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Proverbs 3:5

Vol. 2 No. 3

www.themendhamnews.com

March 2015

Nine Year-Old Writes Non-Fiction Books To Raise Money For Homeless

By Cheryl Conway
t the age of nine,
Benjamin Colao of
Madison is completing his sixth non-fiction
book and has raised more
than $3,000 for the homeless.
He has taken his passion
for reading, writing and
interest in influential people

and turned them into stories


for children, not to make a
profit for his pocket, but to
raise funds to help others
who are less fortunate. The
public is invited to a free
Gaming Event on Sun.,
March 22, from 2 p.m. to 5
p.m., at Power Play in
Denville, to not only play
video games but to check out

and purchase Bens books,


or donate.
All proceeds go to Family
Promise of Morris County,
an organization that helps
local families that are struggling and homeless. Ben
may be on the list as one of
the youngest non-fiction
writers and philanthropists
just yet. With all the causes
out there, being without a
dwelling hits home for Ben.
Without a home, theres
nothing you can do, says
Ben, fourth grader. Its really hard without a home. If
he could afford a homeless
shelter for the homeless he
would grab it, but until then
he will continue his research
and write his books for a
cause.
At one point, Ben wanted to walk around New York
and hand out money to the
homeless, says Bens mom,
DanaLynn Colao. But then
I reminded him we have
homeless people here. So
they learned about Family
Promise of Morris County,
and chose that organization
to support as a means to help
the homeless.
An avid reader since he
was in the first grade, Ben
became more intent with
writing two years later. In
May 2014 when he was in

the third grade, Ben wrote


two mini biography stories
for his class, both were about
two to three pages. One was
on Harry Houdini and the
other on Walt Disney.
That summer he decided
he wanted to do something
more with those books, so in
Aug. 2014 he expanded his
books, typed them into about
10 pages each. He self-published his books and created
PPB (Poor Peoples Books)
but then switched that name
to OPB (Our Peoples
Books), since the books are
for everyone. He wrote two
more books, one on Steve
Jobs and the other on George
Washington, and was plan-

ning on having two more


ready for the Gaming Eventone on Martin Luther King
Jr. and the other on Age of
Explorers.
With each biography, he
talks about what their mark
was or their creation.
Unlike other biographies, to
me its different, explains
Ben, Im making them as a
nine-year old and Im doing
it for a cause, completely
non-profit and all going to
charity.
Ben, He speaks to the
reader, says his mom. He
has one liners throughout the
book. Kids want to read
another book that a nine-year
old wrote.

He recommends his
books to kids in second
grade through fourth, or
seven years old through 12.
Besides raising money to
help others, Ben also wants
to show others that with a
lot of effort they can make a
difference.
As the oldest of three,
Ben has been a great role
model so far to his brothers,
Evan, 7, and Ryan, 3.
At a book signing, sale
event in Dec. 2014, in
Madison, Ben sold 50 books,
raised $400 and was awarded the Brilliant Humanity
Award by Madison Mayor
Robert Conley. Childrens
continued on page 4

******ECRWSS******
Local
Postal Customer

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Mendham Author Shares Big Apple in NY Guide

By Cheryl Conway
ver since he was little, James Jim
Schmitt of Mendham Twp. has
enjoyed drawing maps and learning
about New York City.
Little did he know that his knowledge
and skill would lead him to writing a guide
currently rated five stars and listed number
one on Amazon in the NY Travel Category.
Self-published in April 2014, "Knowing
Where You're Going: New York City is a
colorful New York City guidebook that
explores America's number one travel destination with a visual map-based format.
Every neighborhood in Manhattan is covered in detail, with maps that feature key
streets and highlights shopping, dining, and
nightlife districts to visit.
Different than other guidebooks of New
York City, Schmitt says that his goal was to
provide much more detail and provide a
clearer view of the city to tourists, visitors,
and even city residents who may not know
the best places to shop or eat because they
live there, go into their job then back into
their neighborhood.
This one is much more detailed, says
Schmitt, about his book referred to as the
Ultimate Manhattan Map Guide. Its very
neighborhood focused. All the maps are
hand-drawn. Anyone who doesnt know

New York City or even those who do


know, will appreciate the guidebook.
Each chapter focuses on a certain section
of the city such as South Street Seaport,
Times Square, Hells Kitchen, China Town,
Little Italy. Its very zoomed in and
detailed. People from New Jersey like to
go into the city for dinner or they go to the
theater district or the village, but they
never explore other areas of Manhattan that
are really interesting, he says.
Along with each map is informative
information about neighborhood attractions
and seasonal events. Streets are colorfully
highlighted where restaurants or retail
stores can be found, simplifying visits to the
city. Points of interest, parking, and mass
transportation options are also clearly designated.
You can look at a street and its all jewelry stores; another street is all shoe stores.
This is a very New York phenomenon. I
wanted to make maps of each neighborhood
and mark where all the book stores are.
Detailed diagrams of some of NYs most
confusing underground places such as Penn
Station, Grand Central Terminal, Times
Square Subway Station, Fulton Street
Subway Station, Rockefeller Center Lower
Level Concourse, are included, as well as
useful information regarding city trans-

portation by car, taxi, bus, subway, and foot.


Even the city parks are mapped out, depicting paths, athletic fields, points of interest,
and restrooms.
Central Park was given special treatment, with all 840 acres drawn in exquisite
detail right down to the last walking path,
playground, and garden.
Schmitt, 46, has lived in Mendham for
the past four years and grew up in South
Jersey. His roots to New York stem from his

mother who grew up in Long Island and his


maternal grandparents who are from
Manhattan.
His grandfather, Alfred Bowden,
believed that it was very important that
people understood how to get around New
York, so we would play games, Schmitt
says, ever since he was five years old. He
would quiz his grandson every visit with
him in NYC until he was a teenager, asking
continued on page 16

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The Patio, Flower & Home Remodeling Show

t's that time of year again. Spring is finally here and we can all focus less on shoveling snow and more on beautifying our
homes. The Patio, Flower & Home
Remodeling Show in Morristown should be
the perfect place to get all your creative
juices flowing.
Running from March 20-22 at the National
Guard Armory in Morristown, the show features a total home remodeling showcase,
with fully designed patio, pond, and garden
exhibits as well. It's the perfect combination
of interior and exterior displays. For three

days the Hall will be filled with beautiful


gardens, floral arrangements, lush shrubbery
and bubbling water features.
Visitors will be dazzled by the colorful
creations from talented designers. Feature
displays will offer something for everyone,
from distinctive gardens to serene meditative
sanctuaries. Water displays will feature Koi
filled ponds, gentle falls and relaxing fountains.
Visitors will also learn how to create their
own private retreat or ultimate outdoor cooking and entertainment area. Professionals

will be on hand to guide you through the


whole creative and constructive process. So,
regardless of the size space you have to work
with, you can enjoy the rewards of your own
special place.
Explore aisles and aisles of Home
Improvement ideas and get the expert advice
you need. Would you like an addition or second level added? This is place to get all your
answers. The Show will feature beautiful
kitchen and bath displays, marble, granite,
windows, doors, roofing, siding, stucco,
security, sunrooms, flooring, interior decorating, faux painting, home entertainment
and custom closets to name a few.

