PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Gen Y Girl

The ability to stretch a budget can help businesses or those who are self-employed weather lean times and flourish in good periods, and being efficient with time can mean surviving a busy season with your sanity intact. But these principles can be hard to uphold.

To help, here are a few tips to assist freelancers, entrepreneurs and small business owners to make more happen with existing resources.

Seek Out Resources

Taking care of certain logistics is easier these days, as retailers like Staples offer resources for small businesses, such as their Small Business Hub, where you can design and order business cards, print marketing flyers and posters, get invitations, announcements, calendars and brochures, many on the same day that you place the order.

“When you are on a tight schedule, having one place where you can go that meets a bulk of your small business needs is extremely useful,” says Melanie Salinas a photographer and the blogger behind “Story of Five.”

Salinas, who recently partnered with Staples as part of their #MakeMoreHappen campaign to help small business owners learn about resources to help them get things done, is a frequent user of both Staples’ online hub, as well as their in-store Copy & Print center.

Keep Expenses Organized

“Don’t mix business with pleasure. Easier said than done when you’re working from home, but it’s a must. Keep business expenses separate from family expenses,” says Salinas.

It may seem like an extra step now, but you can avoid accounting headaches and help make tax time a breeze by staying organized. Good organization will also help ensure you don’t overlook expenses that could lower your taxes.

Create a Workspace

If you are looking to take your business to the next level, it’s important that you have a dedicated workspace where you can get stuff done. Look to programs like Staples Rewards to get cash back on purchases, special coupons and deals.

“Even if it’s just a corner of your bedroom, creating a functional workspace will help you boost productivity,” says Kayla Buell, who runs “Gen Y Girl,” a Millennial career and lifestyle blog, who recommends sprucing up the area with supplies and décor that inspire and motivate you.

Use Time Wisely

Marketing yourself or promoting your business can be tough, especially if your days are full working for existing customers and keeping your business going.

“Promoting sounds like a lot of work when you’re bursting at the seams, but you have to communicate with people you want to hire you,” says Susan and William Brinson, who own a thriving photography business and blog at “House of Brinson.” “We use the weeks where we’re slow -- around the holidays for instance -- to work on promotions.”

More business ideas to save time and money can be found by visiting Staples.com and by following #MakeMoreHappen on social media.

Give yourself a cushion -- both on your calendar and in your wallet. Smart approaches to running your business will boost your productivity and stretch your budget. (StatePoint)

The chilly months can mean colds, flu and feeling worn down. But just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to hibernate all winter. In addition to taking precautionary steps to stay healthy, it’s important to stay active with your family.

Here are five great ways to keep the cold from holding you and your family back from enjoying the season.

1. Bundle Up. While the cold weather itself is not the germy culprit that leads to illness, not wearing enough clothing outdoors can tax the body, compromise your immune system, and make you more vulnerable to succumbing to infection. Stay bundled up and, when necessary, keep extremities protected with gloves, hats and thick socks.

2. Eat foods rich in Vitamin C. Give your immune system a healthy boost with an extra dose of Vitamin C. But look beyond citrus fruits for your daily measure. Bell peppers, broccoli and Brussel sprouts are also good sources of this necessary nutrient. For an additional boost, you may also wish to consider taking a dietary supplement designed to support immunity.

3. Keep hands clean. Germs reside on surfaces wherever you go. According to a recent Wet Ones survey of parents with children ages 2-12, nearly 100 percent of respondents say their children catch a cold every year, which can lead to missed days of school and work. You can keep hands clean throughout the day with antibacterial wipes, such as Wet Ones hand wipes, which kill 99.99 percent of germs, are hypoallergenic and contain aloe and lanolin so they are easy on the skin. They come in singles and travel packs, making them convenient to pack into purses, backpacks, briefcases and other on-the-go uses. To learn more, visit WetOnes.com.

