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3.28.2020 • www.mypaperonline.com • Follow Us on www.Facebook.com/mypaperonline

How to Support Local Businesses During Mandatory Restrictions

he outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 throughout the United States in March 2020 transformed American lives in ways many might never have imagined possible. Social distancing recommendations and restrictions on gatherings of more than a handful of people had a ripple effect on the economy that adversely affected many small businesses. Small businesses are the backbones of local communities. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9 percent of all businesses in the United States and employ 59.9 million employees. The SBA notes that the accommodation and food services sector is the second largest small business industry. Many of these businesses have been hit especially hard as more and more of their regular customers stay at home in the wake of government advisories promoting social distancing. But small businesses are vital to local communities, and there are ways to support them and help them stay afloat as they confront the challenges posed by the COVID-19 outbreak. • Order delivery. It’s still possible to enjoy foods from your favorite local restaurants. Many restaurants that had not previ-

ously done so have begun to offer delivery services, be it curbside or at-home, and this can provide a great respite for families who have had to cook three meals a day at home for their entire families for extended periods of time. Curbside delivery has made it possible to get takeout meals without compromising social distancing recommendations. • Recognize that more than food is available for takeout. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Governor Andrew Cuomo of New York announced relaxations on laws governing what can and cannot be obtained via takeout, allowing takeout on goods that were previously restricted in regard to takeout. For example, Cuomo announced that the New York State Liquor Authority intended to temporarily relax regulations regarding the takeout and delivery of alcohol. Utilizing such services can be a great way to support local businesses while still adhering to recommendations designed to slow the spread of COVID-19. • Purchase a gift card. Gift cards can help small businesses generate revenue at a time when their doors are largely closed to the public. This can be vital to these businesses’ survival, and it gives consumers something to look forward when life returns to normal.

• Help market local businesses. Spread the word when local businesses deliver in the wake of the restrictions put on them due to COVID-19. Share these experiences via social media or online reviews, and urge your neighbors to patronize these

businesses. Local businesses are suffering during the COVID-19 outbreak. But communities can come together to support business owners and their employees to help these vital businesses stem the tide.

If you would like to continue to receive your copy via email and in the mail please visit www.iwantmypaper.com and sign up. It is free for both editions. Again be safe in these difficult times and enjoy the reading and please feel free to contact us with any story ideas and good

news you would like to share with your neighbors. You can email joe@mylifepublications. com. Joe Nicastro & Mary Lalama Publishers

Welcome from the Publishers

elcome to the first edition of our weekly online newspaper. My Life Publications mails 18 publications each month throughout the North Jersey area. Our website is www. mypaperonline.com. Please follow us on Facebook at my paper online.

These online issues will have more local news as we continue to email them out to residents each week.. During this difficult time we wanted to offer some light reading and try to encourage people rather than publish negative news.

Page 2 • March 2020

Don’t Let Allergies get the Best of You this Season

don’t know about you, but I’m thinking spring cannot come soon enough… especially after the unexpected, late season, blizzards! Spring brings longer days, budding flowers, sunshine and warmer weather. Along with the beautiful flowers, spring also brings pollen and allergens! For some, these allergens can wreak havoc. If you’re someone who suffers from allergies, you might dread the spring season. Seasonal allergies can cause a multitude of nagging symptoms including: runny nose, itchy and/or red irritated eyes, stuffy nose/congestion, sneezing, scratchy throat and itchiness. If you suffer from any of the above, I’m here to tell you that there is a solution! Believe it or not, Acupuncture can help you to enjoy the spring again! So, you might be asking how can Acupuncture help? Acupuncture relieves symptoms of allergies by diminishing the body’s inflammatory response, without the unwanted

side effects. It helps to open nasal passages, reduces sinus pressure, calms itching, decreases throat pain, coughing and sneezing. Here’s the catch… it’s always best to begin treatment before the season begins. It is better to prevent symptoms then try to tackle them when they are in full effect. In addition to Acupuncture treatment, you can help yourself at home with these simple tips: Flush out allergens with a Neti pot, keep windows closed to prevent allergens from entering your home, try an air filter, vacuum and dust often to eliminate pollen in your home, eat local honey daily, take an omega-3 supplement, boost immunity by eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies and eliminate processed foods. For more information on Acupuncture and Allergies call Mount Olive Acupuncture & Wellness 973-527-7978; www.mtoliveacupuncture.com.

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March 2020 â€¢ Page 3

Page 4 • March 2020

A VIEW FROM THE LEFT

A VIEW FROM THE RIGHT

Not Wasting a Serious Crisis

EDITORIAL &

Opinions

y sainted mother was a public school teacher until she married my father and immediately, as a married woman, was forced by local Massachusetts rules then in force to leave the classroom. (My own grade school teachers included Miss Galvin, Miss Harrington, Miss Donahue, Miss Keohane, Miss Condrick, Miss Loud ... you get the picture.) One happy adult memory is a lunch with my then-90-year-old mother in the leading Italian restaurant in our hometown of Weymouth, Massachusetts. The world-weary expression on our waitress’s face, herself already a grandmother, brightened immediately when she recognized my mother from more than 60 years earlier: “Miss Fallon,” she announced, “You were the best teacher I ever had. Remember me from the Jefferson School ... Marie?” My mother did in fact remember and later unsentimentally recalled Marie’s losing encounters with the eights table in multiplication. In addition to my mother, my only sister was a public school teacher. My only daughter was a teacher. After leaving the Marine Corps, I, too, taught high school history. I agree with former Democratic Texas Gov. Ann Richards who, before seeking and winning public office, had been a junior high school teacher. She said, “Teaching was the hardest work I had ever done, and it remains the hardest work I’ve done.” Republican presidential candidate and former Sen. John McCain echoed the same sentiment when he argued that a good teacher should not be paid less than a bad congressman. Former White House Chief of Staff and later Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel shrewdly noted, “You never want a serious crisis to go to waste,” meaning, “the opportunity for us to do things you

