Wrestling starts at 4:00pm at Lenape HS, Medford NJ. Robinson and his Lenape team will IRONICALLY be wrestling Triton HS, which is where Robinson started making a name for himself as a successful head coach for their varsity wrestling team.

Coach Robinson brought the Triton program from zero to top 20 in the short 4 years that he coached there.

Now in his 5th year at Lenape he continues to grow as a coach and mentor to the talented group of wrestlers passing through Lenape’s program.

CONGRATULATIONS JOE AND GOOD LUCK!

Mayor David Brown is pleased to announce that thanks to the tireless efforts of the Township Council and administration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) will reimburse the Township in excess of $1.9 million additional dollars for costs associated with the July 2004 floods. The Township previously received approximately $930,000 in reimbursement related to the catastrophic event. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the funds will come from FEMA with the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) from the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management.

“This is a great day for the people of Medford. The Township has pursued these funds steadily since the remediation work was done. Finally, our pleas have been heard and our hard work has paid off,” explained the Mayor. Councilman Chris Myers added, “Too often we hear about recovery efforts from natural disasters in other parts of the country.

When the events of the July 2004 flood struck home, our emergency responders put forth incredible effort to save lives and property. We expended millions of dollars in repairing the extensive damage with FEMA’s acknowledgement, and with the expectation that the federal government was there to assist us financially. After aggressive action on Medford’s part over the past four years, FEMA has recognized the effort put forth, and has confirmed it will reimburse the Medford taxpayers for these actions.”

The flood occurred in the Summer of 2004, and the Township efforts to obtain reimbursement were undertaken soon thereafter. FEMA authorized the recovery work, however, it initially would only reimburse the Township $131,360 for certain work, including the repair of sewer main and roadway wiped out by the flood at Ramblewood Drive. The Township appealed FEMA’s limited reimbursement decision in both 2006 and 2007. With those appeals pending, the Township continued to press representatives from FEMA for the recovery of funds it was due.

“Our residents should be proud of the commitment put forth by our emergency responders. Thanks to the quick and decisive action of dedicated men and women, no lives were lost during the storm and recovery efforts,” lauded Councilwoman Mary Ann O’Brien. “The efforts by the Township after the storm to make repairs, and pursue reimbursement are also to be commended,” she continued.

Councilman Joseph Lynn noted, “We continued to press the position with FEMA that the destroyed sewer pipe would have contaminated the lakes and shorelines downstream if not immediately corrected, creating a public health problem. We had to bypass sewage and rebuild the system while holding back millions of gallons of water from upstream. The end result was a great effort by emergency responders, Township staff and the construction team.”

FEMA representatives have now confirmed that the Township’s emergency repair and remediation efforts will be reimbursed the additional $1.9 million, on top of the funds originally received. The Township expects to receive those funds by the month’s end.

“In the end we just wanted to be treated fairly, like any other town that is devastated by a natural event. We are thankful that FEMA has ultimately acknowledged our efforts and will reimburse our expenses,” concluded Deputy Mayor Robert Martin.

CONTACT: MICHAEL ACHEY, TOWNSHIP MANAGER
(609) 654-2608 x328

This past September, the Medford Township Council committed $175,000 towards the purchase of new playground equipment and safety improvements to Fort Medford. 

The Council reached out to some of the original Medford Playground Committee volunteers to propose a vision for an addition to Fort Medford that is 100% handicapped accessible, made with 100% recyclable materials, completely eco-friendly made with “Trex” material.

After purchasing all new playground equipment, additional funds are needed for amenities such as a newly poured recycled surface in both existing and new playground areas, paved handicapped parking spaces, “Trex” guardrails, expanded fencing, and installation costs.  In order to realize this dream, the Fort Medford Playground Committee’s goal is to raise $100,000.  The success of this project depends on the help of generous donors to bring this dream to its completion so that the new playground area is opened by the first day of spring, 2009.

