INSIDE THIS WEEK
Tribune Marks 1st Year of Service to the Community. Page 5
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September 2-8, 2017
PHOTO BY VINCE DEBLASIO The Vincentown Merchants pose for a picture at the end of a parade thrown in their honor after winning their second straight Rancocas Valley Baseball League Championship.
Parade of Champions
By Vince DeBlasio
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
SOUTHAMPTON—They could be seen celebrating with champagne on the diamond at Memorial Field after the biggest win of the season and this past weekend they were on the back of a flatbed truck, waving and calling out to residents who looked on from their porches. The Vincentown Merchants baseball team was paraded through Vincentown Village on Saturday morning, Aug. 26, in recognition of their second straight Rancocas Valley Baseball
Merchants Shine on Streets of Vincentown Village League (RVL) championship. At around 11:30 a.m., a convoy of vehicles, including police cars and firetrucks, brought excitement down the quiet streets of the village as the team, sandwiched in between, made their way to Memorial Field. Parade participants, who passed through Main and Mill streets, turned down Red Lion Road and reached the team’s home grounds, where a
ceremony took place. Volunteers gave out free championship T-shirts to those who followed the parade over to the ballfield. A band, which was set up by a snack bar, greeted the crowd that had gathered. By noon, the team and members of the Southampton Township Committee met around the pitcher’s mound. Southampton Mayor James F. Young Sr.,
who stood at a lectern, read a proclamation honoring the Merchants’ accomplishment. “I, James F. Young Sr., hereby proclaim Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, as Vincentown Merchants Day in the Township of Southampton, County of Burlington, New Jersey,” he said. The mayor was followed by Merchants Manager Harry Thompson, who at 87 just
PARADE>>PAGE 20
Three Redevelopment Projects Supporting Affordable Housing Obligations Approved By Vince DeBlasio
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
MEDFORD—Medford Township Council adopted three ordinances on second reading at its Aug. 15 meeting, which set in motion redevelopment projects for three properties
designated as Hartford Square, Stokes Square and Arc Wheeler. The projects, in part, allow the township to meet its affordable housing obligation of 298 units by 2025. “These developments are (mandated) under
The Hartford Square development will be the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) obligation—the affordable housing obligation located near the intersection of Hartford Road that we have—and we’ve resolved our liability and Route 70. It will include 70 age-restricted in a manner that we believe really limits affordable-housing units. Arc Wheeler will consist of 210 market-rate the impact on the township,” said Councilman Jeffrey Beenstock. REDEVELOPMENT>>PAGE 19
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LOCAL NEWS
Shamong Schools Bond Vote Set; School Board Chooses Contractor for Well-Pit Repairs By Adam Tait III
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
SHAMONG—At a busy meeting lasting just over an hour, Shamong’s Board of Education on Aug. 15 provided more details on a second, less-costly school-bond issue vote next month, awarded a contract for well-pit repairs and released a calendar for the upcoming school year. The school bond issue vote, which is set for Tuesday, Sept. 26, will be held at the Indian Mills Memorial (Middle) School from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. The original cost of $5.4 million has been trimmed by almost 10 percent after a defeat by voters in March, to $4.9 million. The bond vote includes funds for a replacement generator, air conditioning and heating upgrades, parking-lot repairs and classroom door access controls. Almost all the projects’ costs will be partially offset by a 40 percent state-aid package. A taxpayer who owns a house assessed at the township average of $308,169 will pay $385.62 this year towards their tax bill for the school district’s debt. If the bond referendum passes, a taxpayer will pay only $212.11 towards their tax bill in 2019 for the school district’s debt (a savings of $173.51) due to a larger retirement of debt and the new referendum debt being substantially less. However, it is true that if the bond referendum does not pass, a taxpayer will pay only $64.44 towards their tax bill in 2019 for the school district’s debt. But, school officials say they will still need to go ahead with many of the repairs and upgrades due to public safety concerns and would likely need to raise the revenue for these items. If voters pass the bond, the state will give the district roughly $2,022,000 towards the items. On Aug. 3, the board approved the state’s preliminary cost documentation and bond proposal to move forward with the proposed projects to be included in the upcoming bond referendum. According to Laura Archer, business administrator of the school district, the various projects, if the bond vote passes, will start “immediately” and would be completed “by the end of the year.” Well-pit repairs have been removed from the bond issue. However, school officials maintain that there is a critical need for the repairs and therefore the board is using other financial means to pay for them. Repairs to the well-pit, with a July bid rejected as too high, were approved at this
meeting. The bill is still costly, at $445,000, but was viewed as far more reasonable. The work will be performed by West Bay Construction of Absecon. In other business, which was included on a 14-page agenda, the board has submitted a bill for just over $81,000 to the state in connection with the “No Child Left Behind” Act. Funds are being sought for Titles 1, 2 and 4. There will be a bump in lunch prices at both schools next month. Student lunches will cost $2.85. Milk is an additional 55 cents. Adult lunches will cost $4.75. Under professional services, a contract was awarded to Brett DiNovi & Associates for up to 120 hours for student evaluations at $40 an hour. Two pupils were approved for out-ofdistrict schooling. One will attend Garfield Park Academy in Willingboro and another will attend Y.A.L.E. School North in Cherry Hill. The district will also accept a pupil from Winslow Township, with tuition set at $15,774. Approval was given for the district to dispose of aging and worn out equipment. Asked if any might be sold at bargain prices, Archer said it was all totally obsolete. One new hire was announced. Amber Henry will serve as a custodian, step one. Curriculum programs for the Media Center and Science departments were approved. A 21st Century Life and Careers program was also approved. The latter will cover financial literacy and career awareness. Two advisers were appointed: Robert S. McIntyre for after-school athletics and Ruthie Stitt for choir director. Field trips for the coming school year were approved, with no major changes from preceding years. One policy was revised to include the addition of an anti-discrimination clause involving school vendors. Sept. 5 is the first day of school, with early dismissal. Sept. 7 is Indian Mills School’s Back to School Night. Indian Mills Memorial School’s Back to School night will be on Sept. 14. There was one speaker who came to the microphone during the public portion of the meeting. She was Shannon Logar, mother of four children. Some of her children are in the school system, while others graduated. Logar said she is unhappy with some recent experiences she and her family have had in the district. Some of her children are in special-needs programs and she feels taxpayer
BOND>>PAGE 14
INDEX Automotive......................................23 Business Directory...........................14 Community........................................9 Fun and Games................................17 Health ..............................................16 Home, Garden & Farming ............. 22
Local News....................................... 2 Marketplace......................................18 Opinion ............................................ 8 Scanner ............................................. 7 Spotlight...........................................10 Worship Directory.............................9
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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LRHSD Board of Education Relives the Past School Year By Vince DeBlasio
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
SHAMONG—Highlights of the past school year marked the Lenape Regional High School District (LRHSD) Board of Education’s Aug. 23 meeting, the final one before the new school year commences. Director of Programs and Planning Matt Webb walked meeting attendees through a slideshow of 2016-17 achievements. Notable sections of the presentation included the district’s SAT scores, Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying grades, and post-graduation enrollment figures. Webb detailed actions and programs undertaken by the district’s schools that made for inclusive environments. He said it was the fifth straight year that all of the schools received a “No Place for Hate” designation by the Anti-Defamation League. This designation is the result of meeting anti-bias and unity guidelines by completing three intensive projects at each school. One of the projects supporting this initiative was completed at Lenape High School. Students and staff held a “March for Martin,” a longstanding tradition of a silent march honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Each of our schools just continue to get better at creating safe environments for our students,” Webb said. He also talked about how the district ranked in its fifth year with the School SelfAssessment Program for determining grades under the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights.
Revisiting History
This score-based system was put into effect for the 2011-12 school year for public schools and districts across the state to evaluate their compliance with the state’s anti-bullying act. There are eight categories of core elements in the self-assessment, such as Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying Programs. Each core element has two to five indicators that receive points. Point values of 0 (does not meet requirements) to 3 (exceeds requirements) are assigned to each indicator. Scores from each of the eight core elements are then added up to reach a school total, out of a possible 78 points. The district grade is determined by averaging the totals from all of its schools. The LRHSD had a combined score of 75 for the past school year. “Once the self-assessment is approved, we get feedback in December or January, and then we’re required to post it on each of our websites with an explanation,” Webb said. Regarding academics, the average SAT score for the district was 1137, which ranked 62 points higher than the state average. There were also 63 College Acceleration Program (CAP) courses offered with more than 1,100 students signing up. The class of 2017 had 90.9 percent of its graduates enroll at 280 colleges and universities. Webb highlighted three state championships won by district schools. He also acknowledged
EDUCATION>>PAGE 20
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Featured in this Revisiting History column is Woodland Township and Buzby’s General Store. This structure in the center of Chatsworth has been a landmark for 152 years. Marilyn Schmidt, current owner, closed the store in June and is looking for a new owner for this iconic piece of history. It holds a place in the National Registry of Historic Places, New Jersey Registry of Historic Places and a special location in the heart of the Pine Barrens.
Buzby’s Chatsworth General Store
A historic picture of Buzby’s Chatsworth General Store. Built in 1865 by Neil Wade, and later owned by Benjamin O. Wade, this building was acquired by Willis Jefferson Buzby and his wife, Myrtle, in 1895. Upon Buzby’s death in 1939, his son, Willis Jonathan Buzby (Jack), and his wife, Katie (Katherine Ritzendollar), took over the store. Jack continued with the title “King of the Piney’s.” The Buzby’s sold the store in 1967. After this, a series of owners operated the store until it was sold at a tax sale. Assignment of the tax lien was purchased by Barnegat Light Press, Inc. in 1996. After foreclosure was completed, restoration and renovation began. During restoration, it was learned that the original building did not include the one-story section on the south side. This section was called the Feed Room because it was a storage area for animal feed. The original building’s first floor was divided into two large rooms and an entrance hall with a staircase. Transom windows above a south-side door indicated that this was a rear outside door. Also, framing for a window on the south side was uncovered. The large fireplace, opened during restoration, was found to contain a chimney connecting the coal-burning furnace in the basement to the fireplace flue. It appears that this fireplace was originally used for cooking and this room was at one time a living quarters. When coal became available, the furnace was installed and the chimney placed in the fireplace. The screened porch in the north side originally extended across the room to be used as a gift shop. At some time, this porch was enclosed and made into part of the west room (gift shop). It is not known if the east room was originally used as a store before the building was purchased by the Buzby’s. At one time, it served as the general store and restaurant. Buzby’s General Store served the community in many ways by providing food, kerosene, gasoline, hardware, gun supplies and animal feed. It also served as a Post Office (1934). During the Great Depression, the Buzby family aided many in the community.
