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No. 16 Vol. 1

My Life Publications • 1-800-691-7549

January 2020

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Local Family Publishes First Book

By Steve Sears hythmic Rhymes, a book of poetic rhymes, art and photos courtesy of a combined effort of Sanjna S. Katyal and her sons, Sarthak and Aayush, was published in September 2019. “The purpose of Rhythmic Rhymes,” says Katyal, “is to publish a book for students and by the students that inculcates a sense of appreciation for nature along with simple rhythmic words. Nature has played a tremendous role in the creation of this book. The underlying purpose was that,

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since we had in the summer of 2019 decided to bring the manuscript and artwork together in formation of a book, we wanted to be consistent in our commitment to finish our work. The most important purpose of writing Rhythmic Rhymes was to seek a feeling of accomplishment to finish what we started in a well- defines spectrum of thoughts. It was not easy, but it was not impossible either.” Rhythmic Rhymes, which is targeted to children in grades 1 and 2, is published by Xlibris and it is a self-published poetry book. It is available online through Amazon. Katyal started composing poetry at the age of 10. Sarthak, a senior at Denville’s Morris Catholic High School, contributed to the editing and the artwork in the book, and Aayush (a middle school student at Holy Spirit School in Pequannock) helped take the photographs which were taken from different parts of the world where he traveled with his family. “However,” says Katyal, “there were times that hours were spent in different parts of the seasons to take these photographs.” Katyal is eager to mention that the book had well-deserved support from her spouse, Arjun, and her parents, Gp Capt. Sehgal and Mrs. Prabha Sehgal, “who have been the propeller to bring this work to its completion. Their constant motivation and encouragement have offered being the pillar of support.” The process of planning and outlining and editing to a finished product took about a year. “In its evolutionary stage,” says Katyal, “only a raw manuscript was available by itself.” The manuscript was created by Katyal, and then her children got involved. Sarthak’s artwork was compiled, and Aayush, using his passion for photography, identified the photographs that would complement his mom’s poems. After this, the publisher was contacted. “Rhythmic Rhymes,” says Katyal, “is important to its readers because it helps appreciate nature in the power of words. Its creativity is well nourished in its content and its

relevance is well contained in its simplicity. The traditional poems I learnt in my childhood which are being taught today I felt was bringing monotony to an academic curriculum. A differentiator only in terms of representing the similar facts differently I thought will be reflective of being a change agent to the traditional academia. It is always simple to follow the same, but it takes innovative ideas to create a differentiator.” Katyal also values that the involvement of she and her children, and perseverance, are great teachers. “Having published Rhythmic Rhymes, as I reflect back, I must share that teamwork can create wonders. Motivation is essential because it enables to perform, but most important is doing the hard work to accomplish a goal which is time driven. Never give up and keep working hard to meet the end result even if it amounts to falling ample times after you run. There is just no substitute for hard work, and being hopeful is essential, as also is essential to feel blessed as being grateful every day.”

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 3

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A VIEW FROM THE LEFT

A VIEW FROM THE RIGHT

Try to Remember

EDITORIAL &

Opinions

s anyone here old enough to remember the urgent warning issued in a speech to the National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in August 2002 by an American vice president who had artfully avoided the military draft during wartime? Dick Cheney, after acknowledging he was convinced that Saddam Hussein would “acquire nuclear weapons fairly soon,” went on to beat the war drums: “Simply stated, there is no doubt that Saddam Hussein now has weapons of mass destruction; there is no doubt he is amassing them to use against our friends, against our allies and against us.” There was not then, and there never would be, any stockpile of Saddam Hussein’s WMDs to be used against us. It was worse than “fake news”; it was taking his country into war under false pretenses, leaving as its legacy death, disillusionment and, yes, despair. But let us also recall the wise, if unheeded, words of a former Marine Corps company commander in Vietnam who there earned the Navy Cross, a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts; he posed the consideration the Republican administration sending American troops into Iraq refused to broach with the American people: “whether we as a nation are prepared to physically occupy territory in the Middle East for the next 30 to 50 years.” That was Jim Webb, who would later be elected to the U.S. Senate from Virginia as an anti-war Democrat. He warned, “wars often have unintended consequences -- ask the Germans, who in World War I were convinced that they would defeat the French in exactly 42 days.” Today, 75 years after World War II, the U.S. still has troops stationed in both Germany and Japan, and 67 years after the Korean War ended, American soldiers remain on dangerous watch in

Mark Shields Korea. Does anyone else remember the young Army captain in Vietnam who had held in his arms a young soldier who had stepped on a landmine and was dying? Colin Powell knew firsthand how painful it was to write condolence letters to the grieving next of kin. That led directly to the doctrine that would carry his name; it says that the U.S. should commit men and women to combat only as a last resort and after policy options have been exhausted -- and then only 1) when a vital national security interest of the nation is at stake, 2) when the U.S. force employed is overwhelming and disproportionate to the force of the enemy, 3) when the mission and military action are both understood and supported by the American people, and the mission has international support, and 4) when there is a clear and plausible exit strategy for the U.S. troops sent into harm’s way. Maybe you recall the gentle rebuke Army Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf had for the fawning flatterers who lionized him after his successful leadership in the continued on page 6

