PRESS

A host of musical favorites from the Northwest New Jersey region will make their way to Hope Township starting in mid-January when the Inn at Millrace Pond launches a Friday night music series in its quaint Tavern Pub. The Inn at Millrace Pond, a historic bed and breakfast and restaurant just minutes from Rt. 80, Exit 12, will feature predominately singersongwriters each Friday from 8:30pm to 10:30pm, starting January 11th. The Tavern, located in the restaurant's tap room downstairs, is the perfect setting to listen to music and enjoy a pub style menu. Guitar instrumentalist Jody Price kicks off the series on January 11th, followed by Matt Schmidt on the 18th, and dynamo Jack Tannehill on the 25th. Among the acts scheduled for February are Karen Kamenetsky & Friends (February 1st), rock/blues trio RBI (February 15th) and the eclectic Kathy Moser (February 22nd). The Inn at Millrace Pond is located in the heart of Hope at 313 Johnsonburg Road by Rt. 519. For more information about the Inn at Millrace Pond, to make a reservation in the restaurant "upstairs" or in the "Tavern Pub" downstairs, call 908459-4884 or visit www. innatmillracepond.com.

A week before Christmas, RE/MAX Ridge Real Estate delivered to the US Marines the bounty from this years Toys For Tots collection drive. The agents of RE/MAX Ridge Real Estate from both the Blairstown and Washington offices left no stone unturned in their efforts, including collecting toys from their circles of clients, family and friends. Thanks to the heart-felt generosity of the community, carloads of toys made their way to Picattiny Arsenal from the RE/MAX Ridge offices. Picattiny Arsenal is one of the main distribution venues for this wonderful US Marine Corps charity. RE/MAX Ridge also hosted an earlyDecember holiday party in their Blairstown office with a theme of Bring Santa A Toy. Gail Masson-Romano, Broker-Owner of RE/MAX Ridge, explained, Santa, The Grinch, Mrs. Claus, Santas Elves, Frosty and Rudolph and other

costumed RE/MAX Ridge agents greeted more than 400 children and parents to our holiday. We suggested to the parents that they ask their children to help Santa this Christmas by bringing him a toy. By helping Santa to fill up his sleigh with toys he would visit every home and leave presents for every child. The response from the com-

munity was overwhelming and, as a result, we received many more gifts for our Toys For Tots program and the parents captured on camera the true joy of giving as only a child can express. RE/MAX Ridge is honored to be a part of this charitable endeavor and we look forward with enthusiasm to next years Toys For Tots

drive. We wish to thank all those who so generously contributed toys this year bringing a little more joy into the world through so many childrens hearts. RE/MAX Ridge offices are located in Blairstown at 8 Main Street and in Washington at 218 Rt. 31. For more information call RE/MAX Ridge at 800962-7789.

RE/MAX House Values 4 of Hackettstown hosted its 3rd Annual Toys for Tots collections from November through December 19th. The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas

gifts to needy children in the community. Calling out to the community was a huge success as always. Donations of new, unwrapped toys poured into the office of RE/MAX House Values 4, located at 1585 Route 517, in the Panther Valley Mall. The office collected and dropped

The annual meeting of the Catherine Dickson Hofman Library Association will be held at 7pm on Monday, January 14th at the CDHL branch of the Warren County Library, 4 Lambert Rd., Blairstown. The public is welcome. The Riverton Hotel and Restaurant is celebrating their 34th Anniversary! In honor of their anniversary, the Markopoulos family invites you to enjoy complimentary hors d'oeuvres with every dinner purchase for the entire month of January. Notice of Public

Meeting: The 2013 meeting schedule of the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission is established as follows: Thursdays, January 17th, March 21st, May 16th, July 18th, September 19th and November 21st. All meetings will be conducted at 7:30pm at Shippen Manor Museum, located at 8 Belvidere Ave., Oxford. For more information, call 908-453-4381. The Sycamore Park Playground Project is currently accepting donations to help make this dream a reality in Blairstown. As a

community-built project, financial support and volunteers are needed. Like Sycamore Park Playground Project on Facebook for more information. Relay for Life of North Warren is looking for anyone interested in joining the fight against cancer for the American Cancer Society. Local cancer survivors are also sought out and invited to the complimentary dinner at the 2013 Relay. The event will be held at North Warren High School on June 8th; teams are forming now. For more information, call Susan Wilson at 973-583-8866, or Tracey DePano at 973285-8025. Calling all fine art crafters! The Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council is inviting you to rent space in their Fine Art Crafts area in the gallery. All work must be original to the

artist and approved. Call Chriss Murphy at 973-383-0027 for a prospectus contract and more information. The PRESS Pet Photo Contest has begun! Send your pet photos to thepresspetsnj@gmail. com for your chance to win a prize! See page 10 for details. Happy birthday wishes are sent to Kayla Rittenhouse, January 9th; Tammy Lankford, January 10th; Wade Miller, January 10th; Rebecca Ronco, January 11th; Westen Gava, January 11th; Paula Mintz, January 14th; and Lisa Box, January 15th. We love hearing from you! Send your birthdays, anniversaries, and other info to: The PRESS PO Box 430 Blairstown, NJ 07825 thepressnews@enter.net thepressnewsonline.com Dont Forget to Like Us on Facebook!

Here is a list of notable books and other items that have been added to the collection recently at the Warren County Library: Good Prose: The Art of Nonfiction, by Tracy Kidder. Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child, by Marc Weissbluth. Prodigy: A Legend Novel (Legend (Trilogy - Hardcover)), by Marie Lu. The Finer Edge: Crocheted Trims, Motifs & Borders, by Kristin Omdahl. The Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs: 500 Classic & Original Patterns, by Linda P. Schapper. Crochet 101: Master Basic Skills and Techniques Easily through Step-by-Step Instruction, by Deborah Burger. Monster High 2: The Ghoul Next Door,

by Lisi Harrison. Illustrated Study Guide for the NCLEX-RN Exam, 8e, by JoAnn Zerwekh MSN EdD RN. All I Want for Christmas, from Paramount. Jeremiah Johnson, from Warner Home Video. The 5th Musketeer, from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Knitted Animal Hats, by Fiona Goble. Step It Up Knits: Take Your Skills to the Next Level with 25 Quick and Stylish Projects, by Vickie Howell. When I Was Small, by Sara O'Leary. Barron's Firefighter Candidate Exams, 7th Edition (Barron's Firefighter Exams), by James Murtagh. Fancy Nancy: Too Many Tutus (I Can Read Book 1), by Jane OConnor. When Parents Die: Learning to Live with the Loss of a Parent, by Rebecca Abrams. Odyssey (Hutch), by Jack McDevitt. Journey Home, by Yoshiko Uchida. With Every Drop of Blood: A Novel of the Civil War, by James Lincoln Collier. Phillipsburg Area Historic Sites Survey, by Frank L Greenagel. Palace of Stone (Princess Academy), by Shannon Hale. Knits at Home: Rustic Designs for the Modern Nest, by Ruth Cross. Learn to Turn, 2nd Edition, Revised and Expanded: A Beginner's Guide to Woodturning from Start to Finish, by Barry Gross. So Pretty! Crochet: Inspiration and Instructions for 24 Stylish Projects, by Amy Palanjian. Medical Transcription For Dummies (For Dummies (Career/Education)), by Anne Martinez. The Almost Truth, by Eileen Cook.

