On December 28, the Bangor Jr.

Slaters wrestling team hosted the 1st Battle of the Belt wrestling tournament. The tournament consisted of the three Slate Belt schools: Bangor, Pen Argyl and Pius X. This is hopefully the start of a tradition for the Slate Belt schools, in which they come together and have their varsity teams at the elementary level participate. The trophy is a belt that was specially designed for this event and will be passed year to year to the winner and engraved each year. This year. Bangor took first. Bangors line-up was as follows: 50 lbs Devin Romanchuk, 54 lbs Landon Uhler, 58 lbs Aharon Bloshuk, 61 lbs Joey LaPenna, 64 lbs

Adam Due, 67 lbs Anthony Salza, 70 lbs Alex Klaver, 73 lbs Charlie Bunting, 76 lbs Ashton Kluska, 80 lbs Ashton Dunbar, 85 lbs Jared Reto, 90 lbs Gavin Sandt, 95 lbs Nick Davanzo, 105 lbs Jayce Gonzalez, 120 lbs Tanner Edwards and

160 lbs Joshua Pittenger. The coaches from opposing teams had to vote on the Most Outstanding Wrestler award for each team. Bangors most outstanding wrestler was Jayce Gonzalez. Pen Argyls most outstanding wres-

tler was Jack Rissmiller and Piuss most outstanding wrestler was Christian Greggo. Thank you to all three teams for an enjoyable and well rounded tournament. May this be the beginning of a tradition that will carry on from year to year.

The Blue Mountain Community Library will be collecting nonperishable foods for St. Josephs Food Ministry of Wind Gap now through March 15th. Please bring food donations to the library, located at 216 S. Robinson Ave. in Pen Argyl. For more information, visit bmcl.org or call Lisa at 610-863-3029. Fun Fridays are planned for February at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos, 940A Ann St. in Stroudsburg. Attendees are invited to express themselves through Open Mic Night on February 14th at 7pm, Poetry Workshop with Jim E. on February 21st at 6pm, and Family Board Game Night on February 28th at 7pm. Donations are accepted. See uupoconos.org for more information.

Kindergarten Registration at Plainfield Elementary School in Pen Argyl Area School District will be held April 8th through 10th. Appointments are necessary, which are available by phone between the hours of 9am and 3:15pm, begining on February 24th. Please note that calls before February 24th will not be accepted. Parents should schedule appointments by contacting the school at 610-746-4436. To be eligible for kindergarten for 2015, the child must be five years old on or before September 1st. Also, a copy of proof of immunization and the childs birth certificate must be presented at the time of regestration for the school to keep on file. The East Bangor United Methodist

Community Church is sponsoring a bus trip to the Sight and Sound Theater in Strasburg to see MOSES on Thursday, May 1st. The trip includes the bus, show and smorgasbord dinner. For more information, call Jackie Williams Bartosh at 570-992-6820, or Chris Ott at 610-588-1429. Pennsylvanias Low Income Home Energy Assistance grant program is now accepting applications. LIHEAP provides grants up to $1,000 to help low-income families pay heating bills during the winter months. LIHEAP also offers crisis grants of up to $500 for families who experience heating emergencies, such as a broken furnace, fuel shortage or utility termination. Local residents can apply for LIHEAP grants online at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website,

at compass.state.pa.us. For more information, call 1-866-857-7095. Happy birthday wishes are sent to Ben Jennings, February 12th; Rachel Northrup, February 13th; Amber Loren, February 15th; Crystal Yamrus, February 15th; Izabella Frey who is turning two on February 15th; Kristina Miller, February 16th; and Kate Pruett, February 17th. Have a great day, everyone! To our customers, readers and friends, Happy Valentines Day! Thank you for your patronage and support. Best, Nelson, Doreen, Jes, Sarah, Maria, Dale, Melissa, Briana and Debbi! We love hearing from you! Send your birthdays, anniversaries and tidbits of information to: The PRESS 1 Broadway Bangor, PA 18013 thepressmail@ gmail.com Like us on Facebook!

Here is a list of the new items added to the collection of the Bangor Public Library January 30th through February 5th: Adult Fiction: Jenkins, Dan, The Franchise Babe; Jenkins, Dan, Rude Behavior; Koontz, Dean, Innocence; Lustbader, Eric, Robert Ludlums The Bourne Retribution; Peretsky, Sara, Critical Mass.

Adult Non-Fiction: John Paul II, Pope Rise, Let Us Be On Our Way. Young Adult Fiction: Kotzwinkle, William, Trouble in Bugland. Audio Books: Conklin, Tara, The House Girl ; Conway, Tim, Whats So Funny; Cussler, Clive Mirage; Patterson, James, Cross My Heart; Tan, Amy, Valley of Amazement; Trigiani, Adriana, Supreme Macaroni Company.

Matthew Camilletti of Bangor has been selected to attend the APPLE conference at the University of Virginia for the second consecutive year. The APPLE confrence is the leading national training symposiums dedicated to substance abuse prevention and health promotion for student athletes and athletic dpartment administrators. The goal of the APPLE confrence is to assist colleges in promoting student athlete health and wellness by empowering teams of student athletes and administrators to create and institution specific action plan. APPLE participants will improve relationships between administrators and student

athletes, increase their ability to impact substance abuse problems, increase student leadership skills and learn about policies and programs, including Student Athlete Mentor programs. Matt is a sophomore at Saint Francis University, in Loretto, with a double major in Business Management and Marketing. He is a member of the

Red Flash football team, Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, Student Athlete Advisory Committee, Enactus Business Club and the head marketing coordinator for the Franciscan Fund, an on-campus, studentrun lending bank institute. Matt is the son of Lou and Thereas Camilletti and is a 2012 graduate of Pius X High School.

