Warren County Living

Warren County Honors 37 War Era Veterans

Admin — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:45:27 +0000

Their service recalled and their sacrifices celebrated, 37 war era veterans were honored by the Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders in the County’s 10th Veterans Recognition Program.

Two were deceased World War I veterans, remembered by family members. One came home from Afghanistan only a year ago. And most other conflicts of the 20th and 21st Centuries were represented as well.

“We want you to know that you will never be forgotten,” Freeholder Director Everett A. Chamberlain told the assembled veterans and their families.

In all, 37 veterans were honored, as they or a loved one on behalf of a deceased veteran received the Warren County Distinguished Military Service Medal, a commemorative pin, and a certificate from the freeholder board. Nine of the veterans were unable to attend the ceremony and are having their awards mailed to them.

With this ceremony, Warren County has now honored 1,986 veterans of the war eras since World War I. The recognition program started in late 2003.

The ceremony took place at the Warren County War Memorial next to the historic Courthouse, built nearly two centuries ago, and Chamberlain noted the location was fitting.

“To me, the courthouse represents our history, our culture and our rock-solid beliefs in freedom, justice and independence, and it has stood here proudly through many of the major conflicts in our country’s history,” Chamberlain remarked.

“We thank and recognize those individuals who have stood on the wall and protected our freedoms, our democracy and our sovereignty as a nation,” Chamberlain said, adding, “It is a humbling honor for me to stand here and be part of this ceremony, recognizing your valor, your service and your sacrifices, as we should never forget what you have given to protect our American way of life.”

Freeholder Richard D. Gardner said we need to protect and uphold our military and their families, because without the military, “Democracy cannot last.”

It is particularly important to recognize the families of our war veterans, Gardner said, because “Their families exemplify true courage and valor as well.”

Freeholder Jason J. Sarnoski also thanked the veterans’ families who were at home worrying about their loved ones in the military and supporting them, explaining, “It’s your efforts that make it possible for them to go and serve our country.”

In addition to praising the veterans, Sarnoski saluted the Warren County War Memorial Corporation – which works with the freeholder board to conduct the veterans recognition program – for their efforts to maintain the memorial and grounds adjoining the Courthouse, providing a beautiful place for all to enjoy during the ceremony.

In addition to members of the War Memorial Corporation, participating in the ceremony were state Sens. Michael Doherty and Steven Oroho, Assemblymen John DiMaio and Erik Peterson, and NJ Veterans Services Officer Sibley Smith. The flag salute was led by Eagle Scout Erick Karl Weigel of Troop 141, Belvidere, which is celebrating its centennial this year, and Kristal Thomas of Phillipsburg sang the National Anthem and led the attendees in singing “God Bless America.”

Eight of this year’s honorees were recognized posthumously. Two of the veterans served in the Air Force, 20 in the Army, four in the Marines and 11 in the Navy.

Applications for recognition in the ongoing program are accepted year-round, and can be submitted by a war era veteran or by a loved one on behalf of the veteran, living or deceased. The application is available on Warren County’s website at www.co.warren.nj.us/veterans.html or by calling the county Public Information Department at 908-475-6580 or 800-554-8540.

Following is an alphabetical listing of the servicemen honored during Warren County’s 10th Veterans Recognition Ceremony. The list includes living veterans as well as those honored posthumously. We offer heartfelt thanks to all veterans for their service to our country.

John W. Bichler; John R. Birutta; James John Chiu; William Cotov; Donald Robert Cunningham; Neil Duffy; William M. Griffin; Robert William Hoagland; Robert C. Kocher; Walter Kowalick; Kenneth Edward Liebler; Thomas J. Lynch; LeRoy MacKenzie IV; Daniel McGrath; Stanley E. Moskalski; John C. Murray; David W. Nemeth; Kevin M. O’Neill; Artenno Ostili; David Pacewicz; Thomas H. Parfrey; Alfred A. Pieretti; Louis Joseph Reda; Cedric J. Rhinesmith; Vernon L. Sarson; Eugene J. Searles; William Seguine Smickle; Terry M. Stecker; Edison G. Stiff; Leslie E. Stiff; Robert Stiff; Charles R. Thompson; Jack C. Trout; Glenn W. Whitmore; Frank R. Wilson; Joshua Wittmann; Andrew Cyril Yatsko.