The Mars Exploration Program is a sciencedriven program that seeks to understand whether Mars was, is, or can be a habitable world. And, after three months on Mars, NASAs Curiosity Rover is offering tantalizing details about the red planet. Sussex County Community Colleges Rotaract Club was excited to have one of NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) engineers, Sam Gordon, who presented and discussed the mission to Mars. He gave students, faculty and visitors, a close-up view of how it all started, the methodology as well as some of the materials that JPL used on the Rover when he spoke at SCCCs Student Center on December 18th, emphasizing that their lessons in math and science do have a purpose. Any time I have an opportunity to inspire young people to follow their dreams in education I take it, because one student might be touched and decide to pursue science and engineering Gordon said. In his multimedia presentation, Gordon showed the audience photos of the Curiosity on Mars and revealed ingenuity and innovation of the journey from the inception of the

project to the launch and landing. Gordons presentation for college audiences are informed by lessons learned from working on the missions engineering team overcoming dire challenges to accomplishing their ultimate triumph. He addresses working within a diverse team of high performing individuals, breaking down barriers and fostering open communication across departments. Gordon graduated from Harvey Mudd College in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in engineering with a concentration in electrical, digital

electronics and controls engineering. Since graduation, Sam has worked at NASAs Jet

Propulsion Laboratory. For more information, contact Sam at rsam gordon@gmail.com.

NW Wrestling: January 9th, 7pm. Kittatinny at NW. Belvidere Girls Basketball: January 10th, 7pm. Delaware Valley at Belvidere. Belvidere Boys Basketball: January 10th, 7pm at Delaware Valley. NW Girls Basketball: January 10th, 7pm at Hackettstown. NW Boys Basketball: January 10th, 7pm. Hackettstown at NW. Solas Concert: January 11th, 8:30pm. The Historic Blairstown Theatre, 30 Main St., Blairstown. For tickets, call 908-362-1399 or visit thehbt.com NW Boys Basketball: January 14th, time TBA. Kinnelon at NW. American Legion

John Dolak Post 446 Meeting: January 14th, 1pm. Alpha Fire Co., W. Center & Lee Ave., Alpha. All war era veterans invited. Meetings held 2nd Monday of every month. FMI, sall Commander Joe Becker at 908-9957896. Belvidere Girls Basketball: January 15th, 5:30pm at Manville. NW Wrestling: January 15th, 7pm at Newton. Belvidere Boys Basketball: January 15th, 7pm. Manville at Belvidere. Belvidere Boys Basketball: January 16th, 7pm. Notre Dame at Belvidere. NW Boys Basketball: January 16th, 7pm at Hopatcong. NW Girls Basketball:

January 16th, 7pm. Hopatcong at NW. NW Wrestling: January 17th, 7pm. Hillsborough at NW. NW Girls Basketball: January 18th, 7pm at Wallkill Valley. NW Boys Basketball: January 18th, 7pm. Wallkill Valley at NW. Knights of Columbus #6522 Pasta Dinner: January 19th, 3pm to 7pm. 15 E. Lacey Rd., Forked River. Dinner, cannoli eating contest, door prizes, BYOB. Benefits veterans in need. Active duty military admitted free. FMI, call 609-971-3544 or visit rollingthundernj12.org. NW at Belvidere Girls Basketball: January 19th, 1pm. The Royal Scam Concert: January 19th, 8pm. The Historic Blairstown Theatre, 30 Main St., Blairstown. FMI & tickets, call 908-3621399 or visit www. thehbt.com. Belvidere Girls Basketball: January 22nd, 7pm. South Hunterdon at Belvidere. NW Wrestling: Janu-

ary 23rd, 7pm. Hackettstown at NW. All You Can Eat Breakfast: January 27th, 7am to 11am. Franklin Twp. VFD, 37 2nd St., New Village. FMI, call 908-319-0379. Farm to Fork MidWinter Celebration of Local Food & Farms-6 Course Gourmet Dining & Wine Tasting Benefit: January 27th, 4pm. Andres Restaurant & Bar, Newton. Seating is limited. For tickets & registration, visit www. foodshedalliance.org, call 908-362-7967, or email info@foodshed alliance.org. Cheers to Chocolate, An Evening of Charity: February 8th, 7pm to 10pm. Hawke Point Golf Club. Benefits Hope for Tomorrow Child & Family Support Center. Chocolates, desserts, fine wines, silent auction & prize raffle. FMI, visit hopefor tomorrowcenter.org. Italian Wedding Dinner Comedy Night by NW Lions Club of Blairstown: February 9th, 7pm. FMI & tickets, call Tony at 908-797-7266, Rich at 908-362-8331. Watch The PRESS for details.

Blairstown & Knowlton A&P Alpine Meats Animal Mansion Ash Plumbing Asian Combat Arts A-Tech Auto Blair Tile Blair Tire & Auto Blairstown Chiropractic Blairstown Country Florist Blairstown Diner Blairstown Municipal Building Blairstown Optical BookNest Buckwood Building Specialties Burgdorff BuzzWorks Caffe Nelle Cucine Cannon Country Real Estate Columbia Post Office Country Kids Station Custom Colonial Dale's Market David Krawski Dentist DogHouse Dominick Pizza Dr. Magalio, Dentist Ellias Restaurant Finish Line Auto First Hope Bank Frank's Pizza Fun & Games Gallery 23 Geo's Pizza Gourmet Gallery Hair Company Hairs 2 You Historic Blairstown Theatre Hope Deli Hope Haircutters JD Liquors Jetstream Hobbies John Deere Kozimors Upholstery Knowlton Municipal Building Lakeland Bank Lebduska Accounting Lumber Majestic Cleaners Marksboro Deli Medical Associate Napa Nature's Harvest New Beginnings New HoHo North Warren Pharmacy North Warren Truck Repair Old Stillwater General Store Physical Therapy Pizza Express PJ's PNC Bank Post Time Pub Prudential R. Keiling Race's Farm Market Radio Shack Remax RunWay Caf Salon Chevoux Shell Gas Station Skyland Bank Smitty's Sophia Nails Studio 94 Sun Velocity Sunoco The Auto Shop Tile Warehouse Tractor Supply Tramontin US Gas Village Green Wells Fargo Wilbur's Country Store Wine & Spirits Woman to Woman Belvidere A&P Albanese Gallery Al's Pizza

ACI Truck Stop Bagel Smith Belvidere Spa Clucas Farm Dee Doo's Dr. Amanda Richline Food Mart Four Sisters Winery Gunnar's Landing H&R Block Hearth Shop Hickory Mortgage Mediterranean Riverside Designs Riverton Hotel & Restaurant Rosal Jewelers Short Stop Skee's Busy Bee Skoogy's Steckel's Shell Station Thisilldous Uncle Buck's Diner US Gas Vincent Haircuttery & Plus Zack's Zeeks Washington A&P Bagelsmith Fliegauff Jewelers Home Instead Senior Care Kaffe Kaprys Lost Ladies Mediterranean Bistro MWC Racing Pride-N-Groom Quick Check Rossi Second Time Around Shopper Stop Silver Stars Bagel Smith Dodge Stanley's Pizza Subway Town Market Washington Shoe Newton A& G Pizza Back in Motion BMW Dealership Charm Co. Seat Dunkin Donuts Hampton Diner Ho Hos HobbyTown Holiday Inn Home Furniture Warehouse Kathy's Restaurant Newton News Stand Optical Center O'Reilly's PB&J Prima Donna's Quick Check Shop Rite Skylands Sport Shop Springboard Shoppe Superior Shower Doors The Chatter Box VW-Audi Dealership Weis Hackettstown A&P Bachs Home Healthcare Cozy Corner Golden Skillet Hackettstown Guns & Ammo Hackettstown Sandwich Shoppe Mama's Pizza/Cafe Baci O'Neill's Jewelers Prickley Pear Quick Check Riverstar Diner Valley Bagel Weis Willow Caf Columbia Ayers Hunters Lodge Roses Cafe