Mark Shields could not before.” The current national and international crisis has closed schools and required parents to share confined indoor space with their children for hours and days on end. All over America, mothers and fathers who had not thought much about it have been forced to confront, understand and appreciate what the American public school teacher does every day of the school year: manage, inspire, organize, discipline, inform and educate not one or two children but 30 children, all day long -- some, sadly, with the attention span of a fruit fly. While safeguarding people’s health and providing treatment to all aﬄicted are our overriding priorities, it may also be time for us Americans, beginning with parents, to recognize just how demanding, difficult and indispensable the work of the public school teacher is and that a school teacher deserves to be paid much more than the median salary, which, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $58,230 for an elementary school teacher in the U.S. Recontinued on page 6

S B UM

DOWN

hen I think of “essential” workers in America, the smear merchants of the Anti-Defamation League are at the bottom of the barrel. For decades, they’ve demonized conservatives and Christians as agents of “hate” and treated our very existence as incitements to violence. The ADL’s manufactured outrage machine has broadened its target list to anyone remotely critical of Israel for any reason, President Donald Trump, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, “America First” college students, innocuous hand gestures, cartoon frogs and anyone who dares to think or write that “It’s OK to be white.” Now, in the wake of the “Chinese flu” pandemic, ADL is lining up with all the other federal bailout vultures clamoring for free money. This week, the group issued a statement calling on Congress to include “relief for charities” in any COVID-19 legislation. “In times of crisis,” ADL self-righteously urged, “nonprofits are on the front lines, ready to respond and serve communities across the nation -- but funds are needed to continue doing so.” The “relief package” pushed by ADL and several hundred other groups demands $60 billion in “emergency stimulus funding to support our work... during this time of crisis and need.” What a crock. The primary “front lines” ADL occupies are on the battlefields against American sovereignty and free speech. By my count, the open borders zealots of ADL have filed 17 amicus briefs in our courts supporting obstruction of Trump’s immigration enforcement and national security measures. The group is particularly proud of its brief in Trump v. Hawaii, in

Michelle Malkin which it “led a coalition of six Jewish organizations using our unique moral voice to passionately argue against the so-called Muslim ban, citing three historical examples when our nation later recognized that we were wrong to turn our back, including denying refuge to Jews fleeing the Nazis.” The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the travel restrictions and affirmed the broad plenary powers of the executive branch over immigration. On top of the $60 billion ADL wants for itself and its ideological fellow travelers (including tax-funded refugee resettlement contractors Catholic Charities, Church World Service and Lutheran Services), the group called on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi this week to include Medicaid coverage and tax rebates for illegal immigrants in her Chinese flu rescue package. ADL’s full-throated promotion of America’s demographic transformation through mass migration stands in stark contrast to its unapologetic defense of Israel’s restrictionist immigration policies and continued on page 6

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March 2020 • Page 5

185 Overdoses Each Day: The Real Stories and Faces Behind the Crisis

hat happens when a news story hits close to home? Angela, a news anchor from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, had been reporting on stories about the opioid epidemic when she found herself living every parent’s worst nightmare: her 21-year-old daughter, Emily, died of a drug overdose caused by fentanyl in May 2018. The numbers are heartbreaking - 67,367 people died from a drug overdose in 2018. That’s 185 needless deaths every single day - like a plane crash every day in America. Emily’s story, her life, puts a human face to the numbers. Her mom shares, “Emily was a beautiful girl who deserved to live and she also deserved a chance to get help. Even if she engaged in risky behavior, it doesn’t mean she deserved to die.” “As parents, we will never get over losing Emily to a treatable disease such as this,” says Angela. “But, by sharing her story, if we save just one family from a similar experience it will have been worth it.” Emily’s story is part of Addiction Policy Forum’s 185aDay awareness campaign, which aims to raise awareness about addiction and connect families and individuals struggling with support. Jessica Hulsey, Addiction Policy Forum’s

founder, explains: “Grief doesn’t have an expiration date, but sharing stories honors those we have lost and brings the disease of addiction out of the shadows. It lets others know they are not alone.” It’s been over 30 years since Lorraine lost Larry, her best friend and twin brother, to a drug overdose. Since Larry’s passing, Lorraine has become a tireless advocate for addiction treatment and prevention resources - even helping create national public awareness campaigns on addiction including “Above the Influence” by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) in the 2000s. For Lorraine, raising awareness around addiction and sharing Larry’s story with the 185aDay campaign is one way in which she memorializes her relationship with her twin brother and prevents other families from experiencing a similar tragedy. “Any opportunity to honor Larry and share his story with the public is so important to me and my family,” shares Lorraine. “Larry was not his disease; he was a person with hopes and dreams whose life was cut tragically short, and we can only imagine the person he could have become if help was available to him.” More resources are readily available

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today than 30 years ago. Addiction Policy Forum’s resource database and helpline connects visitors to local treatment and recovery resources, or they can call or text 1-833-301-HELP (4357) to speak with a trained counselor. “When Larry was struggling with his heroin addiction, none of us knew how to help him and we all felt so powerless,” says Lor-

raine. “Thankfully there are more resources available today for families, but very few people know about them - that’s why we decided to participate in the 185aDay campaign.” If you, or someone you know, would like to share a story of a loved one lost to addiction and substance use with the 185aDay campaign, please visit www.185aDay.org.