Photo Cutline:

World War II veteran Thomas J. Lynch, who served with the Army in Central Europe, laughs about being probably the oldest soldier at Warren County’s 10th Veterans Recognition Ceremony. A Belvidere native who returned from Florida for the ceremony, Lynch is joined by (l-r) Master of Ceremonies Terry Lee; Freeholder Director Everett A. Chamberlain; Dennis Smith, president, and Jack Trimmer, trustee, of the Warren County War Memorial Corp.; and Freeholder Richard D. Gardner.

All-Weather Barbecuing: A Guide to Getting Great Smokehouse Flavor

Admin — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:45:03 +0000

It’s barbecue season, and no one’s ever going to complain about a delicious cut of meat cooked over a hot flame, no matter how you slice it. But do you want to merely satisfy your guests’ hunger, or have them talking for the rest of the season about that perfectly juicy and tender smoked pork they had at your house – and secretly wondering how to replicate it?

One of the best ways to take your barbecue to the next level is to add unforgettable smokehouse flavor. “If you don’t have a smoker, you might be reticent to try smoking your meat, but it’s entirely possible achieve great smokehouse flavor on the grill or in your oven,” says Hard Rock Cafe Executive Chef Jason Gronlund.

Gronlund’s staff recently rolled out a host new authentic smokehouse menu items including three versions of smokehouse sandwiches from Shanghai, South Carolina and Texas. He provides the following tips for creating that fall-off-the-bone smokehouse pork shoulder, whether you are cooking on the grill or in the oven.

Selecting your cut and rub

“For pulled pork, the Boston butt cut, which is actually a type of pork shoulder cut, is always a great call,” says Gronlund. No matter which way you’ll be smoking the meat, start by liberally applying a dry rub to the entire surface of your meat.

Using a gas grill

* Heat half the grill to medium – the left side works better in most grills, says Gronlund.

* Sear the outside of the pork shoulder on the hot side of the grill heating it to just above room temperature.

* Move the pork shoulder into a grill pan on the right (off) side of the grill. Add a half-inch of water to the pan.

* For a strong smoky flavor, tightly wrap wood chips of your preferred variety in a cigar-like package of tin foil, poking holes in the foil. Place the package directly on top of the hot burner so that it begins to smolder.

Throughout the cooking process, check to make sure that smoke is still coming from the package, as that’s what will give the meat its smoky flavor.

* Now you wait, as the pork shoulder will take about seven hours to cook. Check every hour or so to make sure the pan has enough water; add water as needed.

* You’ll know it’s done if the meat separates easily when stuck with a grilling fork.

Using the oven

“Whether you’re drawn inside because of bad weather, or simply want a little more control over the finished product, using the oven’s also a great option for smoked pork shoulder,” says Gronlund.

* Use a braising pan and heat oil in the pan on the stove before adding the shoulder. Lightly caramelize the side of the roast and heat to just above room temperature.

* Preheat the oven to 300 F. Add a half-inch water to a braising pan with 3 teaspoons of liquid smoke. Cover pork should tightly with plastic wrap – if it’s wrapped tightly it won’t melt – and place in the pan in the oven.

* Cook for four hours in the oven until meat is easily separated with a fork. Let it sit for at least a half hour after you cook the meat, which will allow for the juices to settle and tenderize the meat.

“And of course you can’t have true barbecue without a quality barbecue sauce,” says Grondlund. “Here’s your opportunity to give it a regional flavor, as a quick recipe search will educate you on the differences in barbecue sauces by area of origin. Find a made-from-scratch recipe that suits your culinary skill level, and the sauce can be made while you cook the roast.”

To get a sense of what true smokehouse flavor should taste like, visit one of Hard Rock’s locations throughout the world to try one of their new or classic smokehouse offerings. Each restaurant is equipped with a smoker, which allows chefs to deliver authentic smokehouse flavors from throughout the world. For more information and locations, visit www.hardrock.com.

ARA

New Course at Warren County Community College: Management for ‘Non Project Managers’

Admin — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:24:18 +0000

Do you manage projects as part of your regular job responsibilities? Many employees do manage projects without the title project manager and can do so more efficiently and effectively with a better understanding of project management best practices.

