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INSIDE THIS WEEK

Four Suspected Chickenpox Cases in Southampton. Page 2

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Vol. 2 - No. 8

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October 21-27, 2017

Pinelands Regional H.S. Closed Indefinitely

PHOTO BY VINCE DEBLASIO

Pinelands Regional High School.

Fallen Screw Forces Officials to Close Building Days After Students Sickened Inside

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

LITTLE EGG HARBOR—An already tumultuous school year in the Pinelands Regional School District turned a lot more hectic on Friday, Oct. 13 after school administrators announced the indefinite closure of the district’s high school after a screw fell from the school’s ceiling and onto a student.

The announcement was made in front of more than 300 parents who crammed into Pinelands Regional Junior High School’s cafetorium at 5 p.m. The parents were summoned to the school by administrators so that they could explain why classes in the district for Friday were abruptly canceled.

“Yesterday afternoon (Oct. 12), during lunch, a student came to the main office to report that a screw fell from the ceiling in the commons,” said Shaun Banin, principal of Pinelands

Worried Public Packs Pinelands Regional BOE Meeting Following Mysterious Illness

Regional High School. “Now, if you have been By Catherine Galioto in the high school or commons, you know For the Pine Barrens Tribune obviously that the commons ceiling is quite LITTLE EGG HARBOR—A few days before high. So it was an immediate concern to us.” the indefinite closure of Pinelands Regional School officials said the more than three-inch High School was announced, nearly 150 people long screw hit the student as it fell. packed a Pinelands Regional Board of “We realized there are a number of screws that Education meeting. come down from the roof, piercing the ceiling Many of those who attended—a mixture and it is just not in that area,” Banin said. “It is of parents, students and teachers—complained in any area that has an acoustical deck—which about dust, falling debris and foul odors inside is not just the commons—but also our the high school where roofing work is being gymnasium and some of our D-wing done. classrooms.

The Oct. 11 school board meeting was “So once this happened, we were preceded by a contentious one on Oct. 2, where immediately concerned, asking ourselves ‘What the same complaints were aired. This latest if this is not the only screw that was loose?’ meeting, regularly scheduled, was moved from and ‘How can we possibly have students back the Pinelands Regional Junior High School in those locations knowing that there might be media center to the building’s cafetorium to additional screws (that come down)?”’ accommodate all of the people who attended.

Attendees heard a presentation from TTI BUILDING>>PAGE 18

Environmental of Moorestown, the district’s contracted environmental consultant, and the district’s architect for the roofing project.

The presentation explained the results of a second round of air quality tests that were performed around the time of the Oct. 2 meeting.

The results indicated that the air inside the high school does not have more than one thousandth of the state and federal standards for levels of volatile organic compounds.

The presenters said that a dozen or so compounds that are often flagged as unsafe during testing, such as benzene, were not present in the air at unsafe amounts when the tests were performed.

The previous round of testing, which focused more on asbestos and came back negative for that, was also discussed.

The district had closed the high school

ILLNESS>>PAGE 19

More Coverage Inside: Banks Vows Not to Reopen Pinelands H.S. Until Safe. Page 6

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LOCAL NEWS

Varicella Vaccine Recommended After Four Suspected Chickenpox Cases in Southampton

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

SOUTHAMPTON—School officials in Southampton Township are urging parents to get their children vaccinated for chickenpox after a suspected outbreak of the highly contagious viral infection in township schools.

Michael Harris, superintendent of the Southampton Township School District, said in a letter to parents that the first case of suspected chickenpox was reported during the second week of school (Sept. 11 to 15). He said the first case involved a student who attends School #1.

The district is made up of three schools.

“Since the beginning of the school year, our school district has had four suspected cases of chickenpox, also known as varicella,” he said.

“None of the cases have been confirmed by serology tests.”

Chickenpox causes a skin rash of itchy, blister-like lesions all over the body. A fever often precedes the rash.

Harris said the School #1 student did not exhibit a visible rash while in school.

In late September, a student attending School #3 was suspected of contracting the infection.

On Oct. 11, officials received word that two students attending School #2 were exhibiting possible symptoms of the infection.

“We have been in contact with the Burlington County Health Department on each of these cases and are monitoring it closely for any new cases,” Harris said. “Additionally, all students who have been diagnosed with the disease have had the varicella vaccine.”

He said it isn’t unusual for someone to still contract the infection after being vaccinated.

“Some persons who have received the varicella vaccine may still get chickenpox,” Harris said. “But it (the infection) is usually

milder. The rash is less severe, with sometimes only a few red bumps that look like insect bites, and there may be no fever in vaccinated individuals with chickenpox.”

Chickenpox is usually not serious, but the infection can cause more severe illness in some children, leading to hospitalization.

“Chickenpox is very contagious,” Harris said. “It spreads easily from person to person through the air by coughing and sneezing or by direct contact with the fluid from a chickenpox lesion.”

Health experts say it usually takes 14 to 16 days to develop chickenpox symptoms after being exposed to someone with chickenpox.

Symptoms may appear 10 to 21 days after exposure.

“There is a vaccine available to help prevent chickenpox and it is recommended for persons 12 months of age or older who have never had chickenpox,” Harris said. “Two doses of varicella vaccine are recommended, with the first dose given at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose given at 4 to 6 years of age.”

However, Harris urged parents to still get their children vaccinated even if their children missed the prime range for the vaccination.

“If the varicella vaccine is given within three days of exposure to chickenpox, and possibly up to five days after exposure, it may prevent chickenpox or reduce the severity of the disease,” Harris said. “We recommend you contact your child’s health-care provider as soon as possible to obtain the varicella vaccine for your child if they have not had chickenpox or have not received two doses of the varicella vaccine.”

He would not rule out preventing children from attending classes in the district who do

CHICKENPOX>>PAGE 19

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INDEX Automotive..................................... 23 Business Directory.......................... 10 Community....................................... 8 Fun and Games............................... 16 Health.............................................. 15

Home, Garden & Farming ............. 22 Local News....................................... 2 Marketplace..................................... 17 Opinion............................................. 7 Worship Directory............................. 8

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

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PAGE 5

League of Women Voters Forum Involving Pine Barrens Politicians Canceled

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer

MEDFORD—The League of Women Voters of Burlington County has canceled all of its open forums in advance of November’s general election, citing lack of candidate participation.

A forum planned for the Burlington County Freeholder candidates and a forum planned for the 8th Legislative District candidates were among those that were canceled.

“The Democratic candidates for freeholder accepted the League’s invitation to participate, but the Republican candidates did not respond,” said Karen Hendershot, vice president of the League of Women Voters of Burlington County. “Similarly, the Democratic state senate and assembly candidates in the 8th Legislative District accepted the League’s invitation to participate, but the Republican candidates did not respond.”

Democrats Tom Pullion and Balvir Singh are running against Republican incumbents Bruce Garganio and Linda Hughes for two open freeholder seats.

Democrats Joanne Schwartz and Mary Ann Merlino are challenging Republican Ryan Peters and Republican incumbent Joseph Howarth for two 8th Legislative District assembly seats.

George Youngkin, a Democrat, is facing off against incumbent Dawn Marie Addiego, a Republican, for an 8th Legislative District senate seat.

Chris Russell, a Burlington County GOP spokesman, disputed the League of Women Voters’ assertion that Republican candidates did not want to participate in the open forums.

“Our campaign manager, Josh Foote, has been involved in detailed and extensive discussions about setting up these forums with the League for weeks,” he said. “We had agreed to dates in writing and our candidates were certainly ready and willing to participate. The abrupt cancellation was a surprise.”

The Youngkin-Merlino-Schwartz for New Jersey campaign accused the Burlington County GOP of “chickening out” and sent out a fiery campaign release.

Youngkin challenged Addiego to agree to

three debates between now until Election Day with one in each county in the district. The district covers parts of Atlantic, Burlington and Camden counties.

“I stand ready and willing to debate Senator Addiego at any time and any place,” he said.

“I don’t understand why she would chicken out from this debate. Why is she hiding from voters?”

He said he has knocked on hundreds of doors and spoken with thousands of voters.

“I have done everything possible to make myself accessible to voters, but maybe if I had the senator’s record of voting in lock-step with Chris Christie I would feel differently,” Youngkin said.

Schwartz said she wished that she could believe that this was all simply a scheduling conflict.

“It is clearly a coordinated attempt by the Burlington GOP machine to deny voters the chance to ask tough questions of their candidates,” she said. “Our voters have a right to know the issues and to hear directly from us and be able to question us in an open forum.

This is why debates are so very important.”

Schwartz said county voters should be on alert and take notice of her opponents’ “total disregard of the thoughts, feelings and issues that face residents.”

“As a (former) freeholder, I never backed down from an open debate because elected officials owe that to their constituents,” she said. “Joe and Ryan should be ashamed.”

Merlino said open and fair discourse between candidates is a bedrock tenet of the country’s democracy.

“Keeping voters in the dark is antithetical to our values and benefits no one,” she said. “I hope the GOP candidates will reconsider, but I’m not holding my breath.”

When asked about the chickening out allegation, Foote reiterated Russell’s comments that the party agreed to dates in writing and their candidates were ready and willing to participate.

He and Russell offered no additional

FORUM>>PAGE 19

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Saturday, October 21, 2017

Banks Returns and Vows Not to Reopen Pinelands Regional High School Until It’s Safe

By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Wrtier

LITTLE EGG HARBOR—For the second time in less than a week, Pinelands Regional School District administrators held a parent meeting to discuss the indefinite closure of the district’s high school.

