Gabor, Morey Become Freeholders, Board Reorganizes

CREST HAVEN — Witnessed by about 300 well-wishers, Freeholders Will Morey and Kristine Gabor took their first oaths from Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno for three-year terms on the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders Thur., Jan. 5.
The evening reorganization of county government was significant for several reasons:
By unanimous board vote, Gerald Thornton was named director and M. Susan Sheppard was named vice director.
Freeholder Leonard Desiderio announced his intention to seek reelection to his seat.
The entire Cape May County Chiefs of Police Association attended to show unified support for Sheriff Gary Schaffer, sworn to his second term. A group photograph was taken at the conclusion of the meeting with County Prosecutor Robert Taylor, retired Freeholder Ralph Sheets Jr., who oversaw Public Safety and who was a retired Wildwood chief of police, Leonard Desiderio, who will oversee public safety, U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-2nd) and James Plousis, former sheriff, former U.S. Marshal for N.J. and chair of the state Parole Board.
Superior Court Judge John Porto administered Schaffer’s oath. Schaffer was accompanied by his wife, Deb. police officer sons, Stephen, the newest Ocean City sergeant, and Officer Matthew and daughter Danielle.
Accompanying Gabor during her oath was husband Richard, and sons Richard, in the Coast Guard Reserve, and Christopher, a sophomore at Ocean City High School. Both sons joined to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
With Morey was his wife, Janice, and son Will.
During her abbreviated stay, after administering the freeholders’ oaths, Guadagno reminded the crowd of the “freedom we cherish…to say what we believe, and the freedom to disagree and to debate, and do that peacefully, not only in Cape May County and New Jersey, but in this country. Not every country has those freedoms,” she said.
“Not every council can celebrate as openly and politely as you all do down here in Cape May County. We are here to celebrate with you,” she continued. She urged the newly-sworn freeholders to “Remind ourselves in this reorganization meeting it is all about disagreeing in a respectful, peaceful, honorable way.”
“Remember the oath’s last line…by authority of the people. That’s what it’s about. Never forget that. It is about the people we represent,” she said.
LoBiondo recalled his election to the Cumberland County freeholder board in 1984. One of the first people he met with for guidance, he said, was Gerald Thornton. “He would give me straight advice,” said the congressman. “He had the wisdom and foresight that a freshman, coming on the board needed to know. That Gerry Thornton brought to the board year after year was his commitment to each and every one of you,” he continued.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of this team,” said LoBiondo.
Thornton noted the many late night calls that he and the congressman had exchanged working out problems in the county. Then, Thornton cited Judge Porto, formerly assistant county counsel, then counsel, “And he’s a much better golfer than me,” he joked.
“Clearly, this is a different journey for me,” stated Morey. “The reason is simple, I want to see the county become a more vibrant place to visit, live and work,” he said. He added his aim would be to contribute to that objective.
Recalling his father’s work ethic, Morey said, on being asked why he was successful, his father replied “It’s a hundred reasons. It’s actions that lead to that. I draw from that,” Morey added. “I respect the challenges ahead. They abound, so do opportunities. I am bolstered by the confidence of the people of this county,” he said.
Gabor thanked the staff of Upper Township government as well as members of that municipality’s governing body who took her “under their wings.” She singled out Frank Conrad, who urged her to become a member of the local Republican Club and get involved.
“I got involved,” she smiled.
She cited Lynda Pagliughi and Suzanne Walters as being role models for women to follow in government and politics. “They set an example for the rest of us to follow. They are wonderful women,” said Gabor.
She lauded county Republican Chairman Michael Donohue, who was in the room, “who has proven good leadership can lead to great things.”
“We ran unopposed, now it’s time to earn the confidence and approval of the people. We will represent the people of Cape May County in the way you deserve,” Gabor said.
Desiderio thanked his former departments and department heads for “making me look good.” He expressed his excitement in taking over the Department of Public Safety from Ralph Sheets. “I have his number on speed dial,” he joked. To the chiefs of police, Desiderio joked as he told his license plate, “ZLD-1 tell them it’s a good guy.” “I look forward to seeking reelection with Congressman LoBiondo. I’m looking forward to a Republican U.S. senator, electing a new surrogate and also a new president of the United States, hopefully from the Republican column,” Desiderio said.
“It’s a new day in Cape May County, “ said Sheppard, and then thanked Donohue. That drew a round of applause from the crowd.
Thornton, in congratulating the two newest board members erroneously said “Kim and Will…I meant Kris,” he said.
“Call me anything you want,” laughed Gabor.
“Maybe you will be the lieutenant governor some day,” added Thornton.
The name gaffe was not the only one in the session.
During the sheriff’s oath, Porto began “Repeat after me, I, Gary Sheppard…Schaffer,” that brought a round of laughter and a chance to restart the oath.
Thornton thanked all the county workers, especially for the extraordinary work they did during the hurricane to evacuate 167 long-term nursing home patients from Crest Haven Nursing Home.
Additionally, he, too, thanked Donohue and the county Republican organization for “everything they have done for us and the financial help they have given. Elections are won through financing. They have been very generous and kind to us. He then lauded the “street walkers” who did a “great job” helping get out the vote on Election Day.
“It’s anew day for all of us,” said Thornton.
Pastor Rudy Sheptock then delivered the Benediction.
County employee Mark Huff sang “God Bless America” to end the meeting.