DOWN

The close of 2019 marks two full decades since I entered national newspaper syndication. You are reading the 1,571st column I’ve filed with Creators Syndicate. The years have flown and so have the words: More than one million of them carefully marshaled each week for the past 1,043 weeks to enlighten, entertain and enrage. Thank you, Creators Syndicate founder Rick Newcombe, for your steadfast support and friendship. Thank you to the hundreds of newspaper op-ed and website editors who publish my work. Thank you to the thousands of readers over the past 20 years who’ve provided warm encouragement, sharp criticism, typo corrections, whistleblower tips, crochet patterns, favorite poems and prayers. I am especially heartened by positive feedback from high school students assigned by their English teachers to expose themselves to views different from their own. Though the past few months have been filled with slanderous accusations that I am a purveyor of “hate,” longtime readers of this column know that these weekly pieces are undergirded by love of language, love of family, love of freedom and love of country. My columns have been filed from across the heartland and around the world, from our southern border to the Pacific Northwest, from Washington, D.C., to Iraq. I root for underdogs, watchdogs and sheepdogs. I oppose elites, control freaks, race hustlers, con artists, ingrates, liars, reality deniers, bullies and incompetents. No topic is off-limits. I’ve shared dis-

Michelle Malkin senting views on the Japanese internment, rethought my former support for the death penalty and challenged the Big Pharma/Big Government orthodoxy on vaccines since 2004, when our family pediatrician kicked us out of her practice for requesting that a Hep B jab simply be delayed. While every major American media outlet cowered as Muslims worldwide rioted against free speech in 2006, my columns vigorously defending the Danish newspaper cartoonists who dared to draw Muhammad earned death threats, distributed denial of service attacks on my website and sharia warnings that continue to this day. I’ve exposed the cronyism and corruption of the Bushes, McCains, Clintons, Obamas and Bidens. I’ve offended Muslims, Catholics, Lutherans and Jews with my opinions and reporting. I’ve been an equal-opportunity hate crime hoax debunker and crapweasel hunter. Politics and policy have been a cencontinued on page 6

Thumbs Tell It All! This feature shows negative statements with a thumb pointed down and positive statements with thumbs pointed up. Messages are not to exceed 40 words. You can submit your thumbs up or down by email thumbs@ mylifepublications.com. All submissions must include name, address and telephone number (for use by office for verification only); submissions without this information will not be printed. Negative comments should omit specific references to person(s), location(s), business(es). At the editor’s discretion, elected officials’ and township employees’ names may be allowed in addition to names of public organizations. MALJON LLC reserves the right to edit all copy. Limit is two submissions per week per household. 100% MailedNewspaper Flanders, NJ 07836

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A Syndication Anniversary Reflection

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Please e-mail all press releases and calendar information to hteditor@newviewmg.com. Advertising in the HomeTown News is affordable and effective. We are a “family friendly” publication and therefore reserve the right to accept only advertisements that appeal to the entire family; the final determination of which is made by New View Media Group. Views expressed in the HomeTown News are those of the respective columnists and writers, and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, or the HomeTown News. Advertising is open to anyone desiring to reach the public and is subject to approval, revision and/or rejection at any time by the publisher. Many of the articles are paid for by the author and are in effect advertisements. Publication of any advertisement does not constitute, either implied or inferred, an endorsement of services, products or businesses advertised.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 5

Butler Book Reprint Available

ack by popular demand, the “Butler Book” also known as “Butler New Jersey In Story and Pictures” is being reprinted. The Butler Museum and Historical Committee is pleased to announce that a reprinted edition of the popular history of Butler’s first hundred years will be available by pre-order only. Thanks to modern digital

printing, we have arranged to reproduce a limited edition of the centennial volume at a pre-paid price of $40 per copy. (plus $5 per book shipping cost if required) Don’t miss out on your last chance to own this fascinating historical journey through the establishment and evolution of our community.

Send your order to The Butler Museum - Butler Book Reprint, One Ace Road, Butler NJ 07405 Make your check or money order payable to the BOROUGH OF BUTLER. Indicate in the memo line “Butler Book Reprint”. The deadline to order is Saturday February 29, 2020. The books should be available in April 2020.

n Dec. 11, The Scribble Garden celebrated their grand opening. Located at 163 Newark Pompton Tpk. Pequannock, they offer craft classes,

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20 Years...

continued from page 4 tral focus, of course, but I’ve also shared the joys and pains of my personal life: the birth of my children, the still-unsolved disappearance of my cousin from the University of Washington campus in 2011, my late mother-in-law’s experience with medical marijuana to relieve stage 4 melanoma-related pain in 2014, my daughter’s struggles with chronic illness and pain in 2015, and my 25th wedding anniversary celebration last year. So many of the stories of suffering, perseverance, patriotism, faith and sacrifice I’ve shared with you remain inscribed on the hard drive of my soul, including Guadalcanal war hero and U.S. Coast Guard Signalman Douglas A. Munro and his dedicated friend Mike Cooley; the children who

died on 9/11; Rick Rescorla; Jahi McMath; Haleigh Poutre; Justina Pelletier and Marty and Dana Gottesfeld; Daniel Holtzclaw; Valentino Dixon; Jeff Deskovic; and Brian Franklin. Along the way, I’ve enjoyed connecting with remarkable human beings of all backgrounds and political stripes. In 2002, I wrote a tribute column to my friend and veteran crime journalist Jack Olsen, who died unexpectedly of a heart attack. We had carried on phone and email conversations for years since my days as a columnist at the Seattle Times. I recounted him jokingly calling himself my “one lefty friend.” We traded notes berating and cajoling each other. “O for Chrisakes, Michelle, lighten up,” Jack wrote in response to a column I did on

