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Fall 2024 | complimentary

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This Year’s Lakes Region Parade of Homes

The Parade of Homes, a Lakes Region Builders and Remodeler’s Association project, is an eagerly awaited event each October. It is a way to obtain home décor and design ideas by getting up close to the real thing versus studying photos in a specialty publication or watching a remodel home show on television. If you want to tour wonderful homes and speak with the ac-

tual builders, the annual two-day, self-guided tour is an event you won’t want to miss. This year’s Parade is scheduled for October 12 and 13 (Columbus Day weekend) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. The Parade is very popular, and visitors will come away with many new ideas and inspirations.

The Parade of Homes includes a variety of beautiful homes

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper Photos courtesy Parade of Homes/Lakes Region Builders and Remodeler’s

located around the Lakes Region. The list will include brand new homes and two that are complete remodels.

Says Brenda Richards, executive officer of the Lakes Region Builders and Remodelers Association, “Our tour of homes goes around the entire Lake Winnipesaukee region this year, with views of Lake Winnipesaukee, the White Mountains, and the Ossipee Mountain range. We will offer a variety of home styles from timber frames, a waterfront mansion, and expansive open-concept living.”

Marceau Homes & Home Comfort wowed visitors with their 6,400 sq. ft. entry in last year's tour winning six awards including Best Overall New Construction 2023. They have teamed up again for this year's parade with their stunning, custom-built home - a modern masterpiece.

The fall season, with its burgeoning foliage, is a perfect time for the tour and as people drive from home to home, and town to town, they will be treated to some beautiful scenery at the height of autumn.

The Lakes Region Builders and Remodelers Association presents the Parade each year. Says Richards, “This event provides one-on-one access to builders and other trade professionals at

each showcase home, making it a must-see event for anyone actively building homes now or thinking about building in the future. For those who want to build or get ideas for their current home, on the tour they can see what homes on the Parade look like when inspired by designs, colors, and trends. The homes on the tour range from 1,600 to 5,900 square feet.”

Homebuilders see the Parade of Homes as the best advertising possible to showcase their craftsmanship and ability to adapt floor plans to a family’s needs. Jeremy Doucet of Lighthouse Contracting Group and veteran Parade builder has an entry this year.  “I enjoyed designing and working with our client on this project to its completion; being able to take an existing dated space and reinvent it to accommodate their needs and desires is always a rewarding experience, and this home is a great example of that transformation.”

Explains Richards, “We have been presenting the Parade of Homes for 18 years. Proceeds from ticket sales go towards work done by students at the Huot Tech Center. Seven area high schools take part in programs at the Huot Center that focus on building and construction and HVAC programs. We help the students with scholarships and internships, and our members work side-by-side to help the students build small homes. They learn trade skills they can take with them into the world once they graduate.”

Each year the Parade offers a variety of homes, with sizes ranging from large waterfront to modest dwellings. None of the homes are for sale, Richards stresses. The tour is simply for the public to enjoy and make connections with builders, designers, and tradespeople. The experts will be on-site in many of the homes to speak with those who take the tour, offering a chance to learn more about new ideas and ways to get the homes of one’s dreams. For example, state-of-the-art kitchen designs, appliances, and products that help with flow and organization will be seen on the tour.

Visitors to the Parade Homes are a mix of people, some taking the tour to get ideas and still, others there to simply view

beautiful homes while enjoying a drive at this special time of the year. People travel from all over New England to check out the Parade, enjoy the fall foliage, see custom-built homes, and explore, dream, and get inspired. The homes on the tour are built by some of the Lakes Region’s premier builders and craftsmen; no two homes are alike, just like the people who come to live here in their new dream homes.

“In the end, perhaps the real motivation to put a home on the tour is the fun,” Richards says. “Visitors are never disappointed.”

Tickets can be purchased online or at the first home you visit. One ticket allows entry into all of the homes on the tour, is good for both days and the cost is $25 per ticket. Children aged 18 and under are admitted for free.

Ticket proceeds go back into the community through the builder’s Workforce Development Initiative — helping to inspire the next generation of trade professionals.

For tickets, maps, and home descriptions, get the free Parade App, search Lakes Region Parade, and also go to www.lakesregionparadeofhomes.com.

Four Basic Vehicle Maintenance Jobs Many DIY Novices Can Perform at Home

The cost of owning a vehicle has risen dramatically in recent years. Though prices at the gas pump have done much to stretch drivers’ budgets, supply shortages related to the COVID-19 pandemic hit motorists’ bottom lines even before the average gallon of gas reached unimaginable levels in mid-2022. Though it’s certainly not an inexpensive time to own a vehicle, drivers can take solace in knowing that these four basic vehicle maintenance tasks can be performed at home and save them money.

1. Change air filter: Among the simplest DIY vehicle maintenance tasks, changing the air filter on a car or truck requires no special tools. Changing an air filter can be done in as little as 10 minutes, though novices might need more time until they get a feel for what’s under the hood. Vehicle owners’ manuals can indicate where the air filter is and how frequently it should be replaced.

2. Change wiper blades: Changing wiper blades is another simple DIY task that doesn’t require any special tools. Streaking is a telltale sign blades should be replaced, and some blades even start to come apart after excessive wear and tear. The time it takes to perform this task could depend on how long it takes

to remove the old blades, which can take time until DIYers get a handle on how to quickly remove them.

3. Oil change: According to Bankrate.com, the average cost of a top-service oil change at six nationwide franchises exceeded $75 in May 2022. But this relatively simple task can be performed at home rather easily. Drivers will need to invest in a ratchet, oil filter wrench, oil pan, and funnel, but that’s all they need to change their vehicle oil. A jack will be necessary as well, but most new vehicles already come with a jack.