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Buzby’s was remodeled in 1920. A large window and new corner door was installed. In 1921, Esso gasoline was sold at the store, as was kerosene. In 1972, the second floor of the store was remodeled. It is not known when the bathroom and kitchen were installed on this floor. The second floor originally contained four rooms, all used as bedrooms. During remodeling, walls were paneled with luan plywood and the yellow pine floor boards were covered with carpeting. Hot water baseboard heat was also installed. In 1978, the new owners rebuilt the one-story south section or the Feed Room, added a second bathroom and upgraded the septic system. The store continued to flourish, supplying residents with the necessities of life. After a series of owners, the store deteriorated and finally closed in 1992. Furnishings, except for the candy counter, were sold at auction. The candy counter is now restored and has a prominent place in Buzby’s. During the most recent restoration, evidence of a second staircase was uncovered on the east wall. The stairs to the basement were removed during the renovation. The stairs to the second floor had been removed at an unknown time. Today, the store, restored to its earlier splendor, consists of a coffee shop and The Cheshire Cat, a gift shop serving primarily as a Pinelands resource center, offering books, art, foods and crafts related to the Pine Barrens. The second floor consists of an apartment. During the restoration and remodeling of Buzby’s Chatsworth General Store, the original character of the building was retained while providing facilities to again serve the community. The garage/workshop next to the store burned in 1996. Today, it was has been replaced by a new red barn serving as a garage and storage area. Buzby’s is a piece of history representing the Village of Chatsworth, the Capital of the Pines, and its long standing independence in the Pine Barrens of South Jersey.
Saturday, September 2, 2017
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Tribune Marks 1st Year of Service to the Community By Judy Cohen Minches For the Pine Barrens Tribune
SOUTHAMPTON—Happy One Year Anniversary to the Pine Barrens Tribune! Doug Melegari—the man behind the newspaper, as well as on the front lines and everywhere in-between—is in celebration mode. “I want to thank the Pine Barrens community for all of their support over the past year,” said the newspaper’s publisher and CEO. “We hear from so many community members on a weekly basis—all of whom have expressed a real appreciation for a source of events and news in the Pine Barrens—and it’s gratifying to know that we’ve helped so many people stay informed about local happenings.” A year later, the Tribune has maintained an average page count of 20 to 24 pages. “When I first told some people of my plan to start this newspaper, several said, ‘There’s no news in the Pine Barrens. What will you have in it?’” Melegari said. “But, in actuality, so much happens here and there is no shortage of news.” Melegari, in fact, works long hours just to keep up. He said he is “amazed” at how many school and municipal issues have developed this past year. He also recalled the unfortunate forest fires and motor vehicle accidents. But, he said events like the Cranberry Festival and Whitesbog Blueberry Festival are always fun for everyone to cover. A lifelong resident of the area, Melegari’s heart is here. He is invested in the community and understands the importance of issues in the Pine Barrens. “I love serving the community,” Melegari said. “I love providing the community with the information it needs to make decisions.” Melegari said the Pine Barrens Tribune was created as a local paper for local people. It is not outsourced to a large company. The newspaper’s stories are written by reporters who are familiar with the area. “We understand the importance of issues in the Pine Barrens as what happens here affects all of us too,” he said. Melegari said the Tribune was only one week old when it came to light that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) closed off the Apple Pie Hill fire tower to the public. For decades, the view from atop the tower was enjoyed by thousands of people who would climb it, reaching one of the highest points in the Pinelands. On a clear day, one can see Philadelphia and Atlantic City from atop the
tower. On a clear night, one can even see New York City too. Melegari said when he called the NJDEP for information about the restrictions, a spokesperson downplayed the situation and tried to convince him how unimportant and insignificant the closure was. “I have lived here all my life,” he said. “I knew how significant it was.” When the Tribune broke the story, it was the most shared piece with 40,000 online views. Additionally, more than 500 people shared the article on social media. Larger dailies followed suit, but Melegari knows it was the Tribune that put the spotlight on the closing. “Had there not been a strong knowledge of this community, the significance would not have been understood or felt,” Melegari said. “This is why we need a community newspaper. A lot of stories would otherwise go untold.” He recalled the tumult that erupted when a bow echo thunderstorm swept through South Jersey, primarily in the southernmost portions of the paper’s coverage area. Most of Atlantic City Electric’s service territory was without power for at least two to three days. Residents of Shamong, Tabernacle, Washington and Woodland townships were truly in the dark. Information was scattered and scarce. Melegari said it was the storm’s aftermath that inspired him to explore the possibility of starting a community newspaper. In times of severe weather, Melegari said the Tribune has the ability to compile information about power outages, evacuations and road closures and share it online with readers. “I think we’ve all learned invaluable lessons from past storms about how to communicate better and more efficiently and local media sources, such as ours, play an important role in putting out information,” Melegari said. Running the newspaper, he admitted, is an all-encompassing undertaking, with little opportunity for a full night’s sleep. “It is a lot more work than I had envisioned,” Melegari said. “This is not a job where you walk in and everything falls into place.” He cited several of the many components that make up a day’s work: staying on top of the news and writing, editing, and delivering it; checking stories for accuracy, fairness and balance; and interacting with people.” There is also the likelihood that the news will cause mixed reactions. The Tribune has reported extensively on the Lenape Regional High School District
PHOTO BY JAKE WASIAK Apple Pie Hill fire tower. (LRHSD) Board of Education’s decision to continue to prohibit homeschoolers from participating in LRHSD extracurricular activities. Melegari said this has been a polarizing matter that has attracted national attention, with readers sharing strong opposing opinions with the newspaper. “A newspaper that shows both sides is important to democracy,” he said. “A newspaper also creates a venue for debate and promotes conversation, which helps to sustain a democratic society.” There are always two sides to any story and the Tribune invites its readers to tell their side of the story through guest commentaries, letters to the editor, and on its social media pages. “This paper is also about providing a forum for the community to share events and to help grow local businesses, too,” he said. Melegari’s advertising sales representative, Al Kaiser, is all about that. Kaiser, father of four and grandfather of five, started working for the Tribune as a delivery driver; now, he sells advertising, which he had never done before, although he is no novice to sales. For 55 years, his livelihood was business-to-business sales. He spends time on the phone making cold calls and pounds the pavement with the Tribune
tucked under his arm, connecting with the local townspeople and talking about the newspaper, always with a smile. “People love all the local news,” he said of the feedback he has received. “They are so happy to have a newspaper cover the Pine Barrens.” Melegari recalled a science and technical writing class he had in college, when his assignment was to write a 20-page single-spaced paper. “I vowed that I would never write another Word document longer than a page or two,” said the man who recently wrote a story for the Tribune that spanned 10 Microsoft Word document pages. “We pride ourselves on in-depth reporting. We want to tell the full story. We wouldn’t want to do it any other way.” Melegari said his appreciation for the Pine Barrens continues to grow. “The Pine Barrens has been my home for nearly three decades,” he said. “Every time I come back from a trip to North Jersey or New York City, I am relieved to find open fields and forest land with deer, rabbits and groundhogs roaming freely. To me, that’s heaven, and where I find peace. I am proud to call it home.”
541 Barbershop...................................13 Medford Eyewear Center....................16 Southampton Auto Center...................23
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Preliminary Details Revealed for Future Improvements to Route 73 By Vince DeBlasio
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
EVESHAM—Evesham Township Council acted on a few ordinances and heard early details on planned future improvements to a section of Route 73 at a busy meeting on Aug. 22. A presentation by the New Jersey Department of Transportation on the proposed Route 73 project opened the meeting. Officials stressed that the project is only in its conceptual stage and indicated construction is still at least four years away. Project Manager Amy Kennard said that the planning and review process began when the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission conducted a study on the intersection of Route 73, Evesham Road, and Marlton Parkway. She said the matter was then turned over to the department, which performed a “Tier 2” study. “Through that study, we do a lot of data collection, trying to gather the traffic, the needs, the accidents, and everything in this area, to try to come up with a solution for the problem,” Kennard said. Project Engineer Scott Diehl, of Urban Engineers, took council and other meeting attendees through a slideshow on the research and findings of the study. The original location of the planned work was extended to run from the Route 70 and Route 73 interchange to Ardsley Drive based on the findings in both studies. “This is because the problems identified just don’t invlove one intersection,” Diehl said. The needs of the project, he said, are to improve safety—in reference to a heavy number of accidents—and reduce congestion and delays based on anticipated conditions. According to the presentation, there have been 270 crashes in 2016 along a 1.53-mile stretch of Route 73 in the project area. This crash rate of 3.16 crashes/MVM (million vehicle miles) is one-and-a-half times the statewide average. Another 47 crashes were recorded in 2016 along a 0.55-mile section of Evesham Road and Marlton Parkway, eyed for improvements, near Route 73. This covers all of 2016 and 2017 to date. A traffic analysis at four intersections within the updated project area found that three of the intersections faced at-capacity or over-capacity conditions during the p.m. hours. Some of these intersections also faced at-capacity or over-capacity conditions during the a.m. hours. Several ideas to reduce congestion and accidents were weighed, including roadway widening. Kennard said the next phase of the project involves performing preliminary engineering work, which would necessitate the need to hire a consultant. She said the hiring process could take anywhere from three to six months. Additional steps, in the meantime, include bringing information before the public and addressing any questions. “We’re talking about a year for preliminary engineering,” Kennard said. “If we started this tomorrow, you’re talking maybe four years (until construction) but it’s probably more likely about five years away from construction.” Mayor Randy Brown reiterated this length of time for members of the public, while appearing to take a jab at some residents in the process. “To make that perfectly clear, we’re at least five years away from this happening,” he said. “I know there might be some (social media) pages that (post) that we’re starting in a day.” In other township action, an ordinance adopted by council, 4-0, on second reading
ShopRite of Medford’s Labor Day 5K Will Help “Stamp Out Hunger” in South Jersey For the Pine Barrens Tribune
reallocated monies from a 2013 bond ordinance to be used for improvements in parts of the township. The appropriated amount of $205,000 was no longer needed to cover professional expenses as originally set aside in the bond ordinance. Township Manager Thomas Czerniecki said that this money is being used, in part, for service enhancements. The township plans to purchase a mini compactor for $20,000 to be able to collect trash from residents who live on rural, gravel roads. These residents currently take their waste and place it alongside main roads for removal. Czerniecki said some of the residents who live on the rural roads are getting older and have a tough time with their mobility. “(It will) enhance the quality of life for a number of residents, so it’s something we’re excited about,” he said. The remaining $185,000 sum will be split for two purchases: a pick-up truck at $35,000 and network and computer equipment at $150,000, according to the ordinance document. Council introduced two ordinances unanimously, both of which dealt with the changing or removal of language from existing township ordinances. The first ordinance repeals and replaces Chapter 78 of Land Use Regulations related to flood-damage prevention to stay in accordance with the state’s requirements for flood-damage control. The next amends Chapter 26 of the township code, which focuses on the police department. Some of the updates include allowing for six lieutenants instead of four and adding the option of written submission for the promotional testing for sergeant. Second reading of the ordinances is scheduled for the next meeting of council on Sept. 12. Three resolutions were moved to council’s next meeting at the request of Brown. These involved two appointments to the township’s zoning board of adjustment and one to the planning board. Council also approved 28 consent agenda resolutions. The first supported the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2017” statewide crackdown. Early in the meeting, Evesham Police Captain Thomas Reinholt spoke briefly about the “Drive Sober” campaign, which runs until Sept. 4. The initiative is sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which increases the presence of law enforcement officers to crack down on drunk driving. The Evesham Police Department was awarded a $5,500 grant for the campaign. “In essence, it puts officers on the street to enforce the drunk driving laws for a two-week period,” Reinholt said. “Through that grant and through that operation, we’re able to enforce the laws on top of the normal activities that we perform as part of our regular duties.” Resolutions two, three, and five dealt with affordable housing obligation matters. The second resolution authorized an $185,000 expenditure from the township’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund for two affordable-housing projects. Of that amount, $140,000 is granted to Community Options, Inc. for a four-bedroom low-income housing group home for adults with developmental disabilities at 83 N. Locust Ave. Another $35,000 to $45,000 will go to Habitat for Humanity of Burlington County for construction of a low- or moderate-income single-family home at 10 Radnor Blvd.
