Tabernacle is one of only three towns throughout Burlington County that will receive the full $250,000 parks grant, county officials said.
The award is the fourth cycle of funding by the county Municipal Park Development Assistance Program. Freeholders use $5 million annually from the open space fund, parks and farmland and historic preservation trust fund to support local parks, recreation projects and construction work in the municipalities.
All the towns within Burlington County are eligible for up to $250,000 each year, but Tabernacle, along with Mt. Holly and Delanco, are the only three towns that are receiving the maximum amount. Other grants range from $50,000 to $248,500. The county received applications totaling more than $8 million.
Township administrator Doug Cramer said that the money would be used to complete the ongoing work at Patty Bowker Park, adding a concession stand as well as handicap accessible paths and bleachers.
In other news:
Mayor Stephen Lee presented a proclamation honoring the family of Anthony and Mildred Russo Jr. at the Township Committee meeting. Members of the Russo family were in attendance to receive plaques of the proclamation that was a tribute to their parents but also the efforts of each generation of the family to continue the Russo legacy in Tabernacle.
The once 86-acre farm is now more than 500 acres but still family run by Anthony and Mildred’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. The Russo family established their farm in Tabernacle in 1940, growing fresh fruits and vegetables and later opening a farm market selling their produce. The farm remains at the corner of Carranza and Medford Lakes roads.
The farm stand sells fruit and vegetables grown on the family farm, as well as other local hallmarks, including wine from Valenzano Winery in Shamong The property’s bakery serves freshly baked breads, pastries, pies and the allegedly world famous apple cider donuts. Greenhouses surround the market and are filled with flowering baskets and flats in the summer, pumpkins and gourds in the fall and Christmas trees and wreaths in the winter. A large selection of gift items and home décor are available throughout the market.
Anthony Russo Jr. and Joseph Casano were former members of the Tabernacle Township Committee and the planning board. The proclamation cites that many churches, schools and organizations have benefitted from the family’s generosity and efforts.
Members of the Russo family filled town hall beaming with pride and thanking the committee for honoring the legacy set forth by Anthony and Mildred.
Each member of the committee commented on their favorite aspects of Russo’s farm, from committeewoman Kimberly Brown complimenting the friendly and
“Cheers” like atmosphere where everyone knows your name, to Rick Franzen saying the apple cider donuts are a family favorite. Joe Barton specifically mentioned how beautiful the property was, and it is a joy to have the business be a part of the Tabernacle community.
