Get Safe Investment Information from the NJ Bureau of Securties

Several weeks ago we offered a program on Safe Investing provided by the New Jersey Bureau of Securities which is part of the Division of Consumer Affairs in the Office of the Attorney General.  The presenter left some information for us to share with the public, which you can find in a binder labeled “Investment Information” at the Information Desk, but I wanted to take a minute to summarize what the binder contains and what other information is available from the Bureau.   

The first and foremost purpose of the presentation was to alert the public that this office exists and to let you know what services they perform to assist the residents of New Jersey to make wise and safe investments.  In their literature, they say, “This is the government agency that regulates the sale of securities to and from the state and regulates those selling securities.  The Bureau encourages investors to be cautious when investing since securities fraud takes new victims every day and the scams change as often as the headlines on the front page of the news.” 

One of the fliers in the binder gives an overview of the Bureau and what information is available in their website at www.njsecurities.gov.  There are some very useful investor education booklets that are free to print or download; a few examples of this information will be included in the binder for in-library use.  These materials can help the consumer make safe and wise investments by revealing common methods employed by successful investors.  These are some of the available titles:  Five Keys to Investing Success, The Basics for Investing in Stocks, A Primer for Investing in Bonds, Mutual Finds: Maybe All You’ll Ever Need, Where to Invest Your College Money and Maximize Your Retirement Investments.  They also have a booklet titled Getting Help With Your Investments that provides all the information you need to find and work with reputable brokers and financial advisers and a booklet that the speaker left for the public, The Essential Guide to Safe Investing. 

Also on their website is an interactive online game appropriate for adults and kids called “Avoiding Investor Scams.”   See how well you do at trying not to be ripped off by shady advisers by playing this entertaining and educational game. 

The Bureau also provides free background information about those selling you securities.  You can contact the Bureau at their toll-free number 1-866-I-Invest (1-866-446-8378) or email your questions to askbureauofsecurities@lps.state.nj.us.  They caution consumers from getting pressured into investing or even giving out personal information about you and your current investments by agreeing to attend a Free Lunch Seminar.  “According to AARP studies, over 6 million seniors over the age of 55 have attended Free Lunch Seminars over the past three years.  And according to a study by the Investor Protection Trust, about 7.3 million Americans over the age of 65 have been victim to financial fraud – that breaks down to one out of five being victimized.”  They remind you that investment scams come in many varieties and if something looks too good to be true, it probably is! 

There is one final tip sheet (also included in the binder) that the Bureau has provided called “The Top Ten Investment Traps” that lists investments that you should probably avoid to insure that you don’t get scammed.  Stop at the Information Desk next time you are at the library and review the useful information in the Binder labeled Investment Information.  It could keep you from losing your savings by making poor choices or dealing with unscrupulous brokers.

You Should Be a Fan of Audiobooks

If you have a long commute like I do, or if you are planning to take a long family car trip, you should take advantage of either the books-on-CD (or cassette) that we have to check out or go to the ListenNJ link on our webpage (www.sbpl.info/digitalaudiobooks.htm) to download additional titles.  I have an hour drive each way to and from work and in order to avoid the inane conversation and the thousands of commercials on the radio, I have become a major fan of audiobooks.  But being an avid audiobook user, you will find that you have a few other factors to consider when selecting your reading material. 

Not only do I consider the author and subject of a book, but I also pay attention to the reader (or readers) of the story and the inclusion of special effects.  I have over time come to recognize certain readers as brilliant and others as being less than adequate.  And now that there are downloadable recordings of books, this becomes more important than ever. 

There are about a dozen major publishers of audiobooks – Audible, Books-on-Tape, Brilliance Audio, Hachette Audio, HarperCollins, HighBridge, Listening Library, Penguin, Random House, Recorded Books, Simon and Schuster and Spoken Word.  There are, of course, many more than these that publish audiobooks but these are the ones that we generally carry since they are available from our approved vendor.  Most of the major publishers use theatrically trained actors, but I have recently heard that there are recordings of books in the public domain available that are read by a computer generated voice!  I can’t imagine my telephone voicemail reading a book to me…ugh.  I find the publishers that use actors as readers, of course, the most enjoyable, but not always.  For instance, there is an actor that reads some mysteries that adopts a voice like the narrator of a “film noir” type B-movie that can be extremely irritating after just a few chapters. 

I also have found that a book read by the author can be the kiss of death.  Even though it is the author’s own words, they are often incapable of adding the inflections and modulations that are critical to an enjoyable “read.”  The readers that I most admire are George Guidall, who reads for Recorded Books (see http://www.georgeguidall.com/) and Lisette Lecat, who reads the Ladies No. 1 Detective Agency books by Alexander McCall Smith.  George Guidall holds the record for having read the most unabridged books – over 900.  Because he has this kind of clout, he gets to select just the books that he wants to read.  Did you know that you can search in the catalog for your favorite reader by putting their name in as the author?  In the case of George Guidall, this will bring up a list of books that sure to be enjoyable.  But watch the number of disks – he just finished reading Don Quixote which is in two parts and is overall 35 discs that runs for over 40 hours.  Even George Guidall’s skillful reading couldn’t coax me to complete that book.  And it is wonderful to have someone like Lisette Lecat, with her exotic accent, pronounce all the Setswana words and place names in the Precious Ramotswe series.  The reader of the HighBridge recording of The Secret Life of Bees, Jenna Lamia, is also a remarkable reader who is able to cover the entire range of accents, ages and nationalities of the characters and even sing the songs that are written in the story. 

I don’t care for the recordings that use special effects, particularly when I am listening in my car.  Popular added noises are gun shots and sirens, which can be very disconcerting when you are driving.   I am also not a big fan of books where there are too many readers.  I prefer the readers who are able to use a separate and distinct voice for each of the characters, like Jim Dale does masterfully in all of the Harry Potter books. 

As to downloading audiobooks from ListenNJ for use in your car, your car stereo will have to be able to play what is stored on your iPod or other MP3 player.  I don’t believe it is possible to burn a CD from your computer for use in your car, unless your car stereo is able to play MP3 files.   I have seen people driving with their earbuds in, but that is not only dangerous, it is illegal - you need to be able to hear a siren or a horn.   The newer cars are often equipped with either iPod docks or plug-ins to attach your mobile devices, but there are other adaptors you can purchase that will allow you to hear your   downloaded music and books without having to actually replace your sound system.  The simplest adaptor is one that plugs into a cassette player, if your car still has a cassette player!  There is a great tutorial on the ListenNJ site as to how to download the proper format for your device.  You just need your library card number and PIN and identify yourself as a patron of the “Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium (LMxAC).”  

