All of us at The PRESS would like to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. The December 6th and 23rd Story time at Warren County Library Headquarters has been canceled. For further information, please contact them at 908-475-6322 or www.warrenlib.org. To support cuttingedge research for the more than 10 million Americans affected with blinding retinal

degenerative diseases, the New Jersey-based band The Wizards of Winter will perform a holiday concert on Saturday, November 26, with all proceeds benefitting the Foundation Fighting Blindness. The show of seasonal favorites will begin at 7pm at Faith Discover Church, 33 Brass Castle Rd., in Washington, NJ. Tickets can be purchased for $15 (adults) or $10 (students and seniors) at the door

or online at http://wizardsofwinter.ti cketleap.com/-wizards-of-winter-benefit-for-thefoundation-fightingblindness. For more information about The Wizards of Winter, visit www.thewizardsofwint er.com. The fourth annual Messiah Sing-In will be held at Knowlton Presbyterian Church, 3 Knowlton Road, Columbia, on Sunday, December 4th at 4 p.m. This is not a service or a concert, but an opportunity for those who enjoy Handels Messiah to sing various choruses or just listen to those who are doing the singing. Several soloists will also sing some of the arias and duets. Kathleen Decker will be the accompa-

nist. There is no fee to participate and a light supper will be provided by the church for all who attend, singer or listener. If you have a score for Messiah, please bring it. If not, extras will be available. Come see Mike Agranoff perform Tales in Song on Tuesday, November 29th at 6:30 pm. This program is sponsored in part by the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission and the Friends of the Northeast Branch, Hackettstown, and $1 tickets available at the library and will be fully refunded at the door. We love hearing from you! Send your tidbits of information to: The PRESS PO Box 430, Blairstown, NJ 07825

The following is a list of books added to the Warren County Library collection . Non-Fiction: 500 Manga Villains and Heroes, By Yishan Li; Print Workshop: HandPrinting Techniques and Truly Original Projects, By Christine Schmidt; The Deeds of My Fathers: How My Grandfather and Father Built New York and Created the Tabloid World of Today, By Paul Pope; Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion, By Gregory Boyle. Recreation: 500 Cheeses: The Only Cheese Compendium You'll Ever Need, By Roberta Muir; 500 Italian Dishes: The Only Compendium of Italian Dishes You'll Ever Need, By Valentina Sforza; Cooking Light Mix & Match Low-Calorie

Cookbook: 1500 Calories a Day, By Editors of Cooking Light Magazine; FoodFest 365!: The Officially Fun Food Holiday Cookbook, By Yvan Lemoine. Personal Growth: We Have Met the Enemy: Self-Control in an Age of Excess, By Daniel Akst; The Belly Fat Cure Fast-Track: Discover the new Skinny Fats and drop up to 14 pounds in 14 days, Belly Fat Prescription: The Doctor - Designed Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss, By Jorge Cruise; Cinch!: Conquer Cravings, Drop Pounds, and Lose Inches, By Cynthia Sass; The Flex Diet: DesignYour-Own Weight Loss Plan, By James Beckerman. Fiction: Read This Next: 500 of the Best Books You'll Ever Read, By Howard Mittelmark.

Dr. Prager Announces Gluten Sensitivity Coach CertificationDr. Howard Prager is pleased to announce his certification as New Jerseys first Gluten Coach. This certification comes after countless hours of study and passing a rigorous examination. The certification is to ensure that doctors are on the cutting edge scientifically in the diagnosis and treatment of gluten sensitivity, which is a systematic autoimmune disease with diverse manifestations. Among the many different symptons associated with gluten sensitivity are migraines, fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy, chronic pain, as well as memory loss and thyroid disorders. Dr. Prager assists patients in reclaiming their health with an emphasis on diet and nutrition. This provides a motivating and successful game plan for patients who previously suffered from debilitating symptoms, high risk for disease and frustrating medical problems. Until now, patients with these problems didnt have many options in New Jersey. I have found there are benefits to a gluten-free diet. Those suffering with joint pain, brain fog, loss of balance, or other neurologic and autoimmune disorders who have not regained their health through traditional health care may benefit from a gluten-free diet as some studies have linked these and other illnesses to gluten consumption, says Dr. Prager. The important part is to have the proper testing done, as most testing currently

thyroid disorders and chronic pain and is available for guest lectures on any of the above topics and more. For more information, Dr. Prager can be reached at 973-7298000, 201-651-0062 or

at www.njlife changingcare.com. He welcomes your questions about gluten sensitivity and/or functional medicine. To find a gluten coach in your area, go to www.thedr.com.

Blair Academy Singers and Orchestra Present Holiday Concert at Steel StacksOn Tuesday, December 6, the Blair Academy Singers and Orchestra will perform a holiday concert at the Steel Stacks Musikfest Cafe. The concert, which is free and open to the public, begins at 7:00 p.m.; doors open at 6:15. Blair Academy, located in Blairstown, NJ, is one of the pre-eminent college preparatory schools in the United States. Known for its outstanding academic program and college placement record, the School also features many extracurricular opportunities in athletics and the arts. The School's instrumental and choral music group have performed internationally, including Eastern Europe and Italy. The group will continue its 2011-2012 concert season with this holiday performance at Steel Stacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA 18015. All are welcome to attend this free concert, sponsored by the School.