“Project Management for Non-Project Managers” is a new course offered by Warren County Community College’s Continuing Education Department and offers a practical, hands-on approach to project development, planning and execution.

Upon completion participants will have a solid understanding of project management theory and will be able to apply practical concepts including defining project goals; identifying planning steps; proper planning concepts; building a productive “project team”; identifying resources; coordinating other “players”; setting timeframes; seeking assistance; recognizing project effect on others; establishing corrective action process and establishing effective communication skills.

The one-day course is scheduled for Wednesday June 6, at the college’s new Phillipsburg Education Center, 445 Marshall Street, in Phillipsburg. Cost is just $49 and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For further information, call (908) 835-4029. For expanded degree and non-degree programs offered at WCCC, visit www.warren.edu.

The Buzz on Battling Flying, Stinging Summer Bugs

Admin — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:23:55 +0000

Summer picnic season is upon us, and that means it is time to grab the sunglasses, cooler and sunscreen, and head outdoors. But people are not the only ones who want to enjoy the warm weather. Flying, stinging insects like bees and wasps are abuzz, and make their presence known when collecting pollen and nectar as the weather warms.

“In the proper environment, bees, wasps and yellow jackets can be very beneficial,” says Ron Harrison, entomologist and Orkin technical services director. “In addition to pollinating flowers and plants, they eat grubs, flies and other harmful pests. It is when they are aggravated or feel threatened that they can be a bigger problem.”

There are more than 20,000 known bee species around the world. Their stings can be painful and may cause allergic reactions. About 2 million Americans are allergic to insect stings, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and many of them are at risk of life-threatening reactions.

Carpenter bees are fairly large and are often mistaken for bumble bees. They can cause significant damage to decks, siding, landscape timbers and even lawn furniture, but males – even though they are aggressive – do not have stingers, and the females rarely sting. Females bore holes in wood to deposit their eggs.

Yellow jackets can sting multiple times and aggressively protect their colonies, but otherwise, are not quick to sting. They commonly nest on or near the ground under porches or steps, in sidewalk cracks, around railroad ties, or at the base of trees. Yellow jackets are also scavengers, so they can be found near garbage cans and picnics.

Paper wasps look similar to yellow jackets in that they are narrow and dark brown with black wings and yellow markings. Paper wasp nests are made from small wood or plant fibers combined with saliva and appear to be made from paper. Their nests – frequently found in sheltered areas like tree branches and eaves of houses – include numerous compartments where they lay their eggs and rear their young.

Be sure to contact a pest professional like Orkin before attempting to address a bee infestation or hive. Harrison offers the following tips to help avoid flying and stinging pests:

* Use a weed trimmer to thin vegetation near your home, as thick vegetation provides a place for both bees and wasps to nest.

* Don’t leave food or drink containers uncovered for long periods of time. Pests are attracted to human food sources and stinging pests can often enter cans unseen, so it is best to pour your drink into a glass.

* Fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows to prevent pests from entering into your home.

* For those at risk of an allergic reaction, apply an EPA-registered insect repellent on clothing and exposed skin to deter bites and stings.

The Biggest Villains Behind Today’s Student Loan Crisis

Admin — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:23:23 +0000

Student loan debt has now reached $1 billion, and the situation has gotten so bad that there are Americans who are having their Social Security checks garnished to pay off outstanding loan debt. Meanwhile, recent graduates sit in a precarious position of underemployment, combined with doubling rates and rising monthly bills as their loans are sold from one lender to another. It’s clear that we’ve reached a crisis point. But what got us here?

There are several places where we can lay blame: colleges, for becoming so expensive and ignorant of student finance, the government, for restrictive policies and inflating prices with student aid, private lenders with predatory tactics, and even students for allowing themselves to get in too deep. The fault lies not with just one, but all of these student loan villains, who have all done their part to bring us to a very real point of trouble. Read on to learn in detail how each of these groups has played a role in the destruction of student loans.