I hope that you give audiobooks a try.  Yes, a lot of people think that this what their grandparents listen to, but in a recent review of audiobooks in Publisher’s Weekly, Parul Sehgal pointed out, “we turned to audiobooks for escapism and edification—and we got more than we bargained for. The industry took the business of entertaining us very seriously and readers turned in unforgettable performances.”  Enjoy!

How to set achievable New Year's resolutions

It is that time of year again when people look at what they accomplished this past year and try to set some goals to see if they can do things “better” in the New Year. Are you one of those people? I heard recently that only about 10% of us still do this! Maybe that is because, as part of our super achieving society, we try to set too many goals. Or maybe the goals we set are unrealistic.

Here are a few tips, to help you set some goals at the New Year or at any time of the year, that I learned from Christi Hegstad, Ph.D., from MAP Professional Development, Inc., a life coach who has a website at http://www.meaning-and-purpose.com/ I assume most people have heard about setting “S.M.A.R.T.” goals. [Doran, G. T. (1981). "There's a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management's goals and objectives." Management Review, Volume 70, Issue 11(AMA FORUM), pp. 35-36.] This concept has been around since this article was written on 1981 and many people have quoted it, refined it, built on it and some have even rejected it. The five steps in setting S.M.A.R.T. goals are: 1) make your goals Specific, 2) make your goals Measurable, 3) make them Attainable or realistic, 4) make them Relevant and 5) set a Time frame in which to achieve them.

This is a lot to do when thinking about New Year’s resolutions but some thought along these lines is necessary if you are to achieve them and therefore, enjoy the success that such a task can give you. To make sure that you have good, achievable goals, you should start early. Don’t just pick a few vague ideas out of the back of your mind while partying on New Year’s Eve. Start now and make them realistic. First, you should prioritize. Look at where you are in life to determine what is important to you right now. Dr. Hegstad says to think about “what positive change would make the biggest difference in your life.”

Don’t set too many goals. Be specific about what you want to accomplish and make a time frame part of the specification of the goal. Make the goal measurable, attainable and relevant. For example, don’t just say you want to loose weight, say something like you will lose a pound a week until you have lost “x- number” of pounds. A goal phrased in this way is specific, measurable, realistically possible, high on your priority list (to make it relevant) and set in a time frame. Remember, you can’t improve all areas of your life at once. Pick the areas that are most important to you at this time in your life and know that you will get to the other aspects in time.

Once you have set two or three of these specific goals, make sure that you track your progress. Don’t make an easy goal unattainable by complicating the tracking progress. You don’t need to record specifics (unless you want to). Just marking in your calendar that you did what you set out to do in the time frame you set to do it in (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) is enough. But make sure that you are able to get an overall view of your progress so that you can make adjustments if necessary or bask in your success. Make it positive – put a smiley sticker in your calendar when the goal is met and see how many of those little reinforcements start to add up.

The final thing you can do to be successful is to get support for your efforts, either from a professional or from a trusted friend. “Make your goals public,” Dr. Hegstad advises, “so that someone else can helping you be successful.”

It has been said that the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year for many because that is the day they realize that they have already broken their resolutions perhaps because they were made in haste without proper planning or thought, or they were too vague or perhaps they were too unrealistic from the outset. If you do your homework, you won’t set yourself up for failure; you will make the third Monday and every Monday thereafter a celebration, knowing that you are making a positive difference in your life!

Have a happy and healthy New Year!

'Help Now' from Brainfuse

Get help with  homework, create an online study group, learn a Microsoft Office software program, create a resume or study for the citizenship test.
 
The library's new "Help Now' service from Brainfuse is being offered on our webpage thanks to the generousity of the Library Foundation. The Foundation was started in 1996 by a group of individuals whose mission was the preservation and advancement of the Public Library in South Brunswick.

Here is what Brainfuse can offer you :
 
Homework Help: Enter the online classroom and receive live, online homework help from a Brainfuse tutor.

Skills-Building: The skills building service helps you master an academic concept through expert tutoring and state-aligned online lessons, HelpNow Skills Building has been designed for a variety of age groups and academic needs.

24/7 Help Center: Submit a homework question and a tutor will provide you with a response (usually within 24 hours).

Foreign Language Lab: The Foreign Language Center provides expert homework assistance and support for students who are learning a foreign language. Expert tutoring is currently offered for Spanish, and a host of helpful online resources for learning other languages is forthcoming.

Writing Lab: HelpNow offers two types of writing assistance:

Live Writing Assistance: Connect with an online tutor for expert writing assistance with our live help feature. Live help is particularly helpful during the initial stages of the writing process when you are working on the organizational and thematic features of your paper.

Intensive Writing Lab: For a more thorough analysis, simply select "Writing Lab" from the launch menu and submit your writing via our secure messaging feature. Within approximately 24 hours of submitting your paper, you will receive a detailed analysis of your paper in your message center inbox. Our writing experts are trained to focus their analysis on voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and organization.

STUDY TOOLS

Test Center: Visit the online assessment library to take practice standardized tests (SAT, ACT, GED and more) and practice subject specific tests, like math and science. Get results instantly and, if you choose, share your results with one of our tutors for a targeted skills building session.

Flashbulb -- Mobile friendly flashcards: Enjoy 24/7 access to an extensive library of online flashcard sets in hundreds of subjects. You can also create your own flashcards and multiple choice quizzes for efficient self-study on both computers and mobile devices.

What services are available for adult learners?

Our Adult Learning Center provides comprehensive academic support from trained adult education specialists in areas such as US Citizenship testing, resume and cover letter assistance, and core skills building including Microsoft Office help.

Find Brainfuse and many other valuable online resources on the library's website today!

For questions contact :  Mary Donne Head of Information Services

Something's Fishy Around Here

So my husband goes fishing whenever he can, and - sad but true, and the cause for much kidding - for the past two years he has not caught even a single keeper, much to my chagrin as a lover of fresh seafood.

But lo and behold, the other day:  success!  Stripers, nice ones, caught off the coast in our friend's boat.  Was the secret that he took our youngest son along? Not sure.

But even better, he cooked the fillets up, using Ina Garten's Barefoot in Paris cookbook.  Delicious, low in fat, high in protein, and fresher than you can even imagine.  Now I just need to figure out how to get to Paris sometime...