4. Stay Hydrated. It can be easy to become dehydrated when you aren’t well, as coughing and sneezing mean fluid loss. But proper hydration is particularly important when your body is trying to mend itself. Drink plenty of water and decaffeinated tea when you are sick, and add a lemon wedge for additional Vitamin C. Low-sodium soup is a good meal choice, as are fresh juicy fruits and vegetables.

5. Keep moving. Regular exercise can boost immunity and keep your body healthy and strong, so don’t use winter as an excuse to become a couch potato. Stay moving by skiing, sledding or running outdoors. If the chilly weather is not your thing, there are plenty of opportunities for indoor exercise – from family-friendly aerobics to yoga and more! (StatePoint)

BENCH WARRANTS

The Susquehanna County DOMESTIC RELATIONS Section has outstanding BENCH WARRANT'S for the following individuals as of 9:15 a.m. on February 10, 2017Randall P. Austin, Timothy Bartkus, Tonya S. Birchard, Allen S. Bowman, Melanie M. Button, Jason J. Carroll, Brian M. Decker, Tina Dolan, Robert Franks, Jeffrey J. Gamble, Morgan A. Garcia, Ryan H. Groover, Keith G. Harms, Clinton T. Johnson, James Krauss, Christopher M. Kuiper, Todd J. Layton, Charlie J. Legere, Steven J. Leiser, Scott J. McGarrigle, Joshua K. Mess, Matthew S. Miller, Peggy J. Mills, Matthew J. Moxen, Christine M. Mroz, Timothy Murray, James D. Peck, Jr., Frank T. Perera, II, Leon J. Phillips, Brian T. Phillips, Anthony Popolaski, III, Cody Quick, Matthew J. Setzer, Desiree L. Shifler, Richard D. Shoemaker, Jason L. Shores, Christopher D. Taylor, Samantha Ulrich, Charles Vanwinkle, Jr., Robert C. Walter, II, Jeffrey Warner, William R. Wayman, Jr., Anthony Younica, Please contact the Domestic Relations Section at 570-278-4600 ext. 4050 with any information on the location of these individuals.

DEEDS

Dorothea Bistis to Susquehanna Shale LLC in Lathrop Township for $1.00

William E., William R. and Bryon C. Breese to Breese Land Partners LLC in New Milford Township for $1.00

David G. Delzell (ESTATE), Kathleen M. and Lisa Hovemeyer to Jon E. Lash and Dona R., Charles L. and Nancy J. Warner in Uniondale Borough and Herrick Township for $54,000.00

Michael and Cathy McCain to Bernard and Nicole Mahon in Bridgewater Township for $169,000.00

Rory A. (AKA) Rory and Janice M. Maginley to Emma and Nicholas C. Lewis in Bridgewater Township for $189,000.00

Tracy R. and Doris Whitney to Robert Z. and Erin E. Robbins in New Milford Township for $1.00

Roderic J., Debra K. (AKA) Debra Kay Ross to Kevin M. and Jaqueline McDade in Great Bend Township for $245,000.00

Thomas W. and Mary F. Yale to Thomas Victor and Katie Lynn Yale in Uniondale Borough for $1.00

Michele Calafut to Jerry R. and Joanne K. Sheridan in Clifford Township for $190,000.00

Jack M. and Mae L. Oakley to Alan L. and Cynthia A. Oakley in Springville Township for $1.00

Lynn and Jane Tompkins to Wayne L. Tompkins in Gibson Township for $1.00

Patrick J. Familetti to Robert J. Wallace Jr. and Michelle D. Wallace in Lenox Township for $60,000.00

Rodney A. and Sarah Birchard to Orchard Holdings LLC in Bridgewater Township for $1.00

George and Barbara Barnes to Barbara Barnes in Liberty Township for $1.00

Jess S., Kara L. (AKA) Kara Erdmann to Kara L. Erdmann in Forest City for $1.00

Edward J. Moyle to Edward J. Moyle and Lois M. Robbins in Forest City for $1.00

J&F Resources LLC to J&F Resources LLC in Clifford Township for $1.00

Leo and Helen Bachynsky to Thomas R. and Leslee A. Thomas in Great Bend Township for $25,000.00