CollegesAlthough students, Congress, and banks are catching a lot of flack for the student loan crisis, many are pointing out that the high cost of college that creates the need for so many mind-blowing loan bills is the real problem. Cato Institute research shows it costs just $8,000 a year to educate an undergrad at the average residential college, while most students pay double that: $16,000 at public universities and $37,000 at private ones. What’s making up this major discrepancy? Multimillion dollar sports programs, glowing recreational facilities, excessive administration, and tenured faculty who may or may not actually be teaching are the most likely culprits. It seems that colleges can raise their prices because they know they’ll get paid one way or another, whether it’s through grants, scholarships, loans, government contributions, or endowments. Colleges raise tuition, get more aid, and raise tuition again in a vicious cycle that is not at all beneficial to students.
Financial aid officesWhether the heart of the problem lies with price of education or not, it seems that colleges aren’t doing a whole lot to make student loans a responsible process. Financial aid offices aren’t known as places that will gently point out to students that perhaps they’ve gotten in over their heads, even though they often have a full picture of just how bad a student’s financial situation has become. Financial aid offices are in a great place to assess the financial situations of students and give them a reality check before they get in too deep. But it sure doesn’t seem like colleges want to do that. Some, like NYU’s VP of Enrollment Randall Deike, believe that it would be “completely inappropriate” for universities to take on such a role, as “some families will do whatever it takes for their son or daughter to be not just at N.Y.U., but any first-choice college.” Others may be hesitant to point out the problem, as it will likely send students to a different, cheaper college and push down enrollment numbers. U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tom Harkin are working on a solution to this problem, introducing a bill to require that colleges offer counseling to students who are seeking private student loans.
The federal governmentGovernment intervention into student finance has been well-intentioned, but produced disastrous results. US News and World Report points out that the federal goals of making a college education within reach, while requiring that debts ultimately be repaid certainly seem reasonable and noble, but have not exactly worked out as planned. Where there was once a $2,500 annual limit on federal student loans, there’s now a $31,000 limit for four years. As the federal government pumps out more financial aid to help students afford college, colleges find that they can charge more for tuition, making education less affordable. And just about everyone can take out a student loan, giving colleges no incentive to keep costs down while students continue to rack up five-figure loan bills just to get a four-year degree. Even if students declare bankruptcy in the future their student loan debt lives on, as the government has deemed that student loans are not dischargeable. Beginning in 2014, student loan forgiveness laws will go into effect, capping federal loan payments at 10% of a student’s income, and forgiven after 15 years. This is excellent news for the future, but it doesn’t do a whole lot to help out those who are struggling today. Loans can be deferred, but ultimately, they must be paid.
LendersThe government isn’t the only one handing out student loans like candy. Once students reach the limit on what they can borrow through federal student loans, they can turn to private lenders with much less favorable terms, but the same non-dischargeable debt. This fills the gap between what the government will provide, and what students need to actually pay for school, but it’s a dangerous situation to be in.nStudents with private loans are often subject to having their loans sold and terms changed, which can alter their loan payments by hundreds of dollars per month. These loans are convenient for students who need them to get through school, but their existence is highly problematic. Lenders like Sallie Mae and Wells Fargo have been accused of making subprime loans to student borrowers, not taking into consideration the risks behind these loans. They’ve given money to students attending schools with low graduation rates, students who may or may not actually finish school, get a job, and have the means to pay back their student loan. What happens then? They just sell off the debt, or, get a government bailout to cover the losses. The five biggest private student loan lenders have made profits reaching well into the billions, but at the same time, were able to get a $112 billion bailout from the government for loans that could no longer be sold.
Students and their familiesWe hate to blame the victims, but we have to ask: what exactly did students think they were getting into? Why didn’t parents save? Many programs exist. Obviously, many students feel that they don’t have a choice, and student loans, even subprime ones, often mean the difference between getting a college degree and not going to school at all (or worse, dropping out halfway). With big plans to get a great job after graduation, we’re sure that most students feel confident that they’ll be able to pay their student loan bills off without a whole lot of trouble. But why aren’t students more wary of taking on so much debt, especially with poor job prospects? We have to point out that there are often situations in which students could have acted more responsibly, and must bear some of the blame for our unfortunate student loan situation. It is possible to graduate college without debt, even if your parents haven’t saved one red cent. Enrolling at an in-state public college, starting out in community college, hunting down scholarships, picking up part-time work and paid internships, and even living at home are all major ways that students can make their school bills more manageable. Would we be in this situation if more students availed themselves of these options rather than taking a blind leap of faith right into crushing debt?