Roasted Striped Bass adapted from Barefoot in Paris by Ina Garten

2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 or 3 strips bacon, chopped up (2 oz.)
1 Tablespoon chopped garlic
1 28 oz. can diced plum tomatoes (I like Muir Glen brand, Fire Roasted or not)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 1/2 tsp. regular salt)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup dry white wine
1  2 to 3 lb.striped bass fillet (or other thin white fish fillet)
1 lb. shelled and deveined large shrimp (I always keep a bag from Costco in the freezer - just thaw under cold running water for 10 minutes, and drain well)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Heat the oil in a large frying pan and add the bacon and onion.  Saute about 10 minutes, until the onion is soft but not browned.  Add the garlic and saute another minute.  Add the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and wine, and simmer 5 more minutes.

Put the fish in a 13 x 9 inch glass pan.  Season with salt and pepper.  Strew the shrimp on top.  Pour the sauce over all and bake about 20 to 30 minutes, until the shrimp is done and the fish flakes easily.

I have cooked a number of recipes from this book of Ina Garten's.  The Croque Monsieur is great - a super grilled cheese and ham sandwich with bechamel sauce on top.  We had it cut up small for snacks...it is really rich and fabulous - not for everyday consumption, but totally worth a splurge.

Get this book and others at our Library today - remember, if the book's not here, you can always put it on hold and pick it up when it comes in.

Diane Whitman
Reference Librarian
Dreaming of being barefoot in Paris

Free Books for Kindle

We have been helping many  library patrons download e-books to their Kindle from the library's web site. It is a wonderful benefit of being a library member.  You can even download kindle books without a Kindle.  Here's how :

1.     Go to library website www.sbpl.info

2.     Click on the Download Audiobooks & eBooks button to the left of the screen.

3.    Next page tells you that your library is Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium. You  need to know your library card number, pin, Amazon Login and you need your Kindle WiFi turned on .

4.     Click on Download link to enter ListenNJ.

         Once in ListenNJ login to your Digital Media Account.

5.     We suggest using the Advanced Search option. Set search to ‘Format - Kindle,  Subject - of your choosing and then click on the  Copies Available box if you do not want to wait.

6.     Choose a Kindle Book from the search results and add to cart.

7.     Proceed to check out, confirm and ‘Get Kindle Book’.

8.     Log in to your Amazon Account with email and password when prompted.

9.     Click on ‘My Library Book’ and select kindle name or kindle app.

10.   The ListenNJ book should then appear on the Kindle or Kindle app. You may have to click on menu to see the list.

11.  All ListenNJ/Overdrive kindle checkouts are managed on your Amazon account by clicking on ‘Manage My Kindle’.

      12. Books titles are deleted from the Kindle itself from the title list. Highlight the title, click on the    left directional arrow (delete command will appear) and then click on the center OK 

To get help with this please contact the Information Desk.

Mary Donne, Head of Information Services

Thanksgiving in Paradise

In one of my previous blogs on travel, I shared our dilemma about where to take a November vacation.  Well, we just returned from Aruba, where we spent Thanksgiving week, and I can tell you that we made a great choice!  Aruba advertises itself as "one happy island" and that is certainly true.  The natives enjoy a high standard of living from the influx of tourist dollars which results in a happy population who are welcoming, friendly and helpful.
 


Brown Pelican

 Aruba is a vacation paradise that caters to the American tourist.  The country accepts American currency - in fact, the first and sometimes only prices given are the prices in US dollars - no money changing or conversions necessary!  And the food ranges from American standards such as T.G.I. Fridays and Tony Romas to Brazilian, Dutch, Belgian, Caribbean, French, Japanese, Chinese and other interesting cuisines from around the world.  There are too many good restaurants that you can't try them all!  The best meal we had was in a restaurant at our resort called Le Petite Cafe which featured hot stone cooking at the table.  Basically, they deliver the food raw, sitting on a (very) hot stone.  The food is starting to cook (seer) as it arrives and the rest is up to you to heat to your desired doneness as you cut each bite.  You get your meal prepared just the way you like it.



Iguana

 The daily temperature tops out at around 89 degrees but there is almost always a breeze which makes being outdoors - sunbathing, shopping, dining or just walking around - more than tolerable.  It is, however, only 12 degrees north of the equator (and 15 miles from Venezuela) so even on cloudy days, don't be fooled into thinking that the sun is other than strong, strong, strong!  You really need to wear sunscreen (at least 30) at all times as you can get a burn even in the shade (and I can personally attest to that!)   We did experience a few brief rain showers that cooled things off and kept the island lush and green but the showers quickly gave way to sun.  We were told by the natives that the weather patterns over the past four to five years have changed enough to negate the adage that "it never rains in Aruba" - apparently there have even been whole months in the past few years where it has rained all day, every day for weeks at a time causing flooding and a lot of disgruntled vacationers.  The "rainy" season is probably November, December and maybe a few weeks into January but there is really no difference between summer and winter or day and night for that matter.

The island has really only been developed for tourism since the last Venezuelan oil refinery closed in 1985, so most of the hotels and tourist areas are new and upscale and construction of new resorts is continuing at a moderate rate.  Aruba, as well as other Caribbean islands, has definitely felt the effects of the recession in the US.  There are many vacant stores and some over ambitious Venezuelan construction projects have been abandoned.  It is the only blight that I saw on an otherwise beautiful island.

There are three main areas on the western side of the island where all of the "action" is located.  The oldest "tourist" area is in the capital city, Oranjestad, near the marina where the cruise ships dock.  The second area just to the north is called the low-rise hotel area which is located on Eagle Beach.  The newest area is the high-rise hotel area on Palm Beach, to the north of Eagle Beach.  To go between these areas, you should take a taxi, which are plentiful and inexpensive.  There is a safe bus system that tourists use, but the bus stops everywhere making the journey long and tedious.  However, once you are in one of the tourist areas, everything is in waking distance.  And every area has a full selection of everything you need - restaurants, shopping, entertainment, casinos, night clubs, recreation opportunities, water sports, land tours, grocery shopping (and even Wendy's and McDonald's) - everything you need for a family vacation or a romantic get-away.



Most of the hotels are full resorts including access to the beach, pools, restaurants, a casino, a spa, gym, and activities for children, teens and adults.  Many are timeshare properties that "rent" vacant units to guests.  We stayed at the Playa Linda Beach Resort which is a timeshare property with one and two bedroom units with full kitchens and balconies all with an ocean view.  There were many owners at this resort who have clearly been coming for years and know each other and the regular staff.  The resort advertises itself as "your home away from home" and it certainly felt comfortable and safe. 