4. Tire inflation: Drivers can save on that costly fuel by keeping their tires properly inflated at all times. Poorly inflated tires make the engine work harder to get the vehicle down the road, and that extra work wastes fuel. A portable tire inflator can read the pressure in each tire and drivers can then inflate the tires to the PSI recommended in their owner’s manual. A quality tire inflator can be purchased for less than $100.

Novices may be overcome by nerves when attempting these jobs for the first time, but online tutorials can help them get a handle on any task that stretches their abilities to the limit. If the task seems too tall to tackle at home, take the car to a trusted mechanic or dealership. ~ Metro

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Fall Is A Great Time For Planting

By Thomas P. Caldwell

Many people think of fall as a time to plant bulbs and shrubs, and, indeed, it is, but late-season gardens also are possible in autumn.

How late to plant depends upon the date of the first freeze, and climate change is pushing that date further and further into the fall — in some years, even into winter. In central New Hampshire, according to the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, the first freeze usually comes in early to mid-October, and in mid-to-late-September in northern parts of the state. However, the date of the first freeze can vary even between relatively close locations, based on factors such as elevation.

Planting in the fall carries some risk, with the chance of plant failure increasing later in the season that planting takes place. As a rule, plants should have at least six weeks of mild weather for root growth before freezing temperatures arrive.

In determining when to plant, Extension specialists advise looking at the days to maturity on seed packets. The crops will need enough time to mature before a hard frost comes (although crops such as spinach, lettuce, carrots, beets, and turnips can be picked a little young). Radishes and broccoli should be allowed to fully develop before harvesting.

“Look for varieties that have the fewest days to maturity,” the Extension advises, “as these will likely yield the best harvest. Remember that days to maturity are just estimates and are based on the time it takes from germination to harvest, not on when seeds are planted.”

That brings us to the fact that seeds for fall vegetables should be started by late summer. “When we say ‘fall’, we really mean

planting in summer in time for a fall harvest.”

Seeds can be planted indoors to give them a good start before placing them outdoors. Choose plants rated for late season growing.

If planting in September while the weather is still warm, cool the soil by shading it for a few days and moisten it so the seeds have a good chance of surviving. Select a variety with a shorter number of days to maturity than what you would plant in the spring.

When considering fall crops, keep in mind that carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, mustard greens, and spinach can handle light frost without injury, while beets, kale, collards, radishes, and bunching onions can stand up to a hard frost.

In counting back from the frost date, add extra time to account for shorter and cooler days ahead. As colder temperatures arrive, there may be a need for insulating fabric that traps radiant heat to prevent the plants from freezing. Remove the coverings in the morning as soon as the temperature is above freezing.

Applying a thick layer of mulch around the plants helps to moderate the soil temperature and provides a layer of insulation. Mulch also helps to conserve soil moisture.

Another option for fall planting that avoids having to deal with concerns about the weather is to plant a cover crop. Oats, winter rye, and tillage radish are examples of cover crops that can reduce erosion, keep weeds in check, and add organic matter to the soil, while being unconcerned about the weather.

Oats germinate quickly and die over the winter, which is great for no-till gardens and raised beds. Winter rye is useful in pre -

paring garden beds for warm-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, but soil will need to be turned under or tilled before planting. Radishes grow deep roots that break up compacted soil and also die over the winter.

Trees and shrubs can do well when planted in the fall. Autumn tends to bring more precipitation, and temperatures are typically cool, so plants lose less water through their leaves than they would in hot weather. More energy can then be directed to root production. When the air temperature drops below that of the soil, shoot growth ceases, but roots continue to develop until the soil dips below 40°. A healthy, well-established root system helps to ensure vigorous growth in the spring.

Deciduous plants are more suitable for fall planting than evergreens, according to Extension specialists.

“Evergreens, like arborvitae or rhododendrons, lose water through their leaves throughout the winter and are especially susceptible to winter injury before their roots are established. Plants with shallow, fibrous roots are usually the best choices for fall planting because they recover faster than those with large, thick taproots. For this reason, plants like magnolia, tuliptree, oak, and ginkgo are better suited for planting in the spring. Deciduous species that respond well to fall planting include apples, crabapples, lindens, maples, hawthorns, honey locusts, and elms. Success is also likely with most deciduous shrubs, such as lilacs, witchhazels and forsythia.”

Newly planted trees and shrubs must be watered thoroughly to moisten the soil to a depth of eight to ten inches, repeated at least once a week until freezing temperatures arrive.

Even tough plants may not survive a severe winter, especial-

ly if it arrives early. The editors of Yankee Magazine suggest mulching around newly planted trees and shrubs to protect them throughout the winter. Be sure to remove any coverings on the root balls of the plants before putting them in the ground.

Planting bulbs for perennial flowers is best done in the fall, as they require periods of cold weather in order to bloom in the spring. Tulips, crocus, daffodils, hyacinths, and snowdrops are among the varieties to consider for fall plantings.

Fall bulbs can be planted as soon as the ground is cool, but they can be put in the ground later in the season, as long as the soil is workable. Ground temperatures typically reach the ideal 40° - 50°F six to eight weeks before the freeze arrives.

Bulbs can be planted almost anywhere that the soil drains well, but avoid low areas where water collects. While perennials enjoy sunlight, as long as they are not shaded by leaves in the early spring, they can be planted in areas that will be shady later on.

The soil will need to be loose and weed-free, and rocks or other debris should be cleared before planting. The soil should be loose to a depth of at least eight inches.

If planting in a new garden bed, it is a good idea to add compost and other organic matter, or slow-releasing fertilizer.

The colder weather of fall need not be a deterrent to gardeners. There are plenty of ways to continue crops and prepare for plants and flowers that will bloom in the spring.

AND TILE

Health Problems Linked to Mold Exposure

Mold is a natural part of the environment and can be found growing just about anywhere that moisture and oxygen are present, advises the Environmental Protection Agency. Mold is a fungus that can be helpful because it breaks down dead organic matter. But mold growth indoors can prove problematic, not only to personal living spaces but to one’s health.