Dr. Howard Prager done is inadequate and Patterson since 1987. He inaccurate. helps his patients to Dr. Prager understands understand why gluten the research behind sensitivity affects the many autoimmune body more outside of the diseases triggered by gut than inside. In addigluten. The benefits of tion, he explains why living on a gluten-free following a gluten-free diet are pretty evident. diet may not be enough The health benefits of for many. Dr. Prager cutting out processed lectures regularly on and fatty foods are nutrition, fibromyalgia, remarkable and understanding current research, science and treatment for gluten sensitivity is vital, says Dr. Prager. Dr. Prager has been in chiropractic practice for the last 26 years in northern New Jersey. He has been a staff member of the Pain Management Department at St. Josephs Regional Medeical Center in

The Warren County Technical School PTA Annual Craft FairThe area's finest crafters and artisans come together at this one-day juried event to display their unique handmade items. Run by the Warren County Technical School PTA, all proceeds from this event are to benefit scholarships and programs for students. The event will be held on Saturday, December 3rd, 9am to 4pm. There will be fun for the entire family, including face painting, caroling, door prizes, kettle corn and more. Baked goods and gourmet lunch will be available. There is no admission fee and there is ample parking available. Warren County Technical School is located at 1500 Route 57, Washington. For more information, email craftsinwarren tech@me.com.

4th Annual Messiah Sing-In Hosted by Knowlton Presbyterian ChurchThe fourth annual Messiah Sing-In will be held at Knowlton Presbyterian Church, 3 Knowlton Road, Columbia, NJ 07832 on Sunday, December 4th at 4 p.m. This is not a service or a concert, but an opportunity for those who enjoy Handels Messiah to sing various choruses or just listen to those who are doing the singing. Several soloists will also sing some of the arias and duets. Kathleen Decker will be the accompanist. There is no fee to participate and a light supper will be provided by the church for all who attend, singer or listener. If you have a score for Messiah, please bring it. If not, extras will be available. This event was wellreceived last year with about 75 singers in attendance. If you would like to bring your favorite finger food to share, please do so! For more information call Jim Mell at 973-2296049 or Margie Miller at 908-362-9037. Visit knowltonpca.org.

Breathing Room Center presents their 2nd Annual Holiday Shopping Event on Saturday, November 26th, from 1pm to 5pm, at the center, located at 735 Rt 94, Frelinghuysen. Once again it's time for local holiday shopping at Breathing Room Center! Come out and support local artists & craftspeople and find amazing, one-of-a-kind gifts. Proceeds to benefit Ridge and Valley Learning Circles, a local non-profit charitable organization inspired by the Ridge and Valley region's open spaces, a love of the wild and which supports the Ridge and Valley Charter School of Blairstown. For more information, visit www.BreathingRoomCenter.com or call 973-896-0030.

Art Association in Roxbury December MeetingThe Art Association in Roxbury will be holding its monthly meeting on Thursday, December 1st at 7:15 PM at the Roxbury Senior Center, 72 Eyland Avenue, Succasunna, NJ. The program will include a figure drawing demonstration by Deborah E. Kelly. Deborah E. Kelly is an Adjunct Professor of Fine Art at the County College of Morris, where she enjoys her Figure Drawing course the most. Kelly will be presenting a lecture and demonstration outlining the approach to drawing from a live model. She will include a demonstration of the various dry mediums used in drawing and will exhibit exercises used in warming up for the drawing process, as well as providing some of the techniques useful for both the beginning and advanced artist. Kelly began her study of Fine Art at Kutztown State College, now Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, where she received her BFA in 1983. She went on to receive her MFA in drawing and painting at the University of Georgia in Athens. Although the intensive studio work as a graduate student provided all sorts of models, the forms of maternity became especially poignant to Deborah and she developed her thesis work and Masters exhibition around the theme of pregnancy. Kelly previously taught at Blair Academy, worked as a designer for The New Jersey Herald, and taught as a substitute teacher in her childrens school district. She is a member of the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council and occasionally shows her work. The program is open to everyone. Admission is free and refreshments are served. For further information, please call (973) 398-6304.

Historic Lusscroft Farm in Wantage will be celebrating their annual Holiday Event on Saturday, December 3rd, from 10am to 4pm, and on Sunday, December 4th, from 10am to 3pm. Get in the holiday spirit as you browse through three historic buildings the Turner Mansion, the

Lusscroft Farm Celebrates Annual Holiday Event on December 3 and 4Manager's Dwelling, and the Garage. Area farmers will have products for sale, as well as local vendors and crafters. The Lusscroft gift shop will be open, and there will be hot food and fresh baked products for sale. The 2011 Lusscroft ornament, featuring the Lusscroft stables, will be available for purchase. Live animals and additional special attractions, including an appearance of Santa, will be fun for all ages.