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Page 6 • March 2020

Chutzpah...

continued from page 4 militarized borders. But heaven forbid you point out the hypocrisy. Instead of fighting defamation, the ADL traffics in false accusations of anti-Semitism under the guise of “Never Again” repeating the Holocaust. Putting American citizens over hundreds of thousands of Third World and Muslim refugees is “xenophobic,” the ADL decries, and would lead to a repeat of World War II Nazism. Hanging banners from highway overpasses calling for our government to “secure

borders” or “defend American workers” is a “white supremacist tactic.” And pointing out the obvious nexus between open borders and disease will put you on the dreaded ADL “extremism” radar. Yes, the ADL prides itself on “monitor(ing) and report(ing) on the rhetoric of anti-immigration activists and their supporters... (who) have long promoted the notion of immigrants as bringing disease, crime and environmental problems into the United States.” Instead of refuting the facts, they just point, sputter and smear. In

Not Wasting a Serious Crisis... continued from page 4 calling McCain’s rule, a congressman -- bad or good -- is paid $174,000 a year. There is not a school board or state legislature in the country in the spring of 2020 that would not be overwhelmingly urged by parents everywhere to support a major pay increase for public school teachers. And while we’re on the subject of salaries, all those captains of industries, such as the airline CEOs, who’ve been pocketing multimillion dollar salaries and who are now coming to the taxpayers tin cup in hand to secure a public bailout, are now

effectively public employees and should not be paid more than a good -- or bad -member of Congress. It only seems fair, if the public pays their salary, that the public is able to set the pay scale. But first, let’s agree to pay the teachers a helluva lot more. 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

2009, during the swine flu outbreak traced to Mexico, I wrote on my blog that “the spread of contagious diseases from around the world into the U.S.” was the “result of uncontrolled immigration.” ADL swooped in with a raging condemnation of me and others who “demonize Mexicans and immigrants, blaming them for the spread of the virus.” ADL’s virtue-signalers went on to warn that “(a)nti-immigrant groups and some mainstream media commentators are using the outbreak to advance their prejudiced views and agendas, warning that the virus in the U.S. is the result of illegal immigration.” It’s not “prejudice.” It’s reality. Every sovereign nation on every continent, including Israel, has now closed its borders to foreign travelers and trespassers to head off this global pandemic. If we had learned from swine flu history 11 years ago, perhaps the current outbreak would not have resulted in such a delayed and addled response mired in deadly political correctness. But the ADL is still conducting business as usual during this latest open borders contagion, blithely attacking “an-

ti-Semitic, racist tropes” as the real public health menace. Really. According to its most recent financial statements, ADL and the ADL Foundation raked in nearly $80 million in operating revenues in 2018, with net assets at the worth more than $92 million. Fear-mongering is big business. The idea that ADL’s professional character assassins serve any vital role in assisting vulnerable American citizens in need of food, shelter or medical assistance is pure chutzpah. The notion that they should be entitled to a single penny of taxpayer subsidies from American workers being laid off in droves is an affront to decency. Crying “racism” and “diversity” to fill coffers and silence political opponents exacerbated the current catastrophe. ADL’s treachery should be reviled, not rewarded. 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

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Page 8 • March 2020

10 Doctor-Recommended Tips for Improved Overall Health

our in 10 adults in the U.S. have two or more chronic diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While certain conditions and risk factors are beyond one’s control, there is no shortage of lifestyle choices you can make for improved health. “It’s always the right time to consider your personal goals and how you can make positive health choices,” says American Medical Association (AMA) President Patrice A. Harris, M.D. “The good news is that there are a few easy steps you can take that will set you on the right track.” To get you started, the AMA is offering 10 wellness tips: 1. Steps you take now can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Learn your risk by taking the self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org. 2. Be more physically active. Adults should do at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity. 3. Visit LowerYourHBP.org to better understand blood pressure numbers and take necessary steps to get high blood pressure – also known as hypertension -- under control. Doing so will reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. 4. Reduce your intake of processed

foods, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Eat less red meat and processed meats, and add more plant-based foods, such as olive oil, nuts and seeds to your diet. Also reduce your consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and drink more water instead. Drinking sugary beverages -even 100% fruit juices -- is associated with a higher all-cause mortality risk, a new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests. 5. If your health care professional determines that you need antibiotics, take them exactly as prescribed. Antibiotic resistance is a serious public health problem and antibiotics will not make you feel better if you have a virus, such as a cold or flu. 6. If consuming alcohol, do so in moderation as defined by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans -- up to one drink daily for women and two drinks daily for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age. 7. Talk with your doctor about tobacco and e-cigarette use (or vaping) and how to quit. Declare your home and car smokeand aerosol-free to eliminate secondhand exposure. 8. Pain medication is personal. If you’re taking prescription opioids or other medications, follow your doctor’s instructions. Store them safely to prevent misuse and properly dispose of any leftover medica-

tion. 9. Make sure your family is up-to-date on vaccines, including the annual influenza vaccine for everyone age six months or older. If you’re pregnant, you can receive the flu vaccine during any trimester, but should receive the Tdap vaccine early in the third trimester to protect yourself against flu and whooping cough.

10. Manage stress. A good diet, sufficient sleep (at least 7.5 hours per night), daily exercise, and wellness activities, like yoga and meditation, are key ingredients to maintaining and improving your mental health, but don’t hesitate to ask for help from a mental health professional when you need it. (StatePoint)

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March 2020 • Page 9

How to Get Your Home Guest-ready, Even if You Have Pets

f you’re hosting guests with allergies and you have pets - you have a few more things to consider when getting your home guest-ready. No problem! Dr. Elizabeth Mullans, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Uptown Dermatology in Houston, Texas, offers eight cleaning tips to help allergy-proof your home.