January 9, 2013

The PRESS NJ

Page 5

Letter to the Editor

Gun Control Hyprocrisy - Part 1 On December 23, 2012, The Journal News, an upstate New York newspaper, printed a map that listed the names and addresses of pistol permit holders in Westchester and Rockland counties. Each dot on the map does not mean the individual at that address actually has a handgun, only that he is licensed to do so. Defending its map, Janet Hasson, president and publisher of the News stated, . . . residents . . . have a right to access public information. But just because you have information should it be published? Would the editor and reporter like their name and address published ? Publishing the names and addresses of lawful gun owners was irresponsible because it exposed gun owners and their families to potential danger, and made non-gun owners more vulnerable to possible house break ins. Gun ownership is lawful. Does publishing names and addresses of legal gun owners constitute unreasonable intrusion? Individuals have a right to expect reasonable privacy protection, which is safeguarded by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Why does the government maintain a database of legal gun owners when they have done nothing wrong ? Rather, they are treated like convicted sex offenders ? What was the real purpose? The anti-gun nuts at the Journal News used the Freedom of Information Act and an unspeakable tragedy to justify pushing their anti-gun agenda. The truth is we have become a culture getting used to violence. There is an insanity running through our country. Under a picture of Christ in Time Square, atheists wrote Dump the Myth. Our entire society is drifting out of bounds. Violent video games, (yes, like Kindergarten Killers!) and blood-drenched gruesome films are enjoyable, and a declining willingness to be tough on violent criminals has worked together to result in the first increase in crime seen in twenty years. Has America hit its moral bottom? Guns can save lives, but in the wrong hands, guns can be misused, just like many things. We dont close subways because people are pushed onto the rails almost regularly ? An important reason gun owners have them is self protection. Police cannot be everywhere, nor would we want them to be. If a home is burglarized, police could not possibly respond fast enough. It is our right to protect ourselves and our families. How have our priorities gotten so disarranged? We protect our money at banks with armed guards. Office buildings, airports and courthouses have armed security. The President has Secret Service, and elected officials are protected by Capital Police. Yet, our children are left defenseless. The National Rifle Association (NRA), founded by veterans of the Civil War interested in marksmanship, has been a leader providing training and education in the safe use of firearms. The NRA has taken the initiative to develop a National School Shield Emergency Response Program (NSSERP). This is a multifaceted program from armed security, to building design, access control, to student and teacher training, available to any school that wants it. Since every school is different, it could be a template any school could use to develop its unique safety plan. Unlike President Obama, who cut out school emergency plan and Secure Our Schools grants, the budget for the NSSERP will be provided completely by the NRA. This is not about guns. The common thread that runs through Newtown, Connecticut, Virginia Tech, Benghazi, Ft. Hood, is law enforcement was not there. In Newtown, Connecticut, a suburban community, it took police 20 minutes to arrive. In Benghazi, the government refused to respond, even while watching and hearing their cries for help for 7 hours during an al Qaeda terrorist attack. It took 2 brave ex-Navy Seals to save over 30 people, before perishing themselves in the attack. These tragedies tell us the importance and power of self - defense. The Founders were keenly aware citizens needed to be prepared to defend their liberty. Having guns defeated King Georges army, and liberated our nation. Whether the threat comes from abroad or Washingon D.C. makes no difference. As Patrick Henry stated: Are we at last brought to such humiliating and debasing degradation That we cannot be trusted with arms for our defense? Where is the Difference between having our arms under our direction, and having them under the management of Congress? If our defense be the real object of having those arms, in whose hands can they be trusted with more propriety, or equal safety to us, as in our own hands? Elizabeth S. Allen Newton, NJ The views and opinions expressed in this letter do not necessarily relfect those of The PRESS or its staff.

Local Networking Group of Hackettstown Hosts Joe Colalillo Discussing Benefits of Going Digital January 9
The Local Networking Group of Hackettstown will discuss the benefits of digital document management at their January 9th meeting, which is open to the public. Digital Document Management is the practice of storing your essential documents and files in electronic format where they can be easily restored and printed or shared electronically. In light of Super Storm Sandy says Joe Colalillo, he will talk about the advantages of how digital storage can help speed recovery after a disaster. Mr. Colalillos expertise in the area of document management stems from his 20 years of service in Compliance and Quality Control. Today, Joe runs a firm that provides full financial management services from consultation to banking and guardianships. Various options for electronic document management exist today for consumers and small business owners such as cloud services and local on site backup solutions, both of which will be discussed. The meeting will be held at Leos Lunch, located at 268 Main Street in Hackettstown from 7pm to 8:30pm. Each meeting of the Local Networking Group is free of charge where meeting space, guest speakers and door prizes are donated by members, local business and community organization leaders. The Local Networking Group of Hackettstown has a mission to Learn, Network and Grow, while members also enjoy good fun and conversation. Members of the community are invited to Like the group on Facebook by simply entering the search term Local Networking Group or www. facebook.com/myLNG to keep informed of upcoming events and meetings. Members of The Local Networking Group of Hackettstown represent various professions working in a range of industries with a common interest in growing equitable relationships within the Hackettstown Community. Meetings are held at various locations within the Hackettstown area. To learn more about membership into the Local Networking Group of Hackettstown, contact Lisa Earl-Sperry at lisa@myproject people.com

New Exhibit in Romano Gallery Reconciles Past with Present, Explores Relationships
Now through January 31st, the work of artist Jen Groeber will be on display in The Romano Gallery at Blair Academys ArmstrongHipkins Center for the Arts, located at 2 Park Street in Blairstown. A reception for the exhibit, The Wisdom to Know the Difference, will take place on Thursday, January 10th from 7pm to 8pm. Admission is free and open to the public during normal gallery hours (Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm). Ms. Groeber uses woodcut, collage, stitching and text to explore the complex roles women play, as mother, daughter and sister. In her recent work, everyday objectsbaby clothing, bottles and childrens shoesare stand-ins for the people we were, for the children gone or hopes lost. Here we are, generations of womencreating, mending, ordering, making meaningso much of our life hidden in the button we sew, the things we try to mend, said the artist, who has four children. What will my daughters and sons make of this? A resident of South Hamilton, Mass., Ms. Groeber focuses on relationships and reconciling the past with the present. Her work includes painting, printmaking and installation.

Computer Classes, Career Seminars Offered in Blairstown This Month

Computer classes and employment skills seminars will be offered at Project SelfSufficiencys Blairstown office in January. Area residents are invited to learn how to create custom slide shows and presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint on Thursdays, January 10th, 17th and 24th, from 6pm to 9pm. Seminars on various job searching techniques will be offered on Wednesdays, from 11am to noon. Cover Letters and Resumes will be discussed on January 9th and 23rd; Interviewing Skills, Workplace Literacy and Salary Negotiations will be addressed on January 16th. The computer lab will be open on Saturday, January 19th, from 9am to noon for individuals to brush up on their computer skills or work on resumes and cover letters. The agencys computer lab is located in the First Presbyterian Outreach Center at 35 Main Street in Blairstown. A complete roster of computer classes and employability skills course are offered at Project SelfSufficiencys Newton location all year long, including classes in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel; QuickBooks accounting software; workshops addressing techniques for job search, interviewing, resume development and financial management; and courses designed just for seniors and men. For more information, call the Project SelfSufficiency office in Blairstown at 928-3621777, or call the agencys Newton office at 973-940-3500. Information about the agencys services is also available online at projectselfsufficiency .org.