IMPROVEMENTS>>PAGE 20
Saturday, September 2, 2017
MEDFORD—ShopRite of Medford invites you to run or walk into the Labor Day holiday for a good cause. The store will host its third annual Stamp Out Hunger 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 4, at 8:30 a.m. All race proceeds benefit ShopRite’s Partners in Caring Program, which assists local food pantries, shelters, after-school programs and other efforts that aid individuals in need of food. The 5K course begins in downtown Medford, in front of the Municipal Building at 91 Union St., winds through town and into scenic, open country roads. The course is ideal for a casual run or walk with friends and family prior to holiday festivities, and it is USTAF-certified with chip timing for any runner looking to log a personal record. The Stamp Out Hunger 5K is ShopRite of Medford’s largest fundraiser to support Partners in Caring. ShopRite annually challenges its stores to engage in a month-long competition in September to raise funds for this hungerfighting initiative. ShopRite of Medford has come out on top for the past two years, raising $40,000 last year, with $16,000 from the race alone. The store looks to hold its top position this year and surpass previous fundraising totals with community support. “We welcome the community to not only
participate in our Labor Day race, but to also stop by our stores in September to participate in our silent auctions, bake sales and more to benefit Partners in Caring,” said David Zallie, owner of ShopRite of Medford and ShopRite of Lawnside. “We hope to once again emerge among the top stores in terms of fundraising, but our ultimate goal is to help fight hunger in South Jersey. The need is great, and every dollar we raise can truly make a difference.” Readers can sign up for the Stamp Out Hunger 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk at https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Medford/ ShopRitesPartnersInCaring5kRacetoStampOutHunger or by visiting http://zalliesfreshkitchen.com/. Entry fees are $25 for the 5K and $10 for the 1-miler with preregistration by Sept. 2. Two or more individuals can register as a group/team for a small discount. Day-of registration begins at 7 a.m. with a fee increase of $5. T-shirts are guaranteed for all participants pre-registered by Aug. 24, and the first 200 individuals to sign up get a drawstring bag with perks inside. ShopRite’s Stamp Out Hunger 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk is generously sponsored at the platinum level by Hershey’s and Cold Technology. Gold sponsors include Tastykake; MPS Enterprises; Pepsi-Pennsauken; Fabietti, Hale, Hammerstedt & Powers, PA; Bimbo Bakeries; Stradley Ronon; Interactive Canvas; and Northwood Construction. Davis Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation will lead pre-race stretching exercises. Running Co. of South Jersey will provide prizes.
Washington Township Decides to Purchase the Green Bank School By Douglas D. Melegari Staff Writer
WASHINGTON—The Green Bank School property is one step closer to being officially in the hands of Washington Township. On Aug. 29, the Washington Township Committee met for three minutes, in a special meeting, to take final action on purchasing the property from the Washington Township Board of Education. “Ordinance 2017-07 authorizes acquisition of property at lot 15.01, block 16.01, also known as 2434 Route 563, from the Washington Township Board of Education within the Township of Washington for general municipal purposes,” said Township Clerk Kathleen D. Hoffman on second reading. A public hearing on the ordinance drew no comments from an audience of six people, made up of residents from Bass River and Washington Townships. Following the hearing, the township committee voted 3-0 to acquire the property for $1. “We are neither happy or unhappy,” said Mayor Dudley Lewis after the meeting adjourned. “It’s what is best for the township.” When asked about what the township plans to do with the property, Lewis cautioned that township must go to settlement first with the school board. “The solicitor for the board of education and our solicitor need to work out all of the legalities,” he said. “But, we are trying to make the best of a not-very-good situation.” The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) sought to acquire the property ever since the school closed last year, according to multiple sources
and officials. Initially, the agency was going to purchase the property directly from the board of education. However, Bill Scamoffa, a board of education member, recently detailed to this newspaper how township officials now plan to sell the property to the NJDEP for $1.2 million, after acquiring the lot. He said the change in plans came about after the school board learned of a state law which prohibits a board of education from refunding any district surplus to taxpayers. Any money raised from the sale would go right into surplus due to the school district’s financial circumstances. He said the school board felt that it was not fair to the taxpayers to have the money sitting in the district’s bank account(s) for years. “If we get the money, we can’t give it to the township,” Scamoffa said. “If we give them (the township) the building and they sell it, they keep the money and that is legal.” Scamoffa has raised concerns that the township is selling the property for much less than what it is actually worth. The Green Bank School is 25,321 square feet and was built in 2006 for $5.4 million. Additionally, Scamoffa said he believes the municipality could easily find a lessee willing to pay over $400,000 per year in rent due to its proximity to major shore highways. Lewis, when asked if the township committee has searched for a lessee or plans to search for a lessee, said that this reporter was asking the wrong person. “I possess no real estate knowledge at all,” he said.
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SCANNER Browns Mills Teen Dies After Striking Quarry Gate With ATV SOUTHAMPTON—A teenager from Browns Mills has died from injuries sustained during an ATV accident on Aug. 27 in Southampton Township, near the border with Woodland Township. New Jersey State Police said the accident occurred around 8:13 p.m. on Burrs Mill Road, at the entranceway to Ward Sand & Materials Co. “A 16-year-old male was driving a 2003 Honda ATV northbound on Burrs Mill Road when, for an unknown reason, he drove his vehicle into a closed metal gate blocking the driveway (to the quarry),” said Lt. Theodore Schafer, a spokesman for the New Jersey State Police. “The Honda struck the gate and he was ejected from the vehicle.” Schafer said the teenager was airlifted to a local hospital, but was pronounced dead at 10:29 p.m. Burrs Mill Road was closed from Route 70
to the quarry gate for approximately two hours. Pemberton Township School District officials confirmed that the teenager attended Pemberton Township High School. The school district, just before press time, identified the teenager killed as David Hopkins. Previously, officials withheld his identity. “He was going to be a senior,” said Holly Corsanico, supervisor of Child Study Teams and Speech. “He was a really well-know student in our schoo community. He was incredibly friendly and he would stop and talk to anyone in the halls. He will be missed greatly by the students and staff.” The school district offered counseling this past week to students, staff, and parents at the high school. Funeral services for Hopkins were scheduled for Sept. 1.
Police Probe Theft of Wooden Planks That Sided a Barn MEDFORD—Medford Township Police Department officers are investigating a theft of wooden planks that sided a barn. The theft occurred in the 200 block of Medford-Mt. Holly Road. A male victim reported that sometime between Aug. 13 and Aug. 22, an unknown
Firemen Softball Game
person(s) removed approximately 150 feet of wooden planks that side his barn. The wood is described as “virgin pine” and the loss is valued at $750. This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact the Medford Township Police Department at 609-267-8300.
PHOTO SUBMITTED The Hampton Lakes Vol. Fire Co. and Vincent Fire Company got together on Aug. 6 to play some softball.
Camden Man Arrested for Selling Heroin in Evesham; 26 Bags of the Drug Found EVESHAM—On Aug.15, members of the Evesham Township Police Department’s Investigative Unit and Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office conducted a proactive narcotics investigation into the illegal sale of heroin in Evesham Township. The investigation and “proactive undercover operation” led to the arrest of Emanuel Murray, 23, of Camden.
Murray was arrested in an Evesham residential development during a motor vehicle stop. Twenty-six bags of heroin, cash and a vehicle were seized. Murray was charged with second-degree distribution of heroin and third-degree possession of heroin. He was lodged in Burlington County Jail without bail.
Saddle Tank Ruptures After SUV and Dump Truck Collide
TABERNACLE—A motor vehicle accident on Route 206 in Tabernacle Township resulted in a fuel spill and hazmat response on Aug. 28. New Jersey State Police say the accident, which involved a Honda CRV and a dump truck, occurred in the southbound lanes of the highway at milepost 14.2. It was first reported to authorities at 12:17 p.m. “Rescue crews identified a ruptured saddle tank that was actively leaking,” said the Tabernacle Rescue Squad in a statement. “Our rescuers quickly contained the spill to prevent it from entering a nearby wetland, while a Burlington County Health Dept. HazMat unit
responded. A crew from Hainesport Enterprises, Inc. and an environmental team from A to Z Environmental arrived to complete the clean-up.” The driver of the Honda, Janet Frese, 72, of Mount Holly, was transported to Virtua Hospital Mt. Holly with non-life-threatening injuries. Scott Lamson, 28, of Hammonton, who was the driver of the dump truck, did not sustain any injuries in the accident. The scene was cleared shortly after 2:20 p.m. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
PHOTO SUBMITTED When all was said and done, the “Hamtucky” team from Hampton Lakes came out with a win.
Two Men Arrested for Heroin Distribution in Evesham Residential Development EVESHAM—On Aug. 25, members of the Evesham Police Department’s Investigative Unit conducted another proactive narcotics investigation into the illegal sale of heroin in Evesham Township. The investigation led to the arrest of Jabrell Fussell, 29, of Camden and the seizure of heroin intended for distribution. Fussell was
charged with second-degree distribution of heroin and third-degree possession of heroin. He was lodged in the Burlington County Jail without bail. A passenger in a vehicle stopped during the course of the investigation, Robert Williams, 38, of Oaklyn was also arrested for possession
HEROIN>>PAGE 14
PHOTO SUBMITTED Everyone had a lot of fun and is ready for the next game later this month.
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OPINION
Letters submitted to the Pine Barrens Tribune must include the name, address and phone number of the writer. Letters may be edited for length, clarity and taste. Because of space limitations, letters should be 150 words of less.
How to Send Items to the Editor: letters@pinebarrenstribune.com, put “Letter” in the subject line.
Saturday, September 2, 2017
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.