Lohman at 610-8634846 or 610-844-4630. St. Elizabeth of Hungary parish is sponsoring a trip to the casino on Thursday, February 13th. This trip will be taking the place of the monthly trip to Atlantic city. FMI, call Mary Lou DeReaFamily Game Night: Friday, February 14th, at 6:30pm. East Bangor United Methodist Community Church, 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, is having a Family Game Night on Families are invited for

fun & fellowship. Bring a favorite game and snack to share. The church is located at FMI, call 610-588-4453 or visit ebumc.org. Blue Mountain Garden Club Meeting: February 19th, 7pm. Totts Gap Art Institute. Topic: Care for Houseplants. FMI, call 610588-5764. Bangor Public Library, is hosting a Get Writing! Get Published! event: Tuesday, February 18th, 6:30pm. Join them for a free talk designed for people who love to write. Presented by the Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group. Sign up at the library circulation desk or by email at bngrpl@ epix.net. Be sure to include your name & contact information in the body of the email. Seussical the Musical: February 27th and 28th, and March 1st at Bangor Area High School, 5 Pts. Richmond

Rd., Bangor. FMI and tickets, call 610-5997011. Blood Drive: March 9th, 11am-4pm. Hope UCC, 2nd and Cherry St., Wind Gap. Boomer's Angels Dog Adoption Day: Sunday, March 9th, 1310 Blue Valley Drive/Rt 512, Pen Argyl, 11am-2pm. Meet some of the beautiful loving dogs for adoption! FMI, visit www. BoomersAngels.com, find them on Facebook, or call 570-350-4977. Craft & Home Based Vendor Show: April 5th, 9am-3pm. Trinity Lutheran Church, 404 Broadway, Bangor. Free admission and parking. Raffle, door prizes, snacks and lunch available. FMI, call 610588-9211, 610-5889268, or 610-588-9262. Camp Papillon Adoption Day: Sunday, March 9th, 11am-3pm. Route 209, Brodheadsville. Come and meet the dogs, cats and critters for adoption! Why not fill out an online application and get preapproved in advance? Email adopt@camp papillon.org, visit camppapillon.org or call 570-420-0450. Boomer's Angels Dog Adoption Day: Sunday, March 30th, Route 209, Brodheadsville from 11am-2pm, to meet some of the beautiful loving dogsfor adoption. To find more information, visit BoomersAngels.com, find them on Facebook, or call 570-3504977. East Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department Bingo Featuring Vera Bradley: Sunday, March 30th. Space is limited and booking fast, so please contact them to reserve your ticket. 5354 Nor-Bath Blvd, Northampton, 11:30am. Bingo will start at 1pm. FMI & tickets, call 610767-7140.

Having a Community Event? Promote it in The PRESS and make it a Huge Success! Just email your info to thepressmail@gmail.com with subject PA Community Events

Not all who are homeless deserve their circumstance. Good families are affected nowadays. We of the Lehigh Valley are a hardy people, but living on the streets or in pioneer camps should not be our final option. It is an unfortunate reality nonetheless. It seems doubly a shame for our community when one who has honorably served and actually fought for his or her country is found in such a condition. Whether it is this veterans pride or behavior, or a combination of both, that has led to the situation should not matter to us we can always find a plausible excuse for inaction. As the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council (LVMAC) activates its new Lehigh Valley Homeless Veterans Action Committee to attack veterans homelessness as a regional problem, one of its participants is already trying to get those in the most extreme of circumstances in from the

cold. Clinic Valor Foundation, a new 501(c)(3) now working its way down from the Bangor area into the wider Lehigh Valley, has taken up the mission of establishing routine stand downs in the Lehigh Valley. What is a stand down? It stems from a military term meaning relaxation from a state of readiness or alert, and it is sometimes used in the context of refitting a military unit. It is this latter context that the term is applied to the homeless veterans as a group. The operating principle is to induce them to gather by offers of clothing, shoes, cold weather gear, sleeping bags, tents, food, haircuts, medical care, etc. All is done in an effort to ensure their survival, but ultimately to gain the trust needed to assess, counsel and assist in deeper and ultimately more meaningful ways ending their homelessness whenever possible. Ironically, considering the size of its veterans

population, only a handful of communities in Pennsylvania conduct these Stand Downs Philadelphias being the ultimate model. Clinic Valor Foundation intends to address this shortfall and has added a new twist to it. Its volunteers are willing to also render help to homeless nonveterans at these events as well. It believes getting to the street homeless veteran depends upon establishing word of it throughout the street homeless community. In effect, the homeless served become ambassadors to homeless veterans yet to be reached. Their program is both simple and worthwhile; and several organizations have already risen to its appeal for assistance. More are needed. There is an upcoming mini-stand down on February 15th in the parking lot of the Allentown VA Clinic (setting the stage for a larger event later this spring), which will be the initial event with a much larger stand down in the

spring. Clinic Valor Foundation needs support in finding and possibly transporting the homeless and, in particular, homeless veterans. This is a regional effort not limited to those who dwell in Allentown. The location of this event gives their need added significance. Grassroots, interorganizational cooperation is necessary to make this event a success. If you know of homeless people, whether they be in camps, sleeping on a stoop or couch surfing in your home or apartment, contact Bob Rapp at 484-357-0600 or masherrapp@verizon .net. If your organization can serve as a collection point or can identify one, or assist in providing or finding transportation please do so. Many nonprofits cater to the homeless and are natural collection points. If you wish to provide assistance, please contact Bob Rapp at the email listed.