The high school was closed indefinitely on Oct. 13 after a screw fell from the building’s ceiling and hit a student.

The incident followed public pleas to close the building after construction work caused dust and ceiling tiles to fall in classrooms and unfamiliar odors which have coincided with unexplained respiratory issues and rashes.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Maryann Banks, who hadn’t been seen in public since concerns about the condition of the high school were brought to the forefront, led the Oct. 17 meeting.

She assured 300 people watching a live stream of the meeting online and another 200 gathered in the Pinelands Regional Junior High School’s cafetorium that student and staff safety was her top priority.

“I am here to tell you that as the superintendent, I will not open that building unless or until it is safe for students and staff to occupy it,” Banks said. “I am telling you that right now.”

Banks said that even though the high school is now closed indefinitely, classes have to be held.

“We somehow need to get our days in,” she said.

Banks reaffirmed the need for split sessions at the district’s junior high school until the high school can be reopened.

“What we’re looking at in terms of these split sessions is (holding them) through at least the end of November,” she said. “This is what we have been told—so this is short-term. My guess is that we can always be prepared and should be prepared for some glitches to happen that may take us into the first or second week of December.”

On Wednesday, the split sessions began.

Students in grades 10 through 12 have classes first, followed by students in grades 7 through 9. Students now have four one-hour blocks of classes. The classes rotate daily on a block-scheduling basis.

There are no formal lunch periods.

Instead, “grab and go” serving stations have been set up throughout the junior high school.

Breakfast foods are being offered at the stations for students in grades 10 through 12 (morning session) and lunch foods are being served at the stations for students in grades 7 through 9 (afternoon session).

“This is a short-term fix,” Banks said. “We want our students back in the (high school) building. We want our seniors back in the building. They deserve being back in the high school, enjoying their senior year. We want that to happen for them as quickly as possible, but we want them to be safe and healthy.”

She said rumors that the high school will be closed the entire year are not true.

“That is not where we are going and that is not our plan,” Banks said.

The superintendent said that she is making arrangements for students to make up the five days of school that were lost due to the district closing Oct. 3 to 6 and Oct. 13 to address the safety issues.

“Usually when the district is closed, it is because of inclement weather,” Banks said.

“We haven’t even gotten there yet and if you have read the Farmer’s Almanac, you know they are expecting an interesting winter.”

She said she has been meeting with the

administration, some parents and representatives from the district’s teacher’s union to iron out the make-up days.

“Be prepared for us to be in session for half days in February when we have that long weekend,” said Banks referring to President’s Day weekend. “That is an opportunity for us to pick up at least three days. I am also looking at a day or two during Spring Break.”

She said one of the days she is considering asking students to come to school is Good Friday.

“This is all tentative, but this is what I am looking at,” Banks said. “If we get inclement weather, and (school) is shut down because of that, those days will get tacked on to the end of the school year. I just don’t want us to go to June 30 if I can help it.”

Shaun Banin, principal of Pinelands Regional High School, and F. Eric Pschorr, principal of Pinelands Regional Junior High School, provided new details about the split schedule.

Students in grades 10 through 12 will begin their classes at 7:20 a.m. and be dismissed at 11:34 a.m.

Students in grades 7 through 9 will begin their classes at 11:55 a.m. and be dismissed at 4:30 p.m.

The junior high school students will report to the cafetorium and gymnasium each day when they arrive and be held and supervised by 15-18 teachers until all of the high school students clear the building.

The schedule for students in grades 7 through 9 has a few “twists and turns.”

One of them is that every other day, students in grades 7 through 9 will have one class that lasts for two hours. The class for the two hour period will rotate so that all seven of their subjects are afforded equal time. Later, it was explained that administrators chose to do this to have “quality of time vs. quantity of time.”

Another is that homeroom is held at the end of each day.

Sports practices will be held later in the day and possibly at alternate locations. The Little Egg Harbor School District has offered to allow Pinelands students to use their facilities for activities and sports.

“Practices will be later so that students will not be pulled out of class for any sports practice,” Banin said. “All of the practices are being scheduled once the junior high school (day) is over.”

Late buses will be provided to students at 5:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. due to the later practices.

All medications stored at the high school for students have been brought over to the junior high school.

The telephone number for the high school nurses have been changed temporarily. To reach a school nurse, parents can call 609-2963106 and dial extension 4425.

A number of parents asked questions of administrators for nearly 50 minutes.

Here are the highlights: There were more questions about student lockers.

School administrators reiterated their stance from Friday that lockers will not be provided to students in grades 9 through 12.

A parent asked if a student attending the junior high school regularly could share their locker with their brother or sister if they are in grades 9 through 12.

Pschorr said they cannot be shared and explained that the decision was made primarily out of fairness for all students.

Banks also reiterated Friday’s announcement that students will not be allowed back into the

high school to retrieve their belongings that are in their lockers. She said she understood some wallets and paychecks were left in them.

Banks said she was going to have students fill out a form to request their belongings.

A father asked Banks to allow the students to retrieve their belongings after hours within the next week under close supervision.

“It is probably going to be much faster than reading a piece of paper and going to each individual locker,” the father said.

Banin said his suggestion would be written down.

A parent asked about how junior high school students are supposed to attend 3:45 p.m. sports games when they are supposed to be in class.

Pschorr said it would be an excused absence.

Several concerns were raised about apparent problems the split-session schedule will create for morning vocational students.

Pinelands Regional participates in a unique program that allows some high school students to be transported to other schools for part of the day to take classes such as Culinary Arts and Cosmetology.

Some of these students attend these classes as far away as Brick.

Normally, when the participating students finish their vocational classes, they are transported back to the high school to attend classes for their core subjects. However, with 10th through 12th graders being dismissed at 11:34 a.m., they will miss out on their core subject education.

Banin said the situation is only for the time being and they’ll be studying the problems on a case-by-case basis.

Banks said she is working with the Ocean County Vocational School District superintendent to see if students, who have their vocational classes in the morning, can have them switched to the afternoon.

“Trust me, we are going to put something in place that works,” Banin said. “We’re not going to make any student not be educated.”

A guidance counselor said the district is prepared to offer vocational students extra tutoring and outside services. She also said that Google Classroom for these students was a consideration.

A mother who has a son with special needs blasted the Google Classroom concept that the district has been relying heavily on since the crisis began.

“I have a child with ADHD and asthma and asking him to go home and do the Google Classroom (is absurd),” she said. “If I don’t take away his Wii or X-Box (games) and all this other stuff, there is no guarantee he is going to do what he is supposed to do.

“For him to get the proper education he needs, he needs a classroom setting. I am sure there are multiple other children who have this issue. Kids like him need one-on-one time with a teacher, not something on a screen.”

The guidance counselor said each student is unique and students with special needs are having their schedule looked at on an individual basis.

A father questioned how students would be allowed to return to the high school at the end of November if work to replace the brick on the exterior of the building is scheduled to begin.

“Once the roofing situation gets settled and they start pulling bricks off the building, are they (the construction crew) going to have close portions of the building in order to finish the bricks—because structurally you are now making the building possibly unsafe?”

Banks said the father was “absolutely correct” with his analysis.

“There is a phasing plan in place for that next

piece of the construction (project),” she said.

“The plan is, as they (the construction crew) begin to do their work around the building, the sections of the building—those classrooms— will be closed off.

“Mr. Banin is going to be working with relocating classrooms as the construction crew works around the building. Yes, there will be classrooms closed off. But we are confident we have enough space to accommodate the move.”

The father asked if there was a possibility that high school would have to be closed completely during the brick work.

“I have not been told school needs to be closed—just that sections of the building need to be closed off while they are working around the building,” Banks said.

She said the biggest glitches would be experienced when the science lab wing of the high school needs to be closed.

Banks said a parent meeting to talk about construction will be scheduled the week of Oct. 23.

Another father in the audience asked Banks to justify students making up the missed full days with half days.

The superintendent revised her earlier comments and said there are going to be some full-day make-up days, but said her objective is to get the days in.

“To be honest with you, the county doesn’t like it when you have too many half-day sessions,” Banks said. “The reason I mention half-day sessions for February is I am dealing with a legal holiday (President’s Day).”

A mother in the audience raised concern with homeroom at the end of the day for 7th through 9th grade students. She wondered how attendance would be taken.

Pschorr said that was a good question and perhaps something can be worked out for attendance to be taken during the first period of the day.

“I would want to know that she missed the bus,” said the mother whose child’s bus arrives after she leaves for work.

The mother also questioned the district’s plan to have 7th through 12th grade athletes in the locker rooms at the same time, to get changed before or after sports practices or games.

“I don’t feel particularly comfortable with a 12th grader in (the locker room) with my 7th grader,” she said.

Athletic Director William Sundermann said 7th through 12th grade students may have to be in a locker room at the same during after school sports, but that coaches would be in the room if that was the case.

“If we can make other accommodations for the high school teams, we will,” he said.

Another parent asked how 10th through 12th graders would get back to school for sports if they are sent home at 11:34 a.m.

Sundermann said a lot of the teams are working to set up a carpool program.

A few parents asked about what would happen if school had to dismiss early due to inclement weather.

Banks placed both her hands together as “praying hands” and asked, “Why are you doing this to me?” She drew laughter from the audience in what was a rare light moment during the meeting.

“We have to be legally in session for four hours,” Banks said. “On a split schedule, if I call a delayed opening, school will be closed.”