Energy conservation will include, home


energy monitoring, hi efficiency energy barriers, heating, cooling, insulation, windows,
solar power, geo-thermal and other alternatives. Theres also home ventilation, air filtration and passive solar.
Exterior displays will include the latest in
awnings, siding, custom decks, paver
designs, patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pits,
recreational and outdoor entertainment areas.
Theres also a full service Food Court
offering everything from hot dinners, soups,
salads & sandwiches and a variety of
desserts.

Fish N Chips

Wine Tasting At Church

illtop Fire Co. #2 in Netcong plans


to hold it's annual Fish-N-Chips
dinner on March 27, from 4:30 p.m.
until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $13 and includes

oly Trinity Orthodox Church in


Randolph plans to hold its annual
wine tasting on Fri., April 17, at 7
p.m. Tickets are $25 per person. This years

two pieces of hand battered Cod,


French fries, homemade coleslaw,
dessert and beverage. Take out is available
as well as eat in.

theme is "A Taste of Italy, serving Italian


wine and food. Contact Sandra at 973-6912653 for tickets. Seating is limited. Please
bring your own glass.

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Nine Year-Old Writes Non-Fiction...


continued from front page
fiction writer Dan Gutman was also there
signing books. One family friend bought 100
copies of Bens books and sent them to hospitals and special needs schools.
At the upcoming gaming event, Ben
hopes to raise $500 to $600, inspire kids
and show them that they too can do something to start their own causes.
All soft cover copies, Ben sells his books
for $5. His good friend, George Csatlos, 10,
is his illustrator; and other 10-year old friend
Henrik Hamilton, writes his comics.
To get ready for the gaming event, Ben
and his mom are making many copies of his
books, atleast 50 copies for each; some companies are donating copies to print as well.
They are also looking for a sponsor to help
print copies.
A few days later, Ben plans to attend an
awards dinner with Family Promise of
Morris County on Thurs., March 26, at the
Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph, 6:30
p.m. to 9:30 p.m. More than 300 people are
expected to attend. Bens books will be sold
and he is expected to receive the Creative
Impact Award. Open to the public, cost is
$65 per ticket.
Looking ahead, Bens mom is hoping to
create a 501 non-profit organization with

Bens books. He has more biographies he


would like to write, but may expand his
genre down the road.
Ive always been into biographies and
people, says Ben. I thought biographies
would be efficient and good quality. I do lots
and lots of research. I sit with four or five
books about the topic then reveal what I
recall.
Ben also wrote a book about sharks, plans
to write one about Halloween and even
attempt some fiction books.
Im hoping to write more books as I go
along, says Ben. When his is not writing or
researching, you will find Ben active in
sports whether it is baseball, football or basketball.
Bens books are available at the gaming
event, awards dinner, and two stores: Short
Stories or Tons of Toys, both in Madison; or
email Ben at opb4cause@yahoo.com to
order.
Serving Morris County since 1988,
Family Promise of Morris County
(www.familypromisemorris.org) is dedicated
to ending the crisis of homelessness by partnering with public and private agencies, congregations and community volunteers to provide shelter, case management, and mentoring services leading to self-sufficiency.

Easter For Kids

ngels proclaimed Gods Good News


at Christmas. Again, on Easter
morning they stand at the empty
tomb to joyfully declare He is not here He
is risen! Join us at Immanuel to hear of
Jesus victory and His gift of eternal life.
Children ages 3 to 14, join Immanuel
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Long
Valley on Sat., March 28, 9 a.m. to noon to

hear Bible Stories, play games, learn songs,


and have some snacks! And we will also be
holding an Easter Egg Hunt! Registration
begins at 8:45 AM. Sign up by visiting
www.immanuelnj.net. For more information
call the church at 908-867-7179 or e-mail
churchoffice@immanuelnj.net. There is no
cost but donations to our food pantry will be
accepted.

Attention Schools, Churches, Organizations Send


Your Press Releases to mjmediastories@gmail.com

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Morris Habitat For Humanity Building Strong After 30 Years

By Cheryl Conway
s one of the oldest and largest of the Habitat for
Humanities in New Jersey, the Morris affiliation
has made great strides in building and providing
homes to many in the local area.
The Morris Habitat for Humanity is celebrating its
30th anniversary this year since its inception in Oct.
1985. More than 300 people were expected to attend the
anniversary gala on Sat., Feb. 28, at Meadow Wood
Manor in Randolph.
The Morris Habitat for Humanity Anniversary
Committee is planning other events throughout the year
to celebrate this milestone, including a Boy Scouts
Jamboree in October. About 5,000 boy scouts are invited
to Liberty State Park in NY, to frame houses to be used
for future buildings by the habitat. The educational event
to teach others how to build house frames is open to the
public.
It was amazing to realize just how much has been
accomplished, stated Blair Schleicher Bravo of
Mountain Lakes, Morris Habitats chief executive officer,
and we are committed to continue to build on the solid
foundation our founders have provided.
As stated in a recent press release, From small but
determined beginnings, the affiliate has grown and prospered thanks to the generosity of local corporations,
municipalities, individual donors and thousands of volunteers.
Bravo said, It is overwhelming at times to see how all
these projects come together. It takes so many people putting their talents to work and we are always pleased and

thrilled with the results.


Morris Habitat for Humanity started in Oct. 1985 by
four leaders of various churches in Morristown who heard
about Habitat for Humanity International, which had been
founded nine years earlier in 1976.
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical
Christian ministry that builds homes for people in need. It
has grown to 1,500 local affiliates in the U.S. and 100
national organizations in 90 countries in the world. More
than one million families, representing five million people, have found improved living conditions through
Habitat for Humanity.
The founders, Millard and Linda Fuller- a married
couple from Alabama- had organized a walk in 1984 with
former U.S. President Jimmy Carter- from Maine to
Atlanta, stopping in New York, to gain visibility and
spark interest in the habitat. The four local leaders from
Morristown went to see Pres. Carter in N.Y. to learn more
about the habitats mission, and then just one year later
started the local affiliate.
There are a lot of people that werent able to take
advantage of job or education opportunities, explained
Bravo, who has been involved with the Morris Habitat for
the past 15 years. The goal is to provide lower income
families who cannot get a mortgage an opportunity to
become a homeowner.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is one of 24 active habitat humanities in NJ, says Bravo. We are one of the older
ones, next to Patterson who recently celebrated their
30th too. We are one of the largest and we also operate
one of the largest ReStores.