(NAPSI)Chronic low back pain is an experience shared by millionsand a mystery that often goes unsolved for years. The National Institutes of Health says Americans spend at least $50 billion a year on low back pain, and it is the most common cause of job-related disability. And much of that issue can be blamed on the difficulty of diagnosing the cause. Causes of Low Back Pain:Low back pain is often generalized as coming from the spine, particularly degenerating disks. But studies have shown that 15 to 30 percent of chronic low back pain is actually caused by dysfunction of the sacroiliac (SI) joint, which transfers weight and movement between your upper body and your legs. The SI joint is frequently overlooked as a potential source of pain. SI joint pain can arise from a traumatic event or from degenerative conditions and can affect men and women of all ages. The pain can occur in the back, pelvis and buttock area or hip and it can shoot down the leg in a fashion that mimics sciatica. And that, in turn, can inhibit walking, sitting or sleeping. Most spine surgeons, however, are trained to look first at the vertebrae and spinal disks as sources of the pain, rather than the SI joint. And most MRIs and X-rays of aging spines show degenerating or narrowing disks that tend to support the more common diagnosis. One study has found that among failed spinal fusion patientspeople who had their lumbar

vertebrae fused and were still in pain afterwardthe SI joint turned out to be the culprit in well over half the cases. Low Back Pain Treatments: Treatments for SI joint pain include physical therapy, chiropractic manipulations, oral medications, and injections. If these treatments are not effective, surgery may be the next option considered. We have come a long way in correctly identifying and treating the source of low back pain in our patients, said Dr. David W. Polly, Chief of Spine Service at the University of Minnesota. Recent advances in minimally invasive surgical treatment for the SI joint offer a promising alternative for those in chronic pain. iFuse Implant System Solution: The most common surgery in the U.S. for the SI joint is the iFuse Implant System from SI-BONE, which is intended for sacroiliac joint fusion for conditions including sacroiliac joint disruptions and degenerative sacroiliitis. iFuse involves the insertion of small titanium implants to stabilize and fuse the damaged joint. The personal and economic cost of back pain can be monumental, particularly when the source is not accurately identified. Chronic SI joint disorders remain a frequently undiagnosed condition, but once it is pinpointed, the iFuse technology offers a potential solution. For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of SI joint pain, as well as the iFuse Implant System, visit www.si-bone.com.

You can catch some good news from the planet these days. It just requires casting your info-net down below the turbid political froth to a deeper level of reality. There you can find that, despite our nation's political divides, Plats and Jeffersons old common-good ideal of cooperation still works. In fact, it nets a good harvest for all parties businesses, whole industries, consumers and the biosphere. One happy example exists along the MidAtlantic coast. Here, fishermen historically thronged for centuries to reap catches of prized supper-table and seafood-market species. Fishing and the tourism it created constituted major industries, with entire communities built around them. But by the 1990s, stocks were depleted from years of overfishing and the huge bite it took from the marine food web. Mid-Atlantic scup numbers dropped to 4 percent of viable levels, summer flounder to 15 percent. Because it left so little to catch, the unrestrained and disorganized fish fest had also gnawed a big hole in tourism. The Fishery Conserva-

By Liza Field

tion and Management Act of 1976, created to address the overfishing problem along U.S. coasts, proved little help. With loopholes big enough to sail ships through, it netted zero improvement in fish stocks. Instead, increasing scarcity only intensified fishing efforts and exacerbated the stark decline. Finally, the legislation got a sufficient netmend in 2006, emerging from Congress as the triumphantly bipartisan Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act (or MSA). The acts firmer restraints have yielded remarkable progress for lucrative species like black sea bass, summer flounder, bluefish and butterfish (these four alone collectively provide the MidAtlantic with about $570 million a year in direct economic benefits). That you probably havent heard about this success indicates less about its newsworthiness than a media preference for disasters and the noisier antiregulatory wars. But it would surely be a welcome headline that U.S. fish populations are rebounding, even as those of other nations

are in severe decline. Generating this good news wasnt effortless. Florida fisherman George Geiger, a retired Army officer, long annoyed his fellow fishermen by pushing for cooperation with the MSAs stricter catch limits. Serving three terms on his South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, Geiger finally convinced other members that self-restraint for the common good would end up benefiting, not harming, each interest. Today, Geiger is proud that the dwindled South Atlantic black sea bass is finally making a recovery after more than two decades. The bass has increased not only in population and reproductive potential, but average size. The other fishermen are

no longer complaining. To the north, another angler has been running fishing charters off the New York Harbor for 11 years. When he started, former Coast Guard member John McMurray said, there was no point in fishing for the prized black sea bass or summer flounder. You werent going to put together good catches back then; the size and numbers just weren't there. Because the 2006 MSA has allowed these species to recover, McMurray said, the overall impact is that there are more fish around than ever. This doesn't mean every fisherman realizes why limits should continue. Some people still don't understand why they cant keep more and more, McMurray said. But if you do that and open it back up, its just

going to go back to the way it was. The immediate urge to open it back up, in fact, is reversing a tide against the 2006 legislation, which is up for renewal this year. Its already facing a battle in the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources, where Chairman Doc Hastings has proposed a draft reauthorization bill far slacker than the 2006 version. The draft legislation allows industry players and fishery management councils more flexibility in determining catch limits, allowing them to be based more on economic winds and less on marine science. Geiger, who testified before the fisheries panel of the committee in 2011, thinks reopened loopholes would spawn unnecessary bad news, when the good news resulting from collective effort had just

begun. Improvements in abundance are due to successful, sciencebased management, he said. Now is not the time to backpedal and return to the ineffective management practices that resulted in depleted stocks. Environmental groups like Natural Resources Defense Council, Oceana and Ocean Conservancy agree, and recommend that citizens weigh in. Hastings committee is still requesting public comments on the draft bill. For more information, anglers, grandparents, seafood lovers, beachcombers and anyone else interested in common-good efforts (and keeping good effort common) can read it, hear archived testimony on the issue and submit comments at http:// naturalresources.house. gov.