Bananaquit

 Water sports (snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, parasailing, kite surfing, banana boat, tube and water skiing to name a few) and land adventures (horseback riding, trekking in three and four wheel ATVs, hiking) abound, but you can also just relax on the beach under a thatched "chickee" hut or beside the pool and catch up on your reading and napping, which is what we did almost every day.  Watch out for lizards large (iguanas) and small (gecko like lizards of every shape and color) warming themselves on every rock and enjoy the beauty of the many exotic flowers and birds that are all around.  We saw Brown Pelicans plunging head first into the sea to catch a tasty fish, watched Magnificent Frigatebirds soar high in the sky and enjoyed the song of the friendly Bananaquit as they visited the many tropical flowers in bloom everywhere and our table looking for juice or fruit.



Magnificent Frigatebird

 At the newest mall (not quite done), there is a new bowling alley that features glow-in-the-dark nighttime bowling, popular with the teens and there is a surf simulator to give you the thrill of surfing of the safety of land.  There are even cinemas that feature all the latest releases.  We saw Johnny English with the ever zany Rowan Atkinson which was a scream and we saw it at half price on two-for-one Tuesday.

All-in-all, Aruba was everything that people say that it is...a great vacation spot...guaranteed.

Children's Book Flash Video On iPad from SBPL

The South Brunswick Library website has  two great online children's video book services that use flash video.  They are Bookflix and Trueflix. 

Bookflix is for grades K-3.  It offers unlimited access to classic children's video storybooks that a child can read along with again and again.

TrueFlix™ is the only online resource that leverages the award-winning True Books content to help students hone literacy skills, build knowledge of subject-area content, and cultivate 21st Century skills through the inquiry process. It's intended audience is grades 3 thru 6.

To make a long story short for a long time we could not use these services on our iPad. South Brunswick  school librarians were especially disappointed since the iPad  is being used more and more in today's classroom.

The library recently demonstrated library apps on mobile devices.  Jim Colquist attended this demonstration and  he offered to explore ways we might be able to use Bookflix and Trueflix on an iPad.  


Jim is now our most recent library hero.  He emailed us to say that the browser Photon, available from the App Store for a small fee, allows users to view flash videos including Bookflix and Trueflix. 

Here is what he shared :
************************************************************************

- download Photon browser from the app store

 

- navigate to South Brunswick Library's database link  from photon

 

- BEFORE clicking Bookflix or Trueflix links....hit the lightning bolt icon on photon browser to put you in flash mode.    This will reload the page. You need to do this on the database link, otherwise you will not be directed properly to the "TrueFlix (outside library) " "BookFlix (outside library)" when you click them.

 

- log in with library code and you will be able to use either site. 

There are some minor limitations:

- paging down on the database link page is a little slow in flash mode...so takes a second to move down to the Trueflix link.

 

- the video can't be displayed full screen like most iPad video. But it does work and the audio plays.

 

************************************************************

Try this fix and start enjoying free, quality children's book videos from your library today on your iPad.

For more information on this article contact : Mary Donne Head of Information Services

 

 

I Found a Farm at the Library

In these unstable economic times around the world a young American author named Jenna Woginrich is inspiring readers of her books, tweets, and blog posts to take charge.  To learn to be more self-sufficient while being environmentally conscious. Jenna is no whiner. She is on her feet trying, making mistakes, and learning. You can occupy Wall Street if you want.  No offense to the occupiers, but I admire someone like Jenna. She is truly a doer!

I discovered Jenna's first book while looking for recipes in the 640 section of the Library shelves.   I happened to notice the title Made From Scratch: Discovering the Pleasures of a Handmade Life. This  immediately got my attention because anything about "handmade" is impressive to me.  It means that someone has slowed down, taken time to be creative and clever, broke a sweat, taught themself something, saved money, and even helped the planet to boot.  What's not to love?! 

 In her book she talks about how she started off as a young, single woman with a desk job and a city apartment who wanted to build a more self-sufficient lifestyle by learning homesteading skills. She didn't own land or have much practical experience beyond a few forays into knitting and soap-making.  She did have a strong desire to opt out of what she saw as a consumer-driven culture. After moving to a rented farmhouse, she learned to raise chickens and bees, and to grow her own food. All the while supporting herself with a full-time job as a graphic artist. 

Along the way, she learned that an abundance of enthusiasm and a willingness to experiment could make up for a lack of knowledge, and that reaching out to others for mentoring and guidance could help her reconnect with her community.

In the book I found simple sewing patterns and simplified recipes for pancakes, quiche, and bread among other ideas.

Made from Scratch shares the deep satisfaction Jenna found by learning to provide for herself. Her youthful (she is in her mid-20s) outlook is positive and humorous as she shares stories of her ups and downs with her two sled dogs (yes, she even taught herself how to drive a sled team!).  In addition she talks about lessons learned to knit a sweater, play a guitar, make jam, even raise baby chicks.

Her voice is inspirational and encouraging as she goads readers to take small steps toward self-reliance as she does.  For Jenna, it's about learning the simple skills most of us have forgotten, and finding joy in the process.

Since the printing of that first book, Jenna bought a small farm in upstate New York and continues to learn new things, such as training a pony to pull and playing a banjo. She is writing her fourth book now about how she has managed her first year as a property owner, part-time new farmer, and still full-time graphic artist. 

Her story is less unique than you might think. Raised garden beds in Brooklyn backyards has taken on a kind of movement (search videos on You Tube). Upstate New Yorker farmers Josh and Brent of Beekman Farm have a book and now weekly TV show about their "conversion" from working for others to self-reliance on the farm.


One way Jenna has helped herself survive is by inviting readers of her blog to paid workshops in her home, where she shares her hard-won knowledge on a variety of topics.  In March I am looking forward to attending her workshop on Urban Farming, a course for suburbanites like myself who want to be better backyard gardeners and canners for benefit of health and wallet.  
 
To learn more about Jenna Woginrich and her homestead on Cold Antler Farm, just search in Twitter, Facebook, and Blogger, and of course, on the 640 shelf at your local library.

Chocolate Frosting and Food Snobs

Chocolate Frosting and Food Snobs

Me? A food snob? Not really…I’ll admit, I do love the heirloom tomatoes and the baby white turnips and everything from the organic farm, but I’m not above using a cake mix in a pinch. But puh-lease do not use frosting from a can?  Ever. It’s just not worth it – the calories, the effort, anything! It tastes artificial, grainy and bad, and furthermore, it’s too soft to decorate with too.