John W. Scheibe to Brock T. and Kassandra Welch in Springville Township for $47,000.00

John E. (ESTATE AKA) John Layaou Jr. to John Layaou III, Vicki Routhier and David Layaou in Springville Township for $1.00

Montrose Hillbillies LP to David R. and Heidi E. Mitchell in Franklin Township for $7,500.00

Douglas J. Weber to PennMarc Resources LP and AMG Asset Advisors LTD in Bridgewater Township for $1.00

Michael W. and Melanie R. Pratola to Michael W. III and Melanie R. Pratola in Herrick Township for $1.00

William C. (AKA) William Charles Dahm to Hill "Billie" Natural Gas LLC in Rush Township for $150,000.00

William A. and Marion C. Ball to William A., Marion C. and Jason Ted Ball, Jennifer Jane Sorber and Amy Elizabeth Ide in Springville Township for $1.00

Carlton H. and Darlene R. Mallery to Carlton D. and Stacy L. Mallery in Oakland Borough for $1.00

Matthew J. Armitage to Aaron M. Hitchcock in Liberty Township for $90,000.00

Curtis L. and Sheri L. Fullom to James E. Rogers in Lenox Township for $240,000.00

James N. and Tammy M. Hill to James N. and Tammy M. Hill in Franklin Township and Bridgewater Township for $1.00

Josephine Salvanto to Michael G. Smith in Apolacon Township for $247,170.00

Josephine Salvanto to Michael G. Smith in Apolacon Township for $92, 830.00

Nicholas and Elizabeth Lacroix to Bremer HOF Owners Inc in Herrick Township for $100.00

Lavera O. Seymour to Lavera O., John R. and Wilda G. Seymour in Rush Township for $1.00

Christopher D. and Sharon M. Gorick to Christopher D., Sharon M., Dustin M. and Edward J. Gorick in Great Bend Township for $1.00

James L. and Marjorie S. Worrell to James L. (TRUST) and Marjorie S. (TRUST) Worrell in Forest Lake Township for $1.00

Harold J. Cunningham to Thomas and Mary Kane in Silver Lake Township for $25,000.00

Michael H. and Rhonda A. Ryder (NBM) Rhonda A. Johnson to Rhonda A. Ryder in Oakland Borough for $1.00

David W. Jr. and Mary Beth Pritchard to Nicholas S. Manns in Auburn Township for $127,000.00

Robert and Barbara Fishman to Michael J. and Sharon E. Massaro in Herrick Township for $151,000.00

Jean (AKA) Jeanne Wilson to John R. Transue and Amy J. Paolucci in New Milford Township for $112,500.00

Loren K. Dixon to Liam Caley McMahon in Lenox Township for $175,000.00

Jean A. George to Jean George (TRUST) in Springville Township for $1.00

Jean A. George to Jean George (TRUST) in Springville Township for $1.00

Matthew A. and Jeanette Miller to Leland Paul and Tarah Rose Loziere in Bridgewater Township for $168,500.00

John R., Corinna M. and Paul P. Kinney and Richard Capoccia to Robert E. and Sharon L. Kinney in Lathrop Township for $1.00

Edwin E. (ESTATE) and Christopher E. Vogel to Christopher E. Vogel in Hallstead Borough for $1.00

Marny K. and Robert J. Hyde Jr. to Marny K. Hyde in Auburn Township for $1.00

Kathleen G. Congdon to Blake (TRUST) and Drew (TRUST) Congdon and Emily (TRUST) Penrod in Clifford Township for $1.00

Kathleen G. (TRUST BY TRUSTEE), Blake (TRUST BY TRUSTEE) and Drew (TRUST BY TRUSTEE) Congdon and Emily (TRUST BY TRUSTEE) Penrod to Forge Farm LP in Clifford Township for $1.00