Governor Tom Corbett unveiled his $29.4 billion state General Fund budget for Fiscal Year 2014-15 on Tuesday, February 4th before a joint session of the General Assembly, according to Senate Majority Whip Pat Browne. The budget proposal includes a $927 million (3.3. percent) increase in state spending over the current fiscal year without increasing taxes and projects $1.424 billion in revenue growth (4.89 percent) in Fiscal Year 2014-15. Highlighted in the address was a focus on education with emphasis on special and early childhood education. The proposal calls for an additional $20 million for special education and an increase of $10 million for the Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts program. I am certainly pleased that the Governor recognized the importance of and need for investing in early childhood education programs and special education, Senator Browne said. These programs have a proven track record and produce the kinds of

results that make a difference not only for those children, but also for our schools in the short-term and our society in the long-run. The additional $20 million marks the first increase in funds for special education in six years and brings the total spending to $1.046 billion. This extra allocation will be distributed to school districts based on the funding formula proposed by the Special Education Funding Commission, which Senator Browne cochaired. With this proposed budget, the total increased investment in Pre-K Counts since 2011 will total $13.6 million or a 16.3 percent increase and will help supplement the $51.7 million Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge grant awarded to Pennsylvania in December of 2013. The Governor also proposed a new comprehensive program to promote academic excellence in Pennsylvanias public schools and improve student performance in the classroom and better

prepare them for the needs of the modern workforce. The $341 million Ready to Learn program includes: The current $100 million Accountability Block Grant program., $240 million in block grants to: Improve performance in reading and math by 3rd grade; Support STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) initiatives; and Provide flexibility to provide customized instruction; $1 million to provide grants of up to $20,000 to high performing schools to assist and help other districts. The current pension problems the state is facing were addressed by the Governor and he proposed a pension reform plan that would provide General Fund savings of $170 million in state payments to SERS and PSERS and would collectively provide $125 million in savings for local school districts. The reforms would not impact the benefits of retirees or current employees. Also included in the budget proposal were several funding increases intended to

promote business development and spur job creation in PA, including an additional $4.7 million for the PA First program, $1.1 million more for Marketing to Attract Business, $600,000 in new money for World Trade PA, and an additional $500,000 for Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP). We will need to study this proposal diligently to ensure that all vital programs are receiving the necessary funding they need, while not placing further burdens on our taxpayers or slowing down the recovery of our struggling economy, Senator Browne said. We must craft a fiscally responsible budget and continue to look at every program and department line-by-line to see where we can reduce costs and/or increase efficiencies. The Senates review of the budget began on February 10th with three weeks of hearings conducted by the Senate Appropriations Committee, which will conclude on February 26th. The states fiscal year ends on June 30th.

Hello fellow readers, Doggone diggers are only part of the challenge of gardening when you have canine kids. The risk of trampling while playing, noshing while bored, yellow lawn spots or leg lifting on branches are other doggie considerations. You may recall Ed's teenage pup Dulcie who eats the blue fescue she digs up? Bill from Bangor suggested never let your dog watch you plant as shell think youre burying something tasty and chances are will go back and dig up your plants. Great tip; become a closet gardener (smile). I sympathize with dog-caused plant devastation. My first couple of puppies, littermates Sara and Sadie, provided a jumpstart on doggie parenting, which overcame my childhood fear of dogs. Our first spring together, I planted an ambitious perennial garden and took precautions to deter deer with an organic spray named Bobbex. Deer stayed away, pups rolled, perennials flattened, lesson learned. Pick a deer spray that doesnt smell

like a decaying animal. And choose plants that easily spring back from trampling or rolling especially on the edge of your garden. Good bets are Coral bells/Heuchera, Catmint/Nepeta, and Bugleweed/Ajuga; Catlins Giant is a 10 variety thats performs as more than a groundcover. Theres Bearberry /Arctostaphylos uvaursi, Creeping Thyme such as Thymus praecox, Stonecrop/ Sedum acre, Wormwood/ Artemisia and Tickseed/ Coreopsis, all tough plants, also good in deer resistance. Set large boulders to guard more tender plants or prized shrubs or trees. And save your delicate plants for pots that you can intersperse in your garden. Course gravel or river stone along the border of your garden may help as dogs prefer to walk on a smooth surface. Designated potty spots are a matter of training but marking territory (leaving pee mail) is an instinct that is tough to control. Create marking spots with large pieces of driftwood that can also serve as border guards at the edge of your garden. Keeping your lawn three to four inches high hides the yellow spots and is better for your lawn as the height helps deter weeds. Does it sound as though I became a doggie expert? Truth is, we learn to adapt to our dogs and let go of perfection because unconditional love is well worth a few garden casualties. Garden dilemmas? askmarystone.com

(NAPSI)Cooks can breathe a sigh of relief when they realize how efficient and attractive kitchen ventilation or a range hood can be. If youd like to breathe easier, these facts and hints can help: Kitchens with proper ventilation are much cleaner. Ventilation can stop particulates from settling on surfaces and damaging cabinetry and fabrics. A good vent can also reduce smoke, grease and other types of indoor air pollution that can harm your health and increase your cleaning chores. Four basic kinds of kitchen range hoods: 1.) Canopy Hoodsmount to the wall (aka Pro-style) or bottom of a cabinet (aka undercabinet). 2.) Island Hoodsmount to the ceiling. 3.) Chimney Hoodscome with a decorative cover to hide unattractive ductwork. 4.) Downdraft Hoodsinstall behind the cooktop. The hood should be at

least as wide as the cooking surface to effectively capture smoke, grease and odors. Keep it clean. Its wise to wash or replace vent filters every couple of months. If you cook frequently, they may require more frequent cleaning; most are dishwasher-safe. When shopping for new ventilation, look for

the Home Ventilating Institute (HVI) label. Its an independent third party that rates ventilation performance. If noise levels are important to you and your family, get a hood that exhausts more air (indicated by a higherlevel CFM) and operates at a lower/quieter speed. Another quietperformance option is

an external blower that can be mounted to an outside wall, installed in the attic or on the roof. The hood should be installed as close to the cooktop as possible, within the manufacturers guidelines, so it captures the most smoke and odor. Duct size is important for optimum performance. It should be equal to or greater than the size of the hoods duct outlet. Make sure the backdraft damper opens and closes completely and freely. Check both inside and outside the house to be sure nothing gets in the way of its movement. For an efficient HVIcertified range hood that is also sleek, graceful and elegant, consider BROAN and BROAN Elite Hoods. There are several models made to match contemporary aesthetics, providing a clean look that works seamlessly with your kitchen style. For more information, visit broan.com.