This week I made three desserts for staff birthdays. One was the Chocolate Covered Cherry Cake from The Cake Mix Doctor by Anne Byrn – just devil’s food cake mix, 21 oz. cherry pie filling, 2 eggs and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Mix as usual and bake. I happen to have a 12 inch round cake pan (because I made my own wedding cake – I know, what was I thinking), so I made it in that instead of a 13 x 9 pan because I thought it would look more festive.

But the frosting, ahh the frosting…it was delicious. It was from Martha Stewart’s Cupcakes. Rich, chocolatey, and decadent, but definitely not lo-cal and yes, a little time consuming. After all, it’s Martha, what do you expect?


Here follows two good chocolate frosting recipes: the aforementioned one from Martha, and the other from the America’s Test Kitchen Healthy Family Cookbook. The ATK recipe my daughter made for me for my birthday (I'm trying to lose a few pounds, especially before the holidays!), and it was really delicious, and, as she says, “insanely easy” and “more like 3 minutes”.


Five Minute Lowfat Chocolate Frosting, adapted from the America’s Test Kitchen Healthy Family Cookbook

3 ½ cups confectioner’s sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – preferably Dutch processed*
7 Tablespoons 1 percent lowfat milk
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 oz. bittersweet chocolate (microwave it)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a food processor, pulse the sugar and cocoa together until mixed. Add everything else. Process until smooth.
(130 calories per 2 Tablespoons.)


* Note: Dutch processed cocoa tastes better and blends better than regular cocoa powder – you can buy Dutch processed Rademaker unsweetened cocoa at Wegman’s, or Droste or Lindt from a gourmet store; failing that, use Hershey’s regular unsweetened cocoa powder.



And now for the full fat version:

Chocolate-Sour Cream Frosting, adapted from Martha Stewart's Cupcakes

8 oz. (2 cups) confectioner’s sugar, sifted
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Dutch processed (see note above)
¼ teaspoons salt
6 oz. cream cheese, room temperature (temp is very important here)
¾ stick (6 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temp
9 oz. bittersweet chocolate, melted in a double boiler, and cooled for 20 minutes
¾ cup sour cream, room temperature

Sift together the dry ingredients – sugar, cocoa and salt.

Beat cream cheese and butter together at medium high speed in a mixer until pale and fluffy. On low speed, add the sugar mixture and mix thoroughly. Then add the cooled chocolate and the sour cream and beat on high until smooth.   (Enjoy in moderation - ha!)


It’s hard not to like a chocolate cake with a great frosting.  Be sure to err on the side of underbaking with a chocolate cake, though:  3 - 5 minutes less will do.  A chocolate cake should not be dry.

 And just between you and me - don’t tell anyone it’s from a mix!

(All of the above mentioned books are available in our Library.)

Diane Whitman
Reference Librarian
Little White Liar

Learn Something New Today!

South Brunswick Library  in partnership with Recorded Books (Prince Frederick, MD), is pleased to announce the introduction of Universal Class Library Edition, a powerful new online continuing education service designed specifically for use by the patrons of public libraries.




Universal Class offers patrons a unique online education experience. With a growing catalog of over 540 courses, Universal Class is committed to providing only the most affordable and highest quality online training. Over 300,000 students around the world have benefited from Universal Class’ unique instructional technologies. With real instructors guiding the learning, engaging video-based lessons, a collaborative learning environment, graded lesson tests, certificates of achievement and Continuing Education Units available for selected courses, students enjoy an engaging and measurable learning experience that helps them master and document their educational goals.



Universal Class offers courses in Exercise and Fitness, Entrepreneurship, Arts and Music, Home and Garden Care, Knitting, Cooking, Computers and Technology, Health and Medicine, Homeschooling, Job Assistance, Law and Legal, Parenting and Family, Pet and Animal Care…plus 100’s more. Computer Basics,  Microsoft Excel, Word, OutLook, Publisher, PowerPoint, Adobe Flash, Ebay, Photoshop, Quicken and even Keyboarding should prove very popular classes.



Details on Universal Class may be found on the library's database webpage or visiting or contacting us.

Financial Security seminar for Wednesday Wisdom Fifth Wednesday

Mark November 30th at 1:30 on your calendar to come to the library and hear about ways to protect your finances and to make safe investing decisions. The program will be presented by representatives of the Department of Law and Public Safety, NJ Division of Consumer Affairs who are part of the Office of the Attorney General.

The presentation will be a frank discussion on safe investing practices and financial security given by the people who are part of the team that investigates securities fraud in the state.

The speaker will discuss topics like investor scams, types of fraud, understanding risk, investor rights, how to conduct background checks and how to recognize red flags that may indicate consumer fraud. Literature will be available that you can take home as reinforcement of what is presented in the seminar.

The goal of the Bureau of Securities is to help the consumer make informed investment decisions and not fall victim to the fraudulent or illegal scams.

Don't miss this important presentation. The Wednesday Wisdom program offers something of interest to adults every Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 in the library. Check our newsletter The Compass for the schedule of programs or visit www.sbpl.info/calendar/ for more information.

Defensive Driving Course Saves Money and Lives. Register by Nov. 15.

An attitude adjustment could save your life.

Road rage, cell phones, decision-making, and attitude will be among the topics discussed in a two-day defensive driving course on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane in Monmouth Junction.

This is an official point & insurance reduction program that will benefit the Friends of the Library. Participation can save you points and money, but the lessons learned will certainly save lives.

“Drive with the attitude that everyone on the road is trying to kill you,” says Ret. Lt. Tom Chartoff, instructor and president of the Defensive Driving Institute of New Jersey. The driving program is offered by the Institute and taught by retired police academy driving instructors.

People need to be prepared to respond so there are no surprises, he explained. “Think ahead. Have a plan.”

The course is not intended to be a driver’s education course or a course for new drivers. Participants should have at least one year of driving experience. Ret. Lt. Chartoff marveled out how drivers are taught the skills at age 17 and then drive for the next 60 years or more without any required update.

Learning to be a better defensive driver is really about attitude and can make all the difference. The bottom line, says Ret. Lt. Chartoff, is that drivers need to “treat people on the road the way you would treat them face-to-face.”

The financial and points benefits of taking the course can include savings of as much as $100 per year and a 2-point reduction. Inform your automobile insurance company representative that you are enrolled in a National Safety Council course and ask for specific clarification about what point and cost reductions to anticipate.

“For the most part the course pays for itself.”