As volunteers, the organization works with municipalities on affordable housing obligations through the
Council on Affordable Housing (COAH), she explains.
They help us find property and housing trust funds. Its
a partnership; we are a non-profit developer.
Many larger developments set aside ten percent of
their building space for affordable housing, she says.
We offer ourselves as a partner to municipalities and
developers to offset this obligation, says Bravo. They
also work with many agencies to identify families in need
of a home.
Through a selection process, the habitat builds homes
for families. It markets in a four county area every time a
property becomes available for low income development.
Individuals being considered are required to attend four
continued on next page

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Morris Habitat For Humanity...


continued from previous page
to six orientations held at area hospitals, libraries and
businesses in which they apply.
From there, applicants are selected based on income
set by the federal government; need, in which they must
demonstrate a need to live in a house verses a rental; and
must qualify for an affordable mortgage. Those names are
then drawn out of a hat like a lottery.
Out of 150 people interested with an upcoming project
on Harding Ave. in Dover, for example, 40 apply, 25 will
be selected from the lottery to live in four homes slated to
be built, Bravo explains.
Its a bitter sweet day, she says. The selection
process is very specific.
If you are a dollar over, we have to comply with the
state; theres no legal room, she says. Also, they really
cant have a debt. If they have a debt, if its high, we help
them work that down.
Once selected from the lottery, applicants must then
adhere to certain guidelines: Sweat Equity, which
requires the future homeowner to help build their home,
maybe once a week, to total 300 hours, says Bravo, and
they also must take 25 hours of home ownership classes.
Their other requirement is they have to meet a certain
credit score to pay for the zero mortgage held by habitat.
We are the lender, says Bravo. Its a forced savings if
you will. They have to be able to pay their mortgage plus
taxes. Also, if they want to sell their home, it can only be
sold to another affordable income household.
However they are doing it, their process is working.

We never had a foreclosure in our history, says


Bravo.
The program has lowered their monthly payments
from $1,500 to $2,100 in rental fees to $500, $800 or
$1,000 (on the high end) mortgage fee, she says. This
savings has allowed parents to go back to school and
improve their job opportunities, pay for educational
expenses for their kids, save for a rainy day, lower their
credit cards and save for their retirement.
Their clients are so grateful for this opportunity that
many of them come back and volunteer or donate to the
habitat, she says.
More than 11,000 volunteers from groups, businesses,
congregations and schools have come out on site visits to
help build these homes through the Morris Habitat for
Humanity, she says. It has about 300 regular volunteers
that help out on advisory boards, ReStore and construction sites.
About 50 habitat faithful volunteers, made up of
mostly retired men and women, rarely miss a build. It
takes 1,500 volunteers on average to build one home, she
adds, with nine to 12 months to build a single family
home; 18 months to two years for a duplex or larger.
We are always looking for single volunteers, she
says, but must be older than 16 to be under an active
homesite. Those under 16 are allowed to come out and
help plant or visit after a home is built.
We use 90 percent of volunteer labor and its a teaching program, she says, which is why their building
process takes longer than a conventional builder.

The organization has had so many different volunteer


groups. She and her husband organized a Bridal Build in
2009 at a complex in Stanhope, inviting all engaged couples to come out to help build. One staff member wore a
veil under a hard hat, she laughs.
Weve worked with a lot of creative ways in bringing
out groups, she says. Reunion groups come out to build,
singles, high school football teams come out for demolitions.
Its a lot of team building, says Bravo.
Corporations come out on a building site for different
departments as a team building exercise.
Its a win win, she says. We need them to come out,
they need team building or they have a corporate obligation to volunteer.
Last summer, a local church hosted 100 students from
Woodsworth Presbyterian Church in MD for one week to
help Morris Habitat with the building of the duplex on
Willow Street in Morristown.
Volunteering to build a home also provides a free
opportunity for people to learn how. Some people want
to learn, like tiling, so they come out to learn. We show
them how to hold a hammer.
Families are learning as well.
During the journey, they are learning about their
house, and they are sharing their story with others.
These clients are educated individuals, hard-working residents in respectable jobs but make $35,000 to $45,000 a
year.
continued on next page

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Morris Habitat For Humanity...


continued from previous page
These are not homeless people, says
Bravo. They want an opportunity for the
American dream. We have a goal of ensuring that everybody has a safe, decent,
affordable place to live and along the way
other people are assisted too. Its about the
journey, in the end to provide a quality
home.
To date, Morris Habitat has served 305
families though home ownership opportunities, home preservation, and international home building programs.
Since it was started in October of 1985,
Morris Habitat has completed 68 homes.
The first home project (a fourplex) was
finished in 1990. Since then, 48 of the
homes built were new construction projects, 19 were home rehabilitation projects
and two were what is called a home is a
box projects (premade home sections
sent to a build site for Hurricane Katrina
victims).
Currently, there are eight projects
underway in Morris County. In the coverage area of MJ Media, 25 unit projects in
Randolph plan to begin in 2017/2018;
three projects in Roxbury that include a
fourplex in Port Murray, a duplex on Edith
Drive, and two sixplexes on Main Street in
Succasunna to begin in 2016/ 2018; two

single family homes in Mt. Olive expecting to break ground this year at Wallman
Way in Budd Lake; a fiveplex in Morris
Twp. known as the Carlton Project is
underway; two duplexes in Morristown
with a third duplex on Willow Street to
begin later this year.
Despite the cold, we build all year
round, says Bravo. We try to get a home
enclosed by winter so we put up a warming station.
In 2014, Morris Habitat closed on five
homes, started eight homes and preserved
ten homes through home repair.
Volunteers go in and fix leaky windows
and other improvements through its home
repair program. For 2015, it plans to close
on six more homes, start another six
homes and work on 12 home repair projects.
Besides local projects, the organization
plans to lead another trip to Armenia in
June for about ten days with 20 volunteers
to repair low-income housing units that
are in major disrepair, she says. Every
habitat affiliate must dedicate ten percent
to international homebuilding, she says,
so we partner with another country.
Over the years they have worked with
Honduras, where they have become a sister affiliate and built 35 homes in La

Celba, Honduras, as well as in Armenia.


Its a wonderful way to see whats
happening around the world, not as a
tourist but as a partner to help in issues
such as housing, says Bravo. Many are
living in conditions that are shocking to
say the least.
The accomplishments of Morris
Habitat for Humanity could not have been
made without the volunteers, generous
corporate and private donations and support from municipalities.
In 2014 alone more than $2,400,000
was raised.
It takes about three years to identify a
property and get a building permit, says
Bravo, adding that some towns have been
very supportive. She plans to attend an
upcoming council meeting in Mt. Olive
Twp. to recognize its support.
Mt. Olive has been a terrific partner
with Morris Habitat, she says, from its
administrative leaders, government officials and community. They understand a
community is made up of all types of people. They help us identify property. They
are just very helpful and supportive of
people who need a place to live, as well
as Roxbury and Randolph too. The whole
community is a pleasure to work with.
Besides donations, Morris Habitat also

gets funds through its ReStore program, a


retail organization in Randolph that has
raised $1.5 million to offset the building
program, says Bravo. New and slightly
used items, including furnishings, appliances and building materials that would
otherwise be donated to landfills, are collected and sold at ReStore.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is the
recipient of the Making Lives Brighter
Award by Capitol Lighting; and Best
Affordable Housing Award by Metro
Builders.
Moms are invited to come out on May
9, the day before Mothers Day, with sisters and grandmothers to help with the
build at the Hazel Street Duplex in
Morristown.
In June, come out for Hammer for
Habitat at Morris Habitat for Humanity in
Randolph to build a wall that will be used
as frames for upcoming builds. School
groups, churches, scouting groups and
families can host, support or learn how to
build a wall by Home Depot experts who
will be on site.
For more information on Morris
Habitat and its activities, or to join as a
volunteer, go to www.morrishabitat.org or
call 973-891-1934.