1. Bare the ﬂoors Carpets and rugs are notorious for collecting dust mites, pet dander (dead skin cells that are naturally shed by your pets) and other allergens, which can trigger allergy-sensitive guests. Remove rugs and carpeting from your guest room as wooden or bare floors are easier to clean! 2. Don’t be blind to your blinds

Those window blinds that protect your privacy are also dust magnets in need of regular cleaning and dusting. Try mixing equal parts vinegar and Arm & Hammer Baking Soda to a spray bottle of warm water. Spray the blinds until they’re fully soaked (make sure you have a towel underneath to catch the drippings!) and then wipe clean. 3. Love your lamp shades Lampshades are tricky to dust, so they’re often skipped over during cleaning. Use a lint roller or packing tape; their sticky surfaces work faster than a cloth to collect dust on lampshades, d√©cor and other neglected areas. 4. Come clean with your pets Pet dander, urine and saliva are the main culprit to allergies - not pet hair. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says pet hair isn’t an allergen, but since dander can stick to hair and hide underneath a furry coat, it’s partially to blame for allergy misery. A weekly wash and scrub - using warm water and a dander-reducing shampoo - can greatly reduce allergens! 5. Designate pet-free zones Pet hair can get everywhere, but you can dramatically reduce these fly-aways by keeping your pets out of certain areas of the house where your guests will be. This can help keep pet allergens from getting into fabrics and rugs all over your home. Be sure to close the doors to guest rooms and install pet fences where appropriate. 6. Defend against dander Dander can get everywhere and affect your allergy-sensitive guests. Run your clothes and bedding in the dryer before you wash them to remove pet hair, which carries dander. Before making up the guest room, wash blankets and duvets to make them fresh and dander-free. Consider using a dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic detergent that’s gentle on skin and free of dyes and perfumes, like Arm & Hammer

Sensitive Skin Free & Clear detergent. They say “old habits die hard” because people generally use products that have been in the family for generations, but what happens once those products start irritating the skin? Symptoms of irritation can include redness, dry skin, burning, or hives. Sensitive skin laundry detergents really do get clothes clean. Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin detergent has been extensively evaluated among people who have sensitive skin. So, don’t worry, it’s gentle on skin, but will get your laundry clean and fresh. 7. Put out some plants The American Society of Horticultural Science and other organizations have performed studies that show how indoor plants significantly improve and clean a room’s air quality. Setting out plants like aloe, golden pathos and bamboo palm can help filter out common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air; bright flowers like azaleas, chrysanthemums and peace lilies can do the same. Unfortunately, some floral plants can trigger skin reactions for those sensitive to latex or rubber. 8. Freshen the air Air purifiers and filters can work wonders in reducing airborne allergens and keeping your surroundings feeling fresh. Purchase air filters that have a small-particle or HEPA filter for your guest room and common areas and start running them a few days before guests arrive for best results. While these eight tips can help, it’s impossible to eliminate all the allergens in your home. Just in case, have some Arm & Hammer Simply Saline Instant Relief on hand to help your guests stay comfortable. Its drug-free formula safely flushes out contaminants, quickly relieves congestion and is safe to use along with their allergy medications. Now, with all your bases covered, you can make your next gathering even happier for you and your guests.

Page 10 • March 2020

Spring Cleaning for Spring Allergies:

6 Steps From the Experts

simply kicks dust into the air. Additionally, clean vents and return registers to limit dust recirculating and finish by wet mopping tile and other hard flooring. Don’t neglect the area under the beds, which can get dusty and should be cleaned often. Eliminating dust helps your home shine and also removes some of the most notorious indoor allergy triggers. Step 2: Clean carpets Start by moving all furniture off the carpet. Then vacuum well with a cyclonic vacuum, which spins dust and dirt away from the floor, or a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. Meadows does not advise shampooing carpet, because it can cause dust mite eggs to hatch. If you are using diluted bleach and water solution for spot treatments or to kill mold, make sure someone other than the allergy sufferer does the cleaning because bleach can trigger asthma. Step 3: Clean window treatments Window treatments like curtains and valances can be a magnet for dust and pollen yet are often ignored when it comes to cleaning. This spring, make sure to follow continued on page 12

s days grow longer and new blooms appear, it can only mean one thing: Spring is here and with it comes the task of spring cleaning. For people with allergies, spring cleaning does more than spruce up a home. When done correctly, it removes dust, mold, dander and other allergy triggers so you can feel your best. “There are specific things you can do while cleaning that can dramatically improve allergy symptoms,” says Dr. J. Allen Meadows, allergist and president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. “When you spring clean to remove allergens, you can breathe easier plus enjoy a sparkling home.” Meadows and the experts at ACAAI recommend these steps when cleaning for allergies. Before you begin, keep in mind that when you clean you come in contact with many allergens. You may want to take allergy medication beforehand and if your allergy is severe, consider wearing an N95 filter mask while dusting or scrubbing. Step 1: Dust thoroughly Dust all surfaces in your home with a damp rag or microfiber cloth made for cleaning. Avoid using any kind of duster that