Pre-registration is required. See registration form for more details. Forms can be downloaded from the Library’s Nov. 29th calendar entry at www.sbpl.info/calendar. To participate just pick up a form from the Information Desk or online. Make checks payable to: The Friends of the S.B. Library. Send the completed form and check by Nov. 15 to: Chris Carbone, Friends of the Library, South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. For more information, call 732-257-2967 or e-mail fixaticket@aol.com.



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Tues., Nov. 29



Defensive Driving Course: A two-day program on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9:30 p.m.; and Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane in Monmouth Junction. This is an official point & insurance reduction program that will benefit the Friends of the Library. This driving program is offered by the Defensive Driving Institute of New Jersey and taught by retired police lieutenant/police academy driving instructors. Participation will make you eligible for a point reduction and insurance discount. Pre-registration and advance payment required. The cost to attend is $55 or $65. The cost depends on your discount choice on registration form. See registration form for more details. Forms can be downloaded from the Nov. 29th calendar entry at www.sbpl.info/calendar. To participate just pick up a form from the Information Desk or online. Make checks payable to: The Friends of the S.B. Library. Send the completed form and check by Nov. 15 to: Chris Carbone, Friends of the Library, South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. For more information, call 732-257-2967 or e-mail fixaticket@aol.com.



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Defensive Driving Course at SBPL Can Save You Money

An attitude adjustment could save your life.

Road rage, cell phones, decision-making, and attitude will be among the topics discussed in a two-day defensive driving course on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane in Monmouth Junction.

This is an official point & insurance reduction program that will benefit the Friends of the Library. Participation can save you points and money, but the lessons learned will certainly save lives.

“Drive with the attitude that everyone on the road is trying to kill you,” says Ret. Lt. Tom Chartoff, instructor and president of the Defensive Driving Institute of New Jersey. The driving program is offered by the Institute and taught by retired police academy driving instructors.

People need to be prepared to respond so there are no surprises, he explained. “Think ahead. Have a plan.”

The course is not intended to be a driver’s education course or a course for new drivers. Participants should have at least one year of driving experience. Ret. Lt. Chartoff marveled out how drivers are taught the skills at age 17 and then drive for the next 60 years or more without any required update.

Learning to be a better defensive driver is really about attitude and can make all the difference. The bottom line, says Ret. Lt. Chartoff, is that drivers need to “treat people on the road the way you would treat them face-to-face.”

The financial and points benefits of taking the course can include savings of as much as $100 per year and a 2-point reduction. Inform your automobile insurance company representative that you are enrolled in a National Safety Council course and ask for specific clarification about what point and cost reductions to anticipate.

“For the most part the course pays for itself.”

Pre-registration is required. See registration form for more details. Forms can be downloaded from the Library’s Nov. 29th calendar entry at www.sbpl.info/calendar. To participate just pick up a form from the Information Desk or online. Make checks payable to: The Friends of the S.B. Library. Send the completed form and check by Nov. 15 to: Chris Carbone, Friends of the Library, South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. For more information, call 732-257-2967 or e-mail fixaticket@aol.com.



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Defensive Driving Course at SBPL Can Save You Money






Tues., Nov. 29



Defensive Driving Course: A two-day program on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9:30 p.m.; and Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane in Monmouth Junction. This is an official point & insurance reduction program that will benefit the Friends of the Library. This driving program is offered by the Defensive Driving Institute of New Jersey and taught by retired police lieutenant/police academy driving instructors. Participation will make you eligible for a point reduction and insurance discount. Pre-registration and advance payment required. The cost to attend is $55 or $65. The cost depends on your discount choice on registration form. See registration form for more details. Forms can be downloaded from the Nov. 29th calendar entry at www.sbpl.info/calendar. To participate just pick up a form from the Information Desk or online. Make checks payable to: The Friends of the S.B. Library. Send the completed form and check by Nov. 15 to: Chris Carbone, Friends of the Library, South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. For more information, call 732-257-2967 or e-mail fixaticket@aol.com.



-30-









Defensive Driving Course at SBPL Can Save You Money

An attitude adjustment could save your life.

Road rage, cell phones, decision-making, and attitude will be among the topics discussed in a two-day defensive driving course on Tuesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane in Monmouth Junction.

This is an official point & insurance reduction program that will benefit the Friends of the Library. Participation can save you points and money, but the lessons learned will certainly save lives.

“Drive with the attitude that everyone on the road is trying to kill you,” says Ret. Lt. Tom Chartoff, instructor and president of the Defensive Driving Institute of New Jersey. The driving program is offered by the Institute and taught by retired police academy driving instructors.

People need to be prepared to respond so there are no surprises, he explained. “Think ahead. Have a plan.”

The course is not intended to be a driver’s education course or a course for new drivers. Participants should have at least one year of driving experience. Ret. Lt. Chartoff marveled out how drivers are taught the skills at age 17 and then drive for the next 60 years or more without any required update.

Learning to be a better defensive driver is really about attitude and can make all the difference. The bottom line, says Ret. Lt. Chartoff, is that drivers need to “treat people on the road the way you would treat them face-to-face.”

The financial and points benefits of taking the course can include savings of as much as $100 per year and a 2-point reduction. Inform your automobile insurance company representative that you are enrolled in a National Safety Council course and ask for specific clarification about what point and cost reductions to anticipate.

“For the most part the course pays for itself.”

Pre-registration is required. See registration form for more details. Forms can be downloaded from the Library’s Nov. 29th calendar entry at www.sbpl.info/calendar. To participate just pick up a form from the Information Desk or online. Make checks payable to: The Friends of the S.B. Library. Send the completed form and check by Nov. 15 to: Chris Carbone, Friends of the Library, South Brunswick Public Library, 110 Kingston Lane, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852. For more information, call 732-257-2967 or e-mail fixaticket@aol.com.



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Library Displays

Did you notice the collection of Hindu Masks that were on display in the library in celebration of the Indian holiday of Diwali?  This collection of paper mache masks are the creative work of local artist Rupal Patel of R P Studio here in Monmouth Junction.  The collection includes masks of many of the Hindu deities.

The collection was placed on display as a way of introducing the concepts behind the Indian celebration of Diwali, which was October 26 this year.  Diwali is one of the biggest festivals for Hindus, celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness.  The festival is celebrated for five continuous days, where the third day is celebrated as the main Diwali festival or 'Festival of lights.’  Different colorful varieties of fireworks are always associated with this festival.  On this auspicious day, people light up diyas (clay oil lamps) and candles all around their house.  It is a festival with such traditions as cleanliness, colorful Rangoli making, and social gatherings to exchange greetings and sharing sweets with loved ones. 

