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JESSICA FINCH Associate Editor

• DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF - I am fairly high strung; I'll admit it. Not when it comes to fashion, or going to the salon as often as possible, or having a fancy car - those things I don't care about. But in my everyday life I am not on the "relaxed" side of the spectrum. Sometimes I find myself mulling over "the little stuff." I try and remind myself it doesn't matter, and move on. Recently I met two individuals who have re-instilled those feelings.

In the Jan. 16 edition I ran a story about Bob Kunkel, an Army veteran who works with injured soldiers recovering in Washington, D.C. His story is amazing. He gives up his time and money to help strangers deal with life-changing issues. And those soldiers he helps are amazing too, dedicating their lives to protecting this country. Many success stories were the result of Kunkel's efforts. I wasn't the only one who was touched by his story. Two people have already contacted me, asking how they can help with his mission.

And just this past week I met another kind of soldier: Jacquie Hirsch, 22, who is battling acute lymphocytic leukemia. I sat with her at home, and she shared her story with me. Her positive attitude, while waiting for a bone marrow transplant, is pretty awesome. She was already talking about finishing her college degree next year. Her never-give-up spirit was unbelievable.

Her strength has encouraged nearly 1,000 people to join the national registry as bone marrow donors. From the outpouring of support I can tell I am not the only one affected by her story.

As an editor of a community newspaper I have the opportunity to meet so many different kinds of people - the good and the bad. There are those who become easily upset about anything, and others who are facing serious issues and still manage to stay levelheaded. I feel lucky to have met Kunkel and Hirsch and share their stories. I hope that we can all learn a valuable life lesson and remember what really matters.

• GIVE KIDS A SMILE - Children who don't have access to dental care are encouraged to sign up for the annual "Give Kids a Smile" Day on Feb. 1, conducted by the School of Dental Medicine at the University at Buffalo and the Pediatric Dental Clinic at Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo. Children ages 1-8 will receive free dental treatment at both the clinic and hospital. Call 861-3593 to schedule an appointment. Patients receive an exam, fluoride treatment, X-rays, sealant and instruction. Children will receive a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss.

The day is made possibly by more than 200 volunteers and is part of a national effort to encourage children to adopt good dental health habits early on to avoid major problems later. The event is sponsored by American Dental Association, Colgate and Sullivan-Schein.

• FREE APPRAISALS - On Wednesday, Feb. 6 the Greater Buffalo Bottle Collectors Association will hold a free antique appraisal night. Appraisals will be done by Sam Haney, a professional antique auctioneer and expert in paintings. The event will take place at 8 p.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 205 Longmeadow Road, Amherst. The general meeting begins at 7 p.m. For more information, call Peter Jablonski at 834-2249.