Lusscroft Farm, part of High Point State Park, is located on 50 Neilson Road in Wantage, NJ. Additional information and directions can be found online at www.lusscroftfarm.com. Admission is $5 per adult, children under 18 are free. Proceeds are for ongoing restoration of Lusscroft Farm. Presented by the Heritage and Agriculture Association in cooperation with the NJ DEP/Division of Parks & Forestry.

Chatterbox Restaurant and Ideal Farms Hold Monster Truck Event to Gather Toys for the Season of HopeMake a Gift Donation and Ride in A Monster Truck!What happens when the owners of a restaurant, a farm stand and a collection of monster trucks get together to come up with an idea for a toy drive? Area residents are invited to find out on Saturday, December 3rd, when car enthusiasts who bring a new, unwrapped toy or a $5 contribution to the Chatterbox Restaurant between 11am and 3pm, will be allowed to ride in a monster truck in the unused fields at Ideal Farms. All proceeds benefit the Season of Hope Holiday Toy Drive for Sussex County children. The vehicles will be provided by New Jersey Monster Trucks, a company which specializes in hosting monster truck events throughout the state. The Chatterbox Restaurant is located at 1 State Highway 15, at the intersection of Route 206, in Augusta. Ideal Farms is located across the street. Patrons are invited to park at the Chatterbox, drop off contributions and take a joy ride.

Apple Mountain Slates Holiday 'Count Your Blessings' Food DriveWith more and more families struggling to bring food to the table again this year, there is an even greater need for non-perishable food to go to food banks everywhere. Apple Mountain Golf Club in Belvidere is one business that has been determined to help and make a difference. For the third consecutive year from now through the Christmas season, Apple Mountain is holding a food drive at the golf club and its restaurant, Top of the Green. "Count Your Blessings and Help Others Who Need Your Help" is intended to make life a little easier for families in need during these what we can to help these folks. Nobody, especially children, should go hungry." Anyone may bring in as many non-perishable items as they wish to the golf club's Pro-Shop or Restaurant Food Drive Donation Baskets. Apple Mountain will be distributing the collections to food banks in the area throughout the entire holiday season. Kiszonak indicates that she would like to see patrons who dine at the restaurant, especially during the holiday season, to bring food items to help needy persons, families and children. "That would be very nice," she said. "Please help those less fortunate if you can this holiday season." For further information about the food drive, call 908-4533023, ext. 2, or for directions, visit http://www.applemount aingolf.com.

Alaina Finn, left, Colette Finn, and Amanda Kiszonak, right, help collect food for Apple Mountain Golf Club's Annual Count Your Blessings Holiday food drive. Alaina and Amanda are sophomores at Warren Hills High School while Colette is a 6th grader at Oxford Central School. tough economic times. "A lot of people are doing OK, but a lot of other people are really having a tough time of it," said Jan Kiszonak, owner of Apple Mountain. "For many of them, it is not getting better anytime soon. It is so important for all of us who are 'OK' to count our blessings and do

Notara Dance Studio Presents The NutcrackerClara Paige Wynne, Jessica Burns, Maria Andrews; Waltz Queen Soloist, Melissa Ritchie; Costume Mistress Kimberly Loquasto. Actors and Dancers come from Blakeslee to Blairstown, NJ, to Nazareth, PA and the Lehigh Valley, PA. to perform in this production of the Nutcracker. Notara Dance Theatre is a non-profit cultural organization dedicated to bringing the best of ballet to the Poconos for the last 28 years. The cast is made up of New York City ballet dancers, Russian dancers, and a cast of talented community locals. The Gift of Entertainment: Skip the hassle of shopping malls and gifts that dont fit, have to be returned, or end up at the back of the closet. A gift of The Nutcracker Ballet tickets makes giving easy. It promises entertainment and memories that will last a lifetime. Shopping for that unforgettable gift can be done in a snap. Call 570-421-1718. Tickets to Nutcracker are $20 and may be purchased by contacting Notara School of Dance and Acting at 570-4211718. On the day of the show, tickets are sold (subject to availability) one hour prior to each performance at East Stroudsburg High School South Auditorium Box Office. All open seating. Group rates available. Come support our local talent as they bring The Nutcracker to life.