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GIFT CARD: $100 Visa Gift Card fulfilled by Protect Your Home through third-party provider, Mpell, upon installation of a security system and execution of monitoring contract. $4.95 shipping and handling fee, gift cards can take up to 8 weeks to arrive after following the Mpell redemption process. BASIC SYSTEM: $99 Parts and Install. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Offer applies to homeowners only. Basic system requires landline phone. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Premier Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include Quality Service Plan (QSP), ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty. ADT Pulse: ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services (“ADT Pulse”), which help you manage your home environment and family lifestyle, require the purchase and/or activation of an ADT alarm system with monitored burglary service and a compatible computer, cell phone or PDA with Internet and email access. These ADT Pulse services do not cover the operation or maintenance of any household equipment/systems that are connected to the ADT Pulse equipment. All ADT Pulse services are not available with the various levels of ADT Pulse. All ADT Pulse services may not be available in all geographic areas. You may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the ADT Pulse features you desire. ADT PULSE + VIDEO: ADT Pulse Video installation is an additional $299. 36-month monitoring contract required from ADT Pulse + Video: $58.99 per month, ($2,123.64), including Quality Service Plan (QSP). GENERAL: For all offers, the form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account, satisfactory credit history is required and termination fee applies. Local permit fees may be required. Certain restrictions may apply. Additional monitoring fees required for some services. For example, Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert monitoring requires purchase and/or activation of an ADT security system with monitored Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert devices and are an additional charge. Additional equipment may be purchased for an additional charge. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Prices may vary by market. Some insurance companies offer discounts on Homeowner’s Insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Photos are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact product/service actually provided. Licenses: AL-19-001104, AR-CMPY.0001725 AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DC-EMS902653, DC-602516000016, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AS-0206, ID-ELE-SJ-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-C.P.D. Reg. No. – 19-08088, City of Indianapolis: LAC-000156, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1914, LA-F1915, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1626, ME-LM50017382, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC#354, St. Louis County: 95091, MS-15007958, MT-PSP-ELS-LIC-247, NC-25310-SP-FA/LV, NC-1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ Burglar Alarm Lic. # -NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-0068518, City of Las Vegas: 3000008296, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000317691, NYS #12000286451, OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-AC1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA022999, RI-3582, RI-7508, SC-BAC5630, SD- 1025-7001-ET, TN-1520, TX-B13734, ACR-3492, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382(7C), WA-602588694/ECPROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: PAS-0002790, WV-WV042433, WY-LV-G-21499. 3750 Priority Way South Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46240 ©2017 DEFENDERS, Inc. dba Protect Your Home DF-CD-NP-Q419

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Teen with Rare Illness Gets Wish to Create Comic Book

eenagers love to read comic books, and many even have the desire to write stories, draw comics and create their own books someday. Nineteen-yearold Bo is one of those teens. He loves everything about comic books and drawing - but juvenile Huntington’s disease (jHD) has made it increasingly difficult for him to express his creativity the way he wants. There was a point he didn’t think he would ever see his comic book ideas become reality. To help Bo create a comic book of his own, Make-A-Wish Oregon and sponsor Genentech partnered with Portland-based Dark Horse Comics, the third-largest comics publisher in the U.S. After working together with Bo on his ideas through many drafts and extensive creative collaboration, the team of artists and writers from Dark Horse Comics helped bring to life Bo’s creation, “The Adventures of Backpack Boy,” and grant his one true wish. The celebration of Bo’s creative venture was also a team effort, bringing together Bo’s family and friends, Make-A-Wish volunteers, the creative team from Dark Horse Comics and a group of Genentech employees who all helped plan the special event. Bo and his family were picked up in a limo to be taken to his book-signing event, where Dark Horse Comics presented Bo with special copies of the original art cells used in creating his comic book. The party featured a spread of Bo’s favorite foods - including pizza, cheese puffs, cheese crackers, Skittles and M&M’s - for 75 guests. Every attendee received a signed copy of Bo’s comic book, and they could also write Bo messages of good will around a special framed copy of his comic book’s cover art. Bo was able to sit and chat with guests at the event, who came to admire his

work and support his family. He even had his picture taken with many of them. “Bodean has a difficult time communicating and showing emotion,” said Bo’s mother, Cara Jacobsen. “It was very sweet to see him make a big effort to tell people about his comic book, and his face lights up. There are so many people very excited for Bo, who love asking him about the progress of his comic. The process is such a positive aspect of his life right now and helps him connect to people who care about him and reach out to him.” Unfortunately, Bo’s father passed away from Huntington’s disease a couple of years ago, and Bo has both a younger brother and older sister who are also living with the disease. Huntington’s disease is a hereditary, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that makes it increasingly difficult for a person to think, behave and move. Juvenile Huntington’s disease is a less common, early onset form of Huntington’s disease. There is no cure today, but there are disease management strategies that can help provide some symptom relief. Biotechnology corporation Genentech is currently investigating a number of approaches to help people with rare diseases. Support from corporate partners such as Genentech is crucial to making wishes come true for children like Bo. “Make-AWish could not grant wishes without the generous support of our partners. Working together to positively impact wish kids and their families through the science of good has created a strong win-win partnership,” said Laila Cook, CEO of Make-A-Wish Oregon. Learn more about how you can help grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses at wish.org.

Spring Cleaning for Spring Allergies... continued from page 10 the manufacturer’s recommendations and wash or dry clean window treatments. Remember, opening windows allows pollen and other allergens into your home, so during peak allergy season keep them closed, and whenever possible, use air conditioning in your car and home. Step 4: Wash bedding Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets in water that is at least 130 degrees F. This temperature kills dust mites and effec-

tively removes allergens. If bedding can’t be washed at this hot temperature, place items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at 130 degrees or above. For children with allergies, do the same with their stuffed animals. Step 5: Replace air filters At the start of every season change the air filter in your furnace. This helps the HVAC system run efficiently while also filtering out air particles -including allergens - to keep your home’s air as clean as pos-

sible. Consider setting an alarm for every three months as a reminder and use filters with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. This is also a good time to clean the drip pans in appliances like the refrigerator. Step 6. Control humidity Bathrooms, basements and tiled spaces are prone to mold, so spring is a good time to deep clean. A bleach cleaner works well to eliminate mold or make your own by mixing borax and water. Next, help prevent mold from developing through moisture

control. Always run bathroom fans when bathing or showering, clean up any standing water immediately and use a dehumidifier if needed to keep humidity below 60%. “Spring cleaning is a great step in allergy control,” says Meadows. “However, if you continue to suffer from allergy or asthma symptoms, see a board-certified allergist to help you control your symptoms and live the life you want. You can find an allergist near you at acaai.org/locate-an-allergist.”