(NAPSI)Whether you are getting the kids clothes ready for school or putting your outfit together for a fashionable event, theres good news-a new smartphone app can make your laundry life easier. Thats the word from Whirlpool, the leading maker of home appliances. The new WashSquad laundry app from Whirlpool brand is designed to help by: Lightening your laundry load by assigning tasks to different members of your family Providing expert advice on how to treat tricky stains with the help of the WashSquad Stain Eraser Offering tips on how

to care for your garment specific to the fabric with the Fabric Care Solution Tracking and rewarding your familys laundry accomplishments with the WashSquad Wash Board Getting custom laundry appliance guides tailored to your Whirlpool washer and dryer. Now, with the help of our new and innovative WashSquad app, stain solving is simple and expert advice is available at your fingertips to help with any laundry woes, said Mary Zeitler, fabric care expert and Lead Consumer Scientist with the Institute of Home Science.

Helpful Tips To make laundry day even easier, Whirlpool offers these tips on handling delicate fabrics and stains this season: For washable embellished items, consult your fabric care label first, then wash on the Delicate or Handwash cycle with cold water temperature selected and low spin speed. Remove the item from the washer and lay flat to dry on a clean towel, taking care not to stretch the fabric. Adjust the embellishments as needed to reorient them to their original position or shape. With wine stains, its important to react quickly. Once the stain

dries, it will be more difficult to remove. First, check the care label to be sure the item is machine washable. Rinse the stain well in running water to dilute it. If you cannot wash the garment while it is still wet, soak it in cool water with a bit of detergent until it can go into the washer. Wash the garment on the warmest temperature safe for the fabric. Remove the garment from the washer and allow it to air-dry if the stain appears to be removed. If the stain remains, repeat the process using a colorsafe bleach. Fashion-Forward Fabric Care Not only creating innovative technology to streamline the fashion fabric care process, Whirlpool recently cosponsored Strut, The Fashionable Mom Show during New Yorks Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. As part of the show, each model strutted on behalf of a charity. Two Whirlpool ambassadors modeled on behalf of Whirlpool Corporations charity, Habitat for Humanity To download the free WashSquad laundry app, go to iTunes or whirlpool.com/washsqu ad. To learn more about the app and brand, visit whirlpool.com.

(NAPSI)There is good news for adults who are about to retire. There is a new Webbased talk show designed to give them fresh perspectives on aging and creative ways to approach their lives in retirement. In partnership with Lutheran Social Services of New York, the Ammerman Center for Creative Aging has launched an initiative called Ignite Your LIFE. The mission of this initiative is to serve, educate, support and engage individuals and the wider community in
by Joy Powell, President, Fitness Market

celebrating the aging process.

(NAPSI)A new generation is getting involved with gyms and fitness programs in record numbersthe baby boomer generation. The 78 million Americans who make up this generation are savvier and better versed in fitness than any other aging generation seen before as exercise has been more ingrained in their culture and daily routines. Healthways and the SilverSneakers Fitness Program recognize that baby boomers reasons and motivations for getting fit are as varied as their workout interests. From tennis and yoga to hiking and dance, exercise offers many benefits for older adults, including reducing and minimizing the signs, symptoms and risk factors for chronic diseases and conditions like arthritis, obesity and diabetes. Additionally, exercise can help fight depression and improve energy, balance and strength. SilverSneakers, the nations leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults, knows there is no one-size-fits-all solution for anyone, and trying to fit exercise into a busy

schedule can be hard. SilverSneakers offers these workout tips for baby boomers to ensure they enjoy and stick with their workout routine. Exercise with a friend. Healthways research has shown that 80 percent of baby boomers prefer to exercise with friends or a group they feel comfortable with. This gives people motivation and accountability while making the activity more enjoyable. Select an exercise that you enjoy. Not surprisingly, youre much more likely to stick to activities you enjoy and that fit into your schedule. Think back to activities you did when you were younger and try different types of exercise to find what works best for you. SilverSneakers offers a variety of classes to suit each persons needs. Do a mix of cardio and strength training. Dont just focus on one or the other; do a mix of both to increase strength, endurance and flexibility. Healthways is incorporating baby boomers needs and wants into its menu of fitness programs with the new FLEX program. FLEX is a community-oriented program consisting of

instructor-led fitness activities at churches, community centers and parks. Classes are designed to create a sense of community beyond the gym, with flexible and fun options that keep participants engaged and active. For more information, to see if you are eligible for SilverSneakers and FLEX, and to find a class in your area, visit SilverSneakers.com. Joy Powell is president of the Fitness Market for Healthways. She oversees a variety of fitness programs, including the awardwinning SilverSneakers Fitness Program, the nations leading exercise program designed specifically for older adults.

(NAPSI)An increasing number of people have discovered a way to tell their families and friends how much they care for themeven when theyre not able to actually say so. Thats because these folks have found an ingenious new service that lets you create notes for the most important people in your life and then, once you pass away, each person receives the letter you left. You can say anything, how much you love them, how proud you are of them, a piece of advice, or just something you never got

around to saying. Your note can become a precious keepsake, handed down for generations. Once you sign up, you simply write your notes and choose up to three verifiers, trustworthy individuals who will notify the service if anything unfortunate happens to you. Then, Heart Writing sends your notes by mail or e-mail. Anyone can join, absolutely free, with a 14-day trial membership at HeartWriting.com. Find further facts, inspiration and ideas online at www.Heart Writing.com.

The initiatives Ignite Your Life Talk Show is streaming live from Valparaiso University on March 12th, at 1pm CT. With the help of the University and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans sponsorship, the show will highlight newly developed research related to aging, and engage and inspire participants by redefining what it means to be 50 and beyond. Visit igniteyourlife.info.