The Notara Dance Theatre will perform the family classic The Nutcracker, Professionally choreographed and director by Sally Notara. The Nutcracker performances will be held on Saturday, November 26, 2:30 PM matinee and 7:30 PM evening; and Sunday, November 27, 2:30 PM matinee. The event will be held at East Stroudsburg High School South Auditorium in East Stroudsburg, PA. The Notara Dance Theatre is celebrating their 28th Anniversary with their production of The Nutcracker. A colorful and exciting fairy tale story ballet. Do you remember Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy? Relive the magic of the holidays with this timeless story as a young girl's holiday dream comes to life before your eyes. Get lost in a flurry of snowflakes, cringe and quake during the ferocious battle between toy soldiers and the mice, and revel in the beautiful dancing of the Sugarplum Fairy, all set to radiant and beloved music. This theatrical event is inspiring and entertaining for the

whole family (including Dad). Scott Mathiesen, of M&M Lighting, Professional Lighting, Set Designer and Technical Director. Sally Notara, Professional Choreographer and Director. The cast for The Nutcracker includes: Butterscotch - Soloist, Rebecca Whittington Ross. Rebecca dances professionally for the Felice Lesser Dance Theatre Company in NY; Cavalier - Soloist, Jace Coronado is a Broadway Performer and dances with Ballet Memphis, Boston Ballet and Ballet NY; The Sugar Plum Fairy Marie Lorene Fichaux, Performed in Geneve', Switzerland. The Royal Ballet of London, The Company National Dance in Madrid, Spain; Nutcracker - Nick Kobryn; The King - Yurij Dobrinansky; The Duke - Alexander Koypck; Nick, Yurij, and Alexander are with the Ukrainian Dance Ensemble. Alternating Local Talent includes: Herr Drosselmeyer Richard Paige and Tom Diehl;

Appalachian Music Legend Ralph Stanley To Perform At Historic Blairstown TheatreNow 84 years old (as of February 25, 2011), Stanley has been performing professionally since he and his older brother, Carter, formed a band in their native southwestern Virginia in 1946. Between that date and 1966, when Carter died, the Stanley Brothers and the Clinch Mountain Boys became one of the most celebrated bluegrass groups in the world, rivaling in popularity such titans as Bill Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs. As a bandleader, Stanley nourished such young and promising talents as Ricky Skaggs, Keith Whitley, Larry Sparks and Charlie Sizemore, all of whom eventually graduated to distinguished solo careers. He has won Grammys for Best Country Male Vocalist Performance (beating out Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw, Lyle Lovett and Ryan Adams) and Album of the Year (for his part in the O Brother, Where Art Thou? Collection) and is a central figure in the D. A. Pennebaker/Chris Hegedus 2000 documentary, Down From The Mountain. In January, 2000, Stanley became the first artist of the new millennium to be inducted into the historic Grand Ole Opry. He holds the Living Legend award from the Library of Congress and was the first recipient of the Traditional American Music award from the National Endowment for the Humanities. One of his proudest achievements is the honorary doctorate in music Lincoln Memorial University conferred on him in 1976. In addition to all these honors, Stanley was chosen to be the closing act for the 2002 Down From The Mountain Tour, a soldout series of concerts inspired by the success of the O Brother album. So respected is Stanley as a musical stylist that dozens of other major artists have recorded duets with him, among them Bob Dylan, George Jones, Vince Gill, Randy Owen, Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, Dolly Parton, Ricky Skaggs, Joan Baez, Pam Tillis and Porter Wagoner. And requests to record keep coming in. In November, 2009, Gotham Books released his autobiography Man of Constant Sorrow: Life and Times of a Music Legend (written by Dr. Ralph Stanley with Eddie Dean),. Seating for Dr. Stanley's appearance is extremely limited. Only 200 seats will be sold. Tickets are available on-line at www.TheHBT.com or at the Historic Blairstown Theatre box office. (908) 362-1399.

Ralph Stanley, the most towering figure in traditional Appalachian music, will appear in an exclusive area engagement at the Historic Blairstown Theatre on Saturday, December 3, 2011. Ralph Stanleys voice is not of this century. Nor of the last one, for that matter. Its stark emotional urgency is rooted in a darker time, when pain was the

common coin of life and the world offered sinful humanity no hope of refuge. Preserved in the cultural amber of remote Appalachia, this terse, forlorn sound is the bedrock of Stanleys inimitable style. But dont mistake an ancient voice for ancient ways. Stanley tours and performs with the vigor and elan of a rock star.

Blairstown Businesses to Host Tree Lighting CelebrationThe Christmas holiday season will officially kick off with the Jingle On Main celebration scheduled for Friday, December 9th on Main Street in Blairstown from 5 to 7 p.m. The celebration, sponsored by the Blairstown Business Association, will feature carolers and a visit from Santa Claus and other popular Christmas characters and culminate in and a tree lighting ceremony in the open space next to the barbershop in the middle of Main Street. Lilly Rutherford, Miss Liberty Belle, will flip the switch to light the township Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m., and she invites all of the families in the area to join her in a countdown similar to the one that marks the ball drop at Times Square on New Years Eve. All of the shops along the street will be open to welcome families with holiday cheer and surprises. Members of the business association will be collecting nonperishable food for the Warren County food bank to give to needy families for Christmas dinner. This is a wonderful small town event, said BBA chairperson, Ron Fischer, it is one of those delightful traditions that make living here so enjoyable. We invite everyone to join us for some heartwarming fun. For more information, stop in any business featuring the Blairstown Business Association logo on the window or check out the BBA web site at www.bbanj@org. or look for us on Facebook.