Ultimately, many parties are responsible for the student loan crisis. As we reach a point of decision, it will be interesting to see if and how colleges, Congress, lenders, and students themselves make a change for the better.

Read full article here:

http://www.onlinecolleges.net/2012/05/15/the-biggest-villains-behind-todays-student-loan-crisis/

Obama Administration Presents National Plan to Fight Alzheimer’s Disease

Admin — Wed, 16 May 2012 12:22:56 +0000

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today released an ambitious national plan to fight Alzheimer’s disease. The plan was called for in the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA), which President Obama signed into law in January 2011. The National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease sets forth five goals, including the development of effective prevention and treatment approaches for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias by 2025.

In February 2012, the administration announced that it would take immediate action to implement parts of the plan, including making additional funding available in fiscal year 2012 to support research, provider education and public awareness. Today, the Secretary announced additional specific actions, including the funding of two major clinical trials, jumpstarted by the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) infusion of additional FY 2012 funds directed at Alzheimer’s disease; the development of new high-quality, up-to-date training and information for our nation’s clinicians; and a new public education campaign and website to help families and caregivers find the services and support they need.

To help accelerate this urgent work, the President’s proposed FY 2013 budget provides a $100 million increase for efforts to combat Alzheimer’s disease. These funds will support additional research ($80 million), improve public awareness of the disease ($4.2 million), support provider education programs ($4.0 million), invest in caregiver support ($10.5 million), and improve data collection ($1.3 million).

“These actions are the cornerstones of an historic effort to fight Alzheimer’s disease,” Secretary Sebelius said. “This is a national plan—not a federal one, because reducing the burden of Alzheimer’s will require the active engagement of both the public and private sectors.”

The plan, presented today at the Alzheimer’s Research Summit 2012: Path to Treatment and Prevention, was developed with input from experts in aging and Alzheimer’s disease issues and calls for a comprehensive, collaborative approach across federal, state, private and non-profit organizations. More than 3,600 people or organizations submitted comments on the draft plan.

As many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease and that number is likely to double in the coming years. At the same time, millions of American families struggle with the physical, emotional and financial costs of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.

The initiatives announced today include:

Research – The funding of new research projects by the NIH will focus on key areas in which emerging technologies and new approaches in clinical testing now allow for a more comprehensive assessment of the disease. This research holds considerable promise for developing new and targeted approaches to prevention and treatment. Specifically, two major clinical trials are being funded. One is a $7.9 million effort to test an insulin nasal spray for treating Alzheimer’s disease. A second study, toward which NIH is contributing $16 million, is the first prevention trial in people at the highest risk for the disease.
Tools for Clinicians – The Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded $2 million in funding through its geriatric education centers to provide high-quality training for doctors, nurses, and other health care providers on recognizing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and how to manage the disease.
Easier access to information to support caregivers–HHS’ new website, www.alzheimers.gov, offers resources and support to those facing Alzheimer’s disease and their friends and family. The site is a gateway to reliable, comprehensive information from federal, state, and private organizations on a range of topics. Visitors to the site will find plain language information and tools to identify local resources that can help with the challenges of daily living, emotional needs, and financial issues related to dementia. Video interviews with real family caregivers explain why information is key to successful caregiving, in their own words.
Awareness campaign – The first new television advertisement encouraging caregivers to seek information at the new website was debuted. This media campaign will be launched this summer, reaching family members and patients in need of information on Alzheimer’s disease.

Today’s announcement demonstrates the Obama administration’s continued commitment to taking action in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

In 2013, the National Family Caregiver Support Program will continue to provide essential services to family caregivers, including those helping loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. This program will enable family caregivers to receive essential respite services, providing them a short break from caregiving duties, along with other essential services, such as counseling, education and support groups.

For more information on the national plan to address Alzheimer’s disease, visit: www.alzheimers.gov.