The improvements of Fort Medford are a part of a 13-year story that began in the early 1990’s when a group of new mothers in Medford had a dream for a playground created, funded and built by the community.  In the spring of 1995, that dream was realized with the help of many generous donations and the hard labor of community volunteers to build Fort Medford in five days.

The new vision for Fort Medford which has already begun with the initial playground equipment improvements includes Fort Medford becoming 100% accessible, made with 100% recyclable materials, completely eco-friendly made with “Trex” material.  The rubberized surfaces in all accessible playgrounds accommodate wheelchairs and walkers and include unique and specialized features. Children or adults in wheelchairs can also use the wide ramps to get to the top of all climbing structures.

The new Fort Medford will provide an opportunity for children of all abilities to play together, thus providing a place of unity for the community. Accessible playgrounds are also important for adults with special-needs, allowing them to take part in these playground activities with their children and grandchildren and interact with them whereas in many typical playgrounds they are unable to due to the lack of amenities for those with special-needs.

If you would like to join the efforts in continuing to uphold our township as a leader in the provision of quality parks and recreational facilities by making this 100% accessible and “green” playground a reality for everyone, please contact the Fort Medford Playground Committee at (856) 988-1552.

CONTACT:
Beth A. Portocalis (frmr. Richmond), Director
Medford Recreation Department
Cranberry Hall
17 North Main Street
Medford, NJ  08055-2411
PHONE: (609) 654-2512
FAX: (609) 654-6536
E-MAIL:  bportocalis@medfordtownship.com

The Renegades clinched their second straight title Friday night in a 28-7 victory.  This is the first time in the school’s history that they’ve won back to back titles.  Friday’s championship game also saw Shawnee’s running back Chris LaPierre become the New Jersey all time single season touchdown leader, with 44 touchdowns.

For more information, visit the Shawnee Football Website

We are now accepting applications for food vendors, musicians, entertainers, Carolers, strolling Dickens characters for our annual “Spectacular” Dickens Festival.

The festival is scheduled for Saturday December 6, 2008 from 6:00pm to 9:30 pm. (Rain Date: Sunday December 7, 2008 from 3:00-6:30) Festivities will take place along Historic Main Street.

The Historic Medford Village Association has made some recent changes in leadership. They are very pleased to announce they have made a few exciting changes to the Festival. “A Must See” They are anticipating this event to be one of our best. You don’t want to miss it!

For more information about this “Spectacular” Dickens Festival or to obtain an application please contact Betsy Hudson or Julie Scott at 609-714-8811 or via email info@medfordvillage.com

*This press release was created by the Historic Medford Village Association.  MedfordNJ.com is not associated with with the Historic Medford Village Association, and offers this information as a service to our readers.

The all-you-can-eat event provides fun for the whole family with music, games, rides and kids’ treats. Three live bands will keep feet tapping and more than 40 local businesses will display their wares.

Participating restaurants include ShopRite of Medford, Izzie’s Eatery, Lamberti’s Cucina, LB Daniel’s, Let’s Dish, Medford Leas, Mexicana Rose, Mulberry Tea House, Piezano’s, PJ Whelihan’s, Roselli’s, Saladworks and Zinc Café. Cookiepalooza, Reily’s Candy and Kettle of Nuts will serve up treats, Starbuck’s will provide coffee and Canal’s Wines Unlimited will pour non-alcoholic beverages. Local businesses will showcase their wares and offer fun give-aways for the whole family.

The event, presented by Zallie’s ShopRite of Medford, features horse-drawn wagon rides, pony rides and hayrides from Johnson’s Corner Farm. Face-painting, coloring contests and dog agility demonstrations will please the younger set. Jennifer Mylod & the Boys of County O’cean, the Merchant Street Dixieland Band and saxophone virtuoso Jim Riddle will keep people stepping to Irish, traditional New Orleans and mellow jazz tunes throughout the afternoon. Coles Roberts will entertain all ages with his famous Jersey Jerry antique apple peeling demonstration.