In Hindi, Diwali means “Festival of Lights.”  Diwali is not only the festival of lights but also marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.  The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.  The lighting of the lamps is also a way for people to show thanks for the good things in their lives.

Rupal Patel will be exchanging her Diwali display for her son's collection of over 100 different kinds of elephants.  Come and see this fabulous collection.

The library will soon make available an application that can be used by organizations or individuals who would like to create a display to be shown at the library for a maximum of one month, subject to approval of content and availability.  Keep an eye out for this link on the library homepage at www.sbpl.info - coming soon. 

Free Library Apps

Did you know there are  free library apps available to use with your mobile device?

Come to the Information Desk  on Monday November 14 or Tuesday November 15 from 6-8:30 pm to learn more about them. 

There are apps to download audiobooks, eBooks and magazine articles and to search the library's collections or check your account.

We will be demonstrating how to use the library's digital resources on mobile devices like the Ipad2, the Android Tablet, the Nook and the Kindle.


Mobile devices may use the library webpage or our mobile webpage to access our database resources like Rocket Language Learning, ValueLine Investment research, Learning Express test and job preparation material, and coming soon Universal Class offering continuing education classes on topics like music, cooking, computer technology and more. You will need your library card number to use these.

Bring your own device if you want help downloading our library apps. If you are unable to make this date please contact us to schedule time with a librarian to see these mobile devices and library apps.

Registration not required for this drop in event.

Wicked

You know the witch's face on the Wicked Broadway show poster?  That's pretty much the color of the green smoothie I made recently.  Was it wicked?  Why, no, it was rather good in fact.

Having heard some buzz about green smoothies this summer I decided to try one myself.  I made my usual smoothie of a frozen banana, a handful of strawberries, a container of yogurt (any random flavor), and some OJ and then added some nice, freshly washed Swiss chard from the organic farm.

I took my  first taste with trepidation - no different than normal!  But I actually WANTED it to taste "green", so I kept adding chard until I could taste it.  I probably added about a cup of chard in all:   result?  a sweet and creamy smoothie but with a a distinctly fresh, vegetal undertone, and yes, the color of Elphaba's face.

Green smoothies?  Easy and nutritious.  You can get a serving of green leafy vegetables without resorting to cooking at all.

It was in this spirit of experimentation that I picked up the Everything Green Smoothies Book, by Britt Brandon.  Now here was an entire book devoted to green smoothies using either romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, or kale, plus all kinds of other diverse ingredients.  Not sure how they would taste, but I was willing to try.

Here's a recipe I tried for a smoothie inspired by the Everything Green Smoothies Book, but this one didn't actually turn out to be that beautiful witchy green -

Chocolaty Dream
1 frozen banana
1 Tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup almond milk
1/2 cup packed spring mix looseleaf lettuce
1 teaspoon sugar or sugar substitute

Blend until smooth.

Interesting, the color of a dark chocolate milkshake with little green bits in it.  First taste, not bad, but I actually liked it better the more I drank it.  And afterward?  I was full for a long time, but in a good, healthy-feeling way.  Cocoa powder has all those good antioxidants in it plus fiber, so it's actually good for you, whereas a dark chocolate bar is less so. Chocolate without the guilt!

I think you can pretty much interchange any of the green leafy veg from this book, and also substitute most any dairy product for another, so this book is more of a guideline than anything else.  But I am going to branch out and try some of the other combinations from this book, maybe one with fresh spinach?

Now I just hope I don't turn green...

Diane Whitman
Reference Librarian
Sometime Healthy Eater
Broadway Musical Enthusiast

Ask A Librarian From Home Or On The Go

 Now there are more ways than ever to ask a librarian at South Brunswick a question.

First, you can text us from your mobile phone at  (732) 800-1394. Add us to your contacts and we will be that much easier to reach.  We answer texts during library hours up until a half hour before closing.

Next, you can call the library while we are open at (732) 329-4000 x 7286.  We can help you find the information you need from our extensive print and online resources.

Our new and improved Chat Service is available from http://www.sbpl.info/ by clicking on the Ask A Librarian link.  Just click inside the Chat Box and type your question.We should get right back to you. You can  use this Chat Service on most mobile devices since it uses Java and not Flash. 

If you don't have time to chat, you can leave your email and your question in the Question Form on the Ask A Librarian webpage. We can get back to you by email with the information you need.

Ask A Librarian services are available from the Library's mobile webpage. Use that when you are away from your desktop.

Asking a librarian for information has never been easier!  Try it today.

Hearing is Living; Don't Deprive Yourself

Experts from Total Hearing Care in Monroe Township will give a FREE educational program on hearing, hearing loss and the importance of baseline hearing testing. In addition to the program, a free hearing screening will be offered to all attendees.  The Program is scheduled for November 30, 2011 from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. in the Octagonal Program Room off the Children's Department (Program Room 2).  They will have literature and information to give out, so registration is recommended so they can be sure to have enough to go around.
In the literature they sent ahead of the program, they included a few articles of interest.  Did you know that symptoms of untreated hearing loss can mimic symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease?  In fact, a 1996 study of memory disorders by the University of South Florida found that 94 percent of respondents suspected of having memory disorder actually suffered from untreated hearing loss.  The study found strong evidence that hearing instrument use, combined with effective follow-up care, helped alleviate many of the symptoms commonly attributed to Alzheimer's Disease.  Some of the symptoms that are present in both conditions are depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation or disorientation; reduced communication ability; reduced cognitive input; reduced mental scores; inappropriate psychosocial responses; denial, defensiveness and negativity and distrust and paranoia or distrust of other's motives. 

Another article on hearing describes auditory deprivation that can occur if a hearing loss goes untreated for too long.  Auditory deprivation is a decrease in an ear's ability to understand speech clearly and a crucial part of every hearing exam involves measurement of word discrimination.  It is unclear whether auditory deprivation is reversible, so it is important to detect hearing loss in the early stages so that you can preserve word clarity with the use of hearing aids.  the research supports the "use it or lose it" theory. 

Come to the library on November 30th to hear about the latest findings in audiology research and get a FREE individual hearing screening, either at the end of the program or later in their Monroe offices.

Basically Mexican

The very first time I had Mexican food, I made it myself.  From scratch.  Including the tortillas.

Why?  Because, at 17 years old and coming from a background where the only ethnic foods I ever ate were pierogis or pizza, I had no idea you could buy tortillas pre-made at the store.  So when one of my friends suggested that I make tacos for our group before we went out, I said okay.