(NAPSI)A fun new way to show support for your school can literally be at your fingertips. Thats because you can easily install a doorbell that plays your alma maters fight song,

explains nationally syndicated radio and television host, contractor, and home improvement expert Danny Lipford. It is a great way to greet classmates and

others at reunion time, when the big game is on or at graduation. Its also a nice note for welcoming your college-age child home for the holidays. Made of cast metal, the doorbell push buttons are available in highquality satin nickel or antique brass decorative artisan finishes to match popular door hardware types and are adorned with an official school logo of your choice. Its the only collegiate-licensed doorbell collection with MP3 customization and 128 MBs of memory, and can store up to 40 songs or sounds, offering a variety of notifica-

tion options for any occasion. You can easily upload any of your favorite songs or tones or you can also select from one of eight preloaded tunes, such as the traditional Westminster chime. Each NuTone College Pride doorbell comes with both wired and wireless installation capabilities and can be installed within 15 minutes in retrofit or new construction applications, adds Lipford. The manufacturer, NuTone, is an ENERGY STAR partner. For more information, visit www.NuTone CollegePride.com and NuTone.com.

(NAPSI)Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets for staying happy and efficient at your job may be what you do outside office walls. According to new research by the Society for Human Resource Management, employees who take regular vacations enjoy greater productivity, increased job satisfaction and higher organizational morale than those who dont. Despite such studies,

not all working Americans have a positive attitude about taking a vacation. In fact, 61 percent of organizations report that their employees leave behind three or more unused vacation days a year. Taking full advantage of earned time off-as well as completely unplugging while away may seem an odd way to get ahead but it can be a great gift to your employer and yourself. One thing that may help you get yourself

that gift is a vacation ownership. Because of the prepaid nature of a timeshare, you never have to think about finding or funding accommodations throughout the length of your trip. You can cost effectively enjoy vacation lodging every year for the rest of your life without the burden of paying increasingly more for your stay, as you would for hotel rates, which continue to rise

Youre guaranteed consistent time away. Owning a timeshare can instill in you the discipline of taking time away, at least once a year, from hectic work schedules to relax and recharge in high-quality accommodations. Plus, if you partner with a timeshare exchange company, you can swap out your stay at your home resort for one in a new destination. Time away and together is healthy for the entire family. Beyond the individual

benefits of coming back to the office more motivated, creative and innovative, family and friends can share in the excitement, closeness and health benefits of regular rest and

reprieve. Many timeshare companies let you pass timeshare investments through generations, so your children can inherit and enjoy your timeshare for many more years.

(NAPSI)Whether you have a disability or are helping a family member get assistance, its easy to be overwhelmed by the number of disability programs and services that are available nationwide. There is a solution for you. Simply visit Disability.gov, the federal governments website for people with disabilities and their families, to find information across 10 topics: Benefits, Civil Rights, Community Life, Education, Emergency Preparedness, Health, Employment, Housing, Technology and Trans-

portation. Disability.govs Guide Me tool makes searching on the site easier by walking visitors through four steps: Step One: Choose an Audience. Do you have a disability or are you helping someone else? Step Two: Select a Topic. Do you want to learn how to apply for disability benefits or find a job? Step Three: Pick a State. Do you want to view resources from your community or another state? Step Four: Review Your Summary. Review your choices from the three

previous steps and decide if you want to see your search results or start a new search. Please share this information and visit www.Disability.gov to get started! You can also subscribe to email alerts and the Disability Connection newsletter or follow the site on Facebook, Twitter and Disability.Blog.

(NAPSI)You can enjoy delicious, healthful dishes in minutes: The secret is a good imported extra virgin olive oil (EVO). Its nutritious, a trans fat free food and loaded with flavor. To make every meal special: Toss cooked whole wheat penne, spaghetti or cavatelli with EVO, garlic and parsley to taste. Add steamed mixed vegetables of your choice for a quick and colorful pasta primavera. Pan sear shrimp or scallops in EVO for about five minutes. Cut red and green peppers into thin strips and toss with a tablespoon of EVO. Microwave peppers briefly until tender. Combine seafood with peppers and serve on top of instant brown rice. Make your own signature salad dressing by combining EVO, vinegar or lemon juice with favorite

herbs like oregano, chives or ground pepper. The flavor will permeate the salad greens, tomatoes, cucumbers and vegetables. Learn More: Share your favorite recipes and tips with the Gourmet Factory, makers of Capatriti Extra Virgin Olive Oil, on Facebook at www.facebook.com /gourmetfactory oliveoil.

Sharon Ward, Director of the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, issued the following statement: It is clear Gov. Corbett has heard the voices of Pennsylvanians who disapprove of cuts to Pennsylvanias public schools. This budget reverses course, providing a welcome increase in dollars to the classroom. However, the proposed Ready to Learn Block Grant will not allow districts to restore the basics upon which quality education is built: small class sizes, extended learning, art, music, sports, nurses and counselors, and enrichment programs. The foundation of public education has been deeply damaged; restoring that founda-

tion should be Harrisburgs first priority. The budget is balanced on uncertain savings. It reduces the states pension contributions, repeating the mistakes of the past that have added to the states pension debt. It relies on changes to the Medicaid program that are unlikely to win federal approval and should not be supported. The budget should not be balanced with cuts to health care services for lowincome working families and people with high health needs. The governors budget presents a more hopeful view of the states fiscal health than is warranted by the facts. The commonwealth is not enjoying

the robust revenue surpluses that many other states are, and its revenue projections for 2015-16 and beyond are optimistic, masking fiscal troubles ahead. For the past four years, Gov. Corbett has bet on business tax cuts to fuel economic growth, and this budget provides more of the same. But that bet has been made and lost. The commonwealths job growth has been weak and our ranking has dropped steadily to 48th in the nation. Corporate tax revenue has begun to decline, leaving other taxpayers to pay more and undermining the states longterm financial health." For additional information on the 2014-15 budget, visit PBPC's web site.