Editorial
Letter to the Editor
You Are Our Motivation to Cover Happenings
Religious Liberties Need Our Support
We would like to thank you, our readers and advertisers, for your continued loyalty and support on this first anniversary. Our drive and motivation to cover happenings in the Pine Barrens is because of all of you. We have been blessed to work with so many talented and passionate people in our efforts to cover important topics and share your stories. The Pine Barrens is New Jersey’s treasure and deserves the utmost coverage. The freedom of the press is an integral part of our First Amendment. Our founders understood the vital importance of the press maintaining an educated citizenry and a transparent government.
However, even freedom of the press will not make much of a difference if there are no local newspapers keeping watch over what’s happening in our own communities. We constantly provide you with timely news from your communities, regardless of the size. We also value your input, whether it is praise or constructive criticism. Your opinions do matter. The Tribune is always seeking new ways to serve our readers and strengthen our communities and we encourage you to drop us a line. Our team looks forward to serving you for many years to come.
Social Media Sound Off
A little more than two years ago, the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in the U.S. This dramatic decision was an extreme departure from the traditional view of marriage between one man and one woman that has been held by most world cultures throughout thousands of years of history. There have been some difficulties in the wedding professionals industry since this decision was handed down. There have been instances when the neighborhood baker, wedding photographer or florist have felt burdened in providing services specifically for same-sex weddings, since they hold to traditional marriage beliefs. One particular baker has appealed his case and it is going to be heard by the Supreme Court in the fall. This culture war that pits anti-discrimination laws against religious liberties is a debate we all need to be thinking about and discussing. Many people forget that the protection of religious liberties is extremely important, as it is
foundational to America and our way of life. Since abortion has been made legal in this country, we have respected the consciences of doctors and nurses who cannot participate in abortion. We have not forced them to perform abortions. I believe we should afford the same respect to professionals in the wedding industry. Their rights to religious protection in the U.S. Constitution should be respected and they should not be forced by the government to violate their consciences. People in this country who hold to traditional marriage beliefs should not be punished for these beliefs. They should not be forced to choose between their faith and their livelihoods. Tolerance for people’s differences, and mutual respect and support for each other’s freedom to live with integrity goes both ways. Support religious liberty. Marni V. Cunard Tabernacle, New Jersey
(Re: Sunbury Village Residents Plead for Crime to be Addressed During a Nearly 3 Hour Meeting) One question. Is this a private or a public community? If I own multiple properties and rent them out, is it still the township that is responsible for crime protection? If I am a landlord, who is breaking laws set by the township, revoke my right to rent. End of story. Patricia Courchene-Krone (Re: Sunbury Village Residents Plead for Crime to be Addressed During a Nearly 3 Hour Meeting) Why don’t the residents report the crimes being committed? You know who’s doing these crimes. Cooperate with the police and point out the criminals. You are the front line of defense in your community. Please understand that preference can’t be given to a community, we all want to be safe. Our resources simply can’t be used up for any one community. Step up and do what you should be doing: report the criminals to the police and don’t become a victim and then complain. Daniel Mcrae (Re: Woodland Eyeing Land Near Romanza Pizza & Pasta for Possible Economic Development) We love living in Chatsworth because there’s nothing here. It’s awesome the way it is. If you want to build something off Route 72, fine. But nothing crazy. Driving 25 minutes (to a shopping center) really isn’t that big of a deal. You improvise until you go out again. Most residents don’t work just in Chatsworth, so when you’re already out of town, you also shop. No extra trips needed. I moved out here hoping it wouldn’t change and I still don’t want it to. I hope it stays this way for many years to come. Cyndie Kuhl Haines (Re: Woodland Eyeing Land Near Romanza Pizza & Pasta for Possible Economic Development) How many of you moved out this way to avoid the hustle and bustle of everyday life? How many of you dread going to Mt. Laurel or Marlton or the Route 73 area to avoid congestion, traffic noise, and light pollution. I live out here for a reason and that is to be closer to nature and its surroundings. I will take my behind to the store if I need something. I disagree with adding more congestion to this (Four Mile) circle and area. All for what-money? Open an off-road park again or something people will enjoy without all the stores and outlet malls and you would generate revenue 10 fold. Don’t put in a Walmart or more stores just to attract traffic and the hustle and bustle out this way. My dad grew up in Edison off of Route 287. He would drive through there and he would tell me how this used to be that and that used to be this and that was a farm and this was woods and this was that. In 10 years, do you really want to be having that conversation with your kids or do you want be able to show them how beautiful nature and its surroundings of rural history are? This place means more to me than anything and I would hate to see it change. Raymond Stine
Please comment on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Twitter: @PineBarrensNews with the hashtag #SoundOff or Facebook: www.facebook.com/pinebarrenstribune.
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COMMUNITY Events
September 2 Event: St. Stephen’s Annual Fair Location: Whiting Details: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will hold its Annual Fair from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Items for sale run the gamut, from attic treasures to furniture! There will be delicious baked goods for purchase. Lunch and refreshments will also be available. For more information, call Stephanie at 732-350-2904. St. Stephen’s will accept items after Aug. 19. 180 Route 539, Whiting (one mile south of Route 70).
September 5 Event: Tuesday Morning Movie at Pemberton Library Location: Pemberton Details: The Pemberton Community Library will show “Field of Dreams” Sept. 5, at 10:30 a.m. (1989, Rated PG, 107 minutes). Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella hears a voice in his corn field, “If you build it, they will come.” He interprets the message as instruction to build a baseball field on his farm, upon which appear the ghosts of Shoeless Joe Jackson and the other seven Chicago White Sox players banned from the game for throwing the 1919 World Series.
September 6 Event: Adult Yarn Social Location: Evesham Details: On Wednesdays, Sept. 6 to 27, at 11 a.m. Do you knit or crochet? Come join other knitting/crocheting fans for an hour of relaxed, social yarn time. Share your current project, swap patterns, or just enjoy the company of fellow enthusiasts.
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Evesham Branch Library, 984 Tuckerton Road. For more information, call 856-983-1444.
September 9 Event: American Legion Post 294 Golf Outing Location: Lumberton Details: Sign up to play at the Golden Pheasant Golf Course, $105 per golfer; includes cart, refreshments, buffet luncheon, and two-hour open bar. Proceeds help veterans and active military. For more information, call 609-894-2203. Event: Community Yard Sale Location: Woodland Details: The Chatsworth United Methodist Church will be holding a community yard sale, Sept. 9, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the White Horse Inn, 3960 County Road 563, Chatsworth. Rain or shine. All proceeds benefit the ministry of Chatsworth United Methodist Church. All are invited to donate items for the sale by dropping them off at the Church Parsonage (at the corner of Main and 2nd Street) on Wednesday, Sept. 6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, email chatsworthumcnj@ gmail.org Event: Rally Night & Day Location: Medford Lakes Details: The Protestant Community Church is hosting an event for all ages. Games, movies, food, fellowship, sleepover, and Sunday School/Church Service. Starts 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9, and ends at 11:30 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 10. Contact Andria Gross, 609-654-4220, for more information, or visit www.protestantcommunitychurch.org
September 11 Event: Volunteers Training for Reassurance Program Location: Moorestown Details: CONTACT of Burlington County, a 24/7 Crisis Helpline, is seeking volunteers to make brief “care calls” to elderly and disabled clients of our Reassurance Program. Calls can be made from the volunteer’s home, to check on a client’s well-being and to provide friendly conversation. A two-session training program will be held on Monday, Sept. 11 & Sept. 18, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., focusing on listening and communication, crisis skills and community resources to address aging-related issues. For more information, contact Lisa Harkins at 856-234-5484 x 212, or lharkins@contactburlco.org. Event: Pinelands Garden Club Location: Medford Details: The Pinelands Garden Club of Medford will meet at the Medford Leas Auditorium, Route 70, on Monday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. Members will auction Jersey fresh farm produce, baked goods and flowers. Visitors and new members welcome. Event: New Jersey Folk Revival Music Location: Vincentown Details: Please join The Southampton Historical Society for a New Jersey Folk Revival Music celebration, Sept. 11, at 7:30 p.m., at Old Town Hall, 25 Plum Street, Vincentown. Michael Gabriele will highlight his book which traces the evolution and living history of folk revival music in the Garden State. Light refreshments. Free to the public. For more information, call 609-859-0524.
PEMBERTON TWP. SENIOR CITIZEN COLUMN
Seniors Cruise to Lake Hopatcong
By Ebba Liguori
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
PEMBERTON—On Tuesday, Aug. 22, Pemberton Seniors were greeted by a Safety Bus, driven by Gordon Goldberg, in the Acme parking lot at 8:45 a.m. to transport them to Lake Hopatcong for a road trip. The seniors boarded the bus quickly as Lake Hopatcong is at least two hours away from Pemberton. The bus departed before 9 a.m. and soon the group was traveling northbound on the New Jersey Turnpike. There are several ways to travel to Lake Hopatcong from southern New Jersey, but all roads usually take one through lots of traffic. Goldberg chose a route that traversed from the New Jersey Turnpike to the Garden State Parkway to Route 280 to Route 80 to Route 15. There did not appear to be heavy traffic on
this day as we observed many trucks using the Route 287 alternative. Soon the bus turned north on Route 15 and we were close to the eastern shore of Lake Hopatcong. A few more turns on local roads and Nolan’s Point was in view and there was the destination: Jefferson House. The Jefferson House is known for being the location of a “Speakeasy” back in Prohibition Days of the early 1920s. The party took place in the large dining room which seats more than 100 persons. There are large windows all along the wall facing the lake and our assigned tables all had good views of the water. There is a lower level with a full-service bar and restaurant and boats can dock there while passengers enjoy a meal sitting outside by the lake. Many residents with homes on the lakefront have boats and often enjoy waterfront
dining on a regular basis. Lake Hopatcong has the finest lakeside dining in the state. Our group was able to observe the many water activities from the comfort of the air-conditioned dining room. A six-passenger golf cart greeted the bus to help transport the seniors inside who had trouble accessing the stairs since the building is built on a sloping lot and there are several levels. Once everyone was reunited inside, the group selected tables and sat down to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and an assortment of Italian cookies placed at each table. There was a small gift shop set up at one end of the dining room and many began shopping for a remembrance of the day. Music was set up and there was a dance floor in the center of the room. A few seniors took advantage of this opportunity.
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Soon the buffet was set and the meal service began. Choices included bourbon pulled pork sandwiches, bar-b-que beef ribs, southern-fried chicken, baked beans, hush puppies and prairie pasta. Cole slaw, lettuce, tomatoes, onion slices and various condiments were available to accompany the meal. Of course, there was plenty of wine, beer, and sodas for liquid refreshments. The buffet remained set up so everyone could return for extra portions. No one left hungry or thirsty and many enjoyed seconds or thirds. All beverages, including the coffee service, were available throughout the visit and courteous staff provided refills. Dessert was fresh apple pie. The highlight of the trip was a narrated tour around Lake Hopatcong.