Sue Grossman, owner/massage therapist at Sue's Massage became a certified masseuse six years ago. After suffering from an illness and finally getting relief from the benefits of massage therapy, Sue wanted to do something to help others suffering from pain and illness. On October 1st, 2012 she opened Sue's Massage at 447 Blue Valley Drive, Bangor (across from Rite Aid). Sue, a registered licensed massage therapist is a graduate of Health Options Institute and is certified in Lomi Lomi, Cranial Sacral, Lymph Drainage, Prenatal, Postnatal, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Foot, Hand, Reflexology, Hot Crystals, Neuro Muscular, Shiatsu, Sports and Aromatherapy. She continually takes classes to stay up to date with the latest techniques in massage

By Candy Martin

therapy to help her clientele. Clients needs for massage therapy range from those who have sustained injuries from work, sports, car accidents, back and shoulder problems, breast cancer surgery and other surgeries, as well as those who suffer from the everyday stress that today's hectic lifestyle brings. Sue says, Massage heals the mind, body and spirit. Massage therapy can be beneficial in the treatment of stress, circulation problems, general aches, stiffness and pain. It can enhance immunity, promote healthy muscle metabolism and tone, it also aides in detoxification of tissues, and lessens depression and anxiety, she continued. The facility offers 2 massage rooms, along with a gym/exercise room which includes stretching bands, hand and ankle weights, exer-

cise mats, stools and benches for seated exercise, a library of work out DVDs ranging from Yoga, Pilate's, Tai Chi, Boot Camp, Kickboxing and more. Coming in February, a faith-based weight loss program will be offered as well as Women's bible study. On Saturday, January 12th, from 11am-3pm the public is invited to an Open House. There will be a meet and greet with Sue and her staff, complimentary mini massages, a tour of the facility, refreshments, door prizes and more. Sue's Massage can be reached at 610-7032341. Appointments are preferred, however walk-ins are welcome. You can also book appointments online at www.suesmassage.us and click on book now. Like them on facebook. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10am to 6pm, Tuesday and Thursday, from 8am to 12pm, Saturdays by appointment and Sundays closed. Sue looks forward to seeing you and is excited about the many services available and the additional services to come.

Home Instead Senior Care of Warren and Hunterdon Counties would sincerely like to extend their thanks to all who participated in helping them make their 9th annual Be a Santa to a Senior program a huge success. For local franchise owner, Tracy Fazzolari and her staff, outreach to seniors is a personal mission. Be a Santa to a Senior , Home Instead Senior Cares nationwide giftgiving and companionship initiative, is one of the many ways we reach out to help seniors. Knowing seniors havent been forgotten is the best gift we can offer them, says Fazzolari. Over the past 8 years, the Home Instead network of franchise owners has delivered more than 1.2 million gifts to seniors across the nation. Senior services agencies, retailers and thousands of volunteers partner with the Home Instead franchise network for Be a Santa to a Senior. The hundreds of gifts were once again truly overwhelming and the season was brighter for more than the 150 seniors it touched in our

area. I would like to share a few highlights of our travels. We delivered presents to a 93 year who could not see very well. She opened up a pair of pajamas and could not help feeling them and repeating how soft they were. She also got a gift card to a local grocery store. She started crying and said now I can have a Christmas dinner. Another gentleman received a Jazz CD, he could not believe we knew his passion was Jazz. He said this is my best Christmas ever . As the expression goes It takes a village. We would like to thank our partners: Warren County Division of Aging & Disability Services, Panther Valley Pharmacy, North Warren Pharmacy, Skylands Pharmacy, Warren County Pharmacy, Print Plus, Wells Fargo Bank, Little Bears Learning Center, Warren Hills Regional High School and St. Johns Lutheran Church for sponsoring the gift tags. We also want to thank all the donors for their generous gifts and to all of our volunteers who helped wrap and organize our BE a Santa to a Senior program. A heartfelt thanks to Santa and his elves!

Founded in 1994 in Omaha by Lori and Paul Hogan, the Home Instead Senior Care network is the worlds largest provider of nonmedical in-home care services for seniors, with more than 950 independently owned and operated franchises providing in excess of 45 million hours of care throughout the United States and 16 countries. Local Home Instead Senior Care offices employ more than 70,000 CAREGivers worldwide who provide basic support servicesassistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), personal care, medication reminders, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, incidental transportation and shopping which enable seniors to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. At Home Instead Senior Care, its relationship before task, while continuing to provide superior quality service that enhances the lives of seniors everywhere. We also provide support to seniors and their families through Home Insteads Alzheimers CARE Program (Changing Aging through Research and Education).

Financial professional Matthew Donovan has joined AXA Advisors, LLC, in Morristown. Were extremely pleased to have Matthew join AXA Advisors, said P. Nick Makriannis, executive vice president for AXA Advisors. he comes to us as a highly experienced professional that has been continually recognized for his commitment to clients, leadership and outstanding professional performance. As a financial professional with AXA Advisors, Donovan will continue working with his clients to help them define their financial goals and create strategies to help them achieve their objectives, with the added support of one of the nations leading financial protection and wealth management firms. Matthew has been a Financial Advisor for 29 years. He graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1982 with a degree in Business Administration and was defensive Captain of the football team for 3 years. Matthew lives in Blairstown, NJ with his wife Jacqueline, daughter Haven and son John. Matthew is an active member of the National Wild Turkey Foundation, Ducks Unlimited and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. He enjoys teaching and guiding our youth whether it be fishing, hunting or sports. Matthew is very dedicated to helping his clients with their financial goals. Financial services available to individuals and business owners through AXA Advisors, LLC include: strategies and products for financial protection and investments; asset allocation, college,

retirement, business and estate planning strategies; life insurance, annuity and investment products, including mutual funds. Securities products are offered through AXA Advisors, LLC, NY, NY, member FINRA, SIPC, 10104 (212) 314-4600. Insurance and annuity products are available through an affiliate, AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. In business since 1859, AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company (NY, NY) is a leading financial protection company and one of the nations premier providers of life insurance, annuity, and financial products and services. The companys products and services are distributed to individuals and business owners through its retail distribution channel, AXA Advisors,

LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) and to the financial services market through its wholesale distribution channel, AXA Distributors, LLC. Find AXA Equitable on Facebook and Twitter or visit the companys multi-media newsroom The Source @ AXA Equitable. AXA Equitable, a subsidiary of AXA Financial Inc., is part of the global AXA Group, a worldwide leader in financial protection strategies and wealth management. AXA Group refers to AXA, a French holding company for an international group of insurance and financial services companies together with its direct and indirect consolidated subsidiaries. For more information, visit www.axaequitable.com.

Linda WatkinsGoffman, PhD, will present The Importance of Non-Verbal Communication on Sunday, January 20th, at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Sussex County, 1 West Nelson Street, Newton. The program will begin at 10:30am and is open to the public. Dr. Watkins-Goffman's talk will include the history of non-verbal communication, crosscultural differences, miscommunication and misinterpretation of behavioral cues, and

human non-verbal interaction. A discussion will follow the formal presentation. Linda WatkinsGoffman is a professor of applied linguistics in the Department of Language and Cognition at the City University of New Yorks Hostos Community College in the Bronx. She teaches linguistics, and English writing and composition to international students there. For more information, call the Unitarian Fellowship at 973-5791180.