It is quite often the case that the simplest explanation is the correct explanation. The namesake for this principle comes from the English philosopher and theologian, Franciscan friar William of Ockham. It is called Occams razor. From various sources, Occams razor is a principle of parsimony or frugality used in logic and problem-solving. It states that among competing hypotheses, the hypothesis with the fewest assumptions should be selected. Perhaps Occams razor can be appropriately applied to many of our current issues. A particular example is the theory of anthropogenic (human-induced) global warming. Our earth has gone through many periods of naturally occurring global warming and cooling. We know the Vikings colonized and established agriculture in Greenland during the Medieval Warm Period, and we know of the dark days of a frozen Thames River in the U.K. during the Little Ice Age. Many eco-activists point to

By Robert T. Smith

greenhouse gases and climate change as a reason to regulate carbon. Occams razor, on the other hand, would correctly inform us that natural climate change has natural causes. As depicted in this illustration (PA Geologic Survey, 1999), in the larger scale of the earth's history, we are at a relatively warm period. The point of this illustration is the historic nature of dramatic climate change without any influence by man, and our current position on the higher end of the historic temperature fluctuations. Based on this illustration, if past is prologue, we probably shouldn't sell our long-johns. The following graph depicts the Medieval Warm Period transitioning to the Little Ice Age [ I n t e rg o v e r n m e n t a l Panel on Climate Change, 1990, Figure 7.1(c)]. This graph shows relatively recent global temperatures. Subsequently, a multitude of proxy data and statistical manipulation transitioned this simple

understanding into the infamous hockey stick theory of global temperatures. The hockey stick theory suggests the steadystate temperatures of the earth (the hockey stick handle) were triggered dramatically upward (the blade of the hockey stick) by mans activity beginning in the 1900s. This theory does not show a Medieval Warm Period bump or Little Ice Age trough. The improbability of flattening the Medieval Warm Period and Little Ice Age with proxy data and statistics speaks to the essence of Occams razor. The proxy data relied upon as the basis for the statistical assessment themselves have a multitude of variability, unknowns, and extraneous considerations. The use of statistics to defend a hypothesis can be subjective and several experts have critiqued how statistics were used in this case to

support the hockey stick theory (see Stephen McIntyre, Ross McKitrick, and Richard Mueller). The principle of Occams razor, however, suggests that there should be no dramatic changes in our laws and economy to respond to the relatively new allegations of maninduced global warming. Further, many ecoactivists do not contest that water vapor accounts for 95 percent of the greenhouse effect, and that the man-made CO2 contribution to the earths total CO2 emissions is less than 4 percent. This man-made contribution to the atmospheric CO2 concentration is not large, and may not appreciably contribute to the greenhouse effect. But, when controlling carbon seems to be the end game for some bureaucrats, any amount of man-made CO2 can be pointed to as evidence for the need for laws and

regulations. As demonstrated in this U.S. Chamber of Commerce illustration of the 2009 American Clean Energy and Security Act, this law's convoluted "logic" diagram is in full view. A multitude of regulations and mandates would flow from the various organs of government. The ultimate prize to the eco-activists and their big government benefactors is the control of carbon, which would touch every aspect of our daily lives. Consequently, greenhouse gases and global climate change are of paramount importance to the eco-activist agenda. While much has been written about global climate change over many years, the basic aspects of the issue haven't changed; we are asked to forget things we once knew and ignore the simplest

hypothesis that the earths climate is ever changing. Occams razor.

(NAPSI)Gretchen Bleiler took up snowboarding at the age of 10 during gym class in Colorado and was hooked instantly. Her passion led to a successful career on the slopes. She won an Olympic silver medal in Torino in 2006, made the 2010 U.S. Olympic team and grabbed four X Games gold medals. As an Olympic Legend, Bleiler shares some top tips to stay focused and at the top of your game each day. A morning meditation sets the tone for your entire day and helps you focus. Bleiler, who is training to become a meditation instructor, maintains that this one simple act helps to ground me and keep me in the moment. Set aside a few minutes a

day first thing in the morning and, eventually, work up to 30 minutes. If Im fueled properly, my day is so much easier and it all begins with breakfast, says Bleiler. She loves a bowl of her favorite cereal but, when rushing out the door, she opts for a new Kelloggs NutriGrain Fruit and Oat Harvest cereal bar to keep her satisfied as she conquers the halfpipe. The healthy, on-the-go cereal bar delivers a hearty combination of protein, real fruit and whole grains that helps Bleiler thrive, not just survive, the whole morning. Your well-being can be easily influenced by those around you. Surround yourself daily

with those who are a joy to be with, and whose presence supports and encourages you. Others may drain you of your energy. Bleilers husband, family, coach and positive friends help remind her that her medals are a wonderful achievement, but if youre so focused on the goal, youre missing the journey of getting there. Keep tabs on Bleiler at facebook.com/Gretche nBleiler and on by following her on Twitter @GretchenBleiler. Learn more about how you can rise and thrive with new Kelloggs Nutri-Grain Fruit & Oat Harvest cereal bars that keep Bleiler at the top of her game at www.facebook.com/N utriGrain.

By State Rep. Joe Emrick/137th Legislative District

The Lehigh Valley Health Network is making quality health care even more available to Slate Belt residents with the opening of the Health Center at Bangor, located in the Bangor Plaza shopping center at 1337 Blue Valley Drive. I attended a ribbon cutting for the facility, which opened to the public Monday, Feb. 3. The Health Center at Bangor is about as convenient as it gets, when it comes to needing care for those accidents or illnesses that happen from time to time. Need an

X-ray? Feel like youre getting the flu? Weekday walk-ins are accepted for ExpressCARE from 8am to 8p. The center is also open weekends and holidays from 8am. to 4:30pm. Need a blood test? Health Network Laboratories is available Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. No appointment is necessary. While hospital officials prefer an appointment in advance, they do perform digital mammography for walk-in patients with evening hours available. Physical therapists are also on staff with flexible hours for those needing care before and after work. Health Center at

Bangor also provides diagnostic testing such as ultrasound, bone density and echocardiogram. In addition, they supervise home sleep monitoring and, in April, will perform cardiac stress testing. We are very fortunate to have good quality health care in the Lehigh Valley. Opening a facility such as this makes that product even more readily available to those who need it when they need it.