Banks said the question was legitimate and recalled how a broken water pipe forced a school to close early.

Some of the final questions of the night came from a man who wondered if teachers would

REOPEN>>PAGE 19

Saturday, October 21, 2017

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

OPINION

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

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

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Guest Commentary submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribune can be submitted by an appointed or elected official, political candidate, organization leader, or community leader. Guest commentary submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribune must include the name, photo, address, affiliation, title, and phone number of the writer. Commentary may be edited for length, clarity and taste. Because of space limitations, commentary should be about 450 words or less.

Letters to the Editor Democracy Works Best with Maximum Participation We have less than a few weeks before the upcoming Medford Lakes Borough Council Election on Nov. 7.

A couple of times each year, elections are held for various offices in the borough that require you to vote for the candidates that you want to represent you. The borough offers two convenient polling places at Vaughn Hall and the Medford Lakes Borough Municipal Building.

The polling places are usually open for 14 hours on Election Day, providing voters with plenty of time to vote.

It’s not really a heavy lift to cast your vote in Medford Lakes.

The lines, if any, are short and you are usually in and out of the polling place within two minutes. If this isn’t satisfactory, you can cast your vote by mail from your home prior to Election Day and “Vote in Your Pajamas.”

Yet, Medford Lakes has dismal voter turnout, especially in a municipal election. It has been getting worse in recent years. In a 2008 council election, there was a 22.3 percent voter turnout; in a 2014 council election, there was a 13.7 percent voter turnout; and in a 2016 council election, there was a 19.2 percent voter turnout.

If your child brought home a test with a grade of 22.3 percent or “F,” it would certainly cause concern. If you were only paid 13.7 percent of your normal paycheck, this would be a serious problem. If emergency crews responded to only 19.2 percent of the emergency calls they received, this would substantially jeopardize the safety of our residents and be viewed as unacceptable. I think we can all agree that if these situations really presented themselves, we would not tolerate them and would call for corrective action.

So, why should we accept low voter turnout? I know our lives are hectic. Our jobs,

family and other personal matters put a constant demand on our time. The urgency to vote is not a high priority on our “to do” list. But, for your own good and the good of our town, this must change. We can no longer tolerate this apathy about voting. We must do better! Let’s all acknowledge this problem and join together to take some corrective action.

The torch has been passed to us. We must assume our responsibility as the stewards of this community. The people I know in Medford Lakes are players, not spectators.

Now is the time for anyone sitting on the sidelines to get into the game! Let’s take the time between now and Election Day to re-examine our attitudes and thoughts about voting. Please reach out to your family, friends and neighbors and talk about turning this thing around. Please encourage those who normally don’t vote to reconsider.

At times, we may meet a person serving in the military and thank them for their service. If you really want to honor the service of those in the military, who are willing to risk their lives to preserve our freedom and rights, one being the right to vote, show up on Election Day and vote! If you really want to honor our flag and anthem, show up on Election Day and vote!

There are approximately 3,325 registered voters in Medford Lakes. Let’s do something exceptional and work together to have at least 51 percent voter turnout. Voting is a powerful expression of the will of the people. Your vote counts and your participation is essential to the future of our town.

I’ll see you at the polls on Nov. 7 from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Joseph A. Aromando III Medford Lakes Council Candidate Medford Lakes, New Jersey

Stop Complaining and Start Voting We have all heard people complaining about their town or state while in a local coffee shop, corner barbershop, or grocery store.

“Why did they do that?” someone will often ask. “Who decided that things need to be that way?” or “Who does those things?” are other questions I often hear blurted out.

What amazes me is the number of people who question or complain about something in their community versus the number of people who actually vote!

Usually in Medford Township, the people who do “those things” are the town council members, a governing body of five individuals who are elected officials. That’s right, I said “elected.”

If you haven’t been keeping up with the latest happenings around here, the current town council is doing an outstanding job! There has been no local tax increase in the past five years and better snow removal. Council has worked to increase the size of the police force, all while maintaining a long-term positive budget outlook.

Do you want to continue all the amazing things that are going on in Medford? Well, then

get out there and vote.

Councilmen Charles Watson and Bradley Denn have made positive changes to Medford and they need and deserve to continue to their positive outlook and contributions to Medford.

Their fellow candidate, Erik Rebstock, is another sure-fire candidate. For now, turn off CNN or Fox News. Your views on the past presidential election or current race for governor should have no determination on your commitment to the improvements the council has made.

Get out, vote and focus on Medford.

Check out the U.S. Constitutional Amendments. Four of them deal with voting, more than any other subject area.

Each amendment implies that voting and voter participation should be imperative to everyone.

On Nov. 7, get out there, do your duty, vote, and check your box to focus on Medford, and the team of Watson, Denn and Rebstock.

Scott Roe Medford, New Jersey

The deadline has passed for Letter to the Editor submissions about the Nov. 7 General Election.

Exceptions will only be given to candidates who are seeking to write a rebuttal and have not previously submitted material.

Transparency and Responsive Leadership Needed in Shamong My husband and I have lived in Shamong Township since 2004.

We chose to live in Shamong because of its tranquil location and the reputation of the school system here. Two of our three daughters currently attend school in the Shamong Township School District and our youngest will be joining them next year.

My decision to run for the Shamong Township Board of Education as a write-in candidate was solidified when a $4.9 million referendum was voted down last month for a second time, creating a divide in our small town.

To correct this, we need strong and transparent leadership in place on the board that is responsive and accountable to the entire community— including students, parents, taxpayers and staff.

I have taught in the Evesham Township School District since Sept. 2000 and fully understand the day-to-day workings of a school. Having taught students of all ability levels with various needs, I understand the importance of communication between home and school to help ensure those needs are met. I have demonstrated

leadership, professionalism and integrity within the school community and feel these experiences would be an asset to the school board.

I hold a master’s degree in Educational Administration which provides me with a strong understanding of school finance and budgeting. This will allow me to accomplish my goal of keeping the administration fiscally accountable, while keeping the needs of students, parents, staff and the community at the forefront.

I know there is discontent due to the referendum, regardless of what side you are on. With my experience and background, I can help to bridge the gap between what the community wants and what the district can deliver.

On Nov. 7, please write-in Anne Ehrke for “Accountability in Education.”

Anne Ehrke Write-In Candidate for Shamong Board of Education Shamong, New Jersey

Social Media Sound Off (Re: 51 Arrested in Child Support Sweep) Unfortunately, they will be out of jail in a few days and back on the street. The taxpayers will still be footing the bill for the babies and their mamas. It’s unfortunate, but true. I could never see why they put them in jail since it gives them a record, which causes issues when they try to get a job. But if 51 people owe over $1 million, they probably aren’t really looking for a job too hard!

Wendy Morgan Yocum Rembowski (Re: 51 Arrested in Child Support Sweep) I agree that they’ll be out of jail in a few days, but not all single moms are living off the system.

Some go out and find better jobs and buy themselves a house and make the best of their situation.

Kelly Kemps (Re: Man Accused of Robbing JCP&L Meter Reader at Gunpoint) If I were a robber, I would think meter readers would be pretty far down the ladder of choice.

Craig Nye Please comment on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Twitter: @PineBarrensNews with the hashtag #SoundOff or Facebook: www.facebook.com/pinebarrenstribune.

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE Established 2016 Douglas D. Melegari, Publisher, CEO Pat Carney, Senior Graphic Artist Adam Tait III, Copy Editor Colleen Jordan, Copy Editor, Graphic Artist Vince DeBlasio, Copy Editor P.O. Box 2402, Vincentown, NJ 08088 Locally owned and published.

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Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

COMMUNITY

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

Events

October 21 Event: Milers Oktoberfest 5k Location: Medford Details: The Medford Milers running club is having their first official race on Saturday, Oct. 21. The proceeds of this 5k run/walk will benefit the Medford-Vincentown Rotary Halloween Parade. The race begins and ends at Freedom Park, on Union Street, in Medford. There will be post-race refreshments, high-quality tech shirts, finisher medals, and music provided by a local DJ. Halloween costumes are optional. The cost to participate in the race is $25, until Oct. 19 at 9 p.m.; and $30 to register on race day. For more information and to register, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Medford/MILERSOKTOBERFEST5K Event: Understanding OCD in Children and Teens Location: Medford Details: This free workshop will help parents identify symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), develop effective strategies, and understand the latest treatment approaches, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the Center for Counseling and Education of Medford, 66 N. Main Street, Medford. Register at info@cfcenj.com or call 609-714-8400.

Event: LeisureTowne Neighborhood Yard Sale Location: Southampton Details: The LeisureTowne Neighborhood Yard Sale will be held Saturday, Oct. 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (The rain date

is Sunday, Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) There are no map handouts of individual locations of the sale – just ride through the LeisureTowne development and see the many items for sale.

open at 1:40 p.m., performance begins at 2 p.m. For more information, call 609-267-9660.

October 23

Event: Gospel Music Concert by Lee Whitaker Location: Shamong Details: Recording artist Lee Whitaker, will be having a concert at Indian Mills United Methodist Church, Saturday, Oct. 21, at 7 p.m. The church is located at the intersection of Willow Grove and Indian Mills Roads in Shamong. Admission is free. Lee’s CD will be available for purchase.

Event: Free Singing Lessons Location: Cherry Hill Details: Here is your chance for up to 6 free singing lessons, sponsored by the Cherry Hill Pine Barons Chorus. Come join us Mondays at 7 p.m., from Oct. 23, through Nov. 27. At St. Andrews United Methodist Church, 327 Rt. 70 (Marlton Pike West), Cherry Hill. To register, email us at register@pinebarons. org, or call John at 856-866-2474.