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Area Singers Unite For Palm Sunday Concert

By Elsie Walker
hile a Requiem is about death, composer Gabriel
Faure put a special twist on his that is reflective of
Christians marking of Palm Sunday and the
beginning of Holy Week. A program note from the
Symphony Silicon Valley states, Rather than taking a predominantly fearful or mournful tone, the work reflects his
belief that death releases us into harmony with all creation.
Faures Requiem, along with other pieces, will be performed Palm Sunday, March 29, at 4 p.m., by a Unity Choir
made up of people from a variety of area churches. Held at
the First United Methodist Church of Newton, the choir will
be directed by Henry Repp of Netcong, who is also the
organist. The soloists will Tom Carle of Randolph, tenor;
Rev. David Young, Newton, bass; Cassandra Marie Lambros,
Artist-in-Residence at Westfield Presbyterian Church, soprano and violin soloist; and playing the harp will be Andr
Tarantiles of New York City.
All are welcome to attend. A free will offering will be
taken and there will be a reception following the concert.
While the main work is the Requiem (with Lambros and
Young as soloists), a number of other pieces will be performed. Those include Cantique de Jean Racine, which is
also by Faure and will be sung by the choir with harp and
organ accompaniment. Another Faure work performed will
be Tantum, sung by the choir with solo by Carle and harp
and organ. An instrumental piece, Elegy by Harold
Friedell will feature organ, harp, and violin. Anthems performed will be Evening Hymn by Gardiner and Abide With

Me arranged by Bertalot.
The members of the Unity Choir represent 27 different
churches. Those nearby churches include Christ Episcopal
Church, Budd Lake; Community Presbyterian Church,
Chester; First Memorial Presbyterian Church, Dover; Hilltop
Presbyterian Church, Mendham; First Presbyterian Church,
Succasunna; Succasunna United Methodist Church,
Succasunna; Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Randolph;
Grace Church on the Mount, Netcong; Holy Trinity
Orthodox Church, Randolph; Our Lady of the Lake Roman
Catholic Church, Mt. Arlington; Panther Valley Ecumenical
Church, Hackettstown; Sacred Heart Roman Catholic
Church, Dover; St. Matthew the Apostle Roman Catholic
Church, Randolph; and Trinity United Methodist Church,
Hackettstown.
Ed and Karen Burkhart of Budd Lakes sing in the choir.
Ed Burkhart is a tenor, while Karen Burkhart is an alto. She
shared, We enjoy singing in this choir because it gives us the
opportunity to sing more classically-oriented church music,
which we hadn't really done since our college days many
years ago, now. [Also,] we like this year's pieces because
they are challenging, without being frustrating, and [are]
beautiful as well.
The Burkharts also shared that they enjoy singing with
people from all over the area, and that the experience has
lead them to meet and sing with many excellent musicians.
That sentiment was echoed by Audrey Schultz of
Randolph. Schultz, an alto in the choir and music director of
the Succasunna United Methodist Church, said I love get-

ting together with fellow musicians to do major choral works


like the Faure Requiem.
Henry Repp, besides being a top-notch organist, recruits
wonderful soloists and other instrumentalists. When you add
to that experienced choral singers from various churches and
other choral groups, a work of art comes to life rather quickly. Being able to present this in performance, giving enjoyment to other music lovers, is a plus.
The concerts director, Repp, has been a church organist
for 48 years as well the director of several choral groups.
That experience is appreciated by those in the choir.
Having the opportunity to sing classical sacred music
with the Unity Choir under the direction of Henry Repp is a
wish fulfillment of many years for me, said Marilyn
Gunther, a soprano from Trinity United Methodist Church in
Hackettstown. I have sung the Requiem in the past, many
years ago. Doing it now with this excellent choir under
Henrys precise and disciplined
direction has been exhilarating and humbling. Henry
requires excellence. The face he shows his choir is always
smiling with a touch of benevolence peeking through. I am
blessed by this experience.
Repps experience takes in a variety of venues. He began
his organ studies with Alfred Mayer of
Morristown and continued with Dorothe Lanning at First
Memorial Presbyterian Church in Dover. He pursued
advanced study with Robert MacDonald at the Riverside
Church in New York City and the Cathedral Basilica of the
continued on next page

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cert, they have a variety of backgrounds as
well. Tenor Carle has sung with the Bucknell
University Opera Company where he has
performed roles in 21st century chamber
operas, such as Le Comte de La Tour
Tourne in Jeremy Beck's "The Review "and
the role of Tenor II in "Introductions and
Goodbyes" by Lukas Foss. In addition, Carle
has portrayed characters from more standard
repertoire; such as the Witch in
Humperdinck's "Hansel and Gretel" and
Tamino in Mozart's "The Magic Flute."

In addition to solo opera and oratorio


repertoire, Carle sings with countless ensembles. He has been a featured soloist for the
Susquehanna Valley Chorale, Rooke Chapel
Choir, and Bucknell University Chorale.
These groups have toured from Italy to
Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro.
Rev. David Young is the pastor of First
Presbyterian Church in Newton. His music
background includes a Bachelor of Music in
vocal performance from The College of
Wooster in Wooster, OH.