I found a taco and tortilla recipe in an old all purpose cookbook my Mom had (was it the 1950's Good Housekeeping Cookbook?  Wish I still had it...) and proceeded to make tortillas from water and cornmeal, and pressed them out as thin as I could with a rolling pin (not very), and then baked them on a cast iron skillet.  Not bad, but certainly NOT what my high school friends expected or were used to.

Since then, I've eaten lots of different kinds of ethnic foods, some more, some less authentic, but I still enjoy making foods from scratch, even when they're readily available.

This week I made a supremely easy and delicious Fresh Tomatillo Salsa, from tomatillos we picked at Honey Brook Organic Farm - better than anything you can buy in a jar.

Two authors come to mind immediately when researching Mexican food:  Diana Kennedy, and Rick Bayless.

Forthwith the recipe I adapted from Bayless' Mexican Everyday.  I'm also going to try the Salsa Verde from From My Mexican Kitchen by Diana Kennedy - I've still got a lot of tomatillos!  I highly recommend both of these authors and books.

Fresh Tomatillo Salsa

8 oz. tomatillos, (I used about 6, each about the size of a golf ball) papery husks removed, and rinsed
1 large garlic clove, quartered
1 jalapeno or other hot chiles, stemmed and quartered (or 5 more, if you're like my son)
1/2 cup cilantro
Salt

Blitz the garlic in a food processer first.  Add the rest of the ingredients along with 1/4 cup water and process until chopped but not pureed.  Serve with tortilla chips (don't have to be homemade!).

Diane Whitman
Reference Librarian
Dilettante

Reference USA helps small business owners!

Reference USA can help the small business entrepreneur!

Reference USA is the premier source of business and residential information for reference and research that can help the small business owner. 

Using the U.S New Movers/Homeowners module users can find the names and addresses of people who have recently purchased homes in their area. These homeowners typically need a whole host of services/repairs that the small business entrepreneur can now directly market to and contact. 

Another example of a useful data mining search is for a web designer to make a list of local companies that don’t have websites.  The web designer can then tout the merits of a custom made website that can be created for the business owner 

For more information contact the Information desk:

http://www.sbpl.info/home/askalibrarian.htm or (732) 329-4000 x 7286

More Organization Help from an Expert

Now that the weather is turning colder and the days are shorter, we will begin to spend more time indoors making it a good time to clear out some of the clutter and waste we have in our lives.

Sangita Patel of Kalakar Interiors, a life coach, interior decorator and professional organizer based in West Windsor will be here in the library on Tuesday, November 1, at 7:00 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Her presentation is titled The Magic of Thought Logic: Clearing and Connecting Your Mind-Space and Home-Space. According to Ms. Patel, “our body and our home are connected in many ways. Our home reflects who we are. In our homes, we need to plan, organize, and harmonize for a peaceful lifestyle. In our body, we need to have healthy intentions, attention to ourselves, and an active mindset to achieve our goals in life.” In her presentation, she will tell us how we can “customize and maximize our Mind-Space and Home-Space connection” so that we will be able to “deal with our yesterday, plan for today so tomorrow will be organized and harmonized.”

The South Brunswick De-Clutter Club requested that we bring in more speakers and organization professionals to talk about managing clutter; Ms. Patel will not only share her ideas of integrating your life and your surroundings to create harmony, but she will also give some pointers on maintaining a clutter-free life once we succeed at the process of clearing out.

Because we already have this de-clutter program scheduled in the first week of November, we will not have our regularly scheduled De-Clutter Club meeting on Thursday night, but there will be some information for the club members (and others who might want to join) on the December meeting and our donation project.

You can also read the blog for the De-Clutter Club at sbpldeclutterclub.blogspot.com

Good vs. Evil

The bad me craves chocolate.  The good me argues that dessert can be light and lower in calories. 

Thus, this week’s recipes:  Dark Chocolate Gelato, and Lemon Sorbetto.  Both the good and bad news was that the Chocolate Gelato was so rich and dense and chocolately, it tasted like frozen chocolate ganache.  And the Lemon Sorbetto?  Divine - like the best fresh frozen lemonade.

For me, the Chocolate Gelato was just too much chocolate and not enough frozen-ness (is that a word?).  I told my family it was so rich, they should cut it with something:  so they went to town topping it with lots of whipped cream, pretzels, and what-have-you.  They disagreed with me:  they all loved it.

An unexpected plus - it was vegan, so my son’s girlfriend could have some as well – the chocolate intensity comes from dark dutched cocoa and dark chocolate, no milk involved.

A couple days later, I made the Lemon Sorbetto in my quest for the cold hit I was looking for.  It was simplicity in itself.  Boil water and sugar for a simple syrup.  Add lemon juice and zest, cool overnight in the fridge.  Churn. Freeze.  Eat.  Feel virtuous.

Dark Chocolate Gelato, adapted from The Perfect Scoop
2 1/4 cups heavy cream
6 Tablespoons Dutch processed cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
Pinch salt
6 oz. unsweetened bar chocolate, chopped
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract


Whisk together over medium heat, the cream, cocoa powder, sugar and salt.  Heat until just boiling.  Remove from heat. Whisk in the chopped chocolate until melted.  Add the milk and vanilla.  Blend 1 minute with an immersion blender or regular blender.  Refrigerate overnight.  Freeze in ice cream maker.  Indulge.

Lemon Sorbetto, adapted from The Ciao Bella Book of Gelato and Sorbetto

2 cups water

2 cups sugar

1 cup fresh lemon juice, from about 6 lemons

1 Tablespoon lemon zest

Combine water and sugar in small saucepan, stir to dissolve, heat to boiling.  Cool slightly, add lemon juice and zest.  Refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.

Churn in ice cream maker.  At this point the mixture will be too soft to scoop.  Pack into container, and place in freezer for 2 hours or more.  Enjoy. (Cute little sugar lemon decoration optional.)

Both The Perfect Scoop by David Lebovitz and The Ciao Bella Book of Gelato and Sorbetto by F.W. Pearce are all around good go-to books for frozen desserts.  The nice thing about finding a recipe in a book versus finding a recipe online, is that it is “browsing enabled” (my term), i.e., it’s easy to find lots of enticing recipes as you leaf through the book, maybe inspiring you along the way to try something you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.

Find these books at our Library (– as soon as I return them! -) or tons of others on our shelves right now.

Diane Whitman

Reference Librarian,

Split Personality