When mold grows outdoors in the fresh air, exposure to it can be minimal. However, mold growing indoors can cause concentrated conditions that adversely affect indoor air quality and overall health. The Rhode Island Department of Health says exposure to a large number of mold spores may cause symptoms associated with allergies, such as runny nose, watery eyes, headache, fatigue, and sneezing, among others. Exposure to certain molds, such as Stachybotrys and Aspergillus, can cause more serious illness because of the mycotoxins these molds produce. Aspergillosis is a fungal lung infection with emerging antimicrobial resistance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The World Health Organization, the National Academy of Medicine, and the National Toxicology Program report that occupants of damp, moldy buildings have an increased risk of respiratory problems. Repeated exposure to mold can lead to asthma, which is a chronic airway disease characterized by inflammation, states the National Institutes of Health. Individ-

ROOF

uals can experience shortness of breath and airway obstruction from the overproduction of mucus.

Additional conditions also can be attributed to mold. For example, valley fever is linked to the fungus Coccidioides, which lives in soil in some areas of the southwestern United States. Mucormycosis is a severe but rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds known as mucormycosis, says the CDC. It affects the sinuses or the lungs of people with weakened immune systems.

Though some people who come in contact with mold will not develop any adverse symptoms, it is still best to address indoor mold problems promptly. These steps can help.

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas, such as basements.

• Ventilate bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas.

• Fix any leaks in pipes, walls, or windows promptly.

• Use mold-resistant paint.

• Make sure that clothes dryers and exhaust fans vent to the outdoors rather than an attic or another room.

• Remove mold with mold-killing products. The CDC says mold can be cleaned from hard surfaces with soap and water or a bleach solution of no more than one cup of household bleach to one gallon of water.

Mold is everywhere in the environment, but prevention of indoor mold growth can help people avoid respiratory issues and other health problems. ~ Metro

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Hot Tubs

Warning Signs a Bathroom Needs Work

Homeowners know that the work involved in maintaining a home is never done. The end of one project tends to roll into the planning of another, and so it goes for years on end.

Fortunate are the homeowners who get to choose when to begin a renovation project, but it’s far more common that homeowners spot an issue and then realize it’s time to renovate. When it comes to bathrooms, which can be among the more expensive spaces to renovate in a home, homeowners can keep an eye out for various signs suggesting the room needs a remodel.

• Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew is perhaps the most glaring sign a bathroom needs to be renovated or remodeled. Mold and mildew pose a notable threat to human health, as the United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that molds can cause allergic reactions. Individuals sensitive to mold may develop symptoms that mimic reactions to outdoor allergens like pollen, including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and dermatitis (skin rash). Mold also can trigger asthma attacks in people allergic to mold who have the condition. Mold can grow in poorly ventilated bathrooms, such as those without a fan or ones in which fans are not working properly. Mold and mildew will return if it’s merely scrubbed away, so the underlying cause of mold must be addressed to prevent its return.

• Small signs of fading: Stains, peeling paint, cracked paint, and gaps in grout are small signs of fading that indicate a bathroom needs renovation if not a complete remodel. These issues also can serve as warning signs of larger issues, such as water issues and structural problems, so they should not be merely

written off as minor problems or eyesores.

• Rising water bills: Some signs a bathroom could use a little TLC are not necessarily confined to the room itself. If water bills are rising significantly and do not align with price increases or an uptick in water consumption, homeowners may have leaking pipes. Such pipes might be beneath a bathroom sink or behind tiled walls. Discoloration on the walls, peeling paint or wallpaper, and/or a musty odor may indicate leaks inside a bathroom wall. If coupled with rising water bills, these signs could be indicative of a significant issue that requires immediate attention.

• Issues with tiles: Cracked or damaged tiles in the shower and bathtub or even on the floor are unsightly and also pose a safety hazard. Cracked floor tiles can lead to slips and falls, which can be especially harmful to older residents. Cracked tiles within the shower and tub area can indicate water problems behind the walls or general disrepair. Such issues should be addressed before they escalate into something larger.

• A dated vibe: Of course, some issues affecting a bathroom are not necessarily health or safety hazards but more an affront to homeowners’ grasp of current styles and trends. If walking into a bathroom unintentionally feels like stepping backward into a bygone era, then it’s probably time to consider a renovation or remodeling job.

Various signs can indicate to homeowners it’s time to consider a bathroom renovation. ~ Metro

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To Warm the Soul Comfort Foods

By Kelly Ross

The autumn season is now upon us. While there are still some grill-worthy days, we are truly approaching comfort food season. This is the time not just for the food, but often to help warm up the house. The fall season also means pumpkin recipes and other autumn flavors. Away we go!

Starting with pumpkin and walnut quick bread, the flavors are great and the oatmeal topping is a nice addition. Makes two loaves; prep 20-25 minutes, and baking time is ~one hour. This recipe also works well as breakfast muffins.

New England Pumpkin Walnut Bread

For The Topping:

½ cup old-fashioned oats

¼ tsp sugar

1/8 tsp ground cinnamon

For The Bread:

1 can solid-pack pumpkin, 15 oz

4 large eggs

¾ cup canola oil

2/3 cup water

2 cups sugar

1 cup honey

1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking soda

1 ½ tsp salt

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp ground cloves

½ tsp ground ginger

1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small skillet: combine oats, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook and stir over medium heat, 4-6 minutes, or until oats are toasted. Remove from heat and set aside. For the bread: in a large bowl, beat pumpkin, eggs, oil, water, sugar, honey, and vanilla until well blended. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Gradually beat into the pumpkin mixture. Fold in walnuts. Transfer to two greased 9x5 inch loaf pans. Sprinkle tops with oat mixture. Bake 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool.

The last of the breakfast treats are delicious ooey and gooey caramel apple cinnamon rolls which are going to be a popular addition to any breakfast or brunch. The secret is to form a hollow circle in the middle of each roll without disturbing the bottom before filling it with the caramel apple goodness.