October 22

October 24

Event: Annual Trunk or Treat Location: Medford Details: Get your costumes ready for the Medford United Methodist Church annual Trunk or Treat, Oct. 22, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 2 Hartford Road, Medford. The event is open to the public and was started as a way to provide families a safe alternative for trick or treating. For more information, contact Bethany at Bethany@medfordumc.org, or just show up!

Event: Community Haunted House Location: Medford Details: Medford Care Center, 185 Tuckerton Road, Medford, invites the community to our annual Haunted House, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 856-983-8500.

Event: Sundays on the Stage Performance Location: Westampton Details: The Burlington County Library is proud to present Sundays on the Stage, a diverse music series of R & B, Soul, Classic Rock, Dance Tunes, Latin Party Music and more. The library is located at 5 Pioneer Boulevard in Westampton. Doors

October 25 Event: One-on-One Computer Help Sessions Location: Evesham Details: Make an appointment for a 30-minute personal help session to have your email, Internet and computer how-to questions answered. Evesham Branch Library, 984 Tuckerton Road, Evesham. Call to register for an appointment, 856-9831444. (Mouse skill required).

PEMBERTON TWP. SENIOR CITIZEN COLUMN

PINE KNOTS COLUMN

Seniors Enjoy Annual Oktoberfest

BMIA Installs New Officers and Board Members at ‘Pot Luck’ Dinner

By Ebba Liguori

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—It is October, so that meant time for the Oktoberfest.

Each year, Mike Byrne and his “All Stars” present an annual Oktoberfest at Doolan’s Shore Club in Spring Lake. Everyone looks forward to the celebration, especially those seniors who have tickets to enjoy the party.

The day of Oct. 10 dawned bright—sunny and warm—more like spring than autumn. Marty Gravenstein arrived after 9 a.m. with a Safety Bus and transported 51 seniors to the party at Doolan’s.

Most seniors remember the many “Club parties” held in years past. This day was

reminiscent of those parties with sounds of the “Big Bands,” comedians and, of course, delicious food.

Gravenstein drove past the famous “Spring Lake” that the town is named after and proceeded past numerous expensive houses.

Every lawn was green and well-manicured.

All around the neighborhood one could see landscaping trucks and workers who were busy, working to keep everything perfect.

One remark was heard often, “Landscaping is the business to be in around here!”

Beautiful flowers were in abundance and some statuary could be seen. One elegant home had brass pelicans gracing the front

OKTOBERFEST>>PAGE 20

Come

By Ebba Liguori

For the Pine Barrens Tribune

PEMBERTON—On Oct. 14, the Browns Mills Improvement Association (BMIA) held an October “Pot Luck” dinner for its members and guests.

The BMIA parking lot was filled and so were eight large tables inside the meeting room.

Everyone looks forward to the beginning of a new BMIA year and this dinner was the “kick off.”

Members dusted off their best recipes and prepared special dishes to share with other members. There was quite a variety of choices.

There were numerous main dishes and lots of

Worship With Us

sides.

One special dish of note was Ellen Catalano’s fresh salad. She went to a local farm and chose numerous fresh salad items, organic of course, and prepared them in multiple dishes. She had both olive oil and balsamic vinegar on the side.

This allowed each person to make their very own tossed salad just the way one prefers it.

Board members always provide desserts and there were several delicious offerings to conclude the meal.

Following the meal, Tony Miehle prepared the swearing in of the BMIA officers and the newly-elected board members.

INSTALLS>>PAGE 20

Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

Lechner Funeral Home

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24 N. Main St. Medford, NJ 08055 609-654-2298 Richard B. Lechner, Mgr. NJ Lic. No. 3720

-Cremation Services Available Richard B. Lechner, Jr. Director -No-cost pre-arrangement NJ Lic. No. 4872 counseling New Website with video tributes:

www.lechnerfuneralhome.com

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY AGRICULTURE

CLEANING

APARTMENTS

CONCRETE

AUTO

FUEL/OIL

Emission Repair Major & Minor Repairs

State Inspection

CRAIG’S AUTO INC. Goodyear Tires

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24 Hr. Towing Flatbed Service Road Service

CHILD CARE

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 11

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSURANCE

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 13

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Are conversations hard to follow?

Does everyone seem to mumble?

You don’t have to miss another word!

Come in for a demonstration or try hearing aids free for two weeks with no upfront payment required and no restocking fee if you’re not satisfied.

We have hearing aids for every budget and lifestyle Call 609-654-7496 today for your FREE HEARING TEST & CONSULTATION Helping people hear better since 1985!

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PBT

Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

HEALTH

Dear Pharmacist

By Suzy Cohen, R.Ph.

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

Powerful Medicinal Herbs for Breast Cancer There’s no time like the present to begin the changes necessary for better breast health.

The take-home message today is that you can change the way you break down estrogen in your own body. You have direct control over it and that’s important because estrogen breakdown is different for everyone.

Let’s start with the basics. When you say the word “estrogen,” that’s actually three compounds: estradiol, estrone and estriol. Of the three, estradiol is most strongly associated with causing cancer than the other two.

Men and women both make estrogen. It’s the breakdown product from testosterone actually.

If you have low testosterone, you’ll have low estrogen too.

Your body breaks down estrogen into metabolites and some of those are more likely to cause cancer than others. Like I said, you can change the way that your body breaks down the circulating estrogen. So right now, I’m going to give valuable information about how to manufacture your own healthy estrogen metabolites and make it such that you break it down into forms that are less likely to cause

cancer. If you are currently undergoing chemotherapy, please ask your doctor if these are right for you: Rosemary–I recommend this as fresh herb from your grocery store. Cook with it, and make tea with it. Rosemary is a powerful antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory effects similar to a COX 2 inhibitor drug. Rosemary has anti-microbial properties and directly benefits breast and prostate health. It has anti-tumor benefits. It works by helping you break down estrogen into the safer anti-cancer metabolites.

Broccoli–It’s impossible to eat 4 pounds of broccoli every day so take the supplement called I3C or DIM. It helps to balance estrogen levels in the body, and appears to have anti-cancer effects, particularly for the breast and prostate. Too much crash can your thyroid levels due to the goitrogenic effect.

Flax Seed–This is kind of like plant-based estrogen (termed phytoestrogens) which kicks off dangerous estrogens from your cells. Men with prostate problems could benefit. Women

CANCER>>PAGE 19

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Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

FUN AND GAMES Are We There Yet?

By Lori Clinch

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

Come November, It Will All Be Moot Fall is in full swing and we’re enjoying colorful days and gentle breezes.

I love the changing of the seasons, the beautiful trees, and the fact that I won’t have to face 100-degree temperatures anytime soon.

What I am NOT in love with are the weeds that are mass-producing and waging a full-fledged assault in, what would otherwise be, our well-manicured landscaping.

I grew up alongside my mother in her flowerbeds. We would work tirelessly cultivating, weeding and keeping the yard shipshape. We never studied weeds or their tendencies. We avoided technical terms and kept things simple with the unassuming plan of, “If it looks like it doesn’t belong, it probably doesn’t.”

She raised me to have a passion for yard work. Once I was married and had a family of my own, I longed to be outside and would happily mow the lawn while our four sons cleaned the house. I trimmed the trees, pruned back the bushes and edged the lawn like nobody’s business.

But since opening our antique shop four years ago, I’ve had to prioritize, and since paying the bills and doing laundry are more critical than pruning, the yard work has gotten away from me.

On a recent stroll through the flowerbeds I noticed dandelions running amok, thistle wreaking havoc and I’ll be dogged if a creeping charlie wasn’t thriving dangerously close to the lilacs.

Luckily enough for me, we still have a couple of sons who show up from time to time.

I’d like to say that enlisting their help was easy enough for a little “walking around money” and that they agreed to help get the place in shipshape.

Sadly enough, they’d grown up in those flowerbeds, had a real appreciation of the work involved and promptly told me that the best solution to fall weeds was this, and I quote: “November.”

But I took heart, stiffened my spine and made short business of it.

Turning flowerbeds over to just anyone isn’t easy. I couldn’t have them pruning the weeds and pulling the hydrangeas. Heaven forbid they

destroy the peonies and deadhead the sandburs.

Quite frankly, letting someone take over the yard was, for me, like handing off a badly-behaved, yet much-loved child.

With a lecture titled, “Your Weeds and You,” I talked them into doing the dastardly deed. I then walked them through the yard and educated them with a botanical presentation.

Although they are quite agreeable for the most part, our sons love to give me a hard time and working over my dear and precious flowerbeds provided them with the perfect opportunity to watch their mother squirm.

“This is sort of pretty,” they said as they pointed to a purple-flowered invasive intruder.

“So you just want us to pull this out of the ground by its hair and send it to an early grave simply because it’s growing in the wrong spot?”

They tried to instill guilt, utilized drama and all but created a late night TV drama titled, “Just because it has thorns means it has to die? What kind of person are you?”

“This little guy seems happy,” they exclaimed as they protested the slaying of a cluster of crab grass that any gardener would despise.

“Maybe it doesn’t like you either,” they cried as they pointed to a milkweed.

It was enough to make a woman wonder if it would have been more efficient to simply do the weeding and pruning herself.

“I thought we liked grass,” Charlie said as he pointed to the shoot that was coming out of a clump of desirable flowers.