What’s happening in your school or organization? Celebrating a special birthday, anniversary, graduation? Have a human interest story or something you would like to share? Email us at editor@mylifepublications.com

Making Sense of COVID-19 and Volatile Markets

By Dan Keady, TIAA Chief Financial Planning Strategist hile the health and wellbeing of family, friends and neighbors remains top of mind, it’s perfectly normal to think about savings and investments given recent market fluctuations. It’s important to remember to stay calm and keep your eye on the horizon, as this is the nature of long-term investing - you will inevitably face ups and downs. As a 100-year-old financial institution, TIAA has helped our participants through many serious events and periods of market volatility, and today is no different. Here are some answers to common questions for managing your finances and retirement plans in response to this environment. What are some steps I can take right now to ensure my finances are in the best possible place? Now is a good time to check-in on your finances, to get a clear picture of where you stand, and how that compares to your goals or expectations. Two important aspects of your check-up should revolve around your emergency fund and asset allocation: * Emergency Fund: Understand how much cash you have on hand in case of emergencies, like healthcare bills or an un-

expected pay cut. While our ideal rule of thumb is to have enough savings to cover six months of living expenses, putting aside even a few hundred dollars provides cushion when you need it most. Keep the cash in a place where it is relatively safe and easy to get to quickly, like a savings account at a bank. * Asset Allocation: Take a fresh look at your portfolio to make sure your asset allocation remains in sync with your goals, the time available to achieve them and your tolerance for risk. If you are just starting out in your career and decades away from retirement, continue to put as much as you can into your retirement. Be conservative about spending - do not overuse on credit cards. And most importantly, don’t get too rattled if your 401(k) or 403(b) investments decrease given your time horizon to retirement. If you’re in or nearing retirement, you have unique concerns, and increasing the proportion of your portfolio in bonds and certain guaranteed assets may help stabilize your investment income. It’s important to work with your advisor on a strategy to ensure you can weather the turbulence and allow you to have income for many years of retirement. I have a significant amount of debt, and

don’t know what to do. Regardless of the market, managing debt is one of many competing financial priorities that people navigate. It is important for debt holders to stick with their repayment plan or pay down what they can. If the unexpected happens (e.g., unemployment, illness or other events that make it impossible to pay back your loans) contact your loan servicer immediately. They may be able to modify your repayment plan based on your income or other factors. Remember to maintain cash balances where possible and continue to save and invest for the future. If I was planning to retire this year, should I consider changing my plans? While working a few extra years is a great way to build up more of a financial cushion for retirement, a market downturn will not necessarily prohibit you from retiring as planned. First, consult with a professional to ensure your drawdown strategy makes sense based on your portfolio. If you have enough sources of guaranteed income in your portfolio to cover essential expenses, you may be able to continue with your retirement plans. Social Security is likely one source, but annuities may be another option that provides guaranteed income and

March 2020 • Page 13

keeps you from having to draw down your investment accounts. Should I invest right now? The answer to this really depends on your risk tolerance and financial portfolio, but keep in mind that attempting to time the market - by moving your money in and out of investments to try and avoid the lows and capture the performance highs in the short term - is extremely difficult in a volatile market. Even the most experienced investors get tripped up by market timing. Instead, keep your eyes on the horizon, think about the long-term and remember that past performance is no guarantee of future results. Rebalance so your portfolio remains in line with your risk tolerance, and stick with your savings plan even during volatile times - it will pay off in the long run. How do I get started? If you don’t have a financial plan yet, now is a good time to meet with a financial professional who can look at your financial situation, speak with you about your goals, and help create a plan to get there. Your TIAA advisor can evaluate whether your portfolio is built to weather market storms - or if it needs shoring up so it can continue meeting your objectives.

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Page 14 • March 2020

Get Away Without Going Away

5 Family Staycation Ideas That Won’t Break Your Budget

amily vacations are a great way to bond and take a step back from the hectic schedules that accompany everyday life, but sometimes time or money (or both) make planning an elaborate trip a non-starter. However, a staycation – a vacation you take right in your hometown (or nearby) – can be much less expensive and fit into nearly any amount of available time with the added bonus of skipping out on potentially stressful travel. Consider these staycation ideas to take advantage of your local area’s attractions and prove you don’t have to go far to spend quality time together. Visit local landmarks. Just because it’s not a traditional vacation doesn’t mean you can’t pretend to be tourists. Start by visiting the places you recommend to friends and family from out of town or pick up a city guidebook to uncover hidden spots you may not even know exist. Make a plan to seek out historic sites, visit local landmarks like museums or try an out-of-the-way restaurant (or two) you’ve never eaten at before. Camp out in the backyard. Camping doesn’t have to be done far from home. In fact, it can be done right in your own backyard. Pitch a tent to sleep under the stars and plan a night full of traditional camping activities like roasting s’mores, telling spooky stories by flashlight and trying to identify stars and constellations. Set up a picnic in the park. Pack a basket with sandwiches, fruit and other treats and head to the park. You can enjoy a casual meal then take advantage of the open space

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

for a family walk or game of tag before retreating to the playground to let the little ones expel any leftover energy. Have a home spa day. If you’re looking for some relaxation but don’t want to splurge on the full spa treatment, plan an at-home oasis instead. Light some candles, run a bubble bath and break out the facial masks and fingernail polish. Visit an amusement park. No matter where you live,

there’s probably an amusement or water park within driving distance. A quick online search before you arrive can help prepare a strategy for hitting the most popular thrill rides and waterslides while skipping those that may not provide quite the same entertainment value. Find more tips and tricks for enjoying family time together at eLivingtoday.com.