40 minutes prep and cooking time. Makes one dozen rolls.

Hawaiian Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls

12 Hawaiian rolls

4 tbsp melted butter

3 tbsp brown sugar, divided

2 tsp cinnamon, divided

4 apples peeled and diced

2 tbsp caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling once cooked)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. For the cinnamon butter: place the butter with 1 tbsp of brown sugar and ½ tsp of cinnamon in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. Hollow

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out the middle of each roll (do not cut to the bottom), to form a circle. Place the hollowed rolls in the baking dish. Brush the rolls all over with the cinnamon butter. For the caramel apple filling: add the diced apples to a large saucepan with the remaining cinnamon, brown sugar, and 2 tbsp caramel sauce. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until the apples are softened and the sauce is thickened. Spoon the apple mixture into the center of each roll. Bake for 15 minutes until the rolls are golden. Set aside to cool slightly. Drizzle with extra caramel. Serve while warm.

Moving onto a soup and sandwich combo that screams fall flavors: butternut squash accompanied by an apple, grilled cheese sandwich. This lunch warrants some great reactions. The soup takes 30 minutes to make; the sandwiches are far less. Makes four (plus) portions of soup and four, half sandwiches. Multiply as needed.

Butternut Squash Soup with Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

1 tbsp grapeseed or coconut oil

1 cup chopped white sweet onion

2 tbsp fresh minced ginger

1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground turmeric

¼ tsp cayenne pepper, plus more for garnish

5 cups of 1-inch cubed peeled butternut squash

1 can light coconut milk, 15 oz, divided

2 cups chicken broth or stock

2 apples, cored and thinly sliced, divided

¾ tsp salt

1 tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice

4 slices whole wheat bread

Butter for the bread

1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese

Fresh grind black pepper

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and ginger. Cook, stirring, until starting to soften, about 3 minutes. Add cumin, turmeric, and cayenne. Continue to cook for 30 seconds, stirring the whole time. Add squash and coconut milk, (reserving 4 tbsp for garnish if desired), the broth, half the apple slices, and salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes. Stir in lime juice. Remove from heat. Puree the soup in the pan using an immersion blender or in batches in a blender (use caution when blending hot liquids). For the sandwiches: divide ½ cup cheese between 2 slices of buttered bread. Top with the remaining apple slices, cheese, and the other 2 slices of buttered bread. On a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the sandwiches until lightly browned on both sides and the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes per side. Cut in half. Garnish the soup with the reserved coconut milk, more cayenne,

and ground pepper, if desired. I do love some good old-fashioned comfort food. This sauté pasta dish has steak, peppers, and onions tossed in a provolone cheese sauce with cheese tortellini. This makes for a hearty and delicious dinner. For the beef, almost any cut will suffice, but keeping with the sandwich mentality, shaved beef is usually best. You may use ground beef (drain the grease after browning it before adding the other ingredients). Prep and cook time is 35-45 minutes.

Feeds four.

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

For the Tortellini:

1 lb cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen

1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheesesteak Filling:

1-1 ¼ lb cubed or thinly sliced beef

1 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, sliced

1-2 green bell peppers, sliced Salt and pepper to taste

For the Provolone Sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside. For the cheesesteak filling: in a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef, onion, and green pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned, and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside. For the sauce: in a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded provolone cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Combine the cooked tortellini, cheesesteak filling, and provolone sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the tortellini and the filling evenly with the sauce. Heat through, then serve immediately, garnished with additional provolone if desired.

The final two dinners are both casserole style using chicken as the protein. The chicken is cooked, and smothered in creamed spinach with mushrooms, bacon, and cheese. A “stick to your ribs” kind of meal, the process takes one hour. Feeds four.

Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach Bacon and Mushrooms

For The Chicken:

1 tbsp. butter

1 ½ lbs. skinless, boneless chicken breasts (ideally four, six oz. breasts)

Salt

¼ tsp. lemon pepper seasoning

¼ tsp. paprika

For the Creamed Spinach:

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

10 oz. fresh spinach

4 garlic cloves, minced 2/3 cup half and half 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For The Rest:

1 tbsp. vegetable oil

4 oz. sliced mushrooms

4 or more bacon slices, cooked and chopped

4 or more slices Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese with jalapenos, ripped into pieces

Preheat the stove to 375 degrees. Spray the lower part of the baking dish (13 x 9 x 4 inches) with cooking spray. Place a sheet of plastic wrap on the cutting board or counter.

Top with the four chicken breasts. Cover with another sheet of plastic wrap, and pound with a meat tenderizer with medium strength until the breasts are even in thickness throughout. Liberally season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, lemon pepper, and a microdose of paprika. Lay into the baking dish. Cook for 15-20 minutes. For the creamed spinach: heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add spinach. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spinach is completely warmed through and begins to shrivel. Add minced garlic and cream. Cook until it starts to bubble. Add shredded mozzarella. Continue to mix. Turn the heat to high until the mozzarella begins to soften, around 30 seconds. Lessen intensity to low. Continue to mix until the spinach is smooth and creamed, 3060 seconds. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat. In a sauté pan: heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add cut mushrooms. Cook on medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes until the mushrooms caramelize. Top the chicken breasts with the creamed spinach, cooked bacon, cooked mushrooms, and broken cuts of cheese. Cook, uncovered for 15-20 additional minutes until chicken is cooked through. Switch the oven to broil. Cook for the last 2-4 minutes, (do not not burn the cheese on top). Let it sit for 5 minutes. Enjoy.