Decorating to Make Your Holidays Sparkle(NewsUSA) - We all have a neighbor who goes overboard with the novelty outdoor lights around the holidays, but what if you want a more subtle, sophisticated approach to herald the season? The American Lighting Association (ALA) offers some proven tips for holiday decorating with refined style, inside and out. First of all, consider a grand entrance. Adding a few easy-to-install landscape uplights to highlight trees and shrubs, or path lighting to illuminate a sidewalk or driveway, will immediately add a sense of elegance and sophistication. Once your company comes inside, it's really time to shine. Little touches can inspire a cheery mood and make guests feel comfortable and merry. "Decorating for the holidays doesn't always have to be sparkles and glitz," says Bruce Hathaway, national sales manager for the Vermontbased lighting manufacturer Hubbardton Forge. "Sometimes a little understatement goes a long way. "Entertaining in your home involves managing the flow of a room, so be careful not to over-clutter the space -; especially when you're hosting a group of people," says Hathaway. "Recessed lighting should be dimmed, and accent and cove lighting should be used to create highlights and drama. And don't forget that portable table and floor lamps help set the perfect stage." Focus attention on a tree and other holiday decorations with portable spotlights. These small, inexpensive fixtures are available at most ALAmember showrooms and can usually accommodate a tabletop dimmer. Create pretty silhouettes by placing a spotlight beneath a Christmas tree so that it shines up through the branches. For an especially warm and intimate feel, shine a spotlight toward framed photos of family members and past holiday gatherings, and fill a corner with a basket of children's holiday books. One easy and quick change that will have maximum impact is to switch out a few lampshades. Replacing a neutral lampshade with one that is red or gold will soften the light and create a holiday atmosphere. Try adding a few shade charms, available at many craft stores, to add some sparkle and fun. You can even buy an inexpensive plain shade and decorate it with whatever suits your style and particular occasion. Visit your local ALAmember lighting showroom to discover all the items and expertise you need to make simple, low-cost changes to make your home beautiful and inviting. For more information about all aspects of home lighting, go to www.AmericanLighting Association.com.

Pests Moving In? Evict Unwanted Winter Tenants(NewsUSA) - Are you hearing a quartet of scampering and scratching during these long winter nights? Are you noticing droppings in your basement or cupboards or holes in boxes of cereal or pasta? If so, you might have a winter pest problem. Winter pests aren't just unpleasant. They pose severe risks to your health and property. Mice, for example, can chew through walls, electrical wires and baseboards, not to mention produce 12 babies every three weeks. Rodent droppings can trigger allergies and spread disease -- causing headaches, fever, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Although most common, mice and rats aren't the only pest threat this winter. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) estimates that a whopping 21 million rodents retreat indoors each winter. In addition to rodents, squirrels, carpenter ants, spiders, and cockroaches prefer to spend cold winter months indoors with us. The pest experts at the NPMA suggest the following preventive tips for avoiding pest infestations during cold weather. *Inspect firewood before bringing it inside, as several ant and cockroach species prefer to nest in firewood. Firewood piles should also be positioned on a raised platform away from the house. *Clean kitchens thoroughly. Some homeowners wipe down countertops after every meal, but only vacuum the floor once every few weeks. * Don't store birdseed or dog food in bags. For more tips, visit www.pestworld.org.

Wizards of Winter Holiday Concert Benefits Foundation Fighting BlindnessTo support cuttingedge research for the more than 10 million Americans affected with blinding retinal degenerative diseases, the New Jersey-based band The Wizards of Winter will p erform a holiday concert on Saturday, Nov. 26, with all proceeds benefitting the Foundation Fighting Blindness. The show of seasonal favorites will begin at 7 p.m. at Faith Discover Church, 33 Brass Castle Rd., in Washington, NJ. The high-energy celebration of lights and sounds will feature the music of The Trans Siberian Orchestra and selections from The Wizards of Winters new album entitled Tales Beneath a Northern Star. Featuring some of the regions finest rock and progressive musicians, the show will take audience members aboard the mythical Arctic Flyer on the night of Christmas Eve, for a funfilled yet introspective journey in search of the true meaning of Christmas. The performance is organized by local resident Mark DeVoe, who is motivated in the fight against blindness because his son Lil Mark, age 7, is affected with Choroideremia, a genetic retinal disease that progressively robs vision. Tickets can be purchased for $15 (adults) or $10 (students and seniors) at the door or online at http://wizardsofwinter.t icketleap.com/-wizards-of-winter-benefit-for-thefoundation-fightingblindness. For more about The Wizards of Winter, visit thewizards ofwinter.com.

