June 9. “I hope my words, if there are questions today, that beyond clarifying any points, that they offer some level of comfort, although they may seem insignificant. That is certainly my hope here today. I also pray for the trooper who was involved in that incident and had to make that decision, which again, no law enforcement officer wants to be in that (situation).”

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♦ Page 17

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Page 18 ♦

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Résumé Writing Rules to Follow When professionals are ready to take a new step in their careers, it's wise to revisit their old résumés and see what can be done to update them for the current day and age. This is especially true for people who may have been out of the job-seeking arena for some time.

Writing a résumé can be complicated. The rules for finding a new job are continually evolving, and résumés remain a big component of that process. The following are some current résumé trends that will help professionals stand out from the masses.

Consider Design Design your résumé so it will look good whether it's viewed on a screen or a mobile phone or printed on paper. Classic serif style fonts can make a résumé seem dated, so select modern fonts that are crisp. The idea is for the résumé to look balanced and clear, without being overdone with modifications, like italics and bold lettering. However, a spot of color could provide much-needed attention.

Be Brief Yet Effective A concise design is key. Many recruiters spend little to no time reviewing the hordes of résumés they receive. In fact, automated résumé bots may initially screen the documents to thin the crowd. According to data from the 12th annual Mystery Job Candidate survey by CareerXRoads, the average recruiter spends six seconds looking at a résumé. If a résumé is lengthy or doesn't attract attention, it will

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•Flex Time Available •Part-Time or Full-Time •Opportunity for an experienced technician to tune/clean oil heaters who wants to work with an established company where Customer Service is #1 and employees are valued.

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Keep Juicy Details Up Top Format the résumé so the most pertinent information is within the top one-third of the document. Beef up a summary statement and use it in lieu of an objective. Make sure that summary includes keywords that promote your skills and experience to potentially lure the recruiter into reading more.

Tweak Job Titles Mimic phrasing from the job listing to beat the bots and get résumés flagged for review.

Slightly change job position titles so they mirror the wording used. For example, if a recruiter is looking for a "financial account manager," and you have the experience, list your title as something like "Senior manager of new financial accounts."

Who You Know Landing a new job is often about what you know, but getting a foot in the door is also largely influenced by who you know. Include any professional groups to which you belong or alumni associations. Who knows? The recruiter may have the same alma mater, and you can bond over your shared mascot.

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Keywords, phrasing, formatting, and having the right skills for the job can ensure a résume is seen by a recruiter, and perhaps even lead to a new career.

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Tips for Students as Graduation Approaches Graduation season can be an exciting time for college students. As their time on campus draws to a close, students may be anxious to put their education to use and enter the workforce.

In recent years, newly minted college graduates faced difficult job markets. But a 2017 survey from the online jobs and professional resources website CareerBuilder found that 74 percent of employers intended to hire recent college graduates that year, marking a 7 percent increase from the year prior.

Recent graduates and students on the cusp of donning their caps and gowns may be entering a healthier job market than the one that greeted grads as recently as a few years ago, but grads should still take steps to bolster their chances of finding work as graduation nears.

• Use the resources at your disposal. The final months and weeks of college are filled with distractions. In addition to final exams, students may be tempted to fill their final weeks with social engagements and extracurricular activities as they try to squeeze every last ounce of fun out of their college experiences.

But students also should book appointments with their schools' career services offices. Such offices can help students prepare their résumés.

Career services offices also can help students as they search for jobs, internships or other opportunities. Career services staffs also may coach students on interview preparation.

• Gather references. Strong references can help students stand out in crowded job markets. Businesses typically request at least three references, none of which can be family members. Professors, current or past bosses or volunteer program supervisors who can speak to applicants' work ethics and attitudes can make for strong references. It can take time to contact and gather information from prospective references, so students who start early won't experience any lag time when they begin looking for work.

• Get ready to dress the part. Graduates must dress the part when going on job interviews.

Both men and women should purchase appropriate interview attire if they don't already have any. Do so in advance of graduation so you aren't caught off guard by opportunities to interview.

Students on the cusp of graduating from college can employ various strategies as their college careers wind down to increase their chances of landing a job.

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Saturday, June 13, 2020

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♦ Page 19

12

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CIRCULATION The Pine Barrens Tribune is published every Saturday. This newspaper is protected under the Federal Copyright Act. Reproduction of any part is not permitted by mechanical or electronic means without the expressed written permission of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to revise or reject any advertisement. No liability shall be attached to the Publisher for interruption of publication or limitation of size and/or number of pages due to shortage of material, failure of transportation, flood, fire, severe weather, winter weather, riots, strikes, acts of God, a public health emergency or other causes beyond his or her control. It is our policy to promptly correct errors. If you believe that you see a mistake, please call (609) 801-2392. © 2020 Pine Barrens Tribune

Lung Cancer?

Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing, or military jobs may be the cause. Are family members in the home also exposed?

Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.

Page 20 ♦

WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

Saturday, June 13, 2020

CAPITAL HEALTH MEDICAL GROUP IS PLEASED TO WELCOME CAPITAL HEALTH OB/GYN − BROWNS MILLS Capital Health OB/GYN – Browns Mills is a comprehensive women’s health practice. After serving women in the Lower Bucks County, PA region for almost 30 years, our team is bringing its trusted obstetric and gynecologic care to women in Browns Mills, NJ. Our experienced and board certified providers include DRS. ROBERT BERK, NEIL BLUEBOND, AMY HARVEY O’KEEFFE, MARK KUHN, and ANNE WALKER. Our team provides women

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TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT, CALL 609.896.1400 CAPITAL HEALTH OB/GYN − BROWNS MILLS 6 Earlin Avenue, Suite 290, Browns Mills, NJ 08015 capitalhealthobgyn.org/brownsmills MOST INSURANCES ARE ACCEPTED, INCLUDING TRICARE

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