Welcome a casserole with a twist on the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. You can either cook and dice chicken breasts or cook a chicken and use the shredded chicken. Prep time is 15-20 minutes; takes 35-40 minutes to cook. Feeds 6-8 people.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced, about 5-6 breasts, or use rotisserie chicken

2 cups ham, diced, about a 1 lb ham steak

3 cups Swiss cheese, grated

1 ½ cups chicken gravy or 1 can cream of chicken soup, 10 ½ oz

1-2 tbsp Dijon mustard smooth or coarse

6 oz package stuffing mix prepared per package directions

In a large bowl, mix the chicken, ham, gravy or chicken soup, Swiss cheese, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Spread chicken and ham mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top with the prepared stuffing mix. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes, until casserole is bubbly, and stuffing is browned and crispy.

Emphasizing classic autumn, this sautéed apple recipe is like pie without the crust. When finished, scoop into individual bowls and top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Makes 4-6 servings; takes under 30 minutes.

Sautéed Apples

4 large apples

¼ cup butter

½ cup cold water

1 tsp cornstarch

¼ cup brown sugar

½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

Dash of nutmeg

Dash of salt

Wash, dry, peel, and core the apples. Cut into ¼-inch thick slices or dice into ½ inch cubes. Place a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add butter and allow it to melt. Add the apples. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft (5-7 minutes) or until the apples turn translucent

in appearance. They should easily be pierced with a fork. Whisk together the cold water and cornstarch in a small bowl until a slurry forms and the lumps are gone. Add to skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a boil for two minutes. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and a dash of salt. Stir thoroughly.  Remove from heat. Serve warm in individual bowls. The sauteed apples will thicken as they stand. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Finishing with a rewarding dessert: a creamy pumpkin filling topped with a buttery crunchy topping, this has become a popular dish over the years and a highly shared recipe in my friend and family circle. As with any crisp, top with vanilla ice cream. Makes 8 portions. Takes less than one hour.

Pumpkin Pie Crisp

For the Pumpkin Filling:

1 can pumpkin puree, 15 oz

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

¼ tsp ground cloves

¼ tsp ground ginger

2 large eggs

1 can evaporated milk, 12 oz

For the Crisp Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup old-fashioned oats

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. For the pumpkin filling: in a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, eggs, and evaporated milk until smooth. Pour it into the prepared baking dish. For the topping: in a medium bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the pumpkin filling. Bake for 4045 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. Let cool slightly before serving. Top with ice cream or whipped cream.

Enjoy your fall season my friends. Stay safe out there, keep your taste buds happy, and touch base at fenwaysox10@gmail. com with questions or feedback.

Get Into The Spooky Spirit

This Halloween

Come October 31, there is extra mischief in the air, and who knows what might be lurking around those dim corners? Halloween is a time when the line between having fun and being scared is easily blurred.

While trick-or-treating and attending parties are ways to enjoy the final day of October, there are plenty of other ways to make Halloween more fun.

• Read some scary stories. There’s something to be said about reading scary stories or poems on Halloween. Readers’ imaginations take over on Halloween as they envision scary characters and scenarios. Edgar Allen Poe, author of many notably macabre works, is a popular read come Halloween.

• Go pumpkin picking. Most people already make pumpkin picking an annual treat. Don’t overlook mishappen pumpkins that can be carved into spooky jack-o’-lanterns. Also, enhance Halloween decor with pitted and warty gourds that lend that scary appeal.

• Create a haunted house. Instead of going elsewhere to get chills and thrills, transform your house or yard into a spooktacular vision and invite neighbors to explore.

• Make creepy crafts. Children can get a kick out of crafting Halloween decorations. Drape a piece of muslin over a beverage bottle and spray it with laundry starch. Let sit and the muslin will stiffen when it dries. Paint on black circles for eyes and hang your “ghost” from a string.

The

• Whip up Halloween treats. Candied apples, extra-rich brownies and mini hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls to look like mummies are just some of the ways to create a scary Halloween feast.

• Have a costume theme. Everyone in the household can get in on the fun by planning costumes to fit a theme. For example, everyone can dress like the Addams family.

• Host a Halloween book club. Those who love to read can ensure the October gathering of a book club is one that features a discussion of a scary book. Those looking for a scare can explore horror authors like Stephen King, Anne Rice, Dean Koontz, Clive Barker, Shirley Jackson, and Tananarive Due.

• Host an outdoor movie. Projectors can now be hooked up to smartphones and tablets, so it’s easier than ever to watch movies outside. Simply project a device onto a screen, white fence or even a bedsheet. Since it gets dark somewhat early in October, the movie doesn’t have to start very late. Depending on the audience, choose a movie that is very scary or only mildly so if children will be viewing.

• Organize a Halloween treat exchange. Similar to a Christmas “Secret Santa,” participants put together a wrapped gift of homemade or store-bought foods and exchange with others. Halloween can be made even more entertaining with some extra activities that appeal to people of all ages.

~Metro

Sustainably Manufactured

Meets Beauty

Care & Cleanup

By Mark Okrant

More than forty years ago, when we purchased our house in Plymouth, the horror story began. As a family used to living in southern New England, the thought of going through our first New Hampshire winter was chilling . . . literally. Our furnace was a refurbished coal burner that nearly filled the entire basement. It was a costly, inefficient way to heat our tiny house, so we replaced it with a Belgian anthracite coal-burning stove. How I dreaded racing home from work only to find that the last burning ember needed to be captured; otherwise an hour-long process of restarting the stove needed to be initiated. And, in case I didn’t mention, it was very cold outside.

Leap ahead to the 2020s, and homeowners, as well as busi-

Heat Pumps: Efficiency, Savings, and Sustainability

nesses, have an innovation my family couldn’t dream about back then. This is the heat pump. Heat pumps are more energy-efficient and versatile, providing both heating and cooling functions, while furnaces that rely on burning fossil fuels typically are more effective in colder climates.