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Fantastic stately built CH custom-built home offers over 5000 sq. ft of living space situated on the cul-desac among other custom homes. Surrounded by natural woodlands of Jockey Hollow State Park. 3 miles from Morristown train - direct to NYC. This home offers five bedrms. on 2nd level. Master feat. 2 large w-in closets & a magnificent mstr bath retreat w/ radiant heat flrs. 2 “Jack & Jill” baths for the other 4 bedroms on 2nd level. Main level boasts 9’ ceilings,open floor plan, 2 fplcs, custom kit open to fam rm. Ice mach, 2nd sink, 2nd dishwasher, & S/S aplcs. Outdoor kit & hot tub on back deck w/ retractable awning overlooking gorgeous & level backyd! Mudrm & full bath on main level w/ 2nd laund rm. W/O bsmt boasts large liv space, kit, & laund rm. $11k taxes. 2019 roof, insul.garage, & so much more!

Custom built architectural standout home..Spectacular Ski Lodge w/ 30’stone wood burning fireplace & original 1969 Stowe Gondola! Loft above overlooks this fantastic space w/ log walls, authentic barn wood ceiling & hand peeled log posts. Best curb appeal located at end of cul-de-sac w/ circular drive. Access to lake thru trail in back. Back deck runs span of home! Main floor feat. 3 fplcs, marble double story foyer, side covered porch, front & back staircases, office, & kit w/ oversized island, pantry, & fplc w/ exposed brick wall! 2nd flr offers loft, laund.rm & 4 well appointed bedrms w/ “Jack & Jill” Bath. Master bedrm boasts sit rm w/ private terrace, 4 closets & mstr spa bath..steam, jets, & body sprays. Fin lower level feat mud rm w/ lockers & 3 car gar w/ Race Deck Flooring! This home is SPECTACULAR!

Spectacular 2017 Construction CH Col. home boasts almost 3.5 acres of flat & level property! Prof. landscape lighting & gorgeous double story foyer invites you to this open floor plan design! Tray ceiling lighting thru-out. Fam rm offers granite faced gas fplc open to the custom designed kitchen offering solid gran.ctops & backsplash. 11’x4’ center island, S/S high end applcs include, exhaust hood, ice maker, wine refrig, 6 burner gas range, oversized convection oven & more! 2nd level feat 4 well appointed bedrms. 2 bedrms share the “Jack&Jill” bath, 1 bedrm w/ private bath & then the master bedroom Suite....Sitting room, walk-in closet, & luxurious mstr bath w/ soaking tub & shower! W/O bsmt offers rec rm, 5th bedrm, full bath & plenty of storage! Horses are grandfathered to live here! Do not miss!!!

Welcome to the beautiful Heritage V neighborhood in the Ironia section of Randolph! Spectacular CH Brick front Col home boasts almost an acre of flat & level property backing to the tree lined woods! Natural light beams thru-out this magnificent & well cared for home! Main floor offers an open floor plan as well as a private home office. Two story fam rm w/ gas fireplace is open to the crisp white kitchen w/ large center island, gran c-tops, custom tile backsplash, & pantry! 9’ Ceilings on main level! 2nd level feat a fantastic mstr bedrm w/ tray ceiling, 2 w-in closets & luxurious master bath w/ jet tub & sep stall shower. 3 other well appointed bedrms & bonus room! 2nd staircase from “FROG” room leads right to the laund/mud room! Do not miss built in nat. gas generator, level backyard w/ deck & Hot Tub!

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Spectacular CH Colonial in our Ironia section of Randolph! Backing to wooded lot, this home offers privacy & the serenity of the great outdoors! This home boasts newer roof, freshly painted, professionally landscaped, & AMAZING master bath w/ all glass walk in shower, large soaking tub, recessed medicine cabinets, & marble vanity, shower & wall! 1st floor offers a fantastic great room w/ high ceilings & wood burning fireplace! Main floor office or 5th bedroom if needed! Four well appointed bedrms on 2nd level! Finished, full, walk out basement w/ 2nd powder room! This home offers an excellent open floor plan, recessed lighting, hardwood floors, newer appliances, refinished 2020 deck & so much more! Near all local shopping, excellent Randolph schools, & easy commuting location! Do not miss this one!

Spectacular CH Col home in our Ironia section of town! Surrounded in a rural setting w/ similar custom homes on this cul-de-sac street! New roof, skylights, windows, driveway, updated white kitchen, Corian c-tops, S/S applc, vaulted ceilings & magnificent windows allow natural light to filter inside. Well appointed room sizes & freshly painted thru-out! Entertaining floor plan boasts French doors, floor to ceiling brick fplc, main floor office, laundry & more! Fin. bsmt has a fantastic wet bar & 2nd powder rm! Private back deck overlooks natural wooded setting! Plenty of room to play & enjoy the great outdoors! Do not miss this opportunity to own in Randolph...near all parks, schools, Randolph Trails, local shopping, & easy commute location! This home is Randolph’s town motto - “Where Life is Worth Living!”