Try to Remember... continued from page 4 Persian Gulf War. He said: “It doesn’t take a hero to order men into battle. It takes a hero to be one of those men who goes into battle.” These thoughts all come back when an American president, our only chief executive never to have served a single day in either public service or military service before coming to the White House, again

confronted a hostile Iran by sending more American troops into harm’s way in Iraq. Now is the time to be sure to remember. To find out more about Mark Shields and read his past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2020 MARK SHIELDS DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS.COM

touchy-feely conflict resolution seminars in the public schools. “You are incorrigible,” he ribbed when I told him that (SET ITAL)was(END ITAL) my idea of lightening up. From the very start of my journalism career, I’ve fought the scourge of identity politics and fetishizing of false “diversity.” One of my very first syndicated columns in 1999 called out a “journalists of color” conference in Seattle for “treating minority journalists as trinkets to be tallied.” A “newsroom that looks like America is worthless if it doesn’t reflect the diverse and discordant beliefs of its readers,” I wrote at the time. “Journalism doesn’t need more like-minded foot soldiers who march in political unity. It needs straight shooters

who think fearlessly for themselves.” With free speech and free thought under intense fire from all quarters, those words mean more to me now than they did when I wrote them 20 years ago. My New Year’s resolution is to forge ahead and put the roar in the “Roaring Twenties.” There is so much truth yet to be exposed, so many more stories yet to tell, and miles to go before I sleep. Michelle Malkin ‘s email address is MichelleMalkinInvestigates@protonmail.com. To find out more about Michelle Malkin and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

Did You Know?

he tech sector continues to experience record growth. CyberstatesTM, a report compiled by CompTIA that analyzes data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI), Burning Glass Technologies, Hoovers, PwC/CBInsights, MoneyTree, and more, paints a promising

picture for careers in technology. According to the report, there were 3.7 million tech job postings in 2018. Popular jobs in the industry included IT services and custom software services, telecommunications and internet services and tech manufacturing. The three states with the highest net percentage of tech jobs are California, Texas and New York.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 7

Traditional Okinawan Karate: A Teacher’s Perspective By Christopher Miller, Head Instructor of Traditional Okinawan Karate, Butler NJ, 5th Degree Black Belt would like to share with you one of my favorite karate related stories from over the summer. For the sake of my student’s privacy, we will call her Jane. Jane is a 7 year old orange belt student of Traditional Okinawan Karate. Jane was playing in the park on a nice sunny day at the end of June. Jane came down the slide and stopped at the end. A boy, who was a known bully in the park, was waiting at the bottom of the slide. The boy pulled Jane’s leg and Jane landed flat on her back off the slide. Jane’s mom saw this confrontation and hurried towards the slide, but she was about 50 ft away. According to Jane’s mom, her daughter stood up dusted herself off and punched the boy, who then landed square on his butt. As the mom arrived at the slide, the boy was whimpering away crying to his parents (the boy’s parents later apologized for the incident). The mom looked down at her daughter and asked if she was ok. Jane said “yes” and to the mom’s surprise went back up the slide. As Jane’s Martial Arts Teacher, I was beaming with pride as I heard this story. I let the mom recount the story to the entire class and Jane got a standing ovation from the students and the parents. Privately, Jane’s mom and dad expressed how pleased they were with Jane. As a parent, we wish we could always be close by when trouble comes to our child. But the truth is, it is our job to train our children when trouble

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Page 8 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

I Remember Dad, Chapter 3:

So Proud the Airman

By Richard Mabey Jr. eeply etched in the heart of America, are the sacrifices made by the U. S. veterans of the Second World War. Sadly, the number of living veterans of World War II has been dramatically decreased in most recent years. Many of their stories, their remembrances, their heart-felt sacrifices will never be known to us. For a multitude of reasons, many of the veterans of the Second World War spoke very little of the horrors that they endured to defend the honored principles of democracy and freedom. Many of the World War II soldiers returning to America’s shores, simply wanted to forget the nightmares of the war. Many were truly modest of their selfless and heroic deeds. And, for many others, what they endured was simply too painful to talk about. My Dad was a veteran of the Second World War. He served at Hickam Air Field, right next to Pearl Harbor. My father served in the Seventh Army Air Corps, which was the precursor to today’s Seventh Air Force. Dad was one of many, many service men who were sent to clean up the disastrous results of man’s inhumanity to man. The painful memory of Pearl Harbor deeply haunted the good people of Hawaii. Dad would often tell With each condensed chapter of “I Remember Dad” I try to bring a bit of the flavor and culture of my Dad’s generation, that of the men and women who grew up in the Great Depression and survived the sacrifices of World War II in their time of coming of age.

me about the incredible stress that the men of the Seventh Army Air Corps endured, always anticipating another catastrophic attack from the Japanese. I remember those years, when I was in grade school. After supper, I would be playing on the floor with my Lincoln Logs or building a car model. From time to time, Dad would be looking at his old photo album of pictures of his years of service at Hickam Air Field. Sometimes, I would look up to my beloved father and see an expression of sadness befall upon his face. I remember one time, I’m pretty sure that it was when I was in the third grade, that I saw tears fall from my Dad’s eyes as he looked at the pages of his photos from his days in the Seventh Army Air Corps. Dad never talked much about his time of service in the Army Air Corps. In recent years, I have done some research about the Seventh Army Air Corps’ role in the Second World War. I was amazed and justifiably proud of my dear