As more of us seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is expected that the heat pump will gradually replace traditional forms of home heating. Heat pump systems absorb heat and move it from one area of a building to another using something called ‘refrigerant heating’. This differs from those traditional systems that generate heat directly, either by burning fuel or using electric resistance. In many houses, your traditional furnace is separate from the air conditioning system. This is not true

of heat pump systems. Heat pump systems are more efficient than traditional ones because they redistribute heat, rather than create it. This means that less energy is required to control the temperature inside of a building.

Heat pump systems use the same apparatus to heat and cool a home. This is because they are equipped with a ‘reversing valve’ that enables the system to move heat into or out of a house. If you’re like me, you are wondering how well this functions during the midst of a cold winter. Not to worry . . .apparently, the system can extract heat from the outside air to heat your residence.

There are two types of heat pump systems: ducted and ductless. Ducted systems use the same arrangement of ducts as tra -

ditional furnaces to distribute conditioned air throughout the home. This means that converting a ducted furnace to a heat pump is generally a simple replacement. Since the duct system is already in place, the furnace is replaced with a heat pump and refrigerant piping is added to connect the air handler to an outside condenser. If the home already has a central air conditioner, that piping also is in place, and the new heat pump system can replace the air conditioner in the same footprint.

Ductless heat pumps sometimes referred to as ‘mini-split systems’, are installed directly inside the wall or ceiling of the house and are connected to an outside condenser. These systems work well in homes without adequate attic or basement space. They are also more modular than central units, which is useful in cold

regions, such as New Hampshire, where they are installed in tandem with a traditional HVAC system that can serve as a backup heat source. Ductless systems operate more efficiently at lower temperatures than ducted systems because they don’t lose any heat when distributing the conditioned air through ducts in an attic or basement.

There are other options besides the systems described above. Window-mounted heat pumps are another form of air source heat pump (ASHP) that can serve a smaller footprint (generally one room) with a lower price tag. Additionally, there are ground source heat pumps (GSHP), which exchange heat underground and perform better in extremely cold climates but are expensive to install. Water source heat pumps exchange heat with a pond or other body of water. Air-to-water heat pumps exchange heat with outside air, and use a hydronic heating loop situated inside the house to distribute heat.

Heat pumps have traditionally been installed in warmer climates because they are best suited for milder winter temperatures. However, during the last decade, heat pumps have become more capable of heating houses effectively in colder temperatures and are now a viable option as primary heating for the entire United States, except Alaska. Logically, it is the coldest winter season temperature that impacts the type of heat pump system that works best, as colder temperatures demand higher efficiency systems.

The heating and cooling industry uses its Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) and Coefficient of Performance (COP) to measure a heat pump system’s efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy has developed a table of recommended efficiencies by climate zone. The HSPF compares the heat out-

put of an air source heat pump to the electrical input power it demands. Also, COP is a measure of efficiency that uses watthours for both the heat delivered and energy consumed. According to these measures, both ducted and ductless air source heat pump (ASHP) systems are well suited for most U.S. climates. Much of New Hampshire is located in Zone 6; therefore, an ASHP system will provide sufficient heating during winter, while an electric or dual-fuel backup system provides even greater assurance.

One caveat: in areas where electricity is relatively expensive and/or natural gas is relatively cheap, energy savings from a new heat pump may be smaller and are best assessed by having an energy audit. For example, if a gas utility has high fixed rates for service, a customer will realize more utility savings when they disconnect completely from the gas service. This can be an incentive for electrifying all the systems in a home rather than just the HVAC system.

According to todayshomeowner.com, the cost of installing a 3-to-4-ton heat pump system within a two thousand-square foot house averages between $6500 and $8500. Any heating and cooling system will be enhanced by having what is called a ‘tight thermal envelope’. However, energy specialists tell us that heat pumps benefit more from tighter envelopes than fossil fuel or electric resistance furnaces because heat pumps run longer at low power to continuously maintain temperature; whereas, traditional systems operate by quickly heating or cooling before shutting off and then restarting.

Winter is several weeks away. This may be a good time to reevaluate your system.

Composting

By Thomas P. Caldwell

Autumn provides a respite from the summer heat, along with a bountiful harvest from fruit trees and spring plantings and a chance to experience brilliant fall colors. It also brings the task of dealing with fallen leaves.

The lazy solution is to use a leaf blower to send the leaves onto neighbors’ property or to the side of the road where highway crews will have to deal with them. The conscientious solution is to rake the leaves into piles, gather them into bags, and dispose of them at town waste facilities. The best solution? Use the leaves as a compost.

Composting is a natural way of enriching the soil while diverting material away from solid waste landfills. It also helps the environment, because organic matter decomposing in a landfill releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that can be explosive if not managed properly.

Composting diverts both plant matter and kitchen scraps from the landfill, helping to slow the rate at which the landfill reaches capacity and has to close. That lowers the tax burden associated with maintaining landfills.

The best reason, though, is that compost is great for the health of plants and the landscape. Compost enhances the ability of the soil to retain nutrients and moisture, helping the garden thrive.

Compost is different from fertilizer. Fall compost nurtures and feeds the soil, while fertilizer feeds the plants.

The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Ex-

tension explains why composting is a good idea and offers tips for first-time compost piles.

“Most all organic wastes can be composted, with a few considerations. Keep in mind, if composting bulky material like tree branches or stumps, you may need to shred them into a smaller size or wait a considerable length of time. In a small home-scale sized pile, bulky materials may take a long time to fully decompose.”

An essential fact to keep in mind is the need to have the right brown-to-green ratio in the compost pile.

“Composting is most effective when there are 30 parts brown:1 part green. This ratio is on a weight basis, not volume. Brown represents materials high in carbon, like sawdust or straw, and green represents nitrogen-rich materials, like kitchen scraps and green grass.”

Raking leaves can be a full-time job when they begin to fall, but they make great brown material for the compost pile. Fresh grass clippings are nitrogen-rich and make another essential contribution to the compost. Dying plants from the garden also contain many nutrients.