It's a war that's rarely discussed. It's a war that's rarely reached along a textbook timeline. It is a war that students today have little knowledge of, however, once captivated in the truths of a hero's anguish, it is a war that grants a lesson far beyond the printed word of academic standard. "I got a letter from Uncle Sam and it said, 'Greetings'. Greetings? I was drafted. I was 18, and being sent to the Vietnam War," expressed United States Army Staff Sergeant John Jenkins to a still group of students at Hope Township School. "I thought to myself, ah, this is no big deal. And so, I went to Newark for my physical and passed the test. I didn't go home, I just got on a Pan American flight headed to Vietnam, was dropped off in the jungle by a helicopter, and thought, ah, no big deal. And then, in a matter of minutes of being dropped, two bullets flew by me. I didn't see them, I heard them, like a strong wind blowing right by me. That's when I knew... this is a big deal." Fourth and fifth graders were instantly drawn in by SSgt. Jenkins as he spoke to them about his service during a Veterans Day Assembly at the school. Maybe because he was a hero to them of which had nothing to do with war; he was, after all, "B" bus driver for company First Student and notably referenced by his Hope riders as "THE best bus driver ever". However, 'bus driver John' was not only the man who got them safely to their destination, but as well, an unspoken, humble man

Army Staff Sergeant John Jenkins of honor. And so a child pain of a returning hero You were always lookasks, "Excuse me, what spat on by protesters of ing over your shoulder, is Vietnam?" After a war; a man who did not 24/7, but I kept on going brief introduction, understand the ill of his because I wanted to get youthful exuberance countrymen; and most home to my family. I eagerly shared knowl- significantly, a man who wanted, more than edge of the War on quietly professed a anything, to see them," Terror, Iraq, and sincere sense of loyalty said Jenkins as he held Afghanistan as well a despite all else. "We had back overwhelming great grandfather's time a motto, never leave emotion. served during WWII. anyone behind. We SSgt. Jenkins read But Vietnam was a place were there for one journaled poetry and they weren't so sure of. another," explained shared powerful reflecMatter of fact, Jenkins who spoke of tive words with the geographic location carrying wounded com- Hope students. He alone left students in rades to a radioed spoke of a stream he wonder. "Where is helicopter within the remembered from that?" asked an jungle of Vietnam. "I Vietnam - one that he sat emphatic, curious fifth will never forget them. I along with his troops. grader. "What does it will never forget them," He reminisced... he look like there; are there as he drew tissue to wipe spoke of a yearning to mountains and trees?" falling memories from meet his lost comrades Jenkins, who wore his his face. when his 'time' comes. Vietnam embroidered Without slightest credit The students applauded cap and talked about to his time served, SSgt. him for all that he had pride for his country Jenkins, in truest Ameri- shared and all that he so while traveling students can pride, did not freely freely exposed himself enroute their rural roads, acknowledge his Purple to be. He shook hands, gave glimpses of his Heart as anything other accepted embraces and sense of loyalty to his than a response to handshakes of gratitude, seated companions. But student query. Yet he and graciously offered on this day, as United openly spoke of his own sense of thanks. States Army Veteran, trenched warfare, 18 Then, the children lined 'bus driver John' wasn't months of canned meals, up and moved on with just a man who served walking through the certainty of their his country as he mosquito infested school day leaving their tearfully unveiled grasses, herds of friend behind. But when himself as a man of epic baboons with two-inch call to bus arrived, the proportion - a man of fangs lurking from 4th and 5th grade emotional recollection above, roaming tigers, students carried not only for lost comrades; a man the harmonious song of their backpack but who continues to feel the tropical birds, and proudly a twelve-foot hand-written mail from banner that read: Thank home that kept him you Sergeant John going. "It was scary. Jenkins.

Waterford Stemware: Traymore, 8 champagne glasses--$170. 8 water/cold drink goblets--$210. Exc. cond. Vintage pattern. Call after 5pm: 908-475-2185. (3/4) 1998 Taylor Guitar: 814ce. Indian rosewood, sitka spruce & mahongany. On Board Fisherman Blender pre amp. Factory orig. hardshell case. Near mint. cond. Orig. owner. Asking $2200 OBO. Serious inquiries only. Call 908-3627738. (3/4) Whirlpool Washer & Elec. Dryer: lg. capacity, heavy duty. White. Both work & look great. $150 for both. Call 908-813-9826. (4/4) Computer Desk: black & brushed nickel. 45 W x 30 H x 23 D. $25. Call 908-3626970. (4/4) Pine Shelf: w/ 2 small drawers & towel bar. 19 H x 20.5 W x 5.5 diameter. Decorative & functional. Asking $25. Call 908-8871317. (2/4) For Sale: Autumn Mist Mink Stole--$45 (orig. $1400). Full length, vintage black Velvet Cape--$30. Call 908-3199344 or 908-319-9345. (4/4) 10 Piece DR Set: 2 piece lighted hutch, 2 captain chairs, 4 side chairs, 1 rectangle table (68 x 42 w/o leaf; 86 x 42 w/ leaf), 1 leaf extension & table pads. Very good cond. $300 OBO. Call 908-475-1929. (4/4) White Italian Leather Loveseat: 3 W x 5 L x 31 H. $750. Call 908-362-8602. (4/4) Wood Carpet: 10 x 15. Blue oriental design on white background. $1000 OBO. Call 908-362-8602. (4/4)