My Dad in his U. S. Army Air Corps uniform.

father. The United States was very much concerned about Japan assaulting Hawaii with another all-out attack. One of my deepest regrets is that I never told my father just how proud I was of him for serving in World War II. And, it saddens me deeply to admit that I never really thanked my Dad for defending America, at a time when he was just a young man. Although my father and I were very close and shared many common interests, I never simply said thank you to my father for his great sacrifice. I truly wish I had.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 9

Taking a Home Office Deduction

A Great Tax Reduction Idea, If Done Right!

loud-based applications, extensive communication channels, and other new technologies make it easier to run your business out of your home. If you qualify, many home business expenses are deductible. Think you might qualify? You must first pass these tests. 1. Trade or business use test. To qualify for business use of your home you must use part of your home for a qualified trade or business. This profit seeking activity must not be a hobby in the eyes of the IRS. 2. Exclusive use test. You must use part of your home exclusively for your business activity. Blending personal use within the same space as your business activity can disallow the business use of home deductions, however, there does not need to be a

permanent barrier between this space and the rest of the house. 3. Regular use test. In addition to having a qualified business activity in an exclusive area of your home, you must also use it “regularly” for your business activity. The IRS applies judgment in this area to determine the facts and circumstances around what it deems to be regular use. 4. Principal place of business test. To deduct your home office expenses, the home location must also be your principal place of business. That does not mean there cannot be other business locations, just that your home office must be your primary location. You might also have multiple business activities. In this case, you could meet the test for one of your busi-

nesses to qualify to take the deductions. With multiple locations, the considering factors are: • The relative importance of the activities performed at each location • The amount of time spent at each location • The primary place used exclusively and regularly for administrative or management activities • Whether there are other fixed locations for business use Types of deductible expenses This chart from the IRS gives some direction on the types of expenses that are deductible. As always, proper substantiation is required to take the deduction, so keep all receipts and statements in an organized fashion. (See Chart) Sound confusing? Per-

haps. If the additional work of tracking specific expenses is too much to handle, a simplified home office deduction calculation is also available to small businesses to lower their tax bill. Please call should you need help in navigating this part of the tax code. Robert P. Sokoloff and Associates, PC, is a year round full service CPA firm providing a wide range of

Accounting and Tax services to both Small Business and Individual Clients. We are QuickBooks Certified Pro Advisors and provide new business set up, training and support. Our office is located at 166 Main St. Lincoln Park, NJ 07035. Our website is www.cpanewjersey.com and email is rps@ cpanewjersey.com. To contact us by phone please call 973-633-1001.

Did You Know?

hose poised to begin a health regimen that includes probiotics would be wise to also educate themselves about the closely named, yet vastly different, “prebiotics” that are also beneficial to health. Prebiotics are to probiotics what fertilizer is to a vegetable garden. Prebiotics are essentially a special type of soluble fiber that is used by the beneficial bacteria as fuel, advises the prebiotic supplement company Prebiotin. Examples of good sources of prebiotics include bananas, onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes,

apple skins, beans, and chicory root. The prebiotic fiber moves through the small intestine undigested and fermented until it reaches the large intestine. Once there, beneficial bacteria break it down and use it as food. Thusly, the prebiotics can then multiply readily and improve the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. Eating prebiotic foods can fuel the process, but many probiotic supplements now have a combination formula that includes prebiotics in the recipe.

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Brought to you by Dr. Matthew Krupnick, the owner of Pequannock Animal Hospital

Surprising Facts About Fleas and Ticks

leas and ticks rely on blood for food. They are the vampires of the pet realm, silently stalking companion animals wherever they go. Once fleas and ticks find a victim, they are bound to stay around for a while, enjoying the free meal. Fleas, in particular, can grow quite fond of a cat or dog - reproducing and quickly building an infestation. Few people are enamored with fleas and ticks, but learning a little more about them can help pet owners understand their behaviors and how to best keep their pets safe. Fleas Fleas have four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and biting adult. Most people are familiar with the adult stage because those are the most noticeable and painful. Fleas can feed on just about any blood host. Scientists know of more than 2,000 species and subspecies of fleas. However, in North America, the cat flea (ctenocepha-

lides felis) is responsible for the majority of cat and dog infestations. Female fleas are typically larger than the males and are responsible for proliferating the flea brood. Females can consume up to 15 times their body weight in blood every day. This helps to fuel egg-laying, which can take place within 36 to 48 hours of the female’s first meal. In her lifetime, a female flea can lay roughly 2,000 eggs. Fleas are wingless parasites that get around by jumping from host to host. If they don’t have to expend too much energy (i.e. get comfortable on a host), they can go anywhere from between two months and 100 days without a meal. Fleas can jump up to eight inches high, enabling them to grab onto a passing meal source. A typical flea can live for a few months, and fleas can carry a number of different diseases. From plague to cat scratch fever continued on page 11

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 11

Fleas and Ticks... continued from page 10 to tapeworms, fleas can make pets ill and also affect people who interact with them. Ticks Ticks are not insects; they are arachnids. That means they are more closely related to spiders and scorpions. The stages of the tick include the egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Depending on the species, nymph ticks can be quite small to the naked eye. Ticks’ small stature can make them difficult to detect until they have become engorged with blood. The University of Rhode Island’s Center for Vector-Borne Disease and its TickEncounter Resource Center say that spring is a prime time for the birth of new ticks.