Leaves, along with straw and sawdust, can be stored in black plastic bags near the compost pile where they are handy when adding kitchen scraps. Having a pitchfork or shovel nearby allows you to top the scraps with a healthy amount of brown material and blend it in each time. Layering the pile with brown and green material helps to keep the pile active as it decomposes. Make sure to keep brown

material atop food scraps to avoid attracting wildlife.

According to Extension specialists, putting fall leaves in black plastic bags allows them to break down slowly, so shredded leaves work best because they break down faster. Running over the leaves with a lawn mower and collecting them in 30- or 40-gallon bags is advised.

“In each black plastic bag, add in about ½ cup high-nitrogen fertilizer or two shovels of manure,” they advise. “Fertilizer or manure provides nitrogen microbes needed to break down high-carbon tree leaves. Add two shovels of garden soil to provide the microbes needed for decomposition. Finally, add about 1 - 2 quarts of water to each bag. Composting microbes also need water to be most active at breaking down your leaves.”

Aerobic composting of the leaves generates no methane, thus avoiding bad smells, and it breaks down the material much faster — in four to six weeks. There are two ways to ensure aerobic decomposition: Punch 12 to 15 holes in the side of each closed bag, turning the bags every few days to remix the material. Alternately, leave the bags undamaged, but open them every other day to check moisture levels and allow oxygen to enter. If the material is too wet, leave the bag open for a day or two to allow some moisture to evaporate. Turn the bags every few days to remix the material inside.

Anaerobic composting, on the other hand, allows the bags to be stored for six to 12 months, with a slow breakdown

| Siding

of the material inside. When filling the bags with leaves, soil, fertilizer, and water, add a cup of hydrated lime, which helps to counteract the acidity that is created during anaerobic composting. Tie the bags closed and place them in an out-of-the-way corner of the garden until they are needed.

The Extension notes that, when starting a fresh compost pile, it is helpful to introduce some of the bacteria that consume and break down organic wastes. That can be done by putting a few scoops of finished compost into the new pile.

The heat generated in a compost pile is the byproduct of the bacteria eating the scraps, which turns the material a deep brown color.

Other organisms may appear in the pile, such as the fungi, Actinomycetes, which looks like a white spider web. Actinomycetes break down complex organics such as cellulose, lignin, chitin, and proteins.

Ground beetles, sow bugs, centipedes, spiders, springtails, and mites also may appear in the compost material.

Another use for the fall leaves is to place them in plastic bags and set them around tender plants, such as roses or broadleaf evergreens, for extra winter protection. The plastic bags will protect the leaves from moisture so they do not become matted or compacted.

Finding a use for fall leaves can serve as a useful way to create healthier gardens and plants. As the Coeur d’Alene Coop notes, “A garden’s success is much more dependent on the quality of our soil than the quality of our plants. Your garden’s soil is the very foundation upon which everything else is built — without healthy soil, you simply won’t be able to grow healthy plants, no matter how much fertilizer or pampering you provide.”

Maxfield Real Estate Celebrates 70 Years in Business: A Tribute To Henry S. (Chip) Maxfield, Jr.

By Rosalie Triolo

A true Wolfeboro native, Henry Southwick “Chip” Maxfield, Jr. was born on May 15, 1951, at Huggins Hospital. He is the son of Henry Southwick Maxfield, Sr., and Elizabeth (Betty) Maxfield. In 1954, Henry Maxfield Sr. started HS Maxfield Real Estate. This was the beginning of one of the most successful family-owned Real Estate businesses in the region.

Chip graduated from the Holderness School in 1969 and later graduated from the University of New Hampshire, then exploring the possibilities of Boston’s retail clothing business. However, his love of Wolfeboro and Lake Winnipesaukee lured him home. Chip joined his father, Henry Sr. in Real Estate Sales and Land Development. Chip later became a full-time member who thrived on and easily met those challenges presented by the market. He was good at this business and enjoyed meeting people from different walks

of life. Chip later married Christina (Tina) Suzanne Franz in 1976.

When Henry S. Maxfield Sr. retired in the early1980s, Chip took control of HS Maxfield Real Estate, changing the name to Maxfield Real Estate, Inc. Chip and Tina moved into a small Cape Cod home on South Main St., using the front of the house as their office. As business grew, so too did the need for additional office space. Chip smiled and said, “It was a great day when with Tina, we moved the offices to Railroad Ave. in downtown Wolfeboro.”

Chip also expanded the agency’s territory with offices in Ossipee, Alton, and Center Harbor, becoming the Lakes Region #1 Independently Owned Real Estate Company. Chip was awarded the NH Realtor of the Year in 1988.

Throughout the years, Chip has instilled a culture true to his business ethics. Agents and office staff are more than employees. They are family, and they are loyal. When asked about

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July 1973: Candy Love, Joy (Pheeney) Messineo, Lucy Newall, Dale Freygang, Chip Maxfield, Bill Swaffield and Bruce Love

his role as manager, Chip remarked, “The most difficult part of management is dealing with customers who are your friends, working with good friends, and one broker to man the office.”

Chip’s success rapidly grew, as did his passion for Wolfeboro and involvement in the surrounding communities while working towards the success of many organizations. In 1971, he co-founded the Abenaki Water Ski Club, where he took part in the challenging pyramid maneuver—a feat requiring strength, balance, and teamwork. These same principles of resilience, adaptability, and stability have been the foundation of all his business endeavors.

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• 85 years of exemplary care

• No entrance fee with all-inclusive amenities

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Chip boasts an accomplished resume: Budget Committee Member (1978); Chairman of the Red Cross/Southern Carroll County (1986); Founding Member and 1st President of Great Waters Music Festival (1995); Founding Member of Friends of Abenaki Ski Area (2005); Chairman of Downtown Committee/Parking (2009); Governor Wentworth Arts Council/ Wolfeboro Chamber of Commerce and State President of NH Realtor Association (1993).