Carlton T. Spare Jr. to Jennifer M. Gonzalez in Ararat Township for $120,000.00

Robert E. Lee Jr. to Great Bend Limited Partnership in New Milford Township for $1.00

Frank V. Sanfilippo to Frank V. and Margaret M. Sanfilippo in New Milford Township for $1.00

Ghislain M. and Priscilla M. St Pierre to St Pierre Family Trust in Little Meadows Borough for $1.00

Robert E. Henry (TRUST) to Bruce A. and Erica D. Rudolph in Montrose for $118,000.00

Frank J, and Kathleen L. Sventek to Shawn P. and Justine L. Brennan in Silver Lake Township for $1.00

Shirley A. Smith to Duane A. Smith in Harmony Township for $1.00

Christopher D. Bishop to Steven Fitzgerald in Susquehanna 2W for $1.00

Melissa A. and Robert S. McFarland to Robert S. McFarland in Choconut Township for $1.00

J&F Resources LLC to Forest City Borough in Clifford Township for $1.00

Margaret E. Rifenbury to Margaret T. Rifenbury in Liberty Township for $1.00

David L. Hansen to Corporation of The presiding Bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Oakland Township for $160,000.00

Daniel E. Peterson to Daniel Vlassenko in Ararat Township for $80,000.00

Scott A. Halesky to Scott A. and Tamara Halesky in Thompson Borough for $1.00

Erma Lee and Lewis M. Lamb to Erma Lee and Lewis M. Lamb in Thompson Township for $1.00

Ralph H. Olsen (ESTATE) to Keith Roettenbacher in Bridgewater Township for $4,900.00

Paul Silas (AKA ESTATE) Paul S. (ESTATE) Frisbie and Debra White to Robert R. and Julia A. Fagan in Liberty Township for $50,000.00

JT Spano LLC to Philip Hodges Jr. in Liberty Township for $10,000.00

Annette E. Applegate to Joseph A. Applegate in Jackson Township for $1.00

Brian E., Mary Jane, Robert R. and Yvonne M. Taylor to Matthew D. and Lindena R. Macy in Lenox Township for $60,000.00

McCullough Trust to Wilbur J. and Nina J. McCullough in Franklin Township for $1.00

McCullough Trust to Wilbur J., Nina J., Kimberly G. McCullough Crowley and Donald McCullough in Springville Township for $1.00

Clifford and Virginia M. Nilsson to Kathleen and Joseph Andusko in Oakland Borough for $1.00

Eloise L. McAndrew (ESTATE) to Eric J. and Athena A. Legates in Thompson Borough for $46,000.00B

Bradley R. Jones to Bradley R. Jones in Oakland Borough for $1.00

Spencer L. and Charlotte G. Empet to Michael Feduchak in Harford Township for $1.00

US Bank National Association (SUCCESSOR TO) LaSalle Bank and Bear Sterns Asset Backed Securities I Trust 2004-HFB to John Tolerico in Forest City 2W for $24,500.00

Sylvestal C. and Bonnie G. Roe to Sylvestal C. (TRUST) and Bonnie G. (TRUST) Roe in New Milford Township for $1.00

Janet Sterling to Janet E., Charles W. and Michelle J. Sterling in Bridgewater Township for $1.00

Malandri Family Limited Partnership to Leon C. Sidorek in Auburn Township for $260,000.00

Bank of America to Helen Sershen in New Milford Township for $54,600.00

Keith and Wendy J. Wiseman to CMA Land Co. LLC in Liberty Township for $450,000.00

Glenn E. and Judith M. Ferguson to Marcellus Brothers LLC in Springville Township and Dimock Township for $46,750.00

John and Kimberly Mele to Travis Sloat in Forest City 2W for $143,630.00

Stanley J. and Doreen M. Hallowich to Stanley Jr. and Richard Hallowich, Lynn Harrison and Cynthia Stephens in Clifford Township for $1.00