“Didn’t you hear her say she doesn’t like them in the middle of her daylilies?” Lawrence replied.

“You’re a daylily,” said Charlie before he successfully pulled the whole plot right out of the ground.

Still, I did it. I walked away and let them take charge. Although I’ve yet to give the grounds a thorough inspection, the pile of weeds looks to be substantial with nary a peony in its midst.

I hope I can re-enlist them in a week or two, when the creeping charlie once again rears its invasive self in the midst of our hostas.

If not, we can all take comfort in what they proclaim as the real weed eradicator— November.

© 2017 LORI CLINCH

C R O S S W O R D Across 1 “Pardon me ... “ 5 __ Madness: fruity Snapple flavor 10 Info that isn’t as dumb as it sounds 14 Mardi Gras city acronym 15 University founder Yale 16 Quaint “Yikes!”

17 Hardcover protector 19 One on your side 20 Old show showings 21 Josephine, for one 23 Dictator Amin 24 Noun following a vb., usually 25 Improvisational music style developed in 14-Across 32 Cat covering 33 East, to Eduardo 34 Orderly 36 Apple tablet 38 Handled things somehow 39 Stonestreet of “Modern Family” 40 Heredity unit 41 x or y, in plane geometry 42 Planet, in verse 43 Local jurist 48 Divided Asian country: Abbr.

P U Z Z L E

49 Miner’s objective 50 “The Grapes of Wrath” protagonist 54 Boring tools 57 Small Chevy model 58 Maneuver that captures two checkers 61 Low-__ diet 62 Outie’s opposite 63 Natural skin soother 64 Bullfight cheers 65 Brewery kilns 66 Thief who doesn’t need the combination Down 1 Also 2 Time of day 3 “Anything __?”

4 Dot-__ printer 5 Malicious one 6 Oct. baseball semifinal 7 Suffix with 34-Across 8 Indian butter 9 No longer in style 10 Guy’s breakup letter 11 Gawk at 12 Buddies 13 “Grand” ice cream brand

18 Dame Dench 22 Sandwich with Jif and Welch’s, for short 25 Fooled 26 Pakistani neighbor 27 Eleventh of 13 popes 28 Savory gelatin 29 H-bomb trial, e.g.

30 Weightlessness cause, briefly 31 Congo, formerly 32 Newton fruit 35 Getting it done, initially 37 Clerical office positions 38 Music provider on the road 44 Also 45 Units of energy 46 Strongly suggest 47 Wedding music provider ... and a homophonic hint to six puzzle answers 50 Mexican snack in a shell 51 Track shape 52 Nothing but 53 Spanish lady 54 Not much 55 __ of thumb 56 City skyline obscurer 59 Young __: tots, in dialect 60 Tent stake

S U D O K U

ANSWERS ON PAGE 22

Saturday, October 21, 2017

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

PAGE 17

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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

AUTOMOBILES/TRUCKS 2008 Nissian Quest SUV. 1 owner, paid $30,000 new. 153k miles. Oil changed every 3,000 miles. Asking $5,500 or best offer. Call 609-949-1077.

AUTO PARTS & SVCS. SCRATCH AND DENT REPAIR BY AUTO BODY STORE. First-class auto body repairs and painting. Cars, trucks, trailers or tractors. FREE estimate visits in LeisureTowne. 609-859-3670.

AWNINGS ATLANTIC AWNINGS. Professional Installations. Residential/Commercial.

Retractable Awnings, Window Awnings, Retractable and Stationary Canopies, Recovers, Repairs, Rehangs, Take Downs, Washings. Fully insured.

FREE ESTIMATES. 609-618-2420.

Lic. #13VH06758700. atlanticawningscompany.com

CONCRETE MASONRY Concrete work 12 x 12 ft. patio $1,200.

Sidewalks, driveways, stone and much more. Call F&S Masonry for free estimate. 609-339-1742.

FOR RENT

HELP WANTED

Commercial rental available in Southampton Township. Professional office suite is move-in ready. Included are 5 11 x12 ft. offices, a 12 x 16 ft. conference room, large bullpen, reception and administrative area, and kitchenette. Monthly lease price is $2,895. Contact Anne Parker at Berkshire Hathaway, Fox and Roach Realtors. 609-654-1888 or 609-4712565.

Area claims writer. No experience.

PT/FT flex. hours. NJ/PA. Call or text 609-548-3108. Target income. $30k/$80k.

2 bedroom house in Pemberton. Very secluded. Oil heat. No large dogs. $1,000 a month, plus utilities. 1 1/2 month security deposit. Call 609-894-2593.

FURNITURE REPAIR Adam’s Furniture Restoration LLC. Twenty (20) years experience. Furniture repair, kitchen cabinet refinishing.

Touch-ups, re-gluing, upholstery, leather repair. 856-979-6210. adamsfurniturerestoration@gmail.com.

GARAGE/YARD SALE LeisureTowne community yard sale Oct. 21. Rain date Oct. 22. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

No maps available, ride thru and shop.

LeisureTowne. 12 Thornbury Place, off to the left of Huntington Drive. 10/21 and 10/22. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Phillips Heating. Part-time, seasonal position for delivery. Driver/service technician. CDL, tanker air brakes, hazmat endorsements. Good driving record a must. Call Bill 609-859-8654.

Technician/Mechanic Wanted. As a Technician/Mechanic, you will provide accurate and efficient services to customers by trouble shooting, diagnosing, and repairing heavy duty semi-truck trailers in a safe, reasonable and responsible manner. You will be required to have a “whatever needs to be done” work ethic and attitude, be mechanically inclined, and a team player with neat appearance.

You should be a self-motivated, dependable person, and work well with others. Qualified candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED; pass a background check and drug screening and have a valid driver’s license. 401k-benefits and paid training.

Please apply online at www.mypetrojob. com HORTICULTURALIST–A prosperous cranberry plant propagation business located near Chatsworth, NJ has an opening for a horticulturalist position.

The position requires an individual who

is well organized, motivated, dedicated with a strong work ethic and an interest in becoming familiar with plant propagation.

Experience in farm culture is advantageous. Responsibilities would include plant care, irrigation, fertilization, pest management, and assistance with daily operations. This is an hourly, yearround position. Advancement would be determined by the individual demonstrating the ability to take on responsibilities. Applicant should send a description of their work experience or resume to P. O. Box 517, Chatsworth, N.J. 08019.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT–A prosperous cranberry plant propagation business located near Chatsworth, NJ has an opening for a career opportunity as Administrative Assistant. We are looking for an applicant who is very organized, disciplined with a strong work ethic, dedicated and motivated, with attention to detail and the initiative to learn about the propagation business. Applicant must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Computer skills are essential with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint and QuickBooks.

Understanding of farm culture is advantageous. Responsibilities include the processing and management of customer orders, customer support, contractual agreements, analytical accounting of orders, costs and supplies, scheduling and arrangement of shipments,

and graphic design for advertising. This is a year round position, less than full time, with flexible hours. Advancement to Administrator would be determined by the individual demonstrating the ability to take on responsibilities. Interested applicants should forward their resume to P. O. Box 517, Chatsworth, NJ 08019

MISCELLANEOUS Brotherton Indian Tribal Offices Brotherton Indian Reservation, Tribal Lands Office of the Chief Brotherton Indian Reservation Indian Mills, New Jersey 08088 Attention Dr. Sam Beeler, Chief 973-222-1920 973-432-8894

Cash paid for vintage saxophones and World War II military items. Email mymilitarytoys@optonline.net or call 609-581-8290.

REAL ESTATE 55 Plus Community, Whiting. One bedroom, 1 bath. Central air, wall-towall carpeting. Maintenance fee $275 a month. Includes taxes, water, grass cutting, snow removal, $40,000. Call 732-716-1017.

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BUILDING PAGE 1

Acting Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Stevenson said administrators determined that they have no way of knowing whether or not any of the remaining screws are going to come down without professionals performing a lengthy evaluation process.

“Therefore, that entire building is not safe right now and we are not going to let people come back in it until it is,” she said. “It is going to take some time and that is why we are here.”

The parent meeting followed two contentious Pinelands Regional Board of Education meetings where numerous parents, students and teachers questioned the air quality inside the high school as construction, which started over the summer, takes place on its outside. The work, according to those who have come before the board, has caused dust and ceiling tiles to fall in classrooms and unfamiliar odors which have coincided with unexplained respiratory issues and rashes.

In response to the complaints, officials had previously canceled classes from Oct. 3 to 6 to conduct precautionary air quality and asbestos testing. Classes had resumed on Oct. 9, against the wishes of many parents, after the test results were confirmed to be within federal and state standards.

Banin said the district’s entire administrative team met on Oct. 12 to discuss options to ensure the safety of students and limit further disruption to student education.

“We have lost too much school time already and we can’t continue to have our students lose time as we move forward with the school year,” he said. “So effective immediately, we are going to have all students run out of the junior high school. We are no longer going to be using the high school for an indefinite period of time.”

Banin said the junior high school can accommodate only half of the district’s student population of 1,600—necessitating the need for student schedule adjustments districtwide.

Until the high school reopens, students in 9th grade will attend school with junior high students.

On Monday, students in grades 7 through 9 reported to the junior high school. They remained home on Tuesday. Students in grades 10 through 12 remained home on Monday and reported to the junior high school on Tuesday.

Banin said students, while home, completed continuing education assignments through their teachers’ Google Classroom.

On Wednesday, split sessions were implemented. Students in grades 10 through 12 have classes first, followed by students in grades 7 through 9.

