By Cathy Miller

As wicked and wild 2021 comes to a close, thoughts turn to the new year and its promise of bright beginnings. Herewith some diners and our Persons of the Week share their thoughts while enjoying their repasts at Thisilldous Eatery in Belvidere.

Heather DeLorenzo, White Township
Heather, a graduate of Belvidere High School, sat with her friend Jake Bilyk, from Belvidere, while her little baby slept quietly in her stroller. Since the birth of precious little Paisley, Heather’s three month old daughter, she was adamant about her New Year’s resolution: “I want to be a good mother!”

Jake Bilyk, Belvidere
In 2022, Jake is determined to “waste less money – on anything and everything.” Such as? “Anything you can think of, like truck parts, dirt bikes, and clothes.”

Cindy Hosterman, Belvidere
Cindy has resolved to “slow down and take more time to enjoy family and life,” explaining, “We all work way too hard.”

Nikki Duplissis, Belvidere
Nikki believes for the people of Warren County, “the most important thing is to start supporting local businesses instead of shopping malls.” To that end, her friend John Dean, an artist, has a studio and a unique enterprise called Little Shop of Art n Stuff in Belvidere.

Mary Ann Boyd, Knowlton Township (on right)
With worldwide goodwill in mind, Mary Ann said she is going to be “kinder to everyone regardless of political views, lifestyles, and choices they make. We need to be more kind and loving.” She hopes to “spread more kindness and peace in this world.” She explained, “My faith gives me a great deal of peace. I can focus on what’s important – faith, family and friends.”

Maureen Carmeci, Lopatcong, was dining with Mary Ann. Close friends and confidantes for 40 years, Maureen agrees “100% and then some with everything Mary Ann just said.”

John Evans, Bangor, PA
When asked what his New Year’s resolution was, John laughed and said, “I haven’t made a New Year’s resolution in decades, and when I did, I never kept them. So why bother?” When asked if he frequently crosses state lines for breakfast, he quipped with a smile, “All the time!”

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To all the resolution makers and the resolution breakers, may 2022 hold nothing but good will, good health, and good times with good friends. Happy New Year from Inside Warren!