Register for Summer Camp Today

Area Singers Unite...


continued from previous page
Sacred Heart in Newark. Repp was organist
at First Memorial Presbyterian Church in
Dover for 13 years before accepting the position of organist/choir director at Peapack
Reformed Church in Gladstone where he
served for 29 years. Repp became the
Director of Music at First United Methodist
Church in Newton in Sept. 2012. He was
accompanist for the Sussex County Oratorio
Society for 11 years and played for the

Livingston Festival Choir Concerts and the


Livingston Broadway Show Tunes Revues.
He was organist, and sometimes
organist/director, for the Pike County
Choral Society for 10 years. In addition,
he has performed numerous organ concerts
on a variety of organs including ones at St.
Thomas Church in Manhattan and the
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in
Newark.
Looking to the vocal soloists for the con-

Morris
County
Park
he
Commissions ever-popular summer
camps fill-up quickly, so now is the
perfect time to register! At camp, kids will
have memorable, fun-filled days, at some of
Morris Countys most beautiful and unique
facilities. Campers can explore new areas of
interest and improve existing skills. These
camps offer a range of programs for kids
with a variety of interests! All camps are led
by certified, professional, counselors and
are offered at affordable prices.
Choose from Adventures in Nature, where
campers investigate the rugged outdoors,
learn all about plants and animals, and how
to survive in the wilderness. For those looking for swimming and boating, beach-side

activities, try Camp Sunrise Lake, or


Travels in Time where kids go back in time
to discover Historys Mysteries. If interested in a career in law enforcement, enroll
in the Junior Police Academy. Learn handcuffing techniques, motor vehicle stops,
help solve a case, and take a tour of the
county jail.
For the young athletes, specialty athletic
camps including, ice hockey, figure skating,
and golf are offered throughout the summer.
Theres never been a more perfect time to
learn a new sport, or advance in one that
your child is already involved in.
For more information and registration,
visit www.morrisparks.net. Camp enrollment starts now, enjoy the experience!

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Mardi Gras Raised Money for Sandy Relief

by Elsie Walker
t was Mardi Gras Sunday! The sounds of jazz filled the
Fellowship Hall and sanctuary of the Stanhope United
Methodist Church in late February. Worship at the
Netcong church included an upbeat tempo provided by
some local musicians; while before and after in the
Fellowship Hall, a fundraising breakfast filled up those who
attended with a hearty breakfast and toe-tapping music.
This third annual Mardi Gras- themed Sunday raised $400
for Hurricane Sandy Relief. The idea for a Mardi Gras was
the brainchild of Scott Lefurge of Byram. After Hurricane
Sandy, the church had wanted to come up with a fundraising event that would both help in the relief and in promoting church events and reaching out to the community.
Lefurge, the president of the churchs United Methodist
Men, is a music teacher and knew some jazz versions of
church hymns.
Why jazz?
The devastation of Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey
reminded me of the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in
New Orleans, Louisiana, many years ago, said Lefurge.
New Orleans made me think of Jazz Music and Mardi
Gras. I wanted to find a way that we could incorporate those
ideas into a fundraising event. We came up with the idea to
have a pancake breakfast with live jazz music at the church.
We planned on scheduling our fundraiser breakfast before
and after worship on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday - Mardi
Gras."
Even though the effects of Hurricane Sandy may be a
memory to many in this area, parts of New Jersey are still

rebuilding; thats why the event has become an annual one.


There are so many families that are still waiting to go
home, said Lynn Zaremba, church pastor. The United
Methodist Church continues to rebuild homes and lives.
Losing your home is so much more than just the building,
it's a feeling of loss and sadness. Many items that were in
their homes can never be replaced like photos, family heirlooms, mementos from a first date, etc. Memories of the
precious moments of their life are all they have. With God's
help we try to alleviate some of their stress and sadness, and
bring them "A Future With Hope."
A Future with Hope" is a United Methodist program
that was initiated to help with the Hurricane Sandy relief
efforts. According to its site, http://www.afuturewithhope.
org/about, 250,000 homes were affected by Hurricane
Sandy, 82,000 homes sustained major damage and 161,000
people were displaced, A Future With Hope helps with long
term recovery.
A Future with Hope gets people back home by providing case managers, professional construction supervisors,
and thousands of volunteers to work together to repair,
rebuild, and renew.
The free will offering from the Stanhope United
Methodist Mardi Gras breakfast and one taken at worship
that day, went to that program. Wanting 100 percent of the
monies raised to go to Sandy Relief, the church and its
members donated all the food and items to cover the cost of
holding the fundraiser.
The live music for the day was provided by a variety of
area musicians.

Angelo Benincasa of Green Township, the church organist, played piano. On drums was Jared Scaturo, of Byram,
a Lenape Valley High School junior. From Stanhope, was
vocalist Gabrielle Worthington, another Lenape High
School student. One of Lefurges students, Carter Prince
from Bernardsville, played tenor sax.
For Lefurge, playing music was a family affair. Lefurge
played alto and tenor sax. His son, Zachary, who came
from Kutztown, Pennsylvania for the event, played trumpet.
His other
son, Jeremy Lefurge, a Lenape Valley High School senior played alto and baritone sax. Rosalie Lefurge, mother
and wife, completed the Lefurge family Jazz Ensemble,
playing her clarinet when she joined her family in the jazz
continued on next page

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Volunteers Needed

ew Jersey Blood Services, a division of New York Blood Center,


which supplies blood products and
services to 60 hospitals throughout the state,
is in need of volunteers at blood drives. The
blood service volunteer is an integral member of the collection team whose task it is
assist donors with registration, escorting

and canteen duties, and to watch for post


donation reactions. Volunteers should have
the ability to relate to the public, be able to
perform different jobs as needed and have
the willingness to follow the rules. For additional information contact, Manager of
Community Relations, R. Jan Zepka at 732616-8741 orrzepka@nybloodcenter.org.

Mardi Gras...
continued from previous page
classic "American Patrol."
It means a great deal to be able to use
the gifts and talents that God has given you
to share with and inspire others, said
Lefurge. Having my sons and wife play
music with me and share it in church worship or at church events means so much. It
is one very meaningful way we can bless
our church and community by sharing of
ourselves.
Worship that Sunday was as lively as
was the breakfast. For Zaremba, who
arrived last
July, this was her first church Mardi
Gras. She admitted that she didnt know
what to expect.
I loved it! said Zaremba. I grew up
with big bands, jazz music so the music
brought back wonderful memories. My dad
had played with the Glenn Miller bands for
a short time in his late teens or early 20's. I
loved that Scott Lefurge would read to us
the history of the hymn and then the five
piece band would jazz it up!
The congregation was invited to feel the
music: sing, clap, sway, dance.whatever

the Holy Spirit moved them to do. Among


those there was the District Superintendent
of the Skylands District of the United
Methodist Church, The Rev. Dr. Stephen
Bechtold, who had stopped by, not knowing
that Sunday Jazz was in the air. The songs
that Sunday included two of Lefurges
favorites: "Just a Closer Walk With Thee"
and "What a Wonderful World" made
famous by Louis Armstrong. Even the frigid
temperature and snow could not keep people away and Lefurge said the church was
happy so many came out.
For those that couldnt make it this year,
Lefurge hopes theyll mark down the
Sunday before Ash Wednesday next year
and come to the Mardi Gras.
Stanhope United Methodist Church
tries to bring the love of God to all we
meet, said Zaremba. The Mardi Gras
breakfast and Jazz Worship Service are
ways we share God's love with our community.
For those interesting in knowing more
about Sandy Relief and A Future With
Hope, please visit www.afuturewithhope.
org