WORSHIP DIRECTORY
SENIORS>>PAGE 14
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PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE
SPOTLIGHT Local Disabled American Veterans Look to Strengthen Community Presence
PHOTO SUBMITTED
Tabernacle Woman Creates Wholesome Alternative to Store-Bought Soap
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 27 at a recent gathering.
PHOTO SUBMITTED A Tabernacle family purchased goats to produce soap made from “raw” goat’s milk.
By Judy Cohen Minches
By Judy Cohen Minches
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
PEMBERTON—A “Meet and Greet” for Burlington County’s Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 27 will be held on Sept. 16. Commander of the post for DAV Chapter 27 Collie Stradford Jr. (Army - Ret. Sgt. First Class), Adj. Diane Smith (Marines - Sgt. USMC E-5) and Second Vice Rene Walker (Army - Ret. Staff Sgt.) have been working to ensure a sizeable turnout for the gathering and to strengthen the DAV’s presence in the community. Last month, they met with Pemberton Superintendent of Schools Tony Trongone at the Pemberton Community Library. Trongone offered assistance in publicizing the event on the school district’s television station, Channel 19, in addition to the participation of high-school students, if needed. “Tony is working towards building a stronger relationship between our country’s future vets and our township’s disabled vets,” Smith said. The collaboration between Chapter 27 and the Pemberton School District is also designed to help students earn some of the National DAV’s scholarship opportunities through volunteerism. Smith said that the location for the Meet and Greet has not yet been specified. Vets will be notified of the chosen location once they return an information card enclosed with a letter that was recently mailed to 500 members. If, however, any veteran reading this story has not received the Chapter 27 card and letter, they are asked to please email DAV27NJ@gmail.com or call Stradford at 908-418-0778. Smith said a barbecue will be free to attendees, but the chapter is currently seeking tax deductible donations to help defray the costs. These donations should be sent to Disabled American Veterans Chapter 27, P.O. Box 508, Browns Mills, NJ 08015. Also brought up for discussion at the meeting, was a “concerning” decline in the number of Chapter 27 members, most of whom had served in the Vietnam and Korean wars. Smith said that unfortunately, younger disabled vets from Afghanistan and Iraq have been slow to
join service organizations. “These younger, unaffiliated vets—along with older vets who have kept themselves at a distance—are a valuable asset in the constant fight for veterans’ rights and benefits and directly impact the longevity of Chapter 27 and the dignity and well-being of local vets,” she said. Smith said many veterans depend on benefits for their survival and they need to know that the benefits they are getting are “not the gift of a grateful nation.” “The benefits we have are because the veterans from Vietnam, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Disabled American Veterans and other service organizations fought to get them,” she said. “A lot of dedication and work from many people went into gaining these benefits, but it only takes one person with a pen for us to lose all we have fought so hard to achieve.” Smith said the chapter’s membership is getting old and with age often comes a decrease in mobility, which directly impacts turnout at chapter events, especially when gatherings are held at night. While assistance with benefits is one of the most important services Chapter 27 provides to its members; opportunities to socialize, network and build long-lasting friendships with others who share a like background is another. Stradford also discussed the need for Chapter 27 to connect with members who have not been present for local meetings or events to determine whether they and/or their caregiver(s) need support. Planning activities to attract members who may not otherwise want to participate in administrative tasks and attend meetings is also in the works. Chapter 27 is asking new veterans or uninvolved members to step up. “We need their input, energy, time, and hard work,” Smith said. Chapter 27 officers believe that with new members, they can stretch the organization’s potential to make a difference, both in terms
VETERANS>>PAGE 19
For the Pine Barrens Tribune
TABERNACLE—Tiffany Coverly’s determination to create a natural, healthy lifestyle for her family has revealed her entrepreneurial spirit. Business for her Grazing Goat soap line is booming and she is thrilled. She is, however, somewhat surprised given that her foray into soap making was simply intended to provide a wholesome alternative to the store-bought soap which contains synthetic ingredients that she believed were detrimental to her son and the rest of the family. It was not part of a strategic plan of any kind. Her concoction combines fresh goat’s milk from their farm with essential oils and natural oils like olive, coconut or palm. The mixture also inherently contains selenium, an important mineral for the skin, and lactic acid, which helps to remove dead skin. She began to share her handmade soaps with friends to manage the surplus and the feedback was positive. They told her how good the soaps felt and how they helped with their skin issues. They asked for more. Once she felt confident that her product would be well-received, she started selling it at craft shows to make extra money to help care for goats. One act led to another and Grazing Goat soaps are now in multiple stores and markets: the Pine Barrens Store, Red Top Farm Market, The Painted Turtle, Paws Discovery Farm, Health Haven of Moorestown and Nixon’s General Store. The soaps are also sold on the Etsy website. Additionally, she attends local festivals and had two open houses last year with plans to do the same this year. Coverly’s drive to implement healthy changes for her loved ones started years ago, when her then-8-year-old son Jayden Migala (now 12) was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is characterized by a range of symptoms including difficulties with concentration and impulsivity. Experts in the field suggested that dietary changes could prove beneficial and one such recommendation was to switch from cow’s milk
to goat’s milk. Taking it a step further, Coverly said that the thinking was that “raw” goat’s milk—by definition not pasteurized—would be even better, with numerous health benefits including, but, not limited to its natural homogenization, smaller fat globules and less lactose, leading to easier digestibility. Many advocates also believe that it presents less of an allergenic concern. With this information, Coverly sprang into action, seeing no obstacle in making the switch from cow’s milk to raw goat’s milk for Migala, other than finding a local supplier, which proved quite challenging. The closest supplier is two and one-half hours away from Pennsylvania (a five-hour round-trip ride), as New Jersey law prohibits unpasteurized goat’s milk from being sold in the Garden State due to its lack of regulations. For years, Coverly trekked across state lines with her family in tow. While she was happy with the outcome—improved attention and decreased hyperactivity for her son—the lengthy commute was time-consuming and tiresome. One day it dawned on her, beckoning Coverly—who had never raised livestock before—to act: Why not purchase goats of their own? She envisioned that she would milk them, too. She knew that adding to her to-do list caring for a herd of goats, in addition to caring for her offspring (Justin Migala, Brendan Migala, Ethan Migala, Gavin Migala, Jayden Migala and Kaitlyn Coverly), as well as tending to the children who attend her Tickletime Family Child Care in her home, is a lot of work. Yet, that did not deter her or her husband, Bill Coverly, from moving forward. “Our story and the struggle we have with Jayden Migala, who suffers from ADHD and high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, is what brought us to this place and the reason we started the business,” Tiffany Coverly said. “Jayden loves that we bought the goats for him and that we would never have had this soap business if it weren’t for him. We try to teach the
SOAP>>PAGE 19
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Walk ad for Tribune 1/4pg 4.875x6.25.qxp_Layout 1 8/24/17 3:49 PM Page 1
7th Annual
Saturday Sept. 16, 2017 (Rain or Shine)
*NEW LOCATION*
Lenape High School
235 Hartford Road, Medford, NJ Registration Starts at 8:00 a.m. Event Starts at 9:00 a.m. FEES: Students 10-18 years old ($15) 5K Run ($25) • 1 Mile Walk ($20) • 40 Mile Bike Ride ($50) *Event day registration fees increase by $5 All participants pre-registered by Sept. 5th will receive a complimentary T-shirt
For a printable registration form or to register online go to www.deborahfoundation.org For more information contact: Doreen Liller at (609) 893-3372 or e-mail: dliller@deborah.org
Proceeds benefit Deborah® Heart and Lung Center
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SENIORS PAGE 9
The Jefferson House owns a large pontoon boat and took groups of seniors on a narrated cruise as part of the day’s activities. The boat made three trips to accommodate all of the participants that day. There were two smaller groups joining in the fun, so there were several dozen guests. The weather was perfect for the cruise, which lasted about 45 minutes. Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater body in New Jersey, about four square miles in area, has a rich history and is located within easy travelling distance of the metropolitan area. The captain told many stories about the lake and its history and the many important people who have resided along the lakefront. There is a real stone castle imported from Europe and many mansions along the shoreline. One house even has a “railroad car” to travel up and down the steep slope from house to waterfront! Through the years, hotels have operated here and many famous people spent their vacations
enjoying cool breezes off the lake during the hot summers. There were amusement parks located in several areas here at one time–one was very large and attracted many from New York City. The golf cart played an important role that day, ferrying seniors from the bus to the dining room, then to the dock and waiting boat, and finally for the return trip to the bus. The staff was attentive and helpful so that even the most handicapped senior was able to enjoy the boat ride. The restaurant portion of the facility is open to the public and hours are posted online. Boat rides are available, weather permitting, for a fee and are worth the cost. Many people drive to the Jefferson House to enjoy the Sunday brunch and a boat ride. By 3 p.m., everyone was ready for the trip back to Browns Mills. Again, Goldberg chose to follow the same route in reverse and again it was a good choice. Most of the trucks were on Route 287 and the driver was able to maintain a good speed. Just after 5 p.m., seniors arrived back at the Acme parking lot and headed home to rest after a busy and enjoyable day.
The Pemberton Township Senior Council sponsors two trips or activities per month and all senior residents are able to participate. All events are offered at “below market” prices, so all can enjoy participating. Stop in at the center, located across from the Browns Mills Post Office, to sign up. A nourishing meal is served daily, by reservation, and seniors
HEROIN PAGE 7
of pharmaceutical pills and marijuana. Williams was charged with third degree possession of pharmaceutical pills and a
BOND PAGE 2
money is not being spent wisely. Among other complaints were those voiced by countless others just a few months ago: the dropping of paraprofessional aides who had been there for years and their replacement by contract workers.
PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE
Saturday, September 2, 2017
are encouraged to take advantage of this service. The September edition of the Senior Gazette will be available on Sept. 1. The next trip is to Quakertown (Pa.) Farmer’s Market on Friday, Sept. 8. Seats are still available and cost is only $25 for resident seniors and includes gift coupons and a full meal at Mastoris. disorderly persons offense for possession of marijuana. He was released on his own recognizance. Fussell and Williams were arrested in an Evesham residential development. Police have not yet revealed the name of the development. At the same time, Logar emphasized she “was not opposed to the bond issue.” Her remarks did not draw a reply from board members. The meeting, which drew roughly six visitors, adjourned just after 8 p.m. The board will meet next on Tuesday, Sept. 15 at the usual 7 p.m.
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY ABRAMS
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109 Route 38 Pemberton, NJ 08068 (609) 894-4258
24 Hr. Towing Flatbed Service Road Service
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Saturday, September 2, 2017
PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE
HEALTH
How Much Radiation Is Your Child Exposed To? 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.