To read the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease, visit http://aspe.hhs.gov/daltcp/napa/NatlPlan.pdf.

http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2012pres/05/20120515a.html

Diary of a Middle-aged Menace by Jerry Balderson

Admin — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:29:57 +0000

It’s been a cement mixer of a week and the season finale of Parks and Rec is on in 90 minutes, so we’re going to zip thru this week’s epistle like Sherman going through Atlanta.

I just read today that the IRS thinks Americans can get by on $534 a month after food, clothing, and shelter and yes of course, taxes. I thought $534 a month was every home’s music budget!

John Hodgman spelled out the following, “I don’t believe in Words with Friends, I believe in Scrabble with opponents”!…Swansonesque…

Last week’s Mad Men episode ended with Don Draper listening to Tomorrow Never Knows. The stake to acquire the rights?…a mere bag of shells…the shells adding up to 250 thousand dollars. The Beatles copyrights…certainly a better investment than CDS swaps, eh J.P. Morgan? By the way…Matt Taibbi is Nostrodamus with the way he shreds the Democrats the Republicans and Wall Street in his latest article in the New Rolling Stone

Dateline, Sudbury, Massachusetts.

The home that Babe Ruth lived in when he was playing for the Red Sox is on the market for more than what he made in his entire career combined, and here I thought the housing market was bad…

The April 16^th Radiolab was the tale of going to Clarkdale, MS and looking for the Devil. Even if you are remotely familiar with The Robert Johnson fable, it’s a corker of a tale. www.radiolab.org…brain food for the 99%.

Today is the 31^st Anniversary of Bob Marley’s unnecessary passing. As a Rasta, he didn’t believe in doctors. I’m’ Swiss on this but I’ll grant you that it’s a mean old world at times. English Proverb: He who despises his own life will soon be the master of another’s. Is it a tangent to point out that May is American Indian Month at this juncture? Sure it is, but we just did it anyway. This just in…the Feds are in serious talks to return The Black Hills of South Dakota to the natives where it belongs…

My wife returns home from her job with tales of joy amidst the teeth gnashing that runs amuck in the land. She said that one of her customers wanted to sell her Springsteen tix last week for the Prudential Concert but couldn’t find a taker. So she went…and was transformed!

Look, I mean business here. I feel the need to inform you that when I kill time, forensics puts a chalk line around the clock!

The imp Ben Franklin…”A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for the mind as well as the body.” Ben might be alarmed at last month’s tweet from somewhere in America, “Wait, you mean the Titanic was a real ship’?

I’m not a You Tube guy by nature. Full disclosure, I still read physical newspapers…let’s make an exception on this one and keep it our secret. If you type in Brian Fallon and look for his comments on indie record stores, you’ll shout huzzah and kudos to The Gaslight Anthem main brain for not forgetting where he came from!

Tonight’s season ending Parks and Rec was a roller coaster ride of emotions and antics and as always, observations that will stand the test of time come from the man who has had the same comb since 1978, Ron Swanson. Upon overhearing Ben order a Gin and Tonic, he leaped in to amend a metro sexual moment, as in “Belay that order son, clear liquids are for rich women on diets.”

It’s 7 long days till we meet again and I’ll lay down the following gauntlet. Mind you, I’m merely the interpreter for the Man from Mobile, the soon to be 21 year old Eric ‘Mojo Beauregard’ Balderson. In the midst of a wide ranging discourse on the way the world is and why it isn’t the way he thinks it should be, he issued this challenge and this means you…

…don’t complain about anything…not one thing…for 24 hours, and see where it gets you. I know, I know. I won’t make it past 9 minutes myself.

Here’s a bit of ironic. John Fogerty now says he’s up for a CCR reunion but Stu Cook and Doug Clifford are not! That’s nearly as crazy as having my faith in Christ as my Lord challenged this week because I indirectly defended Obama as it pertains to him being a café au lait socialist. As this was all before he found a new position (as it were) on gay marriage, and John Travolta started terrorizing the male masseuses of the USA and beyond(!!), please allow me to state with prejudice that “truth is not a partisan issue.”

Happy Birthday to Richie Furray, may be the happiest guy in rock and roll history.

A guy who is a tad tough on himself is all around swell guy, Met’s Pitcher R.A. Dickey. He lost a shutout in the 9^th recently and thought that he should have been caned! Beat me daddy, 8 to the bar!

