Skip to main content

Publisher's Letter

Jul 30, 2026 04:51PM ● By Jerome Bilaos

On Monday, July 13, I celebrated 39 years of sobriety. Back in January I turned 82. My gratitude for these accomplishments, well, words cannot describe. Over time I have learned about change when it seemed impossible, hope when none existed, how to ask for help, the need to ask for help, the power of community. I learned about my ego and the need for humility.

As time passed, I learned to change. The community helped me look inside and taught me that fixing my defects is an inside job. I came to understand and accept that my life is my responsibility, from every aspect of my thinking to my actions.

In the grip of addiction, it is almost impossible to make good decisions, to open my mind to listen. AA helped me understand the destructive nature of my life, of my behaviors, my character defects, and my inability to love. I had spent my life living in fear and building walls for protection. I was a total phony. Through living sober and with much help from many in the AA community, I learned how to stop hiding from myself. They taught me how to be honest, examine my motives, look inside, and discover an ability to love myself.

This journey has led to receiving gifts of understanding, empathy, compassion, love, and purpose. AA helped me with my thinking, to do the right thing, to never stop growing, to change habits, drop negativity, and to become authentic. I also know from personal experience never to take anything for granted.

As I reflect on what I have learned over time, I see that a great life is built from small decisions, one after another, over hours, days, months, years. Therefore, time is the most precious asset we possess; what we choose to do with our daily moments should be a high priority. Small decisions to see the good and invite what best helps me to continue becoming the person I want to be is an ongoing process. It’s led me to being happily imperfect where I am as the director of my own life. I spend my time sucking up all the good I can find while recognizing the miracles that are happening all around.

My wish for everyone is this — that you each may feel the joy of living, embrace an attitude of gratitude, and find peace in the moment.

With love, peace and laughter,
Joe & Asta Dunne, Publishers

In-Print, Wise Words, Inspiration publisher's letter CNJ NCNJ August 2026
Upcoming Events Near You
The Tick Tackler Tutor: Three Impactful Tick Remediation Strategies for the Homeowner

By Jennifer Meisenbacher

Did you know most tick bites occur in and around the home—and that ticks spend more than 95% of their life off a host?

With more than 19 years of field experience, Tick Tackler offers a practical, easy-to-follow approach that empowers homeowners to significantly reduce tick activity on their properties. From gardening and yard work to children’s play areas, this guide outlines essential adjustments to help protect your outdoor spaces from ticks.

The Tick Tackler Tutor introduces three impactful strategies designed to identify high-risk areas and minimize exposure. These methods are versatile and adaptable—whether you’re a homeowner, pet owner, beekeeper, or managing a larger property such as a doggy daycare or horse farm.

Inside, readers will discover how education leads to confidence, how small changes can yield visible results, and how breaking tick control into manageable steps restores a sense of control. The book simplifies complex concepts into three core strategies, guiding readers in creating a personalized plan to reduce tick activity effectively.

For those eager to reclaim their yards but unsure where to begin, this guide delivers clear, actionable solutions. Transform your outdoor environment into a safer, more enjoyable space for family, pets, and everyday living.

Available now on Amazon.

Follow Us On Facebook