Nootropic Supplements - Nature’s Smart Pill Last month I wrote an article entitled, Alzheimer’s Is A Guessing Game. Many of you emailed me in response and shared your personal stories about this, and some were delightful, others heart-breaking. I truly understand. It brings to the forefront of my mind a woman named Mary, who I met at a Florida nursing home in the 90’s. I am going to tell you her story soon, so be sure to sign up for my newsletter at suzycohen.com Today’s column will focus on natural remedies that support brain health and memory. Please ask your physician if any of my suggestions are right for you since I am not a doctor and individual response varies. Now for some intelligent brain-loving options, all available at health food stores nationwide (and possibly in your garden!): Lion’s Mane This is a medicinal mushroom, not an animal-derived furry ingredient. It is classified as a nootrope. Have you ever heard of that word before? Nootropics (“noah-trope-icks”) are defined as substances that can improve cognitive function. Nootropic substances, whether they be medications or supplements, simply contain supportive nutrients that will help you maintain optimal brain function. Lion’s Mane is known botanically as Hericium erinaceus, and it possesses well-known regenerative effects. There’s an active ingredient in Lion’s Mane mushroom that promotes the growth of nerve cells in the brain. When you grow new nerve cells, it’s helpful, right? Nootropes are the way of the world and even kids know about them because on the street,
they are termed “smart pills.” Some college kids like nootropic supplements to help them get through finals and exams. Bacopa Monnieri There is a gorgeous white flower that is a nootropic herb. It helps you maintain optimal brain function due to its strong, protective effect on one particular memory-compound called acetylcholine. Bacopa blocks acetylcholinesterase (which breaks down acetylcholine), and remember now, that acetylcholine is a highly desired neurotransmitter! Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) Gotu kola, commonly called pennywort, contains compounds that support neurotrophin secretion. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor or BDNF is the most well-studied of the neurotrophins. It helps maintain brain integrity and signals nerve cells to survive and differentiate. Gotu kola seems to help with mental fatigue. I have a longer version of this article (plus big news) available on my site, where you can also sign up for my newsletter. If your practitioner approves of these gentle remedies, you could certainly try them independently, or you can find multi-tasking formulas that contain these as well as other key nutrients and amino acids. Just be careful because some nootropic supplements are dangerous and in fact, some are not supposed to be on the market anymore. Buy from trusted brands and companies. It’s completely within your rights to ask for a company’s Certificate of Analysis for purity and heavy-metal testing. If they don’t provide that document to you, run.
This information is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose your condition. For more information, please visit www.SuzyCohen.com. © 2017 SUZY COHEN, RPH. DISTRIBUTED BY DEAR PHARMACIST, INC.
By Sue Hubbard, M.D. Radiation exposure, and the cumulative Interestingly, bedside ultrasounds performed radiation a child receives, continues to be a in the ER by trained physicians are now topic of research and study. The less radiation being used to diagnose simple forearm a child receives, the better. Ultrasounds are an fractures. The most common of these imaging modality that does not expose a child fractures, which are common during childhood, to radiation. There are more and more instances is a “buckle fracture” (non-displaced fracture where ultrasounds are being used rather than of the radius). X-ray or CT scans. Ultrasound studies of the forearm in a child Pediatric ultrasounds are used to help with a suspected fracture did not only seem diagnose appendicitis, pneumonia, congenital more accurate, but were timelier. They are also heart disease, abdominal masses, kidney associated with less patient pain. Win-win-win. disease, thyroid masses, testicular It may be a while before this is the standard of abnormalities and a host of other issues during care in every ER, but look for fewer X-rays and childhood. The fact that an ultrasound machine more ultrasounds over the next years. I wonder is easily transported to an infant or child’s if one day there will be ultrasound machines in bedside is another reason that ultrasounds are pediatric offices. Who knows? used whenever possible. Dr. Sue Hubbard is an award-winning pediatrician, medical editor and media host. “The Kid’s Doctor” TV feature can be seen on more than 90 stations across the U.S. Submit questions at http://www.kidsdr.com. The Kid’s Doctor e-book, “Tattoos to Texting: Parenting Today’s Teen,” is now available from Amazon and other e-book vendors.
We’ve Moved 3 Doors Down!
Saturday, September 2, 2017
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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?”
My Rulings After raising a family of boys, who seemed to be destined to become lawyers, I’ve learned that there are many games involved with proper and social etiquette. There are many things that I taught them along the way. For example, men should open doors for women, folks need to respect the right-of-way and it’s a faux pas to cut in line at the check-out stand. But our sons certainly taught us some things about social interactions and all we needed to know about calling “Shot gun!” and earning oneself the front seat on a car ride. The rules that apply to Shot Gun, consist of, but aren’t limited to: seeing the door handle of the car at the time of the proposed trip right before departure. One can’t call Shot Gun the day before, cannot declare it while still in the grocery store and you certainly can’t claim it in advance, for a span of a week or more. I learned that one the hard way. Another fun one is calling Dibs. I’ve heard our four young sons call out Dibs on everything from the last piece of pie to the best spot on the couch. They also call Dibs on the remainder of my big salad, long before it’s served. Then there’s Quack Quack (which one calls for reserving their seat back before disembarking). But that’s another story. I have heard the rules for these circumstances discussed and debated, ad nauseam, over my 28-plus years of parenting. I’ve played judge and jury to these situations and often times been forced to look up guidelines for who is right and who’s wrong and have done extensive research before handing down a verdict. While I’m no expert, I feel I have sufficient knowledge to defend my rulings. When my good friend Terrie came to work for us in our antique shop a couple of years ago, she was a little “green” in this area. She didn’t respect Quack Quack right away, did not believe that Dibs was a legal, binding and verbal contract and certainly did not give
Shot Gun the respect it deserved. Yet, it is the Nose Goes that she tries to utilize to her advantage. Anyone who has ever applied Nose Goes to situations when dealing with friends, and co-workers, knows that you can’t simply call Nose Goes from afar and long before everyone has assessed the situation. All involved parties must be in sight of the undesired task before Nose Goes is called out and have ample time to take the sight in before calling out the aforementioned “Nose Goes.” So, I might have made up some of the stipulations for Nose Goes, bent some of the rules to my benefit and disregarded others. But if there’s one thing I have learned from my sons it is this: one doesn’t necessarily need to be well-informed to sound knowledgeable and one can always defend themselves with a confident, “Look it up!” Take, as an example, the mess that the cat made last week. I swear Terrie was no less than a 100-yards away when she called out, “Nose Goes!” and certainly hadn’t given me ample time to look the mess over. “Nose Goes!” she called out again as I approached and held her forefinger so firmly on the tip of her nose that it would have taken an act of Congress and perhaps a hard whack to knock it from its perch. “You can’t just call out Nose Goes!” I explained to her calmly as I approached the undesirable cat mess. “Can too!” she defended herself. “Nope, the rules clearly state that everyone must be in clear site of the cat mess before one can ascertain the situation and make a rush to judgment as to how long it will take to rectify the site and thereby, you are in violation of Nose Goes and must clean it up yourself.” Oh sure, I might have made some stuff up and if we were in a court of law, I might have perjured myself in the process. Yet, as I looked at the chaos, I became quite confident of this: no judge or jury would have convicted me.
© 2017 LORI CLINCH
C R O S S W O R D
P U Z Z L E
Across 1 Indian state bordering Bhutan 6 Lab glassware eponym 11 AOL, e.g. 14 Bridges 15 Hamal’s constellation 16 Indianapolis’ __ Dome 17 2008 Jack Black title role 19 Shipping nickname 20 Considers with disdain 21 Spoke quietly? 23 Sch. with a Riverhead campus 24 Lure 25 Film for which Anthony Quinn won an Oscar 30 Author Morrison 32 Benz finish 33 Tender in Warsaw 34 Proceeds 35 Georgia of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” 37 Bapt., e.g. 38 Austrian composer Webern 39 Pet problem? 40 Some cake layers 42 Grill guard : U.S. :: __ bar : Australia 43 Span. title
44 Holder of an affectionate message 46 Destructive type 48 JFK, for one 49 Tidbit 50 Most like a dive 55 Richard __ 56 Genre of Madonna’s “Ray of Light” album 58 Longtime Elton John label 59 Show shown over 60 Discussion venue 61 Poetic twilight 62 Fluid accumulation 63 Ridges on the neck
13 Like a pro 18 Everyday 22 “__ Morgen!” 24 Arranged 25 Nixon and Ford 26 Angel on one’s shoulder, so to speak 27 Flier’s request 28 Classical entrance 29 Used the dining room 31 Tot’s rebuttal 34 Cleaned 36 Novak’s TV partner 41 Its first truck was a Ford Model A 44 Canceled due to rain, say Down 45 Key of Sibelius’ First 1 Wants in payment Symphony 2 Like some flax 47 Big name on the farm 3 Levelheaded 49 One apparently trapped behind 4 German chancellor Merkel glass 5 “The Magic School Bus” teacher 50 Pond build-up 6 Family nickname 51 Peak west of the Ionian Sea 7 Proof word 52 The Auld Sod 8 Element in some solder 53 Rabbit’s tail 9 Site of a major part of the Bible? 54 Highland tops 10 Start of a repeat 57 “And Venus sets __ Mercury 11 1980s scandal can rise:” Pope 12 Bug barrier
S U D O K U
ANSWERS ON PAGE 22
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Saturday, September 2, 2017
PINE BARRENS TRIBUNE
MARKETPLACE Submit a Classified! E-mail sales@pinebarrenstribune.com to receive a form and pricing.
AUTOMOBILES/TRUCKS
$1,200/week. From 10/7 on $900. No smoking. 602-663-3303.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
1996 BMW Z3 Convertable. 5 speed transmission, 86,000 miles. $5,500 firm. Call Bill at 609-351-3896.
Janitorial subcontractors wanted to service commerical accounts in Burlington, Mercer and Ocean counties. Must be insured. Please Call 800-2279069.
AUTO PARTS & SVCS.
FOR SALE
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.
1962 John Glenn, Man in Orbit album 331/3 rpm. Call Ivory for details at 609893-7435.
AWNINGS
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.
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
BEACH RENTAL LBI. Sleeps 10. Third from ocean. Vintage garden house. 9/30-10/7
FURNITURE REPAIR
HELP WANTED As a Technician/Mechanic, you will provide accurate and efficient services to customers by troubleshooting, 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, clean appearance. You should be self-motivated, dependable and work well with others. Qualified candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check and drug screening. A valid driver’s license is required. 401k - Benefits and paid training. Please apply online at www.mypetrojob. com Area claims writer. No experience. PT/FT flex. hours. NJ/PA. Call or text 609-548-3108. Target income. $30k/$80k.
5 p.m. Medford area, good pay. Call 609315-2465. Great storytellers with sound news judgment sought. Strong interpersonal, writing, and AP-style skills a must! Call 609-801-2392. Must be available during the evening hours. Newspaper Delivery Driver Needed. Dependable person who can work during the daytime on Fridays. Pay is excellent. Call 609-801-2392.
MISCELLANEOUS Cash paid for vintage saxophones and
World War II military items. Email mymilitarytoys@optonline.net or call 609-581-8290.