Peggy Campbell-Rush, whose photographs literally take you around the globe, is the featured artist for the Washington Business Improvement District's monthly Downtown Art Walk on Thursday, January 17th. Each month, a host of regional and statewide artists exhibit their works in mini galleries at businesses throughout the town. An Artists' reception is held at each of the participating businesses from 5pm to 8pm. The art then remains on display for about three weeks. The Art Walk is presented by the WBID in conjunction with the participating businesses. This show's sponsors are Home Instead Senior Care and Brockerhoff Environmental Services. Beginning in February with a launch date of February 22nd, the Art Walk will move to the fourth Friday of each month and the evening will expand to include an Antique Trail, music and dining. In the the weeks ahead, more details about the February Walk will be made available. For updates, visit www.washington bid.org or LIKE the Art Walk Facebook page. Campbell-Rush, who lives in Mansfield Township, has worked in, lived in, taught in and traveled to over 36 countries in the world and has sailed around the world on the Semester at Sea program. Most recently she traveled to Singapore where she was a guest of the Ministry of Education to study Singapore Math. She also visited Indonesia where she trained teachers at the world-renowned Green School in Bali. Peggy's photography allows you to be a vicarious voyager on her travel experiences. Campbell-Rush has an

Local photographer, Peggy CampbellRush, is the featured artist for this months Washington Business Improvement District. incredible career in education. She has been in education for over 30 years and is currently the Director of the Lower School. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the College of New Jersey and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Colorado. In addition, CampbellRush has advanced credits in Literacy, Special Education and Educational Administration from UCLA and Rutgers University. She is also the author of seven books. Titles include: I Teach Kindergarten: A Treasure Chest of Teaching Wisdom; Tricks of the Trade: In & Out of the Classroom;

Success for Struggling Learners, Hip-Hop Alphabop, Group Writing: How Writing Teaches Reading; Reading, Writing and Word Walls and Get a Grip: Ideas to Improve Fine Motor Control. She has appeared on ABC's 20/20 show and the NJN Network, written numerous articles for magazines and is a contributing author to five books focusing on educational issues. She is a Master Teacher and was the New Jersey Teacher of the Year finalist in 1996 and 2002. She has been an educational consultant conducting teacher workshops for the last 22 years both nationally and internationally. Campbell-Rush is a Fulbright Fellow and USA Today AllAmerican Teacher Award winner. Artists interested in having their work considered for an Art Walk should email washingtonartwalk@ gmail.com. For a full listing of participating businesses and artists, or for more on the WBID, visit www.washingtonn bid.org, call 908-6894800, or check out the BID on Facebook.

A free seminar about Corporate Careers will be offered to teens and adults on January 24th, from 6:30pm to 8pm at Project Self-Sufficiency, ocated at 127 Mill Street in Newton. Sylvia Montero, former Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Pfizer, will be joined by Selective Insurance Director of Marketing Cynthia Heismeyer and BASF Comptroller Helene McGill for a discussion of their background, education and the tasks that accompany their unique professions. Becoming You: Cor-

porate Careers will touch on positions in the corporate arena. Regis-

tration is required. To register, call 973-9403500.

(NAPSI)If you're like most Americans, you've lost something valuable because of clutter, according to a recent Harris Interactive survey. So that you don't have to deal with such difficulties, here are 10 tips to help you get organized: Tip 10: Start small when starting to declutter. Pick one area or room and sort through your stuff. Purge items no longer used and assign the keepers a

place. Tip 9: Keep things orderly. Create zones for certain activities or categories and store all related items in that zone. Tip 8: Have a young family? Make it a game with your kids to get organized. Create a treasure hunt and you may rediscover items once thought to be lost. Tip 7: Organization needs consistency. Talk to your significant other or roommate about maintaining a united

front on keeping things organized. Tip 6: Enlist help for larger organization efforts. Invite friends over to help clear out clutter; pay them with pizza and cold drinks for their work. Tip 5: Donate duplicate or unwanted items to a charity that can then use your extras to support those in need. Tip 4: Pick your battles. Start with what is manageable, like a closet, and work your way toward larger

projects, such as the basement or garage. Tip 3: Create routines. Make it a habit to tackle a new area of the home every month. Tip 2: Put it away now. Done using something? Instead of letting things pile up, put them away immediately. You can have plenty of places to put stuff when you get storage units, shelving and organization kits. Tip 1: Enjoy the spoils of victory. Cleaning and organizing is a daunting but rewarding task. Hello fellow readers, Now we are talking winter! Brrrr. Ive already admitted my love for the white stuff so I am in my glory. Sorry all of your green enthusiasts. Not to say I wont be good and ready come March, but dont you enjoy having zero to-dos in the garden other than dreaming big and planning for upcoming adventures? Dick from Blairstown stopped me the other day and asked about using coal and wood ash in the garden. He shared the memory of his Grandmother doing just that in her small city patch filled with thriving veggies and a few chickens. I am not an advocate of adding supplements to your soil until the pH is tested. Soil pH signifies a plant's ability to draw nutrients from the soil. A measurement

Situated on a lot with privacy and backing to woods in Panther Valley sits the home of your dreams. The house boasts a very open floor plan with a first floor master bedroom and master bath. There is an abundance of natural light as the home is fitted with numerous windows allowing you to enjoy the nature that surrounds this home. If you appreciate openness and entertaining, this is the home for you. The large family room with wood burning fireplace flows right into the dining room and kitchen with center island. Off the kitchen you will find a family room that is currently being used as a large home office. The dramatic two story great room is the main feature of the interior and opens up to the back patio where you can stare into the woods and not see another home behind you. The home has been very well maintained and offers natural rock

steps in the front and rear of the home. The very unique landscaping makes owning a lawnmower pointless as you do not need to mow this property even though it is over half an acre. Sitting about a mile into Panther Valley, this home offers easy access to commuting on Rt 80 from exit 19. You can also take advantage of the communitys pools, tennis, basketball and many other amenities. Currently being marketed by Christopher John Kruk of RE/MAX House Values 4 in Panther Valley for

$329,000, this terrific home has a lot to offer and its all within minutes of Routes 80 and 46. If you would like a personal showing of this home, contact John at 908-343-5328 or visit homesalegenius.com Open seven days a week including weeknights until 8pm, RE/MAX House Values 4 is located at 1585 Rt. 517, one half mile off Rt. 80, Exit 19 in the Panther Valley Mall. For all your real estate needs, call 908-8521333 or visit www.house values4.remax-nj.com. With 25 full-time sales

associates, RE/MAX House Values 4 specializes in the listing and sale of residential properties including new construction, luxury homes, townhomes and condominiums, as well as land sales, rentals, commercial properties and corporate relocation throughout Warren, Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. With nearly 3,000 real estate professionals in almost 200 franchise offices, RE/MAX of New Jersey continues to be one of the leading real estate organizations in the state. Since its inception in 1985, RE/MAX of NJ has experienced consistent growth in both franchise sales and sales associates. This success can be attributed to the quality agents and service consistently found in all RE/MAX organizations. RE/MAX of NJ, based in Moorestown, is a privately owned and operated regional franchiser for RE/MAX International. For more, visit remax-nj.com.

of 7.0 is neutral, below 7 is acidic and above 7 is alkaline. Most plants prefer nearly neutral soil. You can buy a test kit at home stores or via the Rutgers Extension Office, but will have to wait for the thaw to test. The consensus in today's day and age is to stay away from coal ash in the garden due the presence of heavy metals. However, small amounts of clean wood ash (no trash or chemically treated wood) may have a place. Wood ash can make a great addition to the compost heap where theyll aid fertility. Dont add a lot at once, as raising the pH too much will affect the bacteria and worms at work. Or use as a fertilizer and liming material on vegetable gardens, flower beds, lawns, and most shrubs. Its particularly useful on acid soils low in potassium. Because it is alkaline, wood ash is not good for soil with a pH of 7.5 or greater or around acid-loving plants such as blueberries or rhododendron. I loved hearing of Dicks story and wonder if Grandmas chickens had something to do with her vegetable abundance? Chicken manure composting can make for supersized veggies. Garden dilemmas? Ask Mary at askmary stone@gmail.com