Students now have four one-hour blocks of classes and the classes rotate daily on a block-scheduling basis.

There are no formal lunch periods.

Instead, “grab and go” serving stations have been set up throughout the junior high school.

Breakfast foods are being offered at the stations for students in grades 10 through 12 (morning session) and lunch foods are being served at the stations for students in grades 7 through 9 (afternoon session).

A 20-minute break is given as 10th through 12th graders depart and 7th through 9th graders arrive.

F. Eric Pschorr, principal of Pinelands Regional Junior High School, said the situation remains fluid due to a number of transportation logistics that are still being ironed out.

He said modifications to the current plan may occur. Arrival or departure times have been adjusted following negotiations with the

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM district’s contracted bus company (see seperate story, pg. 6).

“This is my 21st year here and you would think maybe in 21 years of education I might have had to go through something like this,” Pschorr said. “I have not been in a situation where I have had to have discussions about split sessions. This has been a great learning experience, although, I don’t know if ‘great’ is the exact term I want to use because I never have had to endure this.”

This new arrangement required the district to provide its students with updated bus passes containing new pick-up and drop-off times.

Seniors who have driven to school are still allowed to commute. However, they must park in the high school parking lot, which is across the street from the junior high school.

Pschorr said administrators are working with the Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department due to the number of seniors who are crossing Nugentown Road.

“We have been in intense conversation,” he said.

A number of parents asked questions of administrators for nearly 45 minutes.

Here are the highlights: The first question came from a mother who was concerned about possible limited availability of extra help to students due to the anticipated split sessions. She said extra help is usually offered to students during lunch and after school.

“That is still one of the things that we were actually talking about today,” Banin said. “It depends on the busing schedule.”

The same mother asked how high school students were supposed to retrieve their belongings from their high school lockers.

Banin said the district was likely going to follow a protocol used a few years ago after a fire in the science wing of the high school.

“All of the (items in the) lockers were bagged, tagged, and brought over,” he said. “I don’t really feel comfortable telling students to go back (inside the high school)—having the issues that we are dealing with now. We will get everything out of those lockers.”

Due to the dust and asbestos fears, another mother asked if a restoration contractor had been hired by the district to thoroughly clean the high school and any personal belongings.

“None of the personal items should be brought over here until they are thoroughly cleaned—just in case there is dust or any fibers,” she said.

Stevenson said construction questions can be asked later. Her comment prompted one man in the audience to say aloud, “That is not a construction question!”

In response to additional questions about lockers, officials said they will not be provided to high-school students while they attend classes at the junior high school. However, they also said there are some lockers currently not in use that can be assigned should there be a special need for one.

Another parent asked if vocational classes will remain as scheduled. The parent was assured that vocational classes will not be affected. Vocational students have been reporting to the high school parking lot as normal since the split sessions were implemented this week.

Sports and extracurricular activities are continuing as planned. All sports and activities that utilize locker rooms are using the junior high school locker rooms and may also use alternative locations.

The last day of school will be at the discretion of Interim Superintendent Dr. Maryann Banks and the school board. Banin said there has been some discussion about having students attend

school during President’s Day and spring break to make up for lost time.

A mother who said she works full-time and had a husband who works two jobs described the hardships the new schedule would present to parents who work during school hours.

She said she was trying to see if she could get together with a few other parents facing the same predicament and maybe take turns supervising up to 15 children in one home while they either wait to go to school or arrive back around midday.

“You’ve asked us to make the ultimate sacrifice,” she said. “Can we have a bus stop changed so it can pick up 10 to 15 kids at once?”

A vice principal thanked the mother for her suggestion and said one of the purposes of the meeting was to not just answer questions, but hear the parents’ perspectives. It wasn’t immediately clear if this request had been accommodated.

A father in the audience also expressed concerns with the predicaments working parents now face. He recommended that school officials set up a contained area that can hold students either waiting to begin class or go home, while parents work.

“This is going to be a logistical nightmare for two-income families and single (parent) families where we can’t wait until noon to drop our kids off,” he said.

Pschorr said administrators want to see how much space is taken up by the high school classes before determining whether they have enough space for a containment area.

Deborah Sloan, the mother of a special-needs child in the district, said she was concerned about the impact the new schedule would have on her teenage boy.

“The remediated schedule does not address the legal document of his Individualized Education Program (IEP),” she said. “Many parents of special-needs children cannot stay home to supervise them and my husband and I are both full-time employees. I am a teacher.

“We are very frustrated. We have passed our child around for care through friends and families for six days. But that is over now. We have no family or childcare givers locally that we can rely upon and we work full-time.”

Sloan was told by administrators that Ellen M. Ward, the district’s special education coordinator, is working with the state to come up with a plan.

“We don’t have the details right now,” said one administrator. “But, that is something she is working tirelessly on behind the scenes.”

Another mom in the audience asked how advanced classes, such as chemistry or auto shop, can continue without the specialized equipment, labs and rooms found in the high school.

Banin said administrators have to “see what we have to do to get those classes up and running,” and told a story about how one teacher, Darren Hickman, pulled his van up to the high school on Friday and began loading it with his classroom equipment to take over to the junior high school.

The use of trailers, depending on the severity of the situation at the high school, was not ruled out.

“I don’t know what the final outcome is,” Pschorr said. “I know that is part of a great many of our discussions. Between trailers and split sessions, I don’t know what the answer is to that yet.”

Another mom in the audience urged administrators and the school board to utilize their “Wildcat Claws” (school mascot is a Wildcat) and place a deadline for the construction to be complete in any contract.

Saturday, October 21, 2017 A time comparison was made by a parent who said the old schedule allowed for 235 minutes of instructional time and the new one allows for less than 180 minutes.

“This is an adjustment,” Banin said. “We certainly understand this (schedule) is not going to be completely 100 percent identical.

This is the best we could come up with to make sure there is a continuing education for our students and again that is paramount. We have right now lost a number of days. We need to make sure we are stopping that and getting our students here and getting them educated.”

Concern was raised with the plan to hold Google Classroom sessions with students who are at home. One mother in the audience said her home does not have a computer and internet service.

“We have had discussions about that,” one administrator said. “We can’t tell you exactly how that is going to work right now. But, we are well aware that not every single student in the district is going to have access to internet.”

Another father asked if construction netting could be put up throughout the high school to catch any falling debris so that classes could resume at the high school.

Banin said the size and scope of the areas that would require the netting make it an impractical option. Additionally, he said the netting could fall on the students from the weight of any debris it could catch.

Administrators were also asked for their recommendations on how parents could boast student morale. The closures resulted in a school dance being postponed.

One of the administrators told a story about how the junior high school teachers earlier in the day had eagerly opened their classrooms to the high school teachers.

“The morale is here in this building and the kids will feed off it and bring it home,” said the administrator.

A man sitting in the bleachers drew applause from the audience at the conclusion of the meeting.

“Obviously, none of us sitting out here would want to be one of them up there,” he said. “I know they didn’t plan it this way. We are all facing a challenge here and we need to face it together. We need to rise.

“I have a son with special needs and I have a normal kid who is really goofy. But, all of our kids are special—each and every one of them. We want them to get educated. What is important is how we go home, treat our kids, treat our administrators, and communicate with them. They are doing a pretty good job communicating with us. Give them your ideas, concerns and a half of a day. Let them work on it. I am sure they are going to bust their butts and do the best they can. Thank God we are not in California (where deadly wildfires are occurring) and our houses aren’t burning down and we are not in Houston (recovering from devastating flooding due to Hurricane Harvey).

We are all doing well.”

The man was followed by a former district substitute teacher who extended similar praise.

“This is the most phenomenal staff I have ever worked with,” she said. “I am very proud of my daughter who goes to this school.

I am very happy how proactive this staff is in making the changes they have to do for our students. I know the staff. They are incredible.

They really deserve applause because in other schools you will not see this.”

Pschorr said he understood the frustration parents and students have.

“Trust me when I tell you this—I don’t think there is anyone sitting in this room that thought in mid-October we would be going through

BUILDING>>PAGE 19

Saturday, October 21, 2017

ILLNESS PAGE 1

for several days after the Oct. 2 board meeting, citing the need to wait for the test results to prove the building was free of contaminates. It was reopened after Columbus Day when TTI gave school officials verbal confirmation that the high school was safe for occupancy after reviewing the results from the second round of tests.

The presentation, however, did not quell the fears of most attendees.

Several people came to the microphone with stories of unexplained respiratory issues and rashes since the dust, falling debris and foul odors began to appear. As a result, some people questioned the accuracy of the results and feared for the safety of the students and staff.

Several parents told the administrators and

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM

board members in attendance that they would not be sending their children to school and pleaded for more elaborate tests. Some called for the closing of the high school, additional safety protocols and the renting of trailers to be used as classrooms.

Several people shouted from their seats to express disgust with how the roofing project and district response has been handled. Two people shouted obscenities from their seats and were escorted out of the meeting room by police.

Some people left after Board President Susan Ernst told the audience each speaker would have to sign in and wait patiently until the air-quality presentation was completed.

Board members, district professionals, Acting Superintendent Cheryl Stevenson and Business Administrator Steven Brennan often found themselves trying to assure attendees that they

FORUM

BUILDING PAGE 18

this,” he said. “Yes, we understood there would be some growing pains and things that would go along with the construction process. But, we are just as disheartened, too, because of the situation that we are in as it is taking away from all of the great things or positive things that your kids do, our staff does, and that our sports teams do.”