Wood Picture or Artwork Frame: 20.5 x 41.5. Contains an embroidered piece & doesnt have glass. Dark wood, made to look depressed. Call 973-383-0565. (2/4) For Sale: Custom Teak Wine Rack, 45 W x 41 H x 12 D, holds 30 bottles plus center shelf--$75. Black Cocktail Table, 14 H x 59 L x 22 D--$20. 2 China Table Lamps, off-white, 10 round x 30 H, bird design: $20. Mantle, dark brown, 6 L x 9 D x 7 H, $15. Garage full of stuff! Call 908362-6970. (4/4) For Sale: Kitch. Table, 60 round w/ 6 chairs & 2 leaves-$300. 2 Metal Shelving Storage Units--$40 ea. Cookbook Collection, asst.-$25. Call 908-362-6482. (4/4) Air Compressor: vertical tank on wheels. 21 gal., 3 hp, 120 volt, 4.9 SCFM at 90 lbs. Central Pneumatic, similar to Harbor Freight #67847. 3-yrsold. Nearly new; light use. $80. Call 908-362-5795. (4/4) For Sale: from Lawn & Garden Ornaments to VHS Movies (over 50, many still in wrappers). Over 100 items. Everything for $150 (orig. over $725. Single items can be purchased. Call 908-362-5263. (4/4) Humidifier: whole house. Honeywell HE 225A. Used 2 winters. Exc. cond. $40. Call 908-797-1896. (4/4) Entire Contents of Home For Sale: furniture, tools, auger, roto tiller, farm equip., antiques, etc. Best offers. Leave a msg: 862-703-8302. (4/4) 2 Frigidaire ACs: used 1 season. $500. Call 908-3628602. (4/4) For Sale: Ceramic Donkey w/ cart--$25. Small Marble Stand--$25. Jewelry Box, floor stand w/ 3 drawers, both sides open--$45. Call 570-269-9718. (3/4)

Coffee Table: 40 x 40. Glass Antique Ferriers Toolbox: & wood. Storage behind 2 $200. Call 973-383-5817. (1/4) doors. Call 908-362-8602. (4/4) Antique Spinning Wheel: plus Matboard: #754 porcelain. 30 extra bag of parts. $250. Call sheets. Many other colors. $20. 973-383-5817. (1/4) Call 908-797-1896. (4/4) FREE: Filing Cabinets, Storage Air Tools: various new, never Cabinet, Tables, Rugs, Tackle used. Air Saw, grinder, wrachet Boxes, Floor Lamp & more. (3/8 driver). $60 ea. or $150 for Call 908-459-4547. (2/4) all. Call 908-813-9826. (4/4) Computer Station: metal & For Sale: Oxy Acetylene black formica frame. 24 D x Setup, 3.5 tall w/ cart, torch, 32 W x 30 H. Desk chair w/ regulators & various tips--$250. rollers. Like new. $25 for both. Pressure Blaster, like new- Call 908-459-5881. (1/4) -$150. 6H/60 gal. Air Compressor, never used--$400. Arch Chain Link Dog Fence/Run: 6 Welder, Lincoln 220 V, never pieces, 6 H. 2 pieces at 6 W, 1 used--$100. Call 908-813- w/ gate. 4 at 10 W. $200. 9826. (4/4) Homemade doghouse, Cedar shake, 4x4. $50 OBO. Call Large Oster Toaster/ 908-459-5881. (1/4) Convection Oven: #6056. Used twice. $50. Call 973- FREE Piano: Baldwin 383-5461. (4/4) Acrasonic upright. Great sound. Call 908-362-9339. Foosball & Air Hockey Table: (1/4) wooden. Great cond. $50. Call 908-362-6522. (4/4) GE Gas Range: used 4 weeks during kitch. renovation. $100. Vari Kennel Dog Carrier: exc. Call 908-914-2772. (1/4) cond. 20.25 W x 19 H x 27 D. $30 OBO. Call 908-362-8602. Gas Corner Fireplace: (4/4) ventless, blower, pedestal. Mantel incl. Hardly used. $500 Trampoline Rebounder: very firm. Call 610-217-7049. (1/4) good cond. 36.25 diametere x 8 high. $25. Call 908-362- Factory-Made Spiral 8602. (4/4) Staircase: brown handrails & all hardware incl. plus landing. Workout Bench: folding, Like new. $200 firm. Call 570multi-position. $175 OBO. Call 629-3449. (1/4) 973-222-0842. (4/4) For Sale: Eliptical elec. stride, Early Am. Antique Pine 10-level resistance--$350. Corner Cabinets: 83x36. Ladies Riding Coat, leather Perfect cond. $450 ea. Call suede, exc. cond.--$175. 3 sets 908-362-8547. (3/4) of Net Lights, clear--$5 ea. 2 blue Tubal Lights--$5 ea. Girls Makeup Compact: 1940s-50s. 20 bike, exc. cond., brand Vintage, metal, envelope style. new, purple & white--$75. All Navy/light blue. Swirl cover prices neg. Call 610-588-4542 design. Rouge, lipstick, or 724-216-4501. (1/4) powder, mirror. Very good cond. $35. Call 908-887-1317. (2/4) 1893 Niagra Falls Photo Booklet: 20 b&w 5x7 photos. C 1893, very fine cond. $35. Call 908-887-1317. (2/4) Heavy Steel Fireplace Grate: 21 L x 7 H x 11 W. $20. Call 973-383-5461. (2/4) Kerosene Heater: 10,000 btu. Incl. siphon pump, 5 gal. container & owners manual. Hardly used. $75. Call 908459-5868. (2/4) 5 Artificial Christmas Tree: w/ stand. $10. Call 908-3626044. (2/4) Swing Set: solid wood, great shape. Tower, sand box, canopy, climbing ladder, 4 stations rocking horse, monkey bars, 3 swings & picnic table. $650 OBO. Call 908-461-0141. (2/4) Ikea Painted Hutch: glass door top, great storage bottom. 78 H x 38 W x 17 D. Call 973-383-3089. (2/4) White Crib w/ Mattress: $50 OBO. Call 908-637-6265. (2/4) For Sale: Burton youth snowboarding boots, size 6. Burton youth snowboard bindings, fits sizes 3-8. $30 each or both for $50. Call 908362-7737. (2/4) Hydraulic Log Splitter: 20 ton. Horiz. or vert. Wisconsin motor. Rebuilt control valve. New hydraulic oil & filter. $800. Call 908-496-4688. (1/4)