Enchilada Rice Soup

(NAPSI)Make this Enchilada Rice Soup with low-fat ingredients to deliciously improve your familys diet. (Yield: 810 servings) 3 cups cooked Texmati Brown Rice 3 cups low-fat chicken broth 1 (1-lb., 10-oz.) jar chunky garden vegetable pasta sauce 1 (10-oz.) can mild red enchilada sauce 1 cups shredded cooked chicken Shredded low-fat cheddar cheese Light sour cream, optional Directions: In large saucepan, combine rice and all other ingredients, except cheese. Over mediumhigh heat, bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1015 minutes. Serve topped with cheese and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Happy New Year from Breathing Room Center! We hope that you are starting the year off WELL.... and that means taking care of YOU. It's not a selfish thing to put yourself first. In fact, taking care of yourself is one of the most selfless things you can do! The more work you do on the inside, the more it shows on the outside, and really results in a ripple effect, shining light on your relationships, how you handle stress, and of course, your health. It's not about trying to fix yourself, but starting to BE yourself. The self you know is there -somewhere beneath all the stress and struggle, maybe just forgotten. Michaelangelo used to say that within every slab of marble there is a beautiful work of art. All we need to do is chisel away the layers to revel our true selves. And that is where Breathing Room comes in! We are pleased to offer you a dynamic array of classes -- everything from Yoga and Meditative Movement to Hooping, Nia, Zumba and Belly Dancing. There's something for every age and everyBODY at our warm and welcoming space. And if you're feeling like the time is now to immerse yourself in your practice, check out one of our Intro to Yoga

Teacher Training sessions, January 13th & 20th, 2-4pm. Each session will focus on a particular aspect of the real training program, which kicks off in March and is open to anyone wishing to delve deeper into their practice or to become an inspirational teacher. Said one recent graduate: "The (YTT) experience has changed me in every way....It really was a metamorphosis of my being and I'm a better person for it....My life now is taken on with a witness mind and I'm so much more capable of dealing with things. My family is grateful that I went through this, and they appreciate my growth and dedication... Be prepared for one of the most positive lifechanging events of your life!" Also for experienced students and/or yoga teachers wishing to continue their education, Breathing Room is offering a series of Continuing Education Workshops, starting with Seasonal Health on Saturday, January 19th, 10am to noon. Drawing from self-care applications of warm oils and spices, learn how to detox and cleanse the largest organ in your body, your skin, while rejuvenating dry scalp and hair with invigorating and warming press points therapy. Experience softer smoother

skin, shinier hair and increased circulation and take home easy Ayurveda practices that will get you through the winter healthier and happier. To register for these workshops or for more information, contact Cheryl at 973-896-0030 or cheryl@breathing roomcenter.com. Breathing Room Center continues to give back and provide free service to their students and community, as was the case in their special donation-based New Year's Eve Class to benefit the Community Supported Garden at Genesis Farm in Frelinghuysen. Also this month, there will be a free Nia and Yoga class, Saturday, January 26th at 9:30am to kick off the new Saturday Nia class. Nia is a non-impact movement class that blends martial, dance and healing arts into pure joy of movement! Look for many other new classes and workshops on the schedule, which you can find at breathingroomcenter .com. We have the lowest class prices in the area, and never charge registration or membership fees. We hope that this year leads you on a quest for wellness, and that you consider making Breathing Room Center part of your journey. In service & gratitude, Cheryl Paulson

(NAPSI)Its never too early to take steps to make life easier for your pet for when he or she hits the golden years. Just as with people, proper diet, exercise and smart lifestyle decisions can delay some of the aging process and help your pet live a longer, healthier life. That even holds true for one of the more common problems for aging petsarthritis. Here are some steps you can take before your pet becomes a senior to help reduce the risk or lessen the severity of arthritis: Too much weight on your pet puts him or her at risk for diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. Excess weight puts too much strain on your pets joints, causing cartilage to degenerate. If you cant feel your pets ribs, your pet needs to go on a diet. Also watch how your pet moves and plays for any issues that may be developing. Work with a veterinarian or holistic professional when you first spot problems. Dogs and cats are carnivores and need a healthy dose of protein in their diet. Read the labels of their food and look for actual protein sourceschicken, beef

and fishinstead of by-products. Rice and other grains can also help your pet pack on extra pounds. Beware of too many preservatives as well. Its very important to work on activities that keep your dog and cat moving. Walks, games of fetch and other activities keep your dogs muscles toned and cut down on the risk of arthritis. Its important to work play into your cats day as well to keep him or her moving, too.

Running, agility and other active games are a great way to keep your pet in shape. However, make sure you arent pushing your dog to work out too hard and try to avoid activities that could put your dog at risk for bone or muscular injuries. These kinds of injuries make an animal more prone to certain types of arthritis when aging. Nutritional supplements are a growing trend for pets. It helps to start your pets young on supplements that will help them rebuild cartilage before arthritis sets in. Look for products that provide glucosamine and chondroitin, such as Cosequin Joint Supplement and Cosequin Soft Chews. Dasuquin Joint Supplements provide a more advanced formula that helps rebuild your pets cartilage and lessen joint inflammation. Some of these products come in soft chews and a powder to be sprinkled in food.

(NAPSI)Mealtime can be a great time to bond with your pet. However, finding the right food can sometimes be a process of trial and adjustment. As a nutritionist, I receive thousands of emails and phone calls each year from concerned pet parents looking for the right food for their pets. While it is very easy to blame the food for problems, in many cases, it is simply no more than the wrong choice and wrong application of a food that is really the cause. More often than not, the source of the problem is not the food but simple misunderstandings that I call pet-parent faux paws. Here are some examples: Dirty Dishes: Would you eat off a dirty plate or drink out of a dirty glass? Feeding and water dishes must be kept clean for the exact same reasons we as humans clean our dishes. If not cleaned, dirty dishes become an excellent place for bacteria to grow. Toys and Rawhides: Toys and rawhides are often overlooked as potential causes of problems for pets. Partially chewed rawhides usually come into contact with unclean areas and are especially wonderful places for bacteria to grow and then introduce themselves to the pet upon reuse. Make sure toys are cleaned regularly and partially chewed rawhides are discarded. Battle of the Bulge: An overweight pet has an increased chance of such health concerns as diabetes, joint damage,

By Dana Watkins

heart disease and more. Many owners think getting a pet to lose weight is as easy as feeding less. Unfortunately, reducing the serving size often leaves pets hungry and their body undersupported. Pet owners should look toward complete dry diets that offer Weight Management or Reduced Activity diets to help deliver proper nutrition while losing weight. For example, Fromm recently introduced a Weight Management Gold recipe that provides high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates to aid in appetite control, and added L-carnitine to help the body burn more fat and maintain lean muscle mass.

Any diet should be accompanied with plenty of fresh water and exercise. Another common mistake many pet owners make is feeding a pet a weight management food and overindulging with treats and table scraps. These need to be eliminated to let the food do its job. Finding the right food for your pet is often achieved through trial and adjustment; however, avoiding some common pitfalls may set your furry family member on the path toward a long and healthy life. To learn more, visit frommfamily.com. Dana Watkins is the Director of Nutrition and Technical Services at Fromm Family Foods.

-OvertimeMy husband, a big-time sports fan, was watching a football game with our grandchildren. He had just turned 75 and was feeling a little wistful. You know, he said to our grandson, Nick, its not easy getting old. I guess Im in the fourth quarter now. Dont worry, Grandpa, Nick said cheerily. Maybe youll go into overtime.

Toys for Tots

Contd from page 1
off more than 300 toys, including a brand new bike for some lucky little girl. Because they love giving back to the community and the children, Toys for tots is not the only program that RE/MAX House Values 4 hosts; they are also a year round pajama program drop off site (the only one in all of

Warren County). We look forward to this event every year, said Richard Tillman, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX House Values 4, and look forward to the many happy childrens faces that we can help. For more information about the charitable events and programs that RE/MAX House Values 4 is a part of, contact Denise Scafati at 908-852-1333.