Following the meeting, the Pine Barrens Tribune caught up with Stevenson and pressed her on several points that had not been addressed during the meeting.

When asked if the district had a tentative completion date for the construction project at the high school, she said it is “pretty open.”

She reiterated the closure of the high school was “indefinite,” but added, “We’re hoping to get this done in November.” She said “multiple areas of screws” have to be inspected to determine whether the screw that fell was an isolated incident.

Stevenson would not elaborate on why Banks had not been seen in public since concerns were first raised about the conditions inside the high school.

One of two Little Egg Harbor Township police officers standing watch over the acting superintendent said Bank’s absence was “personal” and “she’ll be back on Monday.”

Banks did return to the district on Monday (see separate story, pg. 6), but no explanation for her extended absence was provided.

Stevenson, when asked if any tests performed in the high school have detected asbestos, said she “did not have those answers.”

“I’m just filling in,” she said.

Board President Susan Ernst, who was in attendance at the Friday parent meeting, did not speak to the audience.

On Saturday, Oct. 14, Ernst spoke with the Pine Barrens Tribune. She said the high school building was erected during a time period in which asbestos materials were used.

“Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) reports along with the results of all testing are available online,” she said. “I am sure that doesn’t help you much....but as I have absolutely no expertise in this area, I am reluctant to answer questions about which I know very little.”

Ernst also provided an update on the condition of the student who was struck by the screw.

“A screw from the ‘ceiling’ fell and struck a student,” she said. “The student is fine. But, the district immediately examined the situation and felt that the safety of the students was the No. 1 priority. Thus, we closed the school on Friday.”

CHICKENPOX PAGE 2

not have the vaccination.

“Children who do not have protection against chickenpox may be excluded from school as part of New Jersey Department of Health outbreak control guidelines,” Harris said.

The superintendent urged parents to help stop the spread of chickenpox in the district.

“If your child develops chickenpox, he or she should not attend school until the rash has

crusted over,” Harris said. “This is true even if your child was previously vaccinated.”

As of press time, Harris did not return messages that asked about what, if any, enhanced cleaning protocols have been put in place since officials began suspecting a chickenpox outbreak.

He also did not respond to questions about policies for school closure in the event of a worsening outbreak.

CANCER PAGE 15

with “Estrogen Dominance” hallmarked by heavy periods, breast pain, cramping and anxiety might benefit from flax seed. I recommend buying fresh flax seed and grinding it in a coffee grinder and sprinkling it on yogurt or oatmeal.

Sage–Salvia officinalis is the botanical name. Just like rosemary, sage contains a lot of “carnosic acid.” This compound was shown in numerous clinical trials to exert apoptosis, which means cancer cells die off. Carnosic acid

would not put children and staff in jeopardy.

School officials promised to get more quality-control assessments from the construction professionals. Officials also vowed to have better communication through the district’s website and social-media channels. Additionally, attendees were assured regular meetings of an ad hoc board committee for the construction.

District officials revealed that asbestos had not been completely removed from roofing above the high school’s D-wing, despite the fact that its removal was signed off as complete. Epic, the firm who signed off on the work, was replaced with TTI for this reason.

One of their first moves was to use air canisters to the test the toxicity of the foul-smelling air.

Some of the parents who spoke said they were sending their children to school with breathing masks to further protect them from

when combined with the breast cancer drug, Tamoxifen, works more effectively together to slow down cancer growth. You can buy fresh sage herb and cook with it, or herbal extracts at any health food store.

There are many other alternatives that I haven’t elaborated on such as vitamin D, curcumin and iodine, so if you’re interested in those, come to my website and sign up for my newsletter. Please ask your physician or oncologist if these are right for you. Cooking with the fresh herbs should be just fine.

PAGE 5

comment on the matter.

Ryan T. Calhoun, an independent candidate who is vying for an 8th Legislative District assembly seat under a “No Status Quo” party affiliation, said it is a shame that he can’t have his views heard as an independent.

“The fact the Republicans wouldn’t participate doesn’t surprise me,” he said. “They want to keep third parties out of the race. The Democrats and Republicans operate the same way by keeping third-party candidates out.”

Calhoun said he was invited to participate in the forum.

“I had not responded yet,” he said. “The reason I think the Republicans pulled out is because they’re afraid of a third-party candidate messing up the control they have

PAGE 19

potential dust, debris and other particulates.

Stevenson referenced an Oct. 10 report from a high-school nurse which showed that no one had stopped at the nurse’s office with a health concern that was related to foul odors.

Stevenson urged Pinelands parents, students and teachers to immediately report any new unfamiliar conditions they encounter or health issues they experience.

On Oct. 12, a student followed Stevenson’s advice.

The student reported that a screw fell from the ceiling in the high school’s commons.

School officials said the more than three-inch long screw hit the student as it fell.

The incident forced Stevenson to conclude that the high school is not safe for occupancy.

She, in conjunction with other school officials, closed the building indefinitely (see separate stories on pgs. 1 and 6). over the district.”

The League of Women Voters of Burlington County did not arrange a forum for the 9th Legislative District candidates.

Democrat Brian White is challenging Republican 9th Legislative District Senator Christopher Connors.

Democrats Jill Dobrowansky and Ryan Young are challenging Republican incumbents Brian Rumpf and DiAnne Gove for two 9th Legislative District assembly seats.

The Burlington County municipalities of Bass River, Tabernacle and Washington are part of the 9th Legislative District.

However, since this district is made up of primarily Ocean County communities, such events are usually organized by the League of Women Voters of Ocean County.

The League of Women Voters of Ocean County is currently defunct.

REOPEN PAGE 6

be receiving extra compensation because of the new schedule. The man also asked if all of the things being done (extra bus runs, testing, etc.) has created a budgetary shortfall.

“Anybody who works above and beyond is compensated,” Banks said. “With our current schedule, that is not happening. As far as the budget is concerned—I don’t really know.”

The superintendent added that the extra bus runs are what will probably cost the district extra money.

Before the meeting adjourned, a mother urged Banks to have a “Plan B” in case the work to make the high school safe again takes longer.

“Nobody here is happy about having to do the split sessions,” Banks said. “The most important thing though is to try to get this school year in.”

After the meeting ended, the Pine Barrens Tribune spoke with Banks.

Banks provided new details about the student who was hit by a screw.

She said the screw fell on the top of the student’s head. She added that the student was wearing a hoodie which prevented an injury from happening.

“All I needed was one,” she said of the decision to close the high school indefinitely.

Banks said she met with construction officials earlier in the day and they informed her how the screw fell. She said that when the roofers removed a level of the roofing earlier in the summer, the heads of numerous screws throughout the building were cut off.

“My understanding is that it is a common

practice,” Banks said.

She said crews are in the process of removing any loose screws.

The superintendent also said that a recent report circulating online that the building was “raining screws” was not true and emphasized that only one screw fell in the building.

Banks also dismissed the chatter surrounding her recent absence and said she stays away from social media as much as possible. She declined to reveal her whereabouts during the past few weeks, but said she was made aware of the safety concerns when they were first brought up on Oct. 2.

Moments before press time, Banks sent a letter to parents clarifying or reversing course on several of the comments made by district officials, including herself, at the two parent meetings.

She said the screw work is scheduled to be completed by Oct. 20, but indicated the school will still be closed indefinitely until the roof work was completed. She also said students will be allowed to retrieve their belongings from their high school lockers—in small groups— under the close supervision of Banin beginning on Oct. 23. A plan calls for the students to be escorted in and out of the high school.

Additionally, she said she was moving back the date of the construction parent meeting to at least Nov. 1. She cited an upcoming convention as the reason for the change and added that Business Administrator Stephen J. Brennan and construction experts will be providing updates on the construction work going forward.

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OKTOBERFEST PAGE 8

entranceway. Several houses had “lions” guarding the gates, even a few cement dogs were seen. This all added to the interest of touring through the neighborhood. Of course, the bus passed the oceanfront and one could see the strong waves washing up on to the shore.

The sky was a bright blue with puffy white clouds.

Superstorm Sandy caused quite a bit of oceanfront damage a few years ago, so at least one of the bath houses was sparkling new.

There is one thing to note about Spring Lake and that is that all of the homeowners show pride in their property and every home is well maintained.

After a brief drive by the ocean and touring a few streets, the bus arrived at Doolan’s Shore Club. The group has been here frequently and knew exactly what to expect.

The younger Michael Byrne stepped onto the bus and welcomed the group to a really fun day.

He explained the procedures for seating and beverage service.

Alcoholic beverage service was very generous with few restrictions. Wine and beer were available throughout the entire meal.

Soon, the group headed inside to their assigned tables. Seating was quick and easy and the wait staff was ready to take orders.

Sauerbraten was on the menu. This had to be the most delicious and tender sauerbraten served anywhere. It was accompanied by a perfectly-seasoned red cabbage sauté. Another choice was chicken Kiev. Most seniors took half their chicken home because the serving was so large.

The third choice was flounder Françoise.

Each meal was accompanied by pan-roasted potatoes. There were also crisp green baby string beans that again were perfect.

Doolan’s has an excellent chef and a most

PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE, WWW.PINEBARRENSTRIBUNE.COM attentive wait staff. Water glasses were constantly refreshed and soda was readily available. Mixed drinks, wine, and beer were served as ordered.

The meal began with a crisp fresh-mixed greens salad with house dressing. Soon, the most delicious beef barley soup was served.