Morris Habitat for Humanity Urges


To Give An Uncommon Gift

ncertain about what to buy family,


friends, or co-workers for a holiday or special event?
Looking for the perfect way to honor a
loved one, celebrate a birthday, wedding,
or graduation? Let Morris Habitat for
Humanity help!
Morris Habitat can provide a unique
gift-giving alternative. Select from the
Uncommon Gifts listed on their web
site. http://www.morrishabitat.org/donating/uncommon_gift/. Choose from a list
of items needed to help build a new home
for a hard-working family in need.
This is a great way to show support for
helping others. Morris Habitat will even
send a gift card to the person(s) announcing the gift made to Morris Habitat on
their behalf.
The tax deductible contribution to
Morris Habitat will help provide safe,
decent homes for families in need and the
intended recipient will know that the gift
was a gift from the heart. Choose from a

window, water heater, insulation and


more. Go to the web page and see all the
options.
Its easy to do. Just print and fill out the
Uncommon Gifts form then mail it to
Morris Habitat with payment and they will
do the rest.
To make the donation online, the
instructions are listed on the Uncommon
Gift web page. To learn more about
Morris Habitat and how to help, go to
www.MorrisHabitat.org or call 973-8911934.
Morris Habitat for Humanity is part of
a global, nonprofit housing organization
operated on Christian principles by building homes, communities and hope. Morris
Habitat is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide
through constructing, rehabilitating and
preserving homes; advocating for fair and
just housing policies; and providing training and access to resources to help families improve their living conditions.

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4 Myths Regarding Dental


Implants

very day I meet people who come to


me seeking solutions for missing
teeth, infected teeth, dentures, or who
simply want to improve their smile. Dental
implants almost always come into the discussion. Over the years, I regularly see certain
misconceptions repeat themselves.
Myth #1: My dentist told me I have to see
a specialist / implant specialist.
Dental implants may be placed by any
dentist who holds a license. They are not a
specialty. Typically, they are placed by general dentists, oral surgeons, periodontists, and
prosthodontists.
Its not so important as to what type of
dentist places them, but rather how much
training and experience they have. Also,
dont forget that there is a second part to the
implant once it is placed, one or more teeth
have to be placed on top of the implant. If an
implant is placed while ignoring this second
part of the treatment, disastrous results may
follow, such as bone loss, implant loss, fracture, and poor esthetics. I have had to correct
situations like this too often.
Myth #2: My friend had an implant
placed for a certain amount, and your quote is
much more!
When comparing fees, be sure you are
comparing apples to apples. Your situation
may be different than your friends. Some
conditions to evaluate include: 1) Is a tooth
already present where the implant needs to be
placed? This will require more work and
materials. 2) Is there enough bone present, or
is grafting required to grow the bone? 3)
Location in the mouth is very important. An
implant in the front of the mouth has a much
higher esthetic demand than the back of the
mouth. This will affect cost as well. The
more ideal the situation, the lower the cost.
Myth #3: Its always better to keep a nat-

ural tooth than to remove it and place an


implant.
When a tooth has been diagnosed with a
very poor prognosis, it is not always better to
hang onto it. Recurring infections can develop which cost time and money, the disease
can affect adjacent teeth, and over time, they
can cause additional bone loss. Removing
infected teeth and placing an implant can
eliminate the recurring infections, restore
health to adjacent teeth, and preserve bone in
your jaw.
Myth #4: Once I have an implant, I dont
have to see the dentist anymore.
This is not true. Although problems with
implants are rare, they require observation
and maintenance. Most of the time problems
will develop within the first two years.
Failure to recognize and correct these problems often leads to implant loss, and worse,
loss of adjacent teeth. Expect to return to the
dentist 3 to 4 times within the first two years
for maintenance.
The office of Dr. Goldberg offers free consultations. If youd like to speak with Dr.
Goldberg personally and determine the best
course of action for your specific situation,
please give the office a call.
Dr. Goldberg is a general dentist located in
the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna, NJ. He
provides general dentistry for the entire family, including: cleanings, check-ups, whitening, veneers, crowns, root canals, dentures,
periodontal (gum) services, dental implants,
and much more. He is a Diplomate of the
American Board of Implantology/Implant
Dentistry, holds multiple degrees and is recognized as an expert in dental implants. You
can find additional information on his website:www.morriscountydentist.com.
The
office can be reached at: (973) 328-1225 or
via email: frontdesk.mcda@gmail.com.

NEXT COOKING
CLASS
MARCH 30TH
CALL TO
RESERVE NOW!

5.00 OFF

$25 or
more check

Limit 1 per table.


Not valid on Holidays. Expires 4/15/15

10.00 OFF

$50 or
more check

Limit 1 per table.


Not valid on Holidays. Expires 4/15/15

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Schiffs Summer Nature Program Introduces Kids To Great Outdoors

Scholarships Being Offered

egistration for the Summer Nature


Program at Schiff Nature Preserve has
begun. In its 12th year, the program
offers eight different one-week sessions
between June and July for children ages 4-17.
The program is held at Schiffs Nature
Preserve in Mendham. Online registration is
available at www.schiffnaturepreserve.org.
Schiffs Summer Nature Program features
hands-on nature exploration with changing
themes each week, tailored for the different
age groups. Every week of camp includes
nature games and crafts, trips to the stream,
shelter building and plenty of opportunities to
explore the varied terrain of Schiff Nature

he Chester Lioness Club annually


offers two scholarships to students
residing in Chester, Mendham or
Washington Township in Morris County.
Each scholarship may be up to $1,000.
Criteria for selection of candidates for these
scholarships include academic record, classroom and extracurricular activities, community activities, individual interests and hobbies and outstanding accomplishments in
activities that demonstrate leadership and
service. Financial need is also a consideration.
These scholarships are available not only
to public high school students, but those
attending private schools as well.
Applications may be obtained in the

Preserve. Several weeks include the popular


Wineberry jelly activity, when the berries are
ripe.
Playing outdoors has been called the antidote to anxiety, depression and obesity, said
Tina Miller, the programs director. We have
over 14 miles of trails that cross forest, meadow and stream environments. Catching frogs
and butterflies, playing in our native garden
and spending quality time exploring the outdoors helps the kids develop a deeper connection to nature, meet new friends, and create
memories that last a lifetime.
According to the National Wildlife
Federations website, Studies show outdoor

College Resource Center at both West Morris


Mendham and West Morris Central high
schools. The completed form must be
returned to the College Resource Center at
the high school by March 27. A letter
requesting an application may be sent to the
Chester Lioness Club in care of Anne
MacMillan, 15 Cora Lane, Chester, NJ.
07930. Her telephone number is: 908-8797621. Completed applications must be forwarded to the Lioness Club by May 1.
The Chester Lioness Club is a service club
that takes an active interest in the civic, cultural and social welfare of the community.
For more information about the Chester
Lioness Club, contact Holly Simmenroth,
publicity chair at 908-879-5932.