During this time of year, ticks are on the hunt for their next meals. Ticks can be carriers of a number of diseases, but it’s important to note that a tick has to be attached for longer than 24 hours to transmit diseases to a host. That means checking animals (and yourself) for ticks frequently can help avoid the spread of illness. Ticks don’t jump or fall from trees. The parasites crawl upward, so start looking from the feet, moving up. In addition, check a dog’s face, where a tick may latch on while the dog is sniffing in the grass. Ticks and fleas are pesky critters that can carry disease.

Today’s Beauty Salon’s Grand Opening in Pompton Lakes

oday’s Beauty recently celebrated it’s grand opening. Located at 54 Wanaque Ave in Pompton Lakes, the new business is eager to welcome customers.

Did You Know?

ccording to Oldways, a nonprofit organization that helps people rediscover and embrace shared cultural eating traditions, traditional meals in Africa varied depending on where on the continent one might be. In Central Africa, Oldways notes that traditional meals were often based on hearty vegetable soups and stews that were poured over boiled and mashed tubers or grains. In Eastern Africa, the main features of traditional

meals were whole grains and vegetables such as cabbage, kale and maize. In places like Ethiopia and Somalia, flat-breads play a significant role in traditional meals. Meals were based on these breads and beans, such as lentils, fava beans and chickpeas, and served with spices. Beans were eaten throughout Africa, and Oldways notes that they were often pounded into a powder for bean pastes.

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Page 12 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Do You Struggle with Missing or Failing Teeth? Dental Implants May Help! An Investment in Yourself • Improved Quality of Life Enhanced Appearance Lead to Better Health and Greater Self Confidence

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 13

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Page 14 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Faith Kitchen Feeds the Souls of the Needy

By: Megan Roche n East Blackwell Street in Dover, you’ll find a warm meal and a side of hope with a visit to Faith Kitchen. Located at 123 E. Blackwell Street (Trinity Lutheran Church), there is always a warm meal at lunchtime from 11:30-12:30 and positivity to be found for all in the community. Faith Kitchen was started back in 1983. In 2005, it became its own 501c3 charity and still operates upstairs inside of Trinity Church. They serve a nice lunch 6 days a week to anyone in need, no questions asked. The line forms at their door by mid-to-late morning in anticipation of doors opening at 11:30 a.m. No matter what the weather is, people are out there waiting. Those who come are hungry, tired, cold and wet. The outside elements wear them down. Some standing on

the line outside the door have waited tirelessly because this will be the only meal they’ll eat today. Currently the kitchen is fully covered when it comes to groups or community organizations who want to serve meals, but the team can always use donations or benefit from fundraisers. According to Executive Director of Faith Kitchen, Joanne Bleecker, “We have groups that come in each day to serve. They bring food, cook, serve and clean up. Since we do have a regular volunteering schedule of faith groups that serve here, we are blessed that we do not need to seek out individual volunteers for cooking and serving. What we need is volunteers to run paper drives for us. Any item collected helps to save us money and goes a long way in helping us feed those in need.” After Faith Kitchen closes down for the day at 12:30

p.m., Edna’s Haven, a program of the Mental Health Association of Morris and Essex counties opens upstairs from 12:30-4:00 p.m. Edna’s Haven helps people get referrals for services. Once a month, the Zufall Mobile Medical Van also visits Faith Kitchen to help those on a limited income receive access to the medical care they need. Bleecker, who has served as executive director for Faith Kitchen for 4 years, worked in corporate Ameri-

ca in computer science. She has been a CIO and COO for midsize multi million-dollar companies. However, when she took over at Faith Kitchen, she discovered something close to her heart. “The most rewarding part is making a big difference in someone’s day. It’s a joy and a blessing to get to know the people that come through our doors. Everyone has a life story. Listening to their stories, struggles and triumphs are critical in truly understand-

step toward developing a deeper, sincere desire to help. I am amazed every day by their resilient spirit.” Bleecker said. While the kitchen is about community, that’s what also stemmed from the organizations need for a new logo. Wanting to get the community involved in its creation, they reached out to County College of Morris’ Art and Design department. “We worked with Professor Yvonne Bandy, M.A., M.S., Associate Professor, Liberal Arts Division, Art & Design Dept. at CCM. We received 17 entries from her students and chose the design created by 21 year old student, Sebastian Torres. We asked for both a black and white entry as well as 2-color to be used for a future t-shirt fundraiser and other media uses. We felt it was a great opportunity to get local college-level art students involved in a

charitable organization and they were able to design for a 'client.' We were so impressed with the creativity and the thought put into this project by these students.” Tammy Roselle, a Faith Kitchen board member said. Working at a food kitchen may be taxing for some, but for Bleecker, this is one labor of love, one she personally understands. “At this point in my career, I was drawn to the goodness and importance of nonprofit work. My parents are first generation Americans, and both knew what it was like to be hungry, so this cause is personally important to me. They taught me the true value of a meal, of a kind word and of extending a helping hand. I do my best to fulfill that purpose each day here.” To learn more about Faith Kitchen, visit www. faithkitchendover.org.