Stanley J. and Doreen M. Hallowich to Richard Hallowich in Clifford Township for $1.00

Stanley J. and Doreen M. Hallowich to Richard Hallowich in Clifford Township for $1.00

Fannie Mae (AKA) Federal National Mortgage Association and First American Title INS Co to Michele Lee Warner in Susquehanna for $16,500.00

Alert F. Baker to Diaz Holdings LLC and Thomas Galiardo in New Milford Township for $21,000.00

Wilma J. Kelsey (TRUST) to Wilma and Chester Enterprises LLC in Harmony Township for $1.00

Brent J. (AKA) Brent J. Jr. Natzle to Brent J. Sr. and Brian George Natzle in Silver Lake Township for $1.00

Tracy R. and Doris M. Whitney to Tracy R. and Doris M. Whitney in New Milford Township for $1.00

Roland and Nancy Decker to Pennsylvania Commonwealth of Department of Transportation in Lenox Township for $1.00

Bradley and Penny Strickland, William J. and Patricia O'Dell, John D. (TRUST) and Judith Margaret (TRUST) Reynen to Guild Flagstone II LLC in Harford Township for $284,780.00

Bernard A. Smith to Mary Sue Smith in Dimock Township for $1.00

Tiffany Mae and David Morgan to Caleb H. Owens in Bridgewater Township for $195,000.00

Chad M. and Kelly Benedict to EMK Resources in New Milford Township for $175,000.00

Auburn Land LLC to Lenny G. and Alicia Traver in Auburn Township for $65,000.00

Christopher F. and Karen L. Dekker to Robert J. and Sarah S. Keating in Clifford Township for $65,000.00

John William and Yujing Greenleaf to John William and Yujing Greenleaf in Forest City for $1.00

John S. Jr., Antonia F. and Megan L. Kintzer for John S. Jr. and Antonia F. Kintzer in Herrick Township for $1.00

Robert L. Jr. and Samantha Veralics to Jay and Erin McElroy in Forest City 2W for $15,000.00

Timothy J. and Suzanne M. Houlihan to Suzanna M. Houlihan in New Milford Township for $1.00

Clay

This dashingly handsome and fit boy is Clay, a 2 year old Staffie mix with a lot of energy and an exuberant zest for life. Clay is full of personality and quickly becomes a favorite to all who get to know him.  He is extremely affectionate and people focused, and is in search of a permanent friendship and a lifetime commitment. He would do best as your one and only with enough doggy cuteness to fill anyone's heart.  Neutered, UTD, and microchipped, our super dog is hoping to head home where he can fully take advantage of the beautiful Spring weather that will be here shortly and show off his athletic skills. Clay has been with us for quite some time and really deserves to be sharing his life with a family of his own. Won't you be his hero?

Starting Valentines Day we are waiving our set adoption fees in hopes of finding all our sweethearts a Valentine all there own! Donations are still very much appreciated and will go directly to our medical expenses.

Be sure to also mark your calendars for “Country Cooks for Charity” hosted by our Montrose Rotary at Ayres- Stone VFW, February 18th from 5:00-8:00 PM.  The event will offer samplings from local cooks and 100% benefits our local shelter.  Tickets are $20 each or $35 per couple and available at True Friends.

FunFact: After the first year of life dogs are considered adults. It is equivalent to 16 human years! Clay and his furry friends are wasting valuable doggie years at the shelter when they could be spending them with you!

While some aspects of health are beyond your control, there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to support a strong immune system.

“Building a strong immune system can improve and even extend your life,” says Larry Robinson, PhD, and vice president of Scientific Affairs, Embria Health Sciences, a manufacturer of natural, science-based ingredients that support wellness and vitality.

Robinson and the experts at Embria are encouraging people to try these great health and wellness tips.

Be Social

It’s easy to hole-up during these cold winter days, but it’s not very good for your health or immune system. Research shows that people that have more human interactions are better combating cold weather challenges.