Taste of Medford is a project of the Medford Business Association. Sponsors, in addition to Shop Rite of Medford, include Sterling Bank, Jantek Industries, LLC, Beneficial Bank, Dynamic Flooring, Medford Ford, Lakes Appliance & TV, Keller Williams Realtors and Medford Mini-Storage.

Keepsake wristbands that serve as admission tickets can be purchased in advance at the Medford Recreation Department in Cranberry Hall (behind the Township office building at 17 North Main Street).

The cost is $12.00 for adults and $5 for children 3-12. Toddlers and infants are free. At the door the cost will be $15 for adults and $5 for children. Freedom Park is located at Jones Road and Old Marlton Pike, one block off Route 70 in Medford.

For more information call 609-654-5382.

As the nation pauses to reflect on the destruction, the courage, the countless heroes and the unforgettable impressions of the day seven years ago that forever changed our country, the Medford Township Council has planned an observance at Medford’s Freedom Park beginning at 7:00 pm on Thursday, September 11, 2008. 

Freedom Park is located at 86 Union Street, one block south of Route 70.  (In the event of inclement weather, the observance will be held in the Courtroom in the Public Safety Building, located across the street from Freedom Park at 91 Union Street)    

As a part of Medford’s remembrance, reflection and response to the life-altering events of September 11th, the Medford Cultural Arts Commission (MCAC) erected a permanent September 11th Memorial tribute in Freedom Park in 2002. 

The memorial is comprised of a bronze sundial,permanently mounted on a natural boulder bearing a plaque inscribed with the words "September 11, 2001 REMEMBER, REFLECT, RESPOND" which was the theme of the remembrance program held in Freedom Park on the first anniversary of this national tragedy when this memorial was dedicated.

In recognition of the seventh anniversary of 9/11, this year’s observance will feature remarks by members of the local clergy and public safety officials, a wreath laying ceremony.

Directions to Freedom Park can be found here.

More information may also be obtained by contacting the Medford Recreation Department at 609-654-2512.

CONTACT:   Beth Portocalis

(609) 654-2512

On September 21, 2008 engines will be roaring as riders from all over the tri-state area tour through scenic Burlington County.

The American Red Cross of Burlington County was looking for a special event that was a little different, said Mike Giletto, Executive Board Member & Sponsor, thus we present: MOTORed – “HONORS OUR NEIGHBORS”.

Beginning at Cater 2U on Marne Highway in Mt. Laurel, the riders who register, for $30 a bike will receive a MOTORed T-shirt, Ride for the Red lacquered pin, and a great time. The poker run will lead off with the new Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle that will be used extensively in emergencies.

The new ERV will be escorted by the New Jersey State Police. Motorcycle Units from various towns, including Burlington City, will be riding along with us and assisting with traffic. The Thunder will roll down Marne Highway and on through to Pemberton Lake with stops for refreshments.

Concluding on the grounds of Cater 2U with a BBQ. Live entertainment provided by YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR, Muscle car show- Exotic car show –Antique bike show, announcement of the Grand Prize winner along with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places of the poker run. Be on hand for a wings & hot dog eating contest plus other prizes and chances to win donated items.

Antique and Custom bikes will be on display with trophies for best custom, touring, sport, cruiser, chopper, antique bike, and overall people’s choice. There will also be many vendors with a variety of related material.

Registration is easy. You can either call 856-235-3032 and ask for Mike, or register online at http://www.motoredridenj.com-a.googlepages.com

You can also register through the Chapter by calling 609-267-9595 ext. 105 and asking for Arlene and a registration form. Pre-registration is reduced to only $25 per bike; all military personnel (active or retired) are only $20 per bike. Buffet is $9.00 per person and $4.00 for kids 10 and under. Don’t miss this historical event!

This unreasonable and unjustifiable burden has been placed on Medford despite the Township’s long history of good faith compliance with its COAH requirements, having fully satisfied its First and Second Round affordable housing obligations. Further, Medford has created affordable housing opportunities within the Township, as evidenced by Council’s recent support for the MEND affordable senior project, the Medford Leas Creekside project, and its commitment to renovation of the historic Singer House for use as supportive housing.