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 15

FINANCIAL FOCUS Time for Some New Year’s Financial Resolutions

ave you thought about your New Year’s resolutions for 2020? When many of us make these promises, we focus on ways we can improve some form of our health. We vow to get more physically healthy by going to the gym, or we promise to improve our mental health by learning a new language or instrument. But it’s also important to think about our financial health – so it’s a good idea to develop some appropriate resolutions for this area, too. What kinds of financial resolutions might you make? Here are a few suggestions: • Increase your retirement plan contributions. One of the best financial moves you can make is to take full advantage of your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. If you contribute pre-tax dollars to your plan, the more you put in, the lower your taxable income will be for the year, and your earnings can grow on a tax-deferred basis. So, if your salary goes up in 2020, increase the amount you put into to your plan. Most people don’t come close to reaching the annual contribution limit, which, in 2019, was $19,000, or $25,000 for those 50 or older. You might not reach these levels, either, but it’s certainly worthwhile to invest

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as much as you can possibly afford. • Use “found” money wisely. During the course of the next year, you may well receive some money outside your normal paychecks, such as a bonus or a tax refund. It can be tempting to spend this money, but you may help yourself in the long run by investing it. You could use it to help fund your IRA for the year or to fill a gap in another investment account. • Don’t overreact to market downturns. You’ve probably heard stories about people who lamented not getting in “on the ground floor” of what is now a mega-company. But a far more common investment mistake is overreacting to temporary market downturns by selling investments at the wrong time (when their prices are down) and staying out of the market until things calm down (and possibly missing the next rally). The financial markets always fluctuate, but if you can resolve to stay invested and follow a consistent, long-term strategy, you can avoid making some costly errors. • Be financially prepared for the unexpected. Even if you’re diligent about saving and investing for your long-term goals, you can encounter obstacles along the way. And

one of these roadblocks could come in the form of large, unexpected expenses, such as the sudden need for a new car or some costly medical bills. If you aren’t prepared for these costs, you might have to dip in to your long-term investments to pay for them. To prevent this from happening, you may want to keep sufficient cash, or cash equivalents, in your investment accounts. Or you might want to maintain a completely separate account as an emergency fund, with the money kept in low-risk, liquid vehicles. If possible, try to maintain at least six months’ worth of living expenses in this account. It will take some effort but following these resolutions could help you move closer to your financial goals in 2020 – and beyond. “As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I’ve had the privilege of serving clients for over six years. My primary goal is to help our clients develop an investment strategy geared toward their unique, long-term goals and to coach them around the mistakes made by average investors. My Branch Office Administrator, Ellie Racz, and I are dedicated to providing you top-notch client service. Please call us today to schedule a complementary

consultation at 973-248-3359.” Dan Murray, Financial Advisor at Edward Jones in Pompton Lakes, said. This is a paid advertisement.

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Page 16 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

o state it brieﬂy, a reverse mortgage enables qualiﬁed homeowners, 62 and older, to convert part of the equity in their homes into cash without having to sell their home or take on a new monthly mortgage payment. When a homeowner has a reverse mortgage in place, the homeowner is required to continue to pay their insurance and taxes on the home and must live in and maintain the home as long as they live there. Reverse mortgages are aptly named because the payment stream is REVERSED. Instead of making a monthly mortgage payment to a lender as with a regular

mortgage, the lender makes payments to YOU! Statistically, most seniors prefer to stay in their homes. A reverse mortgage may be a valuable tool in enabling the senior to do just that. At the same time, they will have funds for property taxes, insurance, utilities, and food. With this being said, there is a lack of clear information on reverse mortgages. For this reason, it is critically important for seniors and their children to understand the benefits of this method of financing. Consider some of these common questions: 1. Will the lender own my home if take out a reverse mortgage? Homeowners still retain the title and ownership to their home and can choose to sell the home at any time. 2. Can a reverse mortgage affect my government benefits? Generally, a reverse mortgage does not affect social security or Medicare benefits. We recommend homeowners consult their federal benefits administrators or financial advisors to determine what, if any, impact the reverse mortgage might have. 3. Are there restrictions on how reverse mortgage proceeds may be used? There are no restrictions! The cash proceeds from the reverse mortgage can be used for virtually any purpose. Many seniors have used reverse mortgages to pay off debt, perform home repairs, help their kids, make ends

meet, or have a financial reserve. Seniors and family members should be educated as to all the pros and cons of reverse mortgages. They are not for everyone, but for the homeowners that can use this loan, it can be very helpful. Ed Morba (NMLS #19581) is an instructor in the real estate community. He educates New Jersey real estate agents for CE credits to ensure loan myths are put to rest. He has been providing financing as President of Family Home Funding Mortgage Corp. in Kinnelon, NJ for 30 years and is an expert on reverse mortgage lending. Ed is a Correspondent Mortgage Lender licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance and is the Founder and Owner of Family Home Funding Corp. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out at emorba@familyhomefunding.com, by giving us a call at (973) 283-8111, or by visiting our website at www.fhfrates.com Family Home Funding Corp. is licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance as a Correspondent Residential Mortgage Lender. NMLS #207343. This is not an offer for an extension of credit or a commitment to lend.

Encouraging Youth Sports and Their Benefits

ports help shape kids’ lives, but due to funding shortages, some school sports programs are at risk.

The ability to collaborate with peers, including those outside a child’s immediate circle of friends, is a skill that provides benefits through adulthood.