1968 Z80 SE Mercedes Coupe: gray metallic, leather seats, sunroof, alum. alloy wheels, 6 cyl. straight. $12,000. Call 908-4595912. (4/4) Hankook Snow Tires: 205/65 R15. 2 pair: 1 new, 1 used 1 season; good for 3 more seasons. $200 for all 4. Call 908-459-4485. (4/4) 2008 Hyundai 4-door Santa Fe: 33k mi. Silver gray w/ black leather interior, sun roof & many extras. $17,000. Call 908319-1326. (4/4) Class 1 Trailer Hitch: from GMC 1/2 ton pick up. Like new. Bolt on. $25. Call 908797-1896. (4/4) 1961 Thunderbird Hardtop: orig. an AZ car. Rare factory AC 390 C1 300 hp. Cruisomatic, power steering, brakes, windows & seats. Pearl white paint, orig. S/S & chrome w/ new black inter. All mech. systems were rebuilt. Stainless steel exhaust system. $15,500 OBO. Call 908-362-5775. (4/4) 1966 Corvair Corsa Convertible: 140 hp, 4 spd. All mech. systems rebuilt. Many new parts. New windshield. Lost interest. $2200 OBO. Call 908-3625775. (4/4) Vintage VW Parts: call 973-383-3926. (3/4) 1961/62 Chevy Full Size Complete Factory AC System: everything including the correct clutch fan for the engine. Removed over 30 yrs. ago. Perfect for chrome lovers. $1100 OBO. Contact Dave at 908-3625775 or djcav@ ptd.net. (3/4)

12 Aluminum Boat: w/ elec. motor. $125. Call 908-3199344 or 908-319-9345. (4/4) For Sale: 2001 V-Nose US Cargo Trailer--asking $2299. Motorcycle set up for trailering--asking $275. Call 908-362-9944 or 917-2995876. (4/4) 2004 Yamaha RX 1: less than 500 mi. In showroom cond. Orig. owner of both. Asking $2599. Additional snowmobile access. avail. Call FMI: 908362-9944 (evening), 917299-5876 (day). (4/4) Fisher Marine 14 Bass Boat: w/ trailer. 20 hp merc. 2 elec. trolling motors, marine battery, fish finder, 12 volt charger, 2 captain chairs, fuel cell, foot controls. $1800 OBO. Will trade for guns. Call 908-813-0987. (4/4) 2003 Harley Davidson 100th Anniversary Electra Glide Classic: exc. orig. cond. 8800 mi. Autographed by J. Davidson. Must sell! Sacrificing at $10,500 firm. Call 908-4595456. (4/4)

Local Businesses Join Hands to Raise Funds for Project Self-SufficiencyGeorges Wine & Spirits Gallery and Wards Flowers & Gifts will co-host Treasures & Tastings on Wednesday, November 30th, beginning at 6:30p.m., at Georges cozy store, conveniently located at 7 Main Street in the heart of downtown Branchville. A beautiful selection of holiday gift items, gourmet food baskets, holiday dcor, crystal, selected wines and other items will be available. Patrons who bring along a new, unwrapped toy for the Season of Hope Holiday Toy Drive will be entered into a special drawing. A $30 fee will be collected at the door; the majority of the proceeds will benefit Project Self-Sufficiency. Space is limited and reservations are required. For tickets or for more information, please call 973-948-9950.