Jefferson, Tom not Mr. opined that ‘there should be a revolution every generation.’ The Occupy 4 CD, 99 song Set is out next week. Next time you give in to the blasphemy that it’s a bunch of know nothing fleabags looking to give and get Bongo lessons, think about the fact that the banks are STILL doing CDS swaps 4 years after they almost ruined the world. And if that’s not enough to get you out in the streets, Michael Moore’s Dylan cover will definitely make you mad. In Tibet, it’s said that if you sport a black tongue, you are ruled by a demon. Check the tongues on Wall Street, stat!

We dedicate this space to Sir Raylan Balderenzo, a southern canine gent who has spent the last 6 months cheating the hangman. He was only here for a moment in time and sometimes that’s all we have. Ray, we hardly knew ye…

We leave you to ponder the words and the intent of Ephesians 3:20. I just realized that our closing benediction is often that of our Senior Pastor at Grace, the Church on the Mount in Netcong. Funny how crazed minds think alike, or do you prefer this analysis of Romney versus Obama? “One man has conviction, the other has never been convicted!” Insert Proverbs 1:22 here and we’ll hand your ass to you again in 7 days.

Tips for Preparing Your Child for the Dentist

Admin — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:29:17 +0000

visits are a real source of angst for children, but a necessity for dental health. So it’s in everyone’s best interest for your child to be up to making those appointments without too much fuss. Not to mention the fact that better preparation helps children get the most from their dental care. The following are ten tips for preparing your child for the dentist:

Brush Your Teeth. – It makes it much easier to spot any potential problem areas when your child’s teeth are clean. Have them brush thoroughly just prior to their visit.
Floss – Similarly, apart from good overall practice, flossing will keep the spaces between their teeth clear, making it easier to spot cavities, as well as prevent them.
Rinse – In addition to killing harmful germs in their mouths, the dentist will be very grateful to your child for this courtesy. It may burn a little, but there are non-alcohol rinse alternatives.
Reward – It helps to associate a not-so-great experience with a more positive end result. Fewer cavities may not excite your child, but a visit to the movies, a park, or arcade afterward might do the trick.
Stress Reduction – Coordinate your child’s office visit with an activity that will help her relax and get her mind off the anxiety of a dental visit. If you can change your child’s thinking about the dentist, it will make the experience better overall.
Explain What to Expect – If this is your child’s first visit, talk to them about what they will be doing, and why. The dentist will be looking in your mouth to make sure your teeth are okay, etc. The more they know, the less stress they will have.
Read a Book – Choose a book about a child’s first dentist visit to help them understand and mentally prepare for it. Make it a normal part of life and not something to dread.
Start Early – The earlier the better for the child’s first visit. You can start generally between 6 and 12 months. You especially want to make the first visit a non-emergency one. This will help acclimate your child to what to expect, and to develop trust in her dentist.
Play Dentist – You can take turns with your child, alternately playing the roles of dentist and patient. Let him get accustomed to checking teeth, and having his checked, in a fun and reassuring setting before heading out for the real thing.
Schedule Early in the Day – Avoid the potential for a cranky or hungry toddler by getting an early appointment whenever possible. It will help make your visit a more pleasant one for everyone.

No matter what age your kids are, going to the dentist is an important part of life. Good dental hygiene is vital to good health. Start early and make visiting the dentist fun.

Visit http://www.nanny.net/blog/10-tips-for-preparing-your-child-for-the-dentist/

10 Common Traits of All Adam Sandler Comedies

Admin — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:28:35 +0000

When it comes to comedy films, Adam Sandler can almost always be counted on to provide solid (albeit somewhat predictable) laughs. Though the overall plot may vary from film to film, there are so many similarities in the details that the Sandler flicks can all begin to feel like one big, on-going film; whether you love them or hate them, nearly everyone can agree that these are ten things that Adam Sandler’s comedic films all have in common.