Most experts agree physical activity is an essential aspect of youth development that teaches teamwork, builds confidence and fuels academic potential. However, according to a survey of middle school educators engaged with DonorsChoose.org, 6 in 10 feel their middle school athletic programs are barely funded or underfunded. In fact, a lack of funding accounts for 47% of cuts to middle school sports programs, the survey revealed. A multiyear program known as “Mission Tiger,” launched by Kellogg, is committed to helping save middle school sports. The initiative started with a $1 million commitment to DonorsChoose.org to fund projects big and small at schools in need. Professional athletes passionate about youth sports, including Olympian Julie Ertz, are teaming up with the program to help underfunded programs. The pro-soccer midfielder teamed up with Mission Tiger to help a school inspire its students’ dreams both on and off the field by donating new equipment, including soccer balls, cleats, shin guards and more. “Growing up, I learned numerous skills from sports, skills that applied not only to athletics but to my everyday life,” Ertz said. “This is one of the many reasons why I joined the Mission Tiger team – we’re not just giving kids the opportunity to play sports, we’re giving kids the opportunity to develop beneficial skills that can positively impact the future of today’s youth.” Consider these benefits of youth sports: Teamwork: Sports teach kids the advantages of working together toward a common goal.

Character: Learning how to accept wins and losses gracefully isn’t just good sportsmanship, it’s a life lesson. A playing field puts these lessons to use so kids can practice empathy and other social interactions in a comfortable setting. Fitness: Sports are a fun way to get kids moving, and this increased physical activity helps build healthy bodies and reduces the risk of diseases. From cultivating a healthy heart and lungs to helping prevent high blood pressure and, ultimately, heart disease, regular physical activity provides numerous health benefits.

(getting a penalty or losing).

Discipline: While free play has its place, kids also need structure and boundaries. Sports come with rules, and kids naturally learn through positive reinforcement (scoring points or winning a game) and consequences

Academics: Studies reveal that physically active children score higher on tests and are more likely to go to college, according to research published by The Aspen Institute. Sports help reinforce learning concepts and habits like repetition and problem-solving. Those skills, along with the sense of accomplishment that comes with learning, are transferrable to the classroom setting. Visit MissionTiger.com for more details about how you can help give kids a chance to play. For every box of Frosted Flakes you purchase, you can spark a $1 donation to DonorsChoose. org by uploading your receipt to Kellogg’s Family Rewards within 30 days of purchase.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 17

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Page 18 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Passaic County CASA Volunteer Program

AYNE TWP. - This New Year, make a new kind of resolution – volunteer to speak up for a vulnerable child in Passaic County. In 2018, almost 500 children were removed from their homes in Passaic County due to abuse and/or neglect. These children were separated from everyone and everything they’ve ever known: parents, friends, teachers, siblings, and often their personal belongings. These children need an advocate to look out for their best interests and be a consistent presence in their lives while they are living in foster care. That’s where Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers, or CASAs, come in. CASA volunteers are compassionate, dedicated community members from all backgrounds who believe that every child deserves someone to speak up for them. CASA volunteers are partnered with a child or group of siblings, spend time with the child/children, gather information about his or her needs from the family, caretakers, teachers, doctors, and caseworkers, and make informed recommendations to the family court about the child’s future. The role of a CASA volunteer is simple: to advocate for whatever is in the best interest of the child/children. From helping siblings find permanent homes together, to setting up a child with needed services, to uncovering informa-

tion that helps reunite a loving family, volunteer advocates make incredible differences in the lives of children who have been abused and/or neglected. “I was blessed with a wonderful childhood,” CASA volunteer Pam Saunders of Wayne said. “I believe that every child deserves a safe, loving home and being a CASA volunteer helps make that a reality.” CASA volunteers do not require any specific educational or professional background. To become a CASA volunteer, a person must be 21 years or older, have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, pass a background check, and complete the 30-hour training program. The first step to becoming a volunteer is to attend an informational session, which provides details about the volunteer experience and an opportunity for prospective volunteers to ask questions. The next information sessions will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 17; and at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22. All volunteer information sessions are held at the Passaic County CASA office, located at 415 Hamburg Turnpike, Suite D2, in Wayne. For more information about Passaic County CASA and the volunteer program, call 973-832-4002, e-mail jessica@passaiccountycasa.org, or visit www.passaiccountycasa.org.

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2020 Green Communities Achievement Award Request for Nominations The New Jersey Green Communities Achievement Award recognizes those nominees whose outstanding efforts have greatly contributed to the field of urban and community forestry in New Jersey. Exemplary work, whether public or private is eligible for the award program. The Green Communities Awards recognize up to 4 recipients per year in the following categories: • Individual • Municipality • Business/Tree Care Industry • Non-profit/Non-governmental organization The criteria for nomination are: • Improving the environment in New Jersey’s communities through wise management of the trees and forest resources, and the development of a self-sustaining local urban and community forestry program. • Raising awareness of the value of urban and community trees and forests in New Jersey through education and outreach. • Enhancing the beauty of New Jersey’s cities and towns with programs and proj-

ects for trees and forests. • Providing exceptional effort and meritorious contributions to the field of urban and community forestry in New Jersey. Please provide a brief nomination narrative providing justification for the nomination based on the categories and criteria described above. Nomination must state the Name, Title, Organization, Email, and Telephone Number of both the nominator and the nominee. Nomination narratives should not exceed two (2) pages in length. Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. Winners will be asked to present and share their work during a session at the 2020 Shade Tree Federation Conference. Nominations for the 2020 Green Communities Awards are due by 5:00 pm, Saturday, February 15, 2020. Nominations must be emailed to Shannon Hart, NJ Urban and Community Forestry Program,Shannon.hart@dep.nj.gov. The subject of the email must state 2020 Green Communities Award Nomination. Questions may be directed to Ms. Hart at the email provided or 609-292-6512.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 19