time helps children grow lean and strong,


enhances imaginations and attention span,
decreases aggression, and boosts classroom
performance. In addition, children who spend
time in nature regularly are shown to become
better stewards of the environment.
Schiffs Summer Nature Program is
offered as two identical sessions per day: 9
a.m. 12:30 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m., Mon.Fri. Cost per session is $185. The Teen
Naturalists program and an introductory
Preschool Explorers program are each four
half-days, and cost $155.
Schiffs Summer Nature Programs for
2015 include: Preschool Explorers (Ages 4 &
5) June 29- July 2. Morning only, includes
a story, nature-themed art project, trail trek,
snack and the great outdoors.
Teen Naturalists (Ages 13+) June 29July 2. Afternoon only, for older naturalists,
includes some favorites like bluebird monitoring, trailblazing projects, adventure races
and more.
Wild About Wildlife (Ages 6-12) July 6
10. Discover the different types of wildlife
living in our own backyards, from animals
that fly to those that hop and even the ones
that slither!
All Things Connect (Ages 6-12) July 1317. Explore how all things are connected on
the nature preserve; from the soil to the air to
the animals that call Schiff home, including
humans! This programs fosters a sense of
stewardship and a lasting respect for nature.

Awesome Adventures (Ages 6-12) July


20-24. For those who love adventure, turn
over rocks, follow trails or blaze your own.
This week has something for everyone and
includes making Wineberry jelly and a treasure hunt!
The Nature of Science (Ages 6-12) July
27- July 31. Does building shelters and
exploring stream beds sound like fun? Then
come be part of Schiffs Science, Technology,
Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) week to
experiment with all types of fun sciencebased activities. Discover the science of making Wineberry jelly, too!
Special Electives During the afternoons
in July, limited to 10 participants: Artists of
the Forest-Handmade arts and crafts inspired
by nature, culminating with an art show
exhibit. July 13-17 for ages 6-12; Playwrights
of the Preserve- Write, produce and perform
nature-themed plays and perform them in our
own amphitheater, July 27-31, for ages 9+
only.
Registration is available on-line and
accepted on a first-come basis. Registration is
confirmed only after health forms are submitted and full payment is received. Schiffs
Summer Nature Program registration can be
found on Schiffs website at www.schiffnaturepreserve.org. For questions, contact
Summer Nature Program Director Tina
Miller at SNPdirector@schiffnaturepreserve.org.

Editorial

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Our Muscles Do Matter

ne freezing morning down at the bus stop, a day


after one of the stormswith so many piled on top
of the other they all blended in after a while my
two little boys and I were quite entertained watching our
neighbor try to push up another neighbors car stuck in the
driveway.
While pushing her car from behind, she pressed on the
gas pedal; he would stop, shovel under her tires attempting
to get the car to budge.
After my boys got on the bus, I turn my car around to
drive back up my street, but stop in the middle of the road
to watch my neighbor continue his quest to get that car up
the driveway. With my coffee brewing at home, I was eager
to get my day started but felt bad just leaving the two out in
the cold stuck in the snow.
As hesitant as I was, I rolled down my window and
asked if he needed my help, thinking how would feeble, little me make a difference helping to push a car up a snowcovered icy driveway? He replied, with a smirk as I recall,
saying you can help if you want but then continued on his
mission. So I sat there a few more minutes with my heat
blasting, window rolled down, thinking Ok, Im wearing
my slip on sneakers, no gloves, I will have no value add
whatsoever. But how do I just drive off- isnt that plain
rude?
A few more minutes go by. My neighbor had to be out
there for at least 30 minutes, working up a sweat, pushing,

by Cheryl Conway
shoveling, trying to help the neighbors nanny. So I ask
again, you want me to help? I can try.
I get out of my car, walk on over and warn him of my
slip on sneakers so I will probably slide. With me on the
right, and he on the left, we push from the rear of the car,
and with one push, the nanny presses on the gas, and vwah
la.. the car is up her driveway! I throw my hands up like I
just won a 5K. It was thrilling! The nanny gets out of the
car, introductions are exchanged, she gives me a hug and
Im on my way.
So what? Some of you may be thinking.
Many women my age may feel a sense of weakness or
insecurity that their muscles do not matter. I often feel that
way, especially when I cant open a jar of mayonnaise, and
then with one try my 14-year old cranks it open. But, after
this one experience, I am certain more than ever that our
muscles do matter, no matter how weak we think we may
be. My little push, support from the right side, made all the
difference.
As an aerobics instructor and student at the Mt. Olive
Recreation Exercise Program, I keep my heart strong
through regular cardiovascular exercise, as well as my muscles with repeated weight training exercises. Studies have
shown that more muscle helps to burn more fat; and experts
suggest that every 30 minutes of cardio exercise should be
matched with weight bearing exercise.
Working out with weights strengthens muscles, helps

prevent osteoporosis, and can surely build self-esteem.


While walking is great, or running, jumping rope and
aerobics to burn calories and fat, using hand held weights
will build muscles to keep the body strong. Find an exercise program that incorporates hand held weights during
workout routines, or takes the time for push-ups.
I personally prefer the exercise program through Mt.
Olive Recreation because my workouts surround me with
my peers, ladies my age, with similar interests and exercise
goals, and at the same time, Im supporting the town as proceeds from recreational programs fund various town projects and programs.
Check out http://mountolivetownship.com/rec_fitness
_sports.html#exercise. Click on the link for the Mt Olive
Exercise Program www.mtoliverecreation.com to sign up.
The best part of my weight bearing story was when the
nanny knocked on my front door later that day. When I
answered, she asked me, Is the woman here who helped
push up my car? I looked at her, dumbfounded and said,
yes, hi, that was me. Guess I looked a little different from
the morning when I had on my big, dark sunglasses, hat and
oversized fleece coat. Who would believe that the person
under that disguise was a five-foot, one third inch, 120pound (give or take a few) woman? As she hands me a box
of chocolates, I say you shouldnt have, thanks me again,
and is on her way.

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Mendham Author...
continued from page 2
him little kid questions like name five
bridges into Manhattan, or what subway is
underneath Lexington Ave. Hed ask me
city questions and it would become a game
we would play, describes Schmitt.
The fact that his friends often ask him
how to get into the city or where to go when
they get there also motivated Schmitt to create his guide.
I was always the person to call if a
friend was going to New York, says
Schmitt. I would draw a map.
His goal is to show people who dont
know the city well how to see it from a
native. By highlighting streets, Schmitt
says you can go with confidence someplace new.
Besides his knowledge of NYC,
Schmitts favorite hobby has been cartography. I always loved maps and drawing,
says Schmitt, since I can hold a crayon, I
would draw maps of everything, my house,
my room. I loved drawing these detailed
maps; its just something I did.
In college, Schmitt even started out taking course in architecture as he loved technical art, but then switched his major and
received his degree in English in 1988 from
Brookdale Community College in
Monmouth.