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
NOW HIRING in Chatsworth! Harvesters NEEDED at Ocean Spray! $13/hr. Mandatory OT = more $$$ in your pocket. Long-term work & bonuses! Call 609-3872900 today! Wanted! Experienced florist. Full-time position. 609-267-8708. General laborers for established excavating company. Experience prefered. Valid driver’s license. Drug testing required. Apply at 7 Park Drive, Shamong. Short order cook. Part-time experience Friday 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday 6 a.m. -
Extra
Saturday, September 2, 2017
REDEVELOPMENT PAGE 1
units and 90 affordable units. These units will be constructed on a property along Medford-Evesboro Road. Stokes Square will consist of a 120-unit independent-living, senior housing development near Stokes and Himmelein Roads. There are no affordable units included in this development, but the developer will contribute $900,000 to the township’s affordable housing trust fund in lieu of constructing 18 affordable units. “This (Stokes Square) is going to be used to fund our affordable housing trust fund that helps make these other projects, specifically the Arc Wheeler project, capable of happening,” said Mayor Chuck Watson. “They’re (the developer) going to fund $900,000.” Beenstock thanked Township Solicitor Timothy M. Prime for his role in the negotiations and emphasized that other towns in the state could not secure such a plan. He said several towns are being hit much harder by the obligations. Watson said the township could have been required to build, potentially, thousands of units. “What we’re doing tonight is part of the process to implement the redevelopment plans and it’s going to go on for some time,” Beenstock said. “I know we’ve said as a council many times that we don’t like this law. But, it’s something we have to do. We’re required by state law to do this.” During a public hearing, resident Mike Mcgarrigle asked if all three projects are PILOT projects. He also asked if council plans to dedicate payments to the school district, fire department and police department if agreements were made. A Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program allows New Jersey municipalities to charge a developer an annual service charge rather than real-estate taxes for a set period when improving an existing building or undertaking a new project in a redevelopment area. Prime said council has only agreed to a PILOT program for Hartford Square, which pertains to the commercial portion of the development. The other two projects are still being decided by council. “We are starting to negotiate with redevelopers (for the others),” Prime said.
SOAP
PAGE 10 kids that God brings good out of struggles and trials in life.” Tiffany Coverly added that everyone in her family is very grateful for their lives today—their large family unit, having goats (which Gavin Migala said is “awesome”), living on a farm and sharing in the responsibilities—and over time, everything has fallen into place. It is a very different world now than it was years ago when she found herself a divorced mom of five boys, who at the time ranged in age from three- to nine-years-old. That was when she began to take her neighbor’s children in to her home, so that she could help support her own kids financially and watch over them at the same time. She then met Bill Coverly at Fellowship Alliance Chapel in Medford and Marlton United Methodist Church in Evesham. An electrician by trade, he had constructed his own large home on seven acres in Tabernacle, where he raised bees for honey. He continues
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Prime said both the commercial and affordable housing parts of the Hartford Square project will be 30-year PILOTs, though the latter still needs to be negotiated. Prime also addressed Mcgarrigle’s question about whether some of the money collected can be dedicated to various township departments. He said state law requires 5 percent to be dedicated to the county, while the remaining 95 percent goes to council and dedication is left to its discretion. “We’re not at that place,” Beenstock said. “What we’re doing tonight is adopting the redevelopment plans, we’re not authorizing any agreements. I think, until we do that, it’s premature to speculate.” Mcgarrigle called attention to a development project in Evesham Township, which is adjacent to the Arc Wheeler project. He said the two developments could create a ton of traffic at the intersection of Sharp and Evesboro-Medford Roads. He asked if Medford Council could coordinate with Evesham Council to address the probable increase in traffic. Another resident expressed concerns about real-estate taxes increasing as a result of the affordable-housing project. “I don’t believe that this will cause them to go up,” Watson said. In other township news, Township Engineer Chris Noll provided the results from traffic studies done by Medford Police on three roads in the township: Hawkin Road, East Centennial Drive and New Freedom Road. Police Chief Richard J. Meder took part in the discussion. It was recommended for a stretch of Hawkin Road, from Skeet Road to the Southampton border, that the speed limit be raised from 25 to 35 mph due to a lack of driveways. Officials said Southampton Township has already been consulted on the change. Members of council expressed concern over accidents at Hawkin and Skeet Roads and talked about looking into the process of setting up a four-way stop. The intersection is currently a two-way stop with stop signs only on Hawkin Road. Meder said several of the accidents have resulted from motorists failing to adhere to the stop signs. Others have been the result of motorists failing to look at oncoming traffic. Speed humps were previously requested by residents for a sixth of a mile stretch of
to sell the honey under the Pine Barrens Honey name and, more recently, Tiffany Coverly is also making lip balm with beeswax secreted by the bees. His honey is also sold at Nixon’s General Store and Red Top Farm Market. Tiffany Coverly said Bill Coverly told her that people often asked him why a single man would have built such a large home on such a large property. This was a question he admitted he could not answer, until he met Tiffany Coverly. They got married in 2009 at the Tabernacle home and the six of them moved in together. Shortly thereafter, they gave birth to a little girl, Kaitlyn Coverly. The Coverlys know from their own experience—and their ability to juggle—that anything is possible with hard work. In the summertime, Tiffany Coverly starts hand-milking their five goats around 6 a.m. for about 45 minutes, and this is completed before local children are dropped off at their home for child care around 7:30 a.m. During the course of the day, she cares for everyone at home, including her dog, three cats
PAGE 19
PHOTO BY VINCE DEBLASIO Construction equipment is in place for the Hartford Square development. East Centennial Road, as speeding issues are prevalent in the posted 25 mph zone. Noll said that the recommendation is to put in optical speed bars, instead of speed humps. It is recommended the bars be installed in roadway curves. Additionally, it was recommended that another traffic study be performed in three to six months. “In order to have speed humps be effective, you need to space them about 275 feet apart,” he said. “It seems to be a bit of an overkill (there),” he said. “(Speed bars) are definitely better than speed humps.” On New Freedom Road, between Eayrestown Road and the Southampton Township border, the results support reducing the posted speed from 50 to 40 mph, matching the rest of the road. The study also recommended eliminating a short passing zone on the approach to Eayrestown Road. Resident Jim Meehan, who along with a neighbor requested the study on New Freedom Road, thanked council for their time and efforts. He also asked about the restriping of a faded crosswalk that runs through the intersection of New Freedom and Eayrestown Roads. “We’ve added that to the road-striping list, but the items on the list are being prioritized as
we have so many center lines that need to be addressed,” said Township Manager Kathleen Burger. Council approved six consent agenda resolutions unanimously. Four resolutions authorized tax bill adjustments for property tax-exempt veterans. Another amended the township’s municipal budget by inserting a special item of revenue from the state for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide Labor Day crackdown. The last canceled certain grant fund receivable and reserve balances. During her manager’s report, Burger said the township received five applications for Environmental Affairs Advisory Committee vacancies. The approval of six new EMS/Jr. Firefighters was announced: Colleen Kazokas, Donna Stanish and Max VanDoren, EMS; Nicholas Wagner, Jr. EMS and Jr. Firefighter (Station 252); and Aiden Cohen (Station 251) and Taylor Miliano (Station 252), Jr. Firefighter. Council held an executive session to discuss litigation matters related to redevelopment, the Burlington County Library, and 23 Holly Drive LLC vs. Medford Township. No action was taken.
and rabbit. She finds gaps in her time to make cheese, yogurt and ice cream with the extra goat’s milk along with doggy biscuits for their pet Else and, with the remaining surplus, soap. Tiffany Coverly said the constant flow of goat’s milk—for all dairy products—has helped the entire family with digestive matters in addition to the positive changes they saw earlier with Jayden
Migala’s attention and hyperactivity issues. It has now been three and one-half years since they purchased the goats, and her kids give them lots of love, affection and care, especially Kaitlyn Coverly, who greets each one by name and embraces them as often as she possibly can. “It’s all about family,” Tiffany Coverly said.
VETERANS PAGE 10
of equipping veterans with knowledge about benefits to which they are entitled and helping them to notify the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) about matters. Smith said veterans can face a host of problems when they are discharged and some of the problems are covered under the VA umbrella, while others are not. She added that those who have been discharged at 30 years old may be unemployable, for example; after 10 or 15 years in the service, they
may have no viable skills and cannot afford to live anywhere. In some cases, they become homeless. She said this is a major concern right now “with federal officials moving to cut veterans’ benefits.” She also pointed out that women—veterans as well as wives of servicemen—face a unique set of circumstances and may need assistance with education, employment and readjusting. Through veterans’ organizations or networking, Smith said Chapter 27 wants to help. Chapter 27 meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Hall located at 39 Fort Dix Road in Pemberton.
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Saturday, September 2, 2017
PARADE PAGE 1
finished his 71st season with the team. “We can go out and play baseball without having to worry about raising enough money for umpire fees because the township helps us,” he said. “Thank you, mayor, for that.” Thompson went through the team’s roster–a mix of players with varied levels of college and professional experience–sharing a quick anecdote at each stop. Catcher, Jimmy Best. “He is the best, baby,” Thompson said. At first base, Frank Cerami, or “a guy from Riverside who came up here and wanted to play ball one night.” Right field, Kyle Cichy: right field at least part of the time. “He said, ‘What do you need?’ He pitches, catches, plays the outfield and plays the infield,” Thompson said. The way Thompson described it, each player seemed to be brought to the Merchants through one interesting circumstance after the next, and served an important role on the team. “These guys are class (acts), believe me,” he said. “If you played with them, you would find out.” Thompson then turned and faced the players. “It’s just nothing but a pleasure to have you on
IMPROVEMENTS PAGE 6
The third resolution authorized the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency to resell an affordable housing unit, as to ensure the township gets credit to its affordable housing obligations. The fifth amended a previous resolution that designated a redeveloper for certain lands, allowing for revisions to put the legally-filed name of the redeveloper on all documents. While not entirely related to these three resolutions, several residents during public comment did express concern about the township’s redevelopment plan, particularly the potential traffic it will bring to town. Doris Cinkowski, a longtime resident, was the first to take to the microphone to say she was worried about the congestion. In response, Brown said “in my opinion, I was not elected to be Mayor of traffic,” explaining that he’s heard congestion complaints for 11 years. Cinkowsi added that she didn’t want to see the Marlton Tavern leave, echoing the fear of other residents linked to redevelopment. “Not only is the tavern staying up, but, actually they have approval to build and
EDUCATION PAGE 4
a sportsmanship award given to Lenape from the Olympic Conference. He said performing arts groups earned numerous honors and state championships. Following the presentation, the board acted on a sizable amount of business. A policy detailing protocol for administering an opioid antidote was introduced on first reading. One board member asked if language could be included in the policy to allow for a School Resource Officer (SRO) to administer an opioid antidote if a school nurse is not available. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carol Birnbohm said that such power is already granted
board,” he said. Thompson acknowledged the great run that the team has had of late. The Merchants finished this season at 26-6-1 en route to capturing the championship. But in the manager’s mind, the team still has some work to do, as he has seen even better results over his storied career. “In 1997, 98, 99, and 2000, we had a ball team here that won four championships in a row, which is a record in the RVL that I don’t think will ever be broken unless this team breaks it,” he said. You’ll find Thompson on the bench, along the way, who said it’s “the love of the game” that brings him back year after year. The Merchants have been another family to Thompson, too. “My wife died in 1971 and this has carried me through the whole situation because I knew from mid-April to the end of July I was coaching and managing a bunch of guys,” said Thompson in a follow-up interview. “When you get on that bench there three or four nights a week, you’re just like a family. Believe me.” As final congratulations, the players and coaches were gifted souvenir baseballs by the township, engraved with “Vincentown PHOTO BY VINCE DEBLASIO Merchants 2017 RVL Champions.” Vincentown Merchants Players look and wave at parade onlookers.