Welcome to Kensington Square! The “Chadsworth” End Unit Model offers a fantastic open floor plan! 9’ Ceilings, 2nd level laundry, finished basement w/ 2nd powder room, updates galore & 2 car Garage! This home boasts a beautiful gas fireplace in living rm, gleaming hardwood floors, Trex Deck in back, magnificent S/S applcs in oversized eat-in kitchen w/ large walk-in pantry, granite c-tops, & large windows! 2nd level offers master bedrm w/ private full bath & large walk in closet. 2nd bedrm also offers private full bath & walk in closet. Natural light filters thru-out this beautiful end unit townhome! Kensington Square offers a clubhouse, pool, gym, & bike path! Minutes to downtown Morristown & direct access train to NYC. Enjoy this spectacular location in town...near all local shopping, dining, lakes & more!

Fantastic Colonial home in the Shongum section of Randolph! “Staycation” at home w/ the heated, gunite, inground pool in the fenced in backyard! Private setting w/ gorgeous new deck! New white kitchen feat. pantry, granite c-tops, newer S/S applcs. & more! Six well appointed bedrms. on 2nd level offers hardwood floors & lots of closet space. Main floor features a fabulous entertaining set up w/ high ceilings & excellent floor plan! Enjoy the gas fireplace in family room, Pella windows thru-out, main floor laundry & entrance to two car attach. garage. Shongum section offers an easy commuting location, minutes to downtown Morristown w/ direct train to NYC! This home is near all local shopping, dining, parks, schools & offers public utilities! Walking path to Shongum elementary school too!

20 Madison Avenue, Morristown NJ 07960

Page 16 • March 2020

How and Why to Keep Kids on a Schedule During School Closures

chool closures have forced families nationwide to readjust to the current reality. However, a sense of structure is important for children’s developmental growth. To create a routine for your kids that sticks, consider the following tips: • Just because there is no formal school day doesn’t mean kids should sleep in or stay up late at night. Keep the same bedtimes, wake-up routines and mealtimes you always maintained during a regular school week. Doing so will bookend the mornings and evenings with a sense of normalcy. • Mimic a school day to the best of your ability. Use the distance-learning tools your child’s teachers offer as well as other educational apps and resources to have kids focus on different school subjects. This will help break up the day into little chunks just as would happen in the classroom. Be sure to build in time for art projects, exercise and music. Most importantly, don’t forget “recess.” If possible, allow children to play in the backyard where they can socially distance from neighbors, or set up an area of your home for playtime. • Evenings are a good time to relax and unwind together. Play board games, watch your children’s favorite movies or even use the many resources available online

to enjoy a virtual walking tour of a museum, botanical garden or zoo. This is also a good time to allow children to connect with their friends using video chat or with family members they are not currently able to see in-person. • For many children, screens are their greatest distraction. For this reason, one of the best ways to ensure your children stay focused on the schedule you create for them is by managing their screen time. One easy way to do so with less direct intervention from you (since you are likely busy yourself!) is by using a screen time monitoring and scheduling tool like the OurPact app. Get started by signing up for a free account and pairing your children’s devices. From there, you will be able to manage devices remotely to create a schedule that keeps kids oﬄine when they need to be focused on other things. It can also be customized to allow children to visit and use only certain learning sites or apps during particular hours of the day. Because this schedule lives on the children’s devices as well, you’ll be giving them the comfort of a routine. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com. During these challenging times, it can be tempting to let your family routine fly out

the window. By using new tools such as distance-learning programming and schedule management apps, you can keep kids to a

schedule that makes them ultimately happier and healthier. (StatePoint)

March 2020 • Page 17

What Does a Recession Mean for You? 6 Ways to Protect Your Future

inancial experts agree that no one is completely immune from risk when a recession occurs, and that an economic downturn can have a significant impact on your personal and financial situation. However, they also agree that it is important to avoid panicking and to remain focused on your long-term financial plans and strategies. When thinking about what a recession means for you and your future, here are six things to consider: • Think about how a recession could affect your retirement plan and whether your savings and investments need to be adjusted. Does your financial strategy appropriately take into account your age, risk tolerance, target retirement timeline and desired lifestyle post-retirement? If you are close to retiring, you may want to make more conservative investments ahead of a recession. Younger investors may be better positioned to maintain a higher-risk portfolio through a downturn and may even have opportunities to buy up more securities while prices are low. • Take time to evaluate your entire investment portfolio, rebalancing it as necessary to minimize risk in your asset allocation while keeping your long-term goals in mind.

You might also consider loss harvesting in taxable accounts to take advantage of potential tax savings or boost your tax refund. • Closely review your budget and cash flow, with an eye toward identifying any expenses or other spending that can be proactively trimmed to free up money now, or that can be cut in the future if you feel a financial pinch. Consider holding off on major purchases or delaying travel until the market improves. You may even want to redirect some of your savings -- perhaps your monthly contribution to a child’s college fund -- to boost your cash reserves. • Think about upcoming changes in your personal life, planned or otherwise. Are you having a baby? Sending a child off to college? Do you or a family member have any health concerns that may require additional care? Consider how these developments could impact your finances and the risks they might introduce. • Similarly, take stock of your professional situation. Your job likely provides your biggest source of income. If you are not sure that your job would be secure in the event of a recession, update your resume and think about where and how you might begin to search for a new one if you are laid off.

• A Certified Financial Planner professional can help you evaluate the current state of your finances, understand the potential impact of a recession and devise a course of action that keeps you on track to achieve your goals. To find a CFP professional near you, visit www.letsmakeaplan.org.

Talking to a financial advisor now is a smart investment in protecting your future. Don’t wait to make a recession plan. By taking proactive steps now, you can better safeguard you and your family’s financial future. (StatePoint)

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