Christie Administration Announces Continuation of Federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation Benefitss

New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (LWD) Commissioner Harold J. Wirths announced today that a continuation of federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) has been signed into law by President Barack Obama. The continuation of the federal EUC program, which was passed by the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives on Tuesday, is retroactive to December 30, 2012 and will be extended for a year, through the week ending December 28, 2013. The legislation does not create any additional offer of benefits to unemployed people who have already collected EUC and exhausted all benefits under the program. Since September, the EUC program has offered up to a maximum of 47 additional weeks of supplemental Unemployment Insurance to people who exhaust New Jerseys 26 weeks of Unemployment Insurance benefits and who qualify for EUC. More than 132,000 unemployed workers collecting EUC benefits in New Jersey were notified last month that EUC would expire at the end of 2012 barring any federal action to extend the program. The department will be notifying all EUC eligible claimants by letter and e-mail regarding the continuation of the program through 2013. Claimants will be able to certify for EUC benefits for the week ending January 5, 2013 beginning on Sunday, January 6, 2013, through the LWDs Unemployment Insurance website at www.njuifile.net. Unemployed people who have been collecting EUC benefits will continue receiving those benefits, without interruption, for as long as they remain eligible and until they exhaust the available benefits offered under the program. The legislation also will allow EUC to remain available to unemployed people in New Jersey who exhaust state Unemployment Insurance benefits during 2013 and qualify to collect EUC. For more information, visit lwd.dol.state.nj.us/ labor/ui/ui_index.html.

New Jerseys unemployment rate edged down by 0.1 percentage point in November to a seasonally adjusted 9.6 percent. The November drop represents the third consecutive monthly decline for NJs rate. Preliminary estimates calculated after Hurricane Sandy devastated NJ indicate that total nonfarm wage and salary employment in New Jersey contracted in November, down by 8,100 jobs, to a seasonally adjusted 3,894,800, as measured by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) through its monthly employer survey. Lower employment levels were recorded in both the private (-3,700) and public (-4,400) sectors of the states economy. This is a remarkably good showing under the circumstances created by Sandy. It seems clear that the storm generated some job losses, particularly in leisure and hospitality, but the total loss for the state was fairly modest, and the unemployment rate continues to drift down. Moreover, the sharp upward revision in the October number shows us that once again that first reports of large losses can be exaggerated, said Charles

Steindel, Chief Economist for the NJ Department of Treasury. Based on more complete reporting from employers, previously released October estimates were revised higher, up by 10,700 jobs, to show an overthe-month (September October) total nonfarm employment loss of 1,000 jobs. Preliminary estimates had initially indicated an over-themonth loss of 11,700 jobs. The long-term employment trend remains positive. NJs private sector employers have added 20,200 jobs over the past year (November 2011 November 2012). Since February 2010, the low point of private sector employment during the recession, private sector employment has increased by 74,800 jobs. In November, private sector job gains were posted in four of ten industry sectors; five recorded a loss while one was unchanged. Industries that registered larger gains included professional and business services (+8,300), and trade, transportation and utilities (+3,300). Smaller gains were posted in information

(+300) and manufacturing (+200). Losses occurred in leisure and hospitality (-6,900), education and health services (-5,400), and other services (3,000). Sectors with lesser decreases included construction (-400) and mining and logging (-100). In November, public sector employment was lower by 4,400 due mostly to contracting payrolls at the local (-3,800) government levels. Over the month, the unadjusted workweek for production workers increased by 1.1 hours to 42.8 hours, average hourly earnings were lower by $0.25 to $18.75 and weekly earnings rose by $10.20 to $802.50. Compared to November of last year, the unadjusted workweek increased by 1.6 hours, average hourly earnings decreased by $0.20, and weekly earnings were higher by $21.76. Technical Notes: Estimates of industry employment and unemployment levels are arrived at through the use of two different monthly surveys. Industry employment data are derived through the Current Employment Statistics (CES) survey, a monthly

survey of business establishments conducted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the US Department of Labor, which provides estimates of employment, hours, and earnings data broken down by industry for the nation as a whole, all states, and most major metropolitan areas (often referred to as the establishment survey). Resident employment and unemployment data are mainly derived from the NJ portion of the national Current Population Survey (CPS), a household survey conducted each month by the US Census Bureau under contract with BLS, which provides input to the Local Area Unemployment Statistics (LAUS) program (often referred to as the household survey). Both industry and household estimates are revised each month based on additional information from updated survey reports compiled by BLS. In addition, these estimates are benchmarked (revised) annually based on actual counts from NJs Unemployment Compensation Law administrative records and other data.

Would you like to consider a new career? The Continuing Education Department at Warren County Community College will be hosting an informational event focusing on career opportunities in the healthcare, business and occupational/trades fields on January 16th (snow date January 17th) at its new Phillipsburg Education Center on Marshall Street, conveniently located off Route 22. Healthcare continues to be the fastest growing employment sector. A career as an allied healthcare professional offers secure and meaningful work, numerous opportunities for advancement and growth, and a chance to make a difference in the lives of people who need help. Featured career opportunities will include Medical Assisting, Medical Coder/ Biller, Hospital Unit Secretary/Coordinator, Dental Assisting, Dental Radiology, Phlebotomy Technician, Certified

Nurse's Aide, Therapeutic Massage, Pharmacy Technician, and ServSafe. Preparation for these non-degree careers is offered as short-term programs through the Continuing Education Department. Business careers that will be covered are Computerized Accounting, Office Assistant, Supervisory Management and Entrepreneurial Training, and Small Business Boot Camp. Among the Occupational and Trades careers on tap are Floriculture Design and Merchandising, Fiber Optics Technician, Bartending, Certified Wedding Planner, EMT, ESL. Real Estate sales, and Animal Cruelty Investigator, and more The Continuing Education Career Night on January 16th is free and open to the public but an RSVP is appreciated. To confirm your spot, call 908-689-7613. For more information, call 908-689-7613, or visit www.warren.edu.

For Sale: Hickory Chair Co. wedgewood blue camelback sofa, exc. cond., recovered 2 yrs. ago, new cushion, mahogany, 86 long, 33 deep, 35 high, $300; GE White Manual Defrost, model FH15S, no interior light, 14.8 cu. ft., 35 H, 46 1/8 W, 29.5 cabinet depth, 59.5 H w/ lip open, $250; Broyhill Bryson Curio Cabinet, 1 yr. old, exc. cond., current retail $1399.99 new, interior light, 3 shelves, 2 drawers, $800. All lightly used by senior citizen. Call 908303-6900. (1/5) For Sale: GE Dishwaher GLD 2800T05BB, black, used twice, perfect cond., $200 OBO; GE Elec. Range, JBP66BBWH, B&W, great cond., $450 OBO. Call 609-709-5658. (1/5) Moving Sale: Bosh Washer/Dryer Set, 5 pc. Kincaid Oak BR Set, Tools (chop saw, nail gun w/ compressor, etc.), Framed Duck Paintings & Much More! Call Sandy for appt. at 908-399-3842. (7/10)

For Sale: 42 dining chairs from TKs at $45 ea. 32 bar stools at $110 ea. 15 common chairs at $15 ea. 11 round glass table tops & 16 square/ rectangular glass table tops at $45 ea. Originial light fixtures: 5 brass chandeliers at $250 ea. & pair outdoor at $125 pair. Call 570-897-6112. (4/5) JBL North Ridge ND310 Hightower Speakers: exc. cond. $275 for pair. Call 908-362-8880. (5/5)

Quad For Sale: 2006 Polaris Predator 90cc in great cond. Garage kept, orig. owner. Asking $800. Call 732-546-7755. (3/5) Sell Your Unwanted Treasures in The PRESS! See form below.