There’s Always A Love Interest (And She’s Always Out of His League) – From the blonde bombshell of Billy Madison to the threatening-yet-smoking-hot Fairuza Balk of The Waterboy, Adam Sandler movies all end with his character getting the girl, despite the fact that she’s completely and undeniably out of his league.
He Gets By With a Little Help From His Friends – Upon examination, it becomes apparent that the Sandler character is rarely the true hero of his films; in fact, the efforts of his rallied friends are usually the biggest factor in his ability to save the day. Without them it seems he would rarely succeed.
The Usual Suspects – The cadre of actors that appear in Adam Sandler films may grow, but the core members are invariably present. Friends like Peter Dante and Jonathan Loughran appear alongside other Sandler favorites such as Steve Buscemi, John Lovitz and fellow SNL alum Norm McDonald.
The Offensive Elderly Character/ Adorable Child Character – Another aspect of Adam Sandler films is the adorable kid or lovable curmudgeon that spouts off offensive phrases that the twenty-something stars could never get away with.
Inexplicable but Unmistakable Voice – Though it’s probably intended to be different for each character that he plays, there is an unmistakable voice that Adam Sandler uses in all of his films. Difficult to describe but easily recognized, this voice is mimicked in college bars around the country (see number ten).
The Inevitable Rob Schneider Cameo – Though the appearance of the Sandler clan can almost always be counted on to be present, there will never be an Adam Sandler comedy without at least a cameo from Sandler’s longtime pal Rob Schneider, who almost always returns the favor in his own starring-role flicks.
Slapstick Injuries – Part of an Adam Sandler film’s appeal is the outrageous, slapstick injuries and sight gags that he’s so well known for performing. Whether he’s punching Bob Barker or sending a slack-jawed Southern football player face-first into the turf, the violence is cartoonish, outlandish, and ever-present.
Sandler Stars As the Lovable Underdog – Adam Sandler characters are always the unlikely hero who can’t catch a break and is more than a little bit inept. His silly-but-endearing antics serve to paint him as the lovable underdog, which has almost invariably been his role in every film he’s ever made.
His Parents Just Don’t Understand – Whether it’s a deep-seated issue stemming from a real lack of parental approval or simply a well-crafted ploy to gain the admiration of adolescents everywhere, the parents of an Adam Sandler character will almost always be, at best, hard-nosed and, at worst, outright villains.
Frat Boys Love Them – As previously alluded to, the one thing that each and every comedy starring Adam Sandler has in common is the unswerving devotion from frat boys across the board. Stumbling onto a college campus with a fresh pitcher and a Sandler quote is a surefire way to end up with a troop of drinking buddies for the rest of the night.

http://www.cabletvproviders.net/blog/2012/10-common-traits-of-all-adam-sandler-comedies/

Muses in the Vineyard!

Admin — Mon, 14 May 2012 12:03:06 +0000

Muses in the Vineyard is a festival of music, of the women, by the women and for EVERYONE

When: May 19th, 2012 from 11 am -10:30 pm

Where: Four Sisters Winery 783 County Route 519 Belvidere, NJ 07823

General Festival Information Hours: 11 am – 10:30 pm (doors at 10 am)

Advance ticketing is available through the link on this website or alternately at the winery. We encourage you to buy in advance as tickets at the door will be $45…($40 for seniors and college students) This is a rain or shine event and tickets are non-refundable/non-exchangable.

Festival seating: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, etc. NOTE: An area will be cordoned off near-stage which will be for blankets and beach (low-backed) chairs ONLY! No beach umbrellas please, or other obstructions to the stage-view. Let’s show some kindness to the folks behind us!

Food and beverages will be available for purchase on-site…menu items will be offered with both vegetarians and carnivores given a range of options!! Matty Matarazzo of Four Sisters Winery, known for his culinary prowess, will be overseeing the food stations!

Pursuant to NJ liquor laws, alcohol may NOT be brought into the festival…Four Sisters Winery’s award winning wines however, will be available for purchase by the glass or by the bottle.

Smoking areas will be marked…please respect your fellow festival goers and keep the viewing/listening area smoke free!

Parking is Free and there is ample parking area but in the interest of reducing the carbon footprint of the festival, we suggest that where possible….Carpool! Preferential parking (closest to the gate) will be available to cars with 3 or more attendees.

Hand held non-professional photography is OK. Thanks for leaving your tripods home!

Sorry! But no pets please except service dogs.

For more information please visit: http://musesinthevineyard.com/muses.asp