I was always a good writer, says


Schmitt. I always enjoyed writing and
English.
Skilled as a writer and cartographer,
Schmitts book is on the map as a number
one guide. Self-published through his wifes
design company, Tinfoil Rose Design,
Schmitt and his spouse, Donna worked
together to complete the finished product.
The couple frequented NY often to research
and learn all they could about the neighborhoods and streets of Manhattan.
I wanted to explore the whole thing,
says Schmitt. Ive walked every street in
Manhattan, living and working there since
he was a teenager, whether in construction,
fragrance industry and even music, he says.
He has worked as a subway musician for the
past four years, playing during the winter
months traditional Irish music on his mandolin with his friend who sings, at several
locations such as West Fourth Street
Station, Greenwich Village and Times
Square station.
In between songs people would always
come up to us and ask directions, says
Schmitt. They werent afraid to ask. How
dangerous could you be, this man holding
this mandolin. We are constantly handing
out directions and advice in between
songs.

Schmitt, who works full-time as a perfumer creating fragrances for companies


such as Bath and Body Works and Yankee
Candle, spent four years with his wife
researching in NY for the guide making
sure the details were right. We spent a lot of
time walking the streets and taking notes.
We mapped out all of the major subway stations. Its huge; its easy to get lost. Its like
a massive underground world.
I wanted to alleviate anything that
makes people nervous or confused, when it
comes to NYC, Schmitt says, adding that he
dedicated the book to his brother-in-law
who is phobic and terrified of going to
the city.
Its not the scary place it once was,
says Schmitt. New York crime rate is down
75 percent since the 80s. Manhattan is so
safe, even Harlem and Washington
Heights. The guide doesnt tell you where
not to go; it does tell you highlights where
to go.
This is my passion, Schmitt continues.
Its designed to not make you afraid anymore. Theres nothing to fear if you know
where you are going.
In the course of their research, Schmitt
says I was deeply affected by the homelessness that I saw in New York City. We
walked through every subway section,

every transit hub. As a way to give back a


little bit, Schmitt has decided to donate a
dollar from every book that he sells and
give to the Doe Fund, a charity that helps
homeless people integrate back into society.
The charitys motto is a hand up not a hand
down.
He also researched on the internet historical information about areas in the city and
incorporates interesting facts in his guidebook.
While he is a NJ native, Schmitt admits
to his fascination with NYC. My family is
from there; Ive always been connected. Its
always something that was mysterious and
big and a little scary. But drawing maps of
the city made it easier for him to not fear it,
he says.
New York, theres this pull, concludes
Schmitt. Everything is there; all your
dreams are there, whether it is to be a journalist, perfumist, actor, singer. Its a place
of dreams. A prerequisite for your dreams to
come true is getting over the fear of making
your dreams come true. If you can go there,
you can go everywhere.
Available in paperback, the 288 page
book is available at Amazon.com for
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www.knowingwhereyouregoing.com.

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Elegant and Airy Colonial In Beautiful Neighborhood

ocated on Eastern side


of Mendham Twp.,
the home sits on .605
acres of manicured property
with a large deck and patio
for entertaining or relaxing
from a busy day. Inside, step
into a meticulously maintained home that is turn- key.
Living room and dining
room have beautiful windows & hardwood floors.
Living room boasts a beautiful fireplace while the dining
room is graced by a lovely
chandelier. Family room, two
steps down from the foyer,
has a floor to ceiling hearth,
wet bar and access to the outside deck. The rooms hardwood floor is currently covered by new carpet. Tucked
in the southwest corner of the
first floor, a sunny office with
wonderful views of the back
yard and lovely sunsets. The
updated kitchen is resplendent with center island and
stainless steel appliances,
and breakfast room. A mud
room, powder room, laundry,
with included washer and

dryer, and three car garage


complete the first floor. The
first floor has wonderful flow
for entertaining and a more
open feel than usually found
in colonials. The floating
staircase provides and overlook to the foyer and family
room and has newly installed
carpet. Upstairs, the master
bedroom has two generous
walk-in closets and en-suite
bath with soaking tub, double
vanity, and separate shower.
Three additional bedrooms
and two bathrooms complete
the private living quarters.
An unfinished bonus area
can be used to enlarge the
master bathroom, closets or
add a sitting room if desired.
The finished lower level is
recently refurbished with
new carpeting. The room
allows for a media area, gam-

ing area, and work out room


and full bathroom. The
home is freshly painted, with
numerous upgrades including box molding and tray
ceilings, and a generator
hook up. The neighborhood
is situated within easy walking distance to schools and
shopping. Main commuting
arteries and New Jersey
Transit are just moments
away. Mendham Township
boasts a Blue Ribbon School
System and the West Morris
Mendham High School was
recently ranked # 4 in the
State. This property is listed
at $1,030,000 with Kristin
Gobbel-Swanson and Sally
Mulcahy
of
Coldwell
Bankers Mendham Office.
To preview this amazing
home call Kris 973-2297832 or Sally 201-787-4713

Plan To Help Seniors Pay


For Long-Term Care

enior Settlements has introduced an


innovative Long-Term Care Benefit as
a financial planning tool to help families struggling with the costs of long-term
care. The Long-Term Care Benefit program
converts a life insurance policy into a monthly benefit that pays for any form of Senior
Care including Homecare, Assisted Living,
Nursing Home, Memory Care, and Hospice.
One of the biggest challenges families
face when confronting long term care is the
monthly expenses. For millions of seniors
with a life insurance policy they now have an
option available to convert a portion of the
death benefit to help cover these costs.
Not to be confused with long-term care
insurance, an annuity, or a policy loan; the
Long-Term Care Benefit is unique because
there are no wait periods to qualify, no limitations, no costs to apply, and no premium payments. Instead of lapsing or surrendering a
life insurance policy, the death benefit is converted into a living benefit in the form of an
irrevocable, FDIC insured account that makes
monthly payments automatically to the
account holders choice of care provider.
Sometimes compared to a reverse mortgage
for a life insurance policy; the account is tax
advantaged and a Medicaid qualified spend-

down.
Most people do not realize that a life
insurance policy is an asset that they are
legally entitled to convert into another form
of coverage instead of lapsing or surrendering
their policy, said Paula Ash, CLTC. Senior
Settlements is thrilled to give people a quick
and simple option to convert a life insurance
policys death benefit into a Long-Term Care
Benefit and immediately apply it towards
their choice of senior care.
The Long-Term Care Benefit Plan has
become an accepted form of payment for
every form of Senior Care services across the
United States because it pays out the present
day value of a policy and keeps the account
holder private pay, delaying their need to go
onto Medicaid and allowing them to choose
the form of care they want.
Seniors dont want to go onto Medicaid
and move straight into a nursing home, said
Ash, and a big advantage of the Benefit
Account is that it allows for immediate use,
and as care needs change the flexibility to be
able to adjust the monthly benefit amount and
move from one form of care to another.
For more information contact: Paula Ash,
CLTC Senior Settlements at 201-396-9448;
ssettlements@gmail.com.

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