It may come as a shock, but diamonds arent the only thing a woman is waiting for on Valentines Day. More importantly, and more affordably, all a woman wants is a little romance (adding a diamond or three wouldnt hurt, though!). Following are just a few ways to please your Valentine this February 14th. Stick to one, expand on each, or throw a few ideas together. No matter which you choose, your lady will be glad you went the extra mile to make her happy on the most romantic day of the year (next to your anniversary, of course). -Treat her to an indoor picnic: Grab a few blankets and pillows, throw them on the living room floor, and light every candle you can find. Turn the lights down low and surprise her with heart-shaped sandwiches, or a dinner that you picked-up from a local restaurant. Grab a stack of napkins that youve - written love notes on. For dessert, treat her to a homemade

By Sarah Loren

red velvet cake (writing I love you on top is sure to get you a few brownie points) or sugar cookies topped with heart-shaped sprinkles. After youve finished your meal, crawl under the blankets and surprise her with her favorite chick-flick.

-Let her relax while you cook: Run her a warm bubble bath, surrounded by candles, and play her favorite CD. Bring her a glass of wine, champagne, or her favorite cocktail, and allow her to relax while you cook her favorite meal, or

go out and pick up something delicious from an area restaurant. About 20 minutes before dinners ready, knock on the door (or call her on your way home, in which case youll have to make sure youve left her phone next to the tub) and let her know, giving her a few more minutes to enjoy her bath before freshening up. Be sure to light a candle or two and place it on the table, completing your romantic dinner for two. -Going out? Pick her up: Whether youre dating and living in separate homes, or youve been married for 50 years, you can still pick her up at 7. Just before youre ready to go out to one of the many awesome restaurants in the area, sneak out the back door and grab the flowers that you have stashed in your car. Knock on the front door with the bouquet behind your back, and wait for her to be surprised that her date has arrived. Walk her to the car, and be sure to open her door for her. Continue opening the

car door for her throughout the evening, remover her coat for her, and pull her chair out at the restaurant. The best part is, though you may have picked her up, you wont have to drop her off. -Give her something homemade: While a three-stone diamond ring and earrings would be a nice surprise, giving her something homemade will tug on her heart strings, and scream romance. One idea is a CD of love songs. Start by selecting a few romantic songs that tell her how you feelstay away from songs like Garth Brooks The Dance, where the couple doesnt stay together in the end). After making the CD, create a booklet to slip in the cover, explaining why you chose each song, or simply write her a love letter inside. Decorate the front and back with pictures, magazine clippings, and stickers. Complete your gift with a homemade card, made by hand, or with the help of a computer. -Send her searching:

No matter what you have planned for Valentines Day, you can start off with a scavenger hunt. The search can lead her to the front door where youre waiting, to the place where youve hidden her gift, or to the restaurant youre where youre meeting her. You can choose to leave a trail through the house, or leave her clues throughout an area. For example, if youve hidden her gift in the attic, cut out paper arrows that start at the front door and end in the attic. Write a teaser or a love note on each. If youre leading her to a destination other than home, leave her clues in different locations. Start off with a note in the house telling her to get ready, and explain what type of clothing she should wear (casual, formal, etc.). Leave another note in the bathroom leading her to the car, where shell find another clue. Continue to leave clues wherever you can, and include a rose or two every now and then. Happy Valentines Day!

(NAPSI)Small businesses play a big role in the U.S. economy. Thats the word from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which reports that the U.S. is home to over 28 million small businesses.

A growing number of small business owners are preparing their own business taxes. It makes sense given they know their business better than anyone else and because of the affordable tax products available online and as downloadable

software. Whats your business type? When choosing an online or downloadable tax solution, remember to select the product appropriate for your business type: Partnerships and multi-member LLCs must file tax Form 1065. S corporations file Form 1120S. C corporations need to file Form 1120. Self-employed, sole proprietors and single-member LLCs need to file Form 1040 and Schedule C. Also, keep in mind that you can generally use online products risk-free because payment isnt usually required until you file. Remember to compare brands and features carefully, since a higher price doesnt necessarily mean a better product. Tax-savings tips: If you use your home for your business, you may be

able to deduct mortgage interest, insurance, utilities, repairs and depreciation. Corporations and partnerships can deduct actual expenses for nonpersonal uses of your personal vehicle, as well as reimbursements to employees for business use of their personal vehicles. You can also deduct vehicle depreciation and loan interest. You should be able to substantiate any expenses you claim on your tax return. So whenever buying new equipment, technology, software or even furniture for your business, save those receipts and keep detailed records that include purchase price and date placed into service. The Section 179 deduction limit for new and used assets purchased in 2013 is $500,000. However, your business must be profitable in order to receive this benefit on your tax year 2013

return. In 2014, the dollar limit drops to $25,000 unless Congress extends this tax break. Bonus depreciation of 50 percent of the cost of new items expires at the end of 2013. Depreciation can be claimed whether or not your business is profitable. Company donations of money, supplies and property are deductible expenses. So are bonuses and associated payroll taxes awarded to your employees, partners and officers. If you own an S corporation, keep a close eye on officer compensation to ensure that you meet IRS requirements and thus avoid penalties. If you take a class or seminar or attend a convention that helps you maintain or improve skills required for your business, you can generally deduct the costs. Year-round opportunities: Remember, if you are a small business owner, your business has year-round tax

savings opportunities. Doing your own taxes can help you be better informed about deductible expenses, and how moving revenue and expenses forward or back may change your taxes. Said TaxACT spokesperson Jessi Dolmage, Answer simple questions about business income and expenses and the program will do the rest. Itll complete your tax forms and cover every deduction and credit to maximize your bottom line. Visit www.irs.gov for more business tax tips and www.taxact.com to learn about TaxACT Small Business solutions.