Bridgewater, NJ|News|
National Mental Health Council Names Lance a 'Legislator of the Year'
The National Council on Behavioral Health cited his work championing issues affecting people with mental health and drug abuse issues.

John Patten
Email me at John.Patten at Patch.com
Or call 908-552-9051
Bio With more than a decade of experience as an editor of community newspapers in Central Jersey, John is dedicated to helping warren.patch.com become Warren Township's leading source of information for residents. A native of Montana, where he studied music at Montana State University—Billings, he moved to New Jersey in 1994 and launched a career in newspapers. He has edited award-winning newspapers covering Hillsborough, Manville, Cranford, Scotch Plains and Jackson Township.
John is committed to building strong communities, and has served on the board of trustees for a local education foundation and for the organizing committee for an American Cancer Society Relay for Life. He has also been active in Boy Scout leadership and Toastmasters International.
He continues to be an active musician, and also enjoys astronomy.
Your Beliefs I believe the greatest strength of our nation is the diversity of talented, energetic and interesting people I meet every day in my work. A community like Warren is best served by a constant dialogue between dedicated officials and informed residents, and my job is to facilitate that dialogue.
Politics As an independent voter, I listen to all parties before deciding what I believe -- no one has all the answers and we can often find new ones by discussing the issues.
Religion While not a regular church attendee, I enjoy the spirit and passion of religious communities and believe the town is strengthened by the myriad of services they provide. Local Hot-Button Issues It's been clear to me that many residents of Warren want to know more about what town and school officials are doing, and to gain a better understanding of the decisions being made. As the municipality and school boards wrestle with new budgetary restraints and economic issues, residents need to know as much as possible about those decisions.
The National Council on Behavioral Health cited his work championing issues affecting people with mental health and drug abuse issues.

The National Council on Behavioral Health cited his work championing issues affecting people with mental health and drug abuse issues.
A fundraiser for the Somerset County food bank feeds you like you're family—and then asks you to donate for someone else's table.
A fundraiser for the Somerset County food bank feeds you like you're family—and then asks you to donate for someone else's table.
And the board of adjustment hears an antenna proposal tonight.
Also, Somerset Medical Center offers free prostrate cancer screenings.
New outdoor play area means no more spoiled recesses.
Each year, millions of people fall victim to identity theft, thanks to poor Internet security but a presentation at the library can help protect your information.
But younger residents don't need to feel left out—here's where else vaccinations are available.
Get your flu shots at the township's clinics or your favorite pharmacy to stay healthy this year.
Also, Bridgewater-Raritan High School soccer, field hockey teams take on nearby Hillsborough.
Partridge Road resident is one of 25 finalists in Redbook magazine's contest.
Hillsborough's Laura Iarkowski helping to organize Oct. 6 event.
Enjoy swimming, classes and snacks at annual event.
Brett Locker assembled a team of 20 to help his Bar Mitzvah project at Newark Liberty International Airport
Bridgewater's Brett Locker assembled a team of 20 to help his Bar Mitzvah project at Newark Liberty International Airport
Services set for Thursday at St. Rose of Lima in East Hanover.