2000 Pontiac Sunfire: tan color, excellent condition, 79k miles. $2,200. Call 610-391-9066. (3/5) 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4: 4.0 auto, 193k miles, forest green, Kenwood stereo, clean, nice jeep, garage kept. $2,100 or best offer. Call 610-674-7721 or 484-5449753, anytime. (3/5) Four Snowtires on Alloy Rims: light wear. Blizzaks R17. $100. Call 908-4595280. (3/5)

The Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders reorganized with a new member and new leader, as Edward J. Smith took a seat on the three-member board and Jason Sarnoski was unanimously named director for 2013. Smith, of Franklin Township, took the oath of office for a three-year term from State Sen. Michael Doherty, for whom Smith previously served as chief of staff. At his side was his wife of 17 years, Eileen, while their granddaughter, Lily Brunell, held a small family Bible that Smith said his father had carried with him during World War II as he marched from France to Germany in 1944. Doherty, a former Warren Co. freeholder, also administered the oath of office to Sarnoski as freeholder director, and to Warren Co. Clerk Pat Kolb, who was reelected to another fiveyear term in November. The board lost no time in setting their agenda and laying out the challenges they will face this year.

The next year will be challenging, but it is not without a lot of optimism that I enter this new year, Sarnoski noted in his remarks. Our past freeholder boards have made some good choices, and put us in a much better position than other counties in New Jersey. We have a dedicated and experienced work force that is ready and able to tackle the challenges

ahead, and you have a current board that is smart, hard-working and dedicated to the public they serve. I look forward to serving with them. Freeholder Richard D. Gardner said, Weve got a lot of work to do. Im eager to get started. Both Smith and Sarnoski said they will seek a resolution calling for voter approval of all county bond issues.

This will provide a defense that will help hold the line on future tax rates, Smith explained, noting it would be consistent with the principles found in NJs Constitution that prohibits State borrowing without voter approval. Smith also said he plans to address the financial challenges brought on by Warren Haven, the county-run nursing home

in Mansfield Township, and by the Pollution Control Financing Authority of Warren Co., the agency that operates a landfill in White Township and was formed to finance the Countys trash disposal facilities. We need to address the Countys rising costs of insurance, fuel, contracts, and materials, by looking at every phase of the countys operations, and coming up with new approaches or cost reductions that can get us through the next year, Smith said. Everything has to be on the table. Programs we could once afford have to be reevaluated. Sarnoski sounded a similar theme when he told the crowd assembled in Courtroom One of the Warren County Courthouse that he will continue to work for sustainable financial governance. The county budget will be a challenge, as the economy is still not recovered from the fiscal downturn, the medical reimbursement world is in upheaval and revenues are down, Sarnoski said.

Our spending plan, along with our taxes, will have to change, Sarnoski remarked. There can be no more sacred cows, or areas that we will not look at or touch to reduce the tax burden on our residents. Not every decision we make will be universally popular, but I will not shy away from making the difficult decisions, Sarnoski said. Sarnoski pledged to maintain an open, honest dialogue with the public, and hold quarterly meetings in other areas of Warren. Gardner noted that Warren Co. has a conservative freeholder board that stresses fiscally responsible operations, but noted that help from Trenton is needed to continue Gov. Chris Christies efforts to eliminate red tape. There needs to be more emphasis to get rid of regulations that absolutely imperil business. In this new year, I am confident that this Freeholder Board will lead Warren County in a positive direction, Smith said.

Automotive Safety: Winter Driving and Tire Tips

(NAPSI)Conditions such as snow-covered roads and black ice can make winter driving unpredictable. The good news is that preparing early for winter weather and anticipating and avoiding dangerous circumstances can help drivers maintain control and stay safe on the road. To help, here are some tips from the experts at Cooper Tire & Rubber Company. Drive cautiously: For starters, double the anticipated stopping distance when braking anytime conditions are not dry. It will take longer to come to a stop in snowy or icy conditions. Do not assume a four-wheel-drive vehicle will stop faster than a two-wheel-drive vehicle-four-wheel drive offers no braking advantage. Always reduce speed during winter conditions. When purchasing winter tires, replace all four tires. Due to the different grip capabilities of summer, allseason and winter tires, the driver will not get all the handling and traction benefits if all tires are not replaced. Examine tread: The only part of a vehicle to touch the road is the tires, and tire tread is a vital part of handling, cornering, accelerating and braking. For winter weather driving, a general rule is the more tread depth, the better. A tires minimum tread depth should be more than 2/32 of an inch deep all around the tire. Drivers can check tread depth by using a U.S. penny. Insert the edge of the coin into the tread with Lincoln going in headfirst. If the top of his head is visible at any location on the tire, the tire is worn out and its time to replace it. While examining the tread, also look for signs of uneven wear or damage such as cuts, cracks, splits, punctures and bulges. These conditions shorten the life of tires and, if not corrected, further tire damage, tire failure or air loss may occur. Find tires made for the season. For example, Cooper Tire has been a proven winter tire brand for decades, providing high-performing and extensive product lines that cover more than 90 percent of vehicles, such as the Weather-Master S/T2, the WeatherMaster WSC and the Discoverer M+S. All Cooper winter tires include a patented snow groove technology that retains snow in the tread grooves, capitalizing on the higher traction of snow on snow versus snow on rubber. Test air pressure: Tire pressure plays a critical role in the overall performance of tires. Underinflation creates excessive stress on the tire, while overinflation can cause uneven wear in addition to handling and braking issues. Tire pressure decreases by about one pound per square inch for every 10-degree drop in outside air temperature, so it is vital that drivers check the air pressure regularly as winter weather approaches. Drivers should follow the guidelines found in the vehicle owners manual or tire placard (or sticker) attached to the vehicle door edge to determine the correct air pressure for their vehicles tires. A common myth is that the tire pressure listed on the sidewall is the optimal pressure, while in reality it is the maximum pressure.

Air pressure should be checked when the tires are cool, meaning they are not hot from driving even a mile. Should any of these checks reveal the need for required maintenanceor when

in doubt about the condition of their tiresdrivers should take vehicles to a tire dealer for a professional inspection. For more information, visit www.cooper tire.com.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays! Looked out my window this morning (December 30th) and

what a beautiful sight! I think I will take a nice slow drive and check out the sights at some of my favorite sites!! It was really not that cold as far

as temperature about 33, but get in the wind and it really felt cold! I made my rounds and one of my stops was the beautiful Delaware Water

Gap, it is always a great visit! I entered via I80 on the Jersey side and stopped at the Kittatinny Visitors Center and walked along the River

by the boat launch area. When I departed I decided to drive back east on I 80 and then go over the Portland Toll Bridge and take a ride back through the Gap via the Scenic Route on the Pennsy side of the River. My plan was to stop at the three Scenic Overlooks and get some photos! Great plan but, two of the overlooks were not plowed out, I opted not to park! However, not a total loss, one of the overlooks, my favorite of the three, Point of the Gap, was partially plowed and there was a train parked there! Always enjoy seeing a train! I had been out of the car a bunch of times today and I really didn't feel the cold too much, but here, the wind was howling! It was cold! I could watch the snow

blowing and swirling all over and then I noticed the snow blowing off Mount Tammany! Wow! I bet it feels cold up there!! I had a hard time holding my camera out if a wind gust came! I got my photos and began my ride back home. Returning home, I began thinking, this Water Gap trip might make for a nice email. Lets see, we are at the Water Gap, we have snow, a parked train. I kinda like this... maybe even get you into that ol Winter Snow Spirit... How is this: you stay warm and Ill give you a tour all the way to the top! Charlie Fineran Director Open Space Allamuchy Twp. Environmental Commission Allamuchy Historical Society - President