So make sure to chat with your coworkers during the day and make plans with your friends after work. Not only will this boost your immunity, but social activities may also help reduce stress and depression.

Supplement

While a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support good health, getting the proper vitamins and nutrients in sufficient quantities every day can prove challenging.

Consider offering your immune system targeted support with a supplement designed to boost healthy immune function. One of the best immune strengthening ingredients is EpiCor fermentate, which has been clinically shown to support the body’s ability to initiate the proper immune response when needed, support rapid immune response and maintain healthy immune function.

You can find EpiCor in many popular and trusted supplement brands.

Rest and Relaxation

Rest and relaxation can go a long way toward supporting good health. Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to a number of major health problems and can impair the way your immune system responds, according to the National Institutes of Health. What’s more, too much stress can compromise immune response. So whether it’s spending time with friends, going to yoga or taking a bath, make sure your schedule includes time for both sleep and for stress-reducing activities.

Improve your health from the inside out. By focusing on boosting your immunity as a goal, you will naturally adopt healthy habits. (StatePoint)

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) AlexD75 - iStockPhoto.com

Fifty-two people die every day from opioid overdoses nationwide, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 12 million U.S. residents used prescription painkillers non-medically in the past year.

Unfortunately, even a small dosage can depress respiratory function, and these drugs can be especially dangerous when combined with other common substances like alcohol and sleeping pills. What’s more, prescription drug abuse can be addictive, and even lead to heroin use.

If you love someone who may be addicted to prescription painkillers, here are five things the National Safety Council says you should know.

1. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain. Addiction, like heart disease or diabetes, leads to increasingly poor health, and can be fatal if it’s not effectively treated and managed. People who suffer from addiction still have self-worth and should be treated with dignity. Unfortunately, shame and discrimination prevent many individuals from seeking treatment. Recovery can be achieved in many different ways and all recovery efforts should be celebrated.

2. Medication Helps. Opioid and heroin addiction cause a chemical imbalance in the brain, which medication can help repair. There are three major medications typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes counseling and participation in social support programs: Buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone. Buprenorphine and methadone diminish the effects of withdrawal and cravings restoring brain chemistry. Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and heroin. Buprenorphine and naltrexone can be administered by health care providers. Methadone is delivered in specialized clinics.

3. Traditional treatments aren’t always effective. Recovery is a lifelong journey. Unfortunately, some traditional treatments focus on quicker fixes like attempting it alone or by going cold turkey, which ultimately can be detrimental. Indeed, rates of relapse and overdose are higher for people who have gone through 30-day treatment programs, and 56 percent of people who leave treatment centers relapse within the first week. However, medications, can offer longer-term solutions, and are often less expensive than in-patient treatment. If traditional substance abuse programs haven’t worked, consider medication.

4. Support is critical. A failed cycle of detox and inpatient therapy, then relapse, can leave a person feeling hopeless. This is why support is critical. Doctors and treatment counselors are important, but even more so is a well-informed support group of family and friends.

“Addiction is not a broken arm that can be fixed. It’s like being on a permanent diet with a piece of candy staring at you every day,” says Avi Israel, a survivor advocate who lost his son after battling a prescription drug addiction. He advises friends and family of patients to, “Know the signs of addiction. Don’t judge. Throw tough love out the window. Love. But love with structure.”

5. Understanding addiction is crucial. Both patients and their friends and family should understand that addiction is a disease, and know what is needed to manage it.

“My son had Crohn’s disease, and I knew everything about that. I wish I had known as much about addiction,” says Israel.

There are more options than traditional 30-day-treatment programs and 12-step programs. In addition to medication, there are support programs like SMART recovery, which provide attendees with tools based on the latest scientific research, as well as a worldwide community with self-empowering, science-based support groups.

A road of recovery is paved by many people – not just those in recovery. With the right support systems in place, a successful and sober life is possible. (StatePoint)