Page 20 • January 2020 • Hometown News • Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com

Winter Warm-Up - Recipes and Tips Rooted in Goodness

hen cold weather hits, it’s natural to seek comfort in a variety of forms: warm blankets, layers of sweaters and delicious, hearty meals. Winter is the perfect season for spending time indoors honing cooking skills to take your culinary creations to the next level. Simple Recipes for Shorter Days With less daylight hours during the winter, many people tend to get sleepy earlier. Quick weeknight dinner recipes are usually ideal, especially when they take only 30 minutes or so to prepare. Easy dishes are perfect for those nights when you want something savory and delicious, but you also want to get into pajamas and onto the nearest couch as soon as possible. Few things are better than a warm bowl full of flavor like this taste-tempting curry recipe bursting with caramelized onion and roasted garlic notes. Chickpea, Spinach and Coconut Curry Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Servings: 6 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 large yellow onion, chopped 1 tablespoon turmeric 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper, plus additional, to taste 1 can (29 ozs) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 jar (24 ounces) FarmToFork Caramelized Onion & Roasted Garlic Sauce 1 can (15 ounces) light coconut milk 4 cups baby spinach 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt, stirred 1/2 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped 2 naan flatbreads, toasted and sliced In large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil, ginger, garlic, onions, turmeric, salt and 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper. Cook 6-8 minutes, or until onions begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add chickpeas, sauce and coconut milk; cook 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. Add spinach; cover with lid. Simmer 3-4 minutes, or until spinach is wilted. Mix well. Spoon mixture into six serving bowls and top each with spoonful of yogurt, pinch of cilantro and additional crushed red pepper, to taste. Serve with flatbread slices. Find more winter recipes at farmtoforksauce.com. The Perks of Passive Cooking Wintry weekends call for warming meals

that bring an extra sensation of coziness through the wafting aroma of slow-cooked dishes. Wintertime is the perfect season to break out your slow cooker or put your stove on low heat and let fragrant dishes such as Savory Harissa-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables simmer slowly and fill your home with enticing smells. Savory Harissa-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 50 minutes Servings: 6 1/3 cup harissa paste, divided 1/3 cup olive oil, divided 1 large red onion, cut into 1/2-inch thick slivers 1 small head cauliflower, cut into small florets 1 jar (24 ounces) FarmToFork Marinara Sauce, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 3/4teaspoon ground black pepper, divided 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds) 1 pound rainbow carrots, trimmed and peeled 1 lemon, juice only, divided 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill, mint or cilantro, divided 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt Heat oven to 425 F. In large bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons harissa and 2 tablespoons oil. Add onions and cauliflower; toss to combine. Spread vegetable mixture in single layer on 17-by-12-inch foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. In same bowl, whisk remaining harissa, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 cup marinara sauce, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add chicken; toss with tongs until well coated. Arrange chicken atop vegetables on baking sheet. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until chicken is deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 F. Use vegetable peeler to create long ribbons of carrots. In bowl, toss carrots with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons chopped herbs and remaining oil, salt and pepper. In separate bowl, mix yogurt, remaining lemon juice and remaining herbs. Serve each chicken thigh with roasted vegetables, dollop of herbed yogurt, carrot mixture and 1/4 cup warmed marinara sauce. Opt for Seasonal Produce

While the days of peaches and watermelons may be over, dropping temperatures bring a slew of seasonal produce made for cool-weather cooking. Think winter squash, apples, root

vegetables and cauliflower. Try using a seasonal food guide to learn what produce is in season in any state at any time of the year. Cooking with seasonal produce helps continued on page 21

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Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/mypaperonline.com • Hometown News • January 2020 • Page 21

Winter Warm-Up...

continued from page 20 ensure your food is in peak form at its most nutritional and flavorful state. Find Comfort in Your Favorite Foods Almost nothing beats pasta and sauce on a chilly night. When craving warm and filling meals during winter, a quality, jarred pasta sauce like FarmToFork can add simple goodness to hearty dishes like Gnocchi with Hearty Mushroom Bolognese. Made with sustainably grown, vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh garlic, basil and onions, the sauce brings rich, distinctive flavor to a variety of coolweather favorites from traditional pasta recipes to soups and oven bakes. During the season of giving, comfort and

warmth can also be found in doing good for others, which is why FarmToFork supports Big Green, a national nonprofit organization that partners with low-income schools around the country to bring garden-based learning and food literacy curriculums to children. Gnocchi with Hearty Mushroom Bolognese Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 6 1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped 1 carrot, coarsely chopped 2 ribs celery, coarsely chopped 2 cloves garlic 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 2 pounds button, cremini or portobello mushrooms 1 jar (24 ounces) FarmToFork Marinara Sauce 3 tablespoons butter 1 pound refrigerated or frozen gnocchi 1/2 cup pecorino Romano cheese, grated 1/4 cup Italian parsley, coarsely chopped In food processor, pulse onions, carrots, celery and garlic until finely chopped. In large pot over medium-high heat,

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