COAH’s arbitrary and poorly-considered determination that Medford has a prospective affordable housing obligation of 328 units ignores issues such as lack of sewer capacity, which has been recognized by the New Jersey Supreme Court, the restraints on development imposed by other state agencies, such as the Office of Smart Growth, DEP and the Pinelands Commission, and encourages the wasteful extension of infrastructure improvements.

It is also entirely inconsistent with, and threatens Medford’s outstanding Farmland and Open Space Program, with more than 3000 acres preserved. It is also in direct contravention of the anti-sprawl policies advocated by the State Development and Redevelopment Plan.

To make matters worse, today the Governor is signing Assembly Bill A-500, which proposes substantial amendments to the Fair Housing Act and other legislation. Despite the numerous defects set forth above, the regulations adopted by COAH on June 2 still allowed communities to pass on the affordable housing obligation generated by these developments to the developers, either through the requirement of construction of affordable housing or making a payment to the municipality that would be dedicated for affordable housing purposes. But the Bill being signed by the Governor today removes even that option! Instead, all new non-residential development will pay a flat developer’s fee of 2.5%. The Bill then tries to funnel that money to the State, and out of the hands of the municipalities. This new Act will make it virtually impossible for communities to meet the already unrealistic and burdensome affordable housing obligations imposed upon them by the new COAH rules. Unless this legislation is repealed, the Township’s taxpayers and those in the municipalities will end up footing the bill, a result never envisioned by the Supreme Court in the Mount Laurel cases and contrary to the underlying principle of the Fair Housing Act that “nothing shall require a municipality to raise or expend municipal revenues in order to provide low and moderate income housing.”

As noted by Mayor Chris Myers “The Third Round Rules and the FHA Amendments enacted today by Governor Corzine and the Trenton bureaucracy impose yet another arbitrary, unfunded mandate on municipalities. In Medford’s case, it punishes a town which has always been COAH compliant, which has actually generated COAH units, and has balanced open space and farmland preservation goals with the development pressures created by COAH. It is a slap in the face”.

While Medford has supported the underlying premise of the Mount Laurel doctrine, that municipalities should not use their zoning power to exclude the poor, and has without exception met its COAH obligations in good faith and with the approval of the Courts, the ill-considered regulations adopted by COAH, and the devastating provisions of A-500, are no way to honor this basic principle. Instead, millions of taxpayer dollars will be spent in litigation and in preparing fair share plans that will result in precious little affordable housing. Medford strongly urges Trenton and the Governor to take a more realistic, less politically motivated view of a municipality’s ability to address affordable housing and at the same time control its own land use regulations and character in a way that prohibits exclusionary zoning, but at the same time prevents sprawl and undue burden on our taxpayers.

CONTACT: MICHAEL ACHEY TOWNSHIP MANAGER 609-654-2608

Come out and join the members of the South Jersey Unit of the Herb Society of America for this informative lecture.

Dr. James Still (1812-1882) was not a trained or licensed physician. At a time when most doctors relied on unproven medications, James Still was a distinguished herbalist–a seller of botanical remedies of his own devising, the superiority of which gained him a large clientele. Known as the "black doctor" of the pinelands, early New Jersey settlers came from miles around to be treated by Dr. Still.

With only three months of traditional schooling, he was a self-taught doctor, using money he earned from working in a glue factory to buy books on medical botany.

William H. Still was raised in Moorestown, New Jersey. He received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Delaware State College and his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University.

Besides spending time in social, community and religious activities, Mr. Still serves as President of the Still Family Society, Inc, his family reunion society, which republished the book, “The Underground Railroad” in 2005. After the presentation, various books from the Still Family Society will be available for purchase.

The South Jersey Unit of the Herb Society of America is sponsoring this meeting, which is open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

If you need further information, please call Elaine Shaughnessy at 856-768-1657.