expand,” said Brown, confirming he spoke to tavern owner George Lavdas recently. The mayor also took the time to quash any “false rumors” about the township putting affordable housing on Main Street as part of its redevelopment plan. He said he was approached by residents claiming such to be true. The fourth resolution approved the township’s personnel policy. The sixth through 10th resolutions renewed expiring contracts, each for an additional year: SJAP Naturalink, for leaf disposal and recycling with hauling; Specialty Graphics, LLC, for work uniforms for Public Works; RJM Construction Services, Inc., for disposal of concrete, asphalt, tires, treated lumber and trash materials; and Westerby Farms, for leaf disposal. No information was given on the seventh, however, pertaining to disposal of grass and brush. The next 12 resolutions ratified contracts for township positions on the planning and zoning boards. For the planning board, the following were approved: Stuart A. Platt, Solicitor; Chris R. Rehmann, Engineer; Rakesh Darji, Alternate Engineer; Stacey Arcari/Darji, Traffic Engineer; Behram Turan, Environmental Consultant; and Matthew B. Wieliczko, Conflict Attorney.
For the zoning board: Wieliczko, Solicitor; Rehmann, Engineer; Arcari/Darji, Traffic Engineer; Darji, Environmental Consultant; Platt, Conflict Attorney; and Darji, Conflict Engineer. Platt’s solicitor contract drew questions from a resident. Rosemary Bernardi had doubts about the planning board solicitor, who brought forward a lawsuit over the closure of Evans Elementary School. “I didn’t think that was very good use of our taxpayer dollars,” she said. “In addition, the solicitor is representing three of the school board members (in a defamation lawsuit), so I feel it would be better to perhaps cut our ties with this particular solicitor at this time.” Her comments did not receive a response. The 23rd resolution approved the insertion of revenue for the $5,500 award attached to the “Drive Sober” campaign. The next approved sale of surplus property. Another authorized competitive contracting for payroll processing and time and attendance software services. The 26th resolution authorized process and payment of the annual software maintenance invoice of $18,073 to Laserfiche Document Management System Maintenance. The 27th authorized the cancellation and refund of
property taxes for a resident who is a totallydisabled veteran. The final resolution appointed Rebecca Andrews as acting deputy clerk, during the scheduled absence of the municipal clerk. Council announced a special meeting to be held Sept. 19 at 4 p.m. for the awarding of a 2017 road program. Closing the meeting, Township Solicitor John Gillespie called on council to introduce a motion to authorize the administration to proceed with eminent domain to condemn the Burger King at Tri-Towne Plaza, a redevelopment site. Gillespie acknowledged that Brown, earlier in the meeting, stated that eminent domain would not be used on Main Street or Maple Avenue; however, the Tri-Towne area posed different circumstances, he said. “It was agreed with the owner of that site that if they were not able to work out relocation of that restaurant, and if that Burger King proved to be an impediment to the redevelopment of the property, that the township would choose to move forward with the condemnation of the lease-hold interests,” Gillespie said. Council voted unanimously to introduce a motion that authorizes the use of eminent domain on the Burger King lot.
to officers. Several payments were authorized. The check payments totaled $7,974,800.71. Payroll for July came to $2,172,470.49. The board approved two resolutions which awarded bids for projects at two district schools. One went to Kaser Mechanical, LLC for the replacement of an AC-5 condensing unit at Shawnee High School; the other went to QPI Electrical Company, Inc. to install auditorium LED lighting at Seneca High School. The Evesham Township Police Department’s use of the Cherokee High School track, for annual physical testing through Sept. 13, was authorized. The board hired nine new staff members and affirmed several secretaries, substitute
teachers, nurses and others. Seven resignations and retirements and three leaves of absence were accepted. Board members approved seven donations totaling $5,100, which break down as follows: $300 from Lincoln Investment for a Cherokee lab; $300 from the Marlton Business Association and $100 from Evesham Mortgage for a Cherokee music program; $600 (cost of shirts) from Flying W Airport for Shawnee’s football program; and $500 from the Shawnee Boys’ Soccer Booster Club, $500 from Shawnee Boys’ Lacrosse Booster Club, and $2,800 from Shawnee Football Booster Club for purchasing Shawnee weight-room equipment. A request by Michael Fowlin was granted approval for performing his one-man
show titled “You Don’t Know Me Until You Know Me” to the Seneca Freshman class on Nov. 27. According to Fowlin’s website, the performance “takes the audience on an experiential journey,” to reexamine core precepts that were taught. The board went into executive session for approximately 35 minutes following the conclusion of the regular portion of the board meeting. Upon return, a motion was made to authorize a separation agreement with an employee. The motion was approved unanimously. No additional details were immediately available. The LRHSD Board of Education’s next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m.
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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.
Commodity Agriculture’s Dark ‘Green’ Future A generation ago, GMO sounded like the with a green tide? In an Aug. 14 opinion piece published online name of an American muscle car, a text was what the preacher based his Sunday sermon on, by Agri-Pulse, Tom Dorr, the former and Facebook was two words that meant face Undersecretary for Rural Development and the past CEO of the U.S. Grains Council, urged and book. Now, 25 short years later, genetically U.S. agriculture to not “continue to consume modified seeds dominate American agriculture, itself with producing commodity products” like texting has replaced baseball as our national the “last nine decades.” Instead, he explains, “(A)griculture is pastime, and Facebook’s market value is more than two times the value of Deere, Monsanto, changing dramatically and there are substantial new food and agriculture markets being defined AGCO, and General Motors combined. Even more telling, that short, post-1992 list in emerging and developing parts of the globe. does not include GPS, drones, robotic milking Why not look ahead and develop policies that machines, gene editing, climate change, and a help position U.S. agriculture as a value-added Gulf of Mexico “dead zone” equal in size to market leader?” Yeah, why not? New Jersey. Because change isn’t what American ag If rapid change continues—and what’s going to slow it?—American agriculture will be even policy leaders typically embrace. To prove that more different a generation from now than a point, Dorr notes that the “current conversations generation ago. The big driver behind much of regarding the need for incremental [2018] farm the coming change, however, may not be, as it bill changes” are “disheartening.” But keeping our crop insurance-based, was in the past, choice. The biggest driver will commodity-centered ag policies will not change likely be necessity. For example, it’s a pretty solid bet that joint a “world food market (that) has changed,” public-private action on climate change will he continues. The world market “used to… move people and industry toward greener demand commodities to process into fuels—solar, wind, and electricity—and away consumable products… Now the food market from greenhouse-gas-producing fossil fuels is demanding high-quality, defined, traceable, and secure food.” (Country of origin labeling, wherever possible. As proof, Hawaii and Sweden are already anyone?) That simple, evident change, he notes, implementing long-range plans to be 100 percent “green” by 2045. Nearly every aspect “clearly indicates… global food expenditures… of these state and national efforts—cars, doubling… from $3.6 trillion to $7.3 trillion… public transportation, food production, from 2011 to 2020.” If American agricultural and legislative manufacturing—will be powered by renewable leaders fail to acknowledge this shift, he writes, energy. Back on the farm, that likely means ethanol, “we’re doomed to marginal returns and a the still-controversial biofuel that a recent Iowa renewed diminishment of rural America.” That State University study noted had “nil impact on path “reflects an abhorrent lack of responsibility reducing carbon emission(s),” faces an and self-respect within the industry.” Which is where U.S. farmers and ranchers increasingly tough future. Ironically, ethanol may not be driven into history by find themselves now: hat in hand, again, waiting its archenemy, Big Oil. Instead, it will go in a for some other farmer or rancher’s misfortune in the hope it will boost prices enough to deliver small—probably driverless—electric car. While this change represents but a blip on a profit. One more generation of this policy drift— the international energy scene, it will be an enormous change for rural America. Since new technology or not—should just about nearly 40 percent of today’s U.S. corn crop goes empty rural America for generations to come into ethanol production, even the tiniest pebble even as new, food-producing farmers are sidetracked by commodity-focused, not tossed into that pond causes a big wave. So, what shore should American ag policy market-focused, farm policy. Irresponsible, indeed. planners be looking toward when, a generation from now, the biofuel industry is hit © 2017 AG COMM. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own views and do not reflect the view of the Pine Barrens Tribune.
CROSSWORD
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AUTOMOTIVE New Vehicle Buying Guide Compiled by Motor Matters
E-mail Questions To: info@motormatters.com Mail Questions To: PO Box 3305, Wilmington, DE 19804
2017 Toyota Tundra With more than four dozen possible configurations and a towing capacity of up to 10,500 pounds, the 2017 Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck powered by a V8exclusive engine lineup and is offered in three cab styles: two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax in 2WD and 4x4 models. The Tundra Regular Cab models, popular as work trucks, come exclusively with an 8.1-foot long-bed. Double Cab models, offered with either a 6.5-foot standard-bed or long-bed configurations, use forward-hinged rear doors, and offer 34.7 inches of rear seat legroom. The CrewMax prioritizes room for people. Its longer cab, larger rear doors, and shorter 5.5foot bed make for a limo-like 42.3 inches of rear seat legroom. Limited trim Double Cab models come standard with a power sliding horizontal rear window, while all CrewMax models have a power vertical sliding rear window. Tundra beds are 22.2 inches deep and, when properly equipped, offer a payload capacity of up to 2,080 pounds. The lockable easy-lower-
and-lift tailgate lowers slowly with no slam and can easily be removed. Carrying larger items is made easy with the available deck rail system and a spray-in bed liner. The Tundra can be powered by one of two available i-Force V8 engines. The standard 4.6-liter i-Force V8 produces 310 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 327 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,400 rpm. The 5.7-liter V8 ups the ante to 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. All Tundra models are equipped with a 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The foundation of Tundra’s strength and 10,500-lb. towing capacity is its TripleTech frame. “Triple” refers to the wide, full-boxed rails for the front portion, a reinforced Cchannel under the cab and an open C-channel beneath the bed for strength, ride quality, and durability. Base model estimated mpg: 15/19 Estimated starting price: $30,020 Compiled by Motor Matters.
2017 Toyota Tundra.
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