If you ask any fitness expert, they’ll tell you that the best way to maintain a fitness routine is to  exert yourself in something you enjoy doing. For most people, that means some sort of sport or outdoor activity. It could be a round or two of golf each week, a few games of tennis, or even just a walk around the block, all of which are easy and enjoyable to do when it’s sunny and warm.

This time of year, while most people are shopping for toys and clothes, a motivated minority are shopping for a new home. These dedicated buyers are what make winter a true seller’s market, even though most people may not think of it that way.

While many national organizations and institutions are currently tackling the nation’s financial issues, one local community, Cedar Crest, in Pompton Plains, has been using a successful model for utility bills and services for eight years.

It doesn’t matter if you did it 5 years ago or 45 years ago: If you’ve ever been the mayor of your town, your experience gives you a different perspective on how things are run in your community. You want to be active—to participate in the decision-making process. And you examine the effectiveness of the services provided to see where improvements can be made and how much they might cost.