Children’s Book Drive—Through the end of February, we will be collecting gently used children’s books (no comic or coloring books) to give to those who have none. Now is a great time to dispose of books your children have outgrown and clear those bookshelves. These precious books will be distributed through social agencies in Newark and the Oranges. The need is great, so look for the collection boxes located in the coat room.  Further information or questions, call Sandy Levitan 973.467.8433 or e-mail Marcysam1@hotmail.com.

Cold Facts about Fireplaces: When you light a blazing fire on a cold winter day, it looks and feels wonderful, but it can be an expensive and inefficient endeavor. A fireplace sends most of the heat in your house straight up the chimney, emitting as much as 24,000 cubic feet of air per hour to the outside! But there are ways you can limit the loss of heat when enjoying a quiet evening by the fire. Reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly—only about an inch—and close doors leading into the room. Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room. Check the seal on the flue damper and make it as snug as possible. Use grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool room air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room. Keep your fireplace's damper closed when you aren't using it. Consider a gas fireplace if you are planning to install a new one. These provide the enjoyment of looking at flames but can be 70% more efficient than regular fireplaces.

Windows and Energy: No Panes, No Gains: Windows waste plenty of energy and money. Experts say as much as 25% of your home's heat can escape through leaky windows. Here are simple things you can do to make your existing windows save energy and keep your home a little cozier:

A Successful Women's Interfaith Forum & Dinner
with Guest Speaker Author Gabrielle Glaser