It tasted homemade. The meal ended with the creamiest and smoothest cheese cake with a raspberry sauce. There were very few seniors who left even a morsel of food on their plate and quite a few requested a box to bring home any leftovers.

Wait staff even provided some sturdy bags with handles for ease in carrying the treasured leftovers. Coffee was served whenever requested and drinks were freshened promptly.

Doolan’s is actually a catering establishment and most proficient at providing well-prepared meals. The venue is certainly most pleasant to visit. The group will return for both the St. Patrick’s and the Oktoberfest celebrations in 2018.

Byrne played guitar and led the “Bee-Gees” band. The group has been together for 47 years and each can anticipate the performance of another. They can produce the sounds of the “Big Band Era,” or a Broadway musical or even country line dancing. They are well trained and versatile. It is a pleasure to listen to their music and certainly it is easy to dance with them.

On this day, they played many waltzes, polkas and German-style “drinking music.”

They offer different shows throughout the year both at Doolan’s and at a venue on Staten Island. Byrne also played and sang at several Long Beach Island establishments during the summer. These performers keep very busy and are in great demand for their talents.

In addition to the terrific music, there is always a featured comedian. On this day, it was Chris Monte, a comedian popular on YouTube.

He had several CDs available that showcased

Saturday, October 21, 2017

his talent. This remarkable young man, still in his 40’s, provided a hilarious comedic presentation.

Good music, talented performers, great food and attentive wait staff all contributed to the perfect day out for seniors. Gravenstein transported the seniors back to the Browns Mills Acme store parking lot just after 5 p.m.

Most seniors were still comfortably full after the sumptuous meal, but a few stopped

at a local diner for a bowl of soup and more conversation before calling it a day.

Just a final reminder to all, “Bingo with Margaret” will be offered on Thursday, Oct. 26, at Aspen Hills and at the center on Tuesday, Oct. 31. Registration is required for the Oct. 26 session. Phone Aspen Hills to sign up. Breakfast will be served. Come and celebrate Halloween with the seniors and win some prizes at Bingo!

INSTALLS PAGE 8

Installed were Elisabeth White McCartney as president and Adrienne Leonard as vicepresident. Recording secretary is Ruth Adrian and corresponding secretary is Jennifer Peacock. Barbara Roberts will serve as treasurer. Board of Directors for the term serving 2017 until 2020 are Tom Besselman, Susan Bishop, Peacock and Nadirah Shakir.

Cheers and applause filled the room following the installation.

The BMIA is a dedicated group of individual residents who have joined together for the betterment of the community. It was formed back in 1919 and will soon celebrate 100 years of service to the community. Each monthly meeting hosts a special program with information valuable to local residents. On Sunday, Oct. 22, the BMIA will host a Board of Education Candidates Forum. Running for election or re-election are Timothy Haines, Tom Bauer, and John K. Willitts, II. Each candidate will have an opportunity to explain the reasons he is running for the school board. There will be some questions from the floor. Ample time will be allowed following the Forum for individual questions and concerns. The general public is invited to attend the meeting and learn more about each candidate and their reasons for seeking the office. This Forum is held annually.

October is also the month when cranberries are harvested locally. This is a big business in the region and attracts many to the area for festivals and harvest operations. Locally, Whitesbog and Chatsworth are centers of the harvests. With everyone’s mind on local berries, the BMIA decided to hold a “Berry Bake-Off.” The first time this event was held, cranberries were the featured ingredient, but as time passed, other berries crept into the recipes. This year, literally any berry will qualify your baked product for the competition. Master Baker Rudolph Zotter, Culinary Arts instructor at Pemberton High School will serve as the judge.

Following the judging, the creations will be available as refreshments for all to enjoy.

The Browns Mills Improvement Association, known as the BMIA, meetings are usually held on the fourth Sunday monthly, September through June, at 2 p.m. at the BMIA Building on Arbutus Street, off Eldridge, near the Mirror Lake Beach and are open to the public.

The building is handicapped accessible and there is convenient parking available. Programs of interest to residents are presented to help inform residents about local concerns. Pot Luck dinners are held three times a year for members and their guests. Annual dues are only $15 per family. Checks may be sent to: BMIA, PO Box 395, Browns Mills, NJ 08015.

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Saturday, October 21, 2017

HOME, GARDEN, AND FARMING Farm and Food File

By Alan Guebert

Alan Guebert is an award-winning agriculture columnist who was raised on a 720-acre, 100-cow southern Illinois dairy farm.

Predictably Irrational

When it comes to the artful science of economics, most American farmers and ranchers are classic Ricardians, or followers of David Ricardo, an 18th-century English stock trader whose influential book, On the Principles of Political Economy and Taxation, explained what he saw as the market’s guiding lights.

Any ag econ student from the last 150 years can spot a Ricardian principle a mile away.

Some of his classics include comparative advantage, the law of diminishing returns, opportunity cost, and the ever-useful “theory of economic rent.”

All, not coincidentally, fit snugly into most U.S. farmers and ranchers’ near-sacred belief that, given free markets and free trade, they’ll out produce everyone else.

Maybe, but production doesn’t mean profit and free trade and free markets are ideals, not realities. In fact, there are huge barriers to both: over-the-moon land prices, soaring seed costs, market bubbles, currency manipulation, price inelasticities, monopolies, monopsonies, tariffs, weather, sanitary barriers, ongoing global conflicts …

Moreover, any of these external influences can lead to negative market consequences like market losses and even bankruptcy. That’s one reason why Ricardo’s economic principles are labeled “theories,” not “truths” or “facts.”

An even better reason, explains Richard Thaler, a non-Ricardian economist at the University of Chicago, is that humans are not always rational so, often, the markets they live and operate in won’t always be rational either.

That makes sense. Why else would hardware stores put the cherry licorice display next to the checkout lane if they didn’t want me to make a completely irrational purchase? Does anyone really need two pounds of chewy, artificially-flavored fructose?

Irrational behavior, in fact, explains so many market consequences that the Nobel committee just awarded Thaler its 2017 Memorial Prize in Economics. In announcing the award, the committee not only honored his work on how people are economically irrational, but how “they are predictably irrational—that they consistently behave in ways that defy economic theory.”

Predictably irrational?

For example, Thaler explained to the New York Times, the theory of supply and demand clearly states that people will pay more for an umbrella during a rainstorm. In real life, however, many people will become angry if you charge more for one during a rainstorm. Most, in fact, won’t buy it.

That’s predictably irrational: you really need an umbrella because it’s raining but refuse to buy one because, well, it’s raining.

We down-to-earth farm and ranch folks are predictably irrational, too. How else can you explain why some of us only buy green machinery and others only red?

Right… it’s complicated. And predictably irrational.

If that’s complicated, how do predictably irrational people around the world design and implement farm and food policies that are effective both nationally and internationally?

Thaler, the newly-minted Nobel laureate, might call on his fictional friend, Homo Economicas, to tackle that knotty problem.

Econ Man, as Thaler calls him, is part of a group of “highly intelligent beings that are capable of making the most complex of calculations but are totally lacking in emotions…”

In other words, Econ Man is always predictable and perfectly rational.

On one occasion, Thaler put Econ Man to work in his classroom after a group of high-achieving students averaged 70 points on an exam. When their bitter complaints over the test scores finally ebbed, Thaler assured the students that, on his grading curve, 70 still equaled a “B.” That meant nothing to the students; all they saw was “70.”

Econ Man’s solution was beautiful: Thaler raised the value of the next exam from 100 points to 137 points. As a result, the average score on this second exam hovered near 100, not 70. The relative letter grade, however, still was a “B.” The students didn’t care; they saw 100, not 70, and were elated. Predictably irrational?

In spades.

How would Econ Man score the 2018 Farm Bill?

I don’t know but on his principle alone, Ricardo would give it a 100.

The views expressed in this column are the author’s own views and do not reflect the view of the Pine Barrens Tribune.

CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU

Saturday, October 21, 2017

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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE

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2017 Ford Edge The 2017 Ford Edge crossover utility vehicle is visually athletic and engineered with advanced technologies to make the driving experience more rewarding.

The Edge comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, tuned to deliver a balanced mix of fuel economy and performance. A normally aspirated, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is also available.

A unique Edge Sport model features Ford’s most advanced EcoBoost yet—a 2.7-liter V-6, along with standard 21-inch wheels. It is powered by Ford’s dynamic twin-turbo engine, which kicks out 315 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque.

Intelligent AWD uses sensors to constantly monitor traction and balance torque between the front and rear wheels to enhance handling and maximize traction.

Standard on Edge Sport and available on all other models, Adaptive steering in the 2017 Edge dynamically adjusts how much the vehicle responds to the driver’s steering-wheel input.

Ford’s adaptive steering makes it easier for drivers to maneuver a vehicle at low speeds while making the vehicle more fun to drive and agile at high speeds. In vehicles without the technology, this is a fixed-steering ratio. With adaptive steering, the ratio continually changes with vehicle speed, optimizing the steering response in all conditions.

Smart technology is available in Edge to improve efficiency. Auto Start-Stop can improve fuel economy by turning off the engine when it is not needed, such as when the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light. Edge also features smart-air inlets at the front that can direct air along the vehicle sides—creating an “air curtain”—to enable greater aerodynamic efficiency at high speeds.

Other technology features include Ford’s hands-free liftgate, SYNC with MyFord Touch, adaptive cruise control and inflatable rear safety belts.

Base model estimated mpg: 21/29 Estimated starting price: $28,950

Compiled by Motor Matters.

2017 Ford Edge.

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Saturday, October 21, 2017