More notable, Chip was awarded The General James Wolfe Award (2011) for the “WE CARE” program for Community Service, the Manchester Union Leader “Legacy Award” (2016) for the “WE CARE” program, and the Wolfeboro Chamber of Commerce the 1st Governor Wentworth Award for Community Service.

Chip’s community involvement resulted in the creation of “WE CARE”, a one-year charitable program in honor of Maxfield Real Estate’s 45th year in business was a way “to help support communities that support us.” Chip initiated contact with agents to present his idea, all of whom approved. As of 2023, the “WE CARE” program has raised over one and a half million dollars for 459 charities.

Chip has many lifelong friends whom he has known since first grade, as a young teen, caddying at Kingswood Golf course, and from the many organizations in which he was an active member. Now retired, Chip continues to be a respected and valued friend to his agents and administrative staff, and those in the community who remember his generosity.

How to Clean YourThoroughlyHome…

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

In the days of our parents, house cleaning was a daily or weekly thing and a few times a year, it was a big deal event. Spring cleaning meant a top-to-bottom, clean-everything-week. Windows, baseboards, shelves, floors, and more were washed, dried, and polished. Even the yard got a good cleanup.

Summertime is a breezier, more casual season when fewer people are indoors so fall cleaning, in theory, is easier. Indeed, for some homeowners, the days of thorough twice-yearly house cleaning are long gone because we are just too busy.

For those who want a fresh and clean home to meet the fall and winter months when we move indoors, there are some considerations before pulling out the mop, bucket, and cleaning products.

Before you begin, take a good look around and determine the places that need your attention the most. Perhaps your windows have been looking grimy and you don’t want to go through winter with unclean glass. Maybe your kitchen cabinets are sticky and need a good wipe-down.

The biggest thing to do once you identify the hot spots to clean is to declutter. You may have gathered too many items you don’t want or need that are taking up space. Or perhaps you want to declutter to create space for a cleaner atmosphere or test out a new organizational method.

Start in the room where you most want to have a more organized space. Perhaps that is your clothes closet. You can use the “four-box method” with one deemed for trash, and the next for items you want to give away but are still in good condition. Keep in mind that your giveaways should not become someone

else’s problem to get rid of if items are broken, stained, or really should go into the trash. The third box would be to store items you want/need to keep but do not use regularly. The fourth box is for tidying up all the items you want to keep but really need to return to their original area in the house. This could mean books that ended up in your bedroom and need to be on the bookshelf in your den, etc.

If you are organizing and readying to clean your closet, you will also be faced with a lot of clothing. You should ask yourself when you last wore something. Do you feel good/comfortable when wearing it? Don’t keep items for “someday” because it only adds to the clutter.

After you declutter each room, it’s time to begin to clean. The best method is to start at the top and work your way down. Get a large adjustable ceiling and wall duster, moving it over the ceiling and corners of the walls first. You might be amazed at the cobwebs and dust you capture as you run the duster over the surfaces.

After the dust falls from the top areas of the room, continue to dust everything: window sills, curtain rods, furniture, baseboards, and the top of door frames.

Now you can pull out the vacuum cleaner, but make sure the bin to hold what you have vacuumed up is empty before starting. Take your time when vacuuming for a thorough cleaning. Get into the corners, under furniture too heavy to shift, noticing where cobwebs and dust bunnies may have fallen when you dusted your walls and ceiling.

It is time to wipe down the surfaces where fingerprints may be such as door frames, walls, and even some furniture. Wipe

down baseboards and any place where people running in and out during the summer, ice cream, or a portable treat in hand could have left their mark.

Wash all small area rugs in the house, and of course, vacuum them first. (Think about the rugs that will be in high-traffic areas during the winter, potentially collecting more snow and dirt. These rugs will need special attention during the months to come.)

Checking on the windows, you should also wash the curtains and/or window blinds. This is admittedly a big task because you will need to take down the curtains, clean the curtain rods give the curtains a good wash (read the label for washing instructions), and dry them before rehanging. But it is worth it, and you will be amazed at how much dust and dirt collects on curtains over the months.

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Vacuum sofa cushions and pillows and spot-clean any pillows that have stains.

Moving into the bedrooms, wash pillow covers and replace any worn-out pillows on each bed. Remove blankets and wash. If you feel your washing machine cannot handle larger items such as blankets and curtains, take them to a laundromat or send them out to a cleaner.

Clean your vents now before winter sets in and you turn on your heat for another cold season. You will be amazed at how much dust accumulates and also in your dryer exhaust.

In the kitchen, pull out appliances and give the walls and floor in the back a thorough cleaning. Then it is time to turn your attention to the interior of your appliances such as the refrigerator and oven. Many people put off cleaning these areas because it can be a big task. But if you want your appliances to work well and stay hygienic before you start your upcoming holiday baking in November and December, now is the time to clean! Beyond a once-in-a-while cleaning, it is best to do an interior refrigerator and freezer cleaning once a month at least to keep things fresh. With today’s self-cleaning ovens, it is not all that difficult as well.

While in the kitchen, if you want to be entirely thorough in your cleaning efforts, pull dishes, glassware, and other items from your cupboards and wash down the interior. Once the shelves are dry, you can replace everything. This might be a good binge-and-purge opportunity to get rid of chipped cups, cracked glassware, and mismatched or cracked plates and cereal bowls.

When it comes to outdoor cleaning, you can start by storing items you have used in the warmer weather. This can include

gardening tools and outdoor furniture. Set aside a shelf or other area in your basement, garage, or shed for tool storage so you can easily find everything next spring.

As for outdoor furniture, remove cushions and wash the frames down thoroughly. Either store the pieces away or cover them tightly if leaving them on a deck for the winter.

Most people have an outdoor grill, and this should be cleaned now. If your grill cover is getting shabby, replace it now. A good number of people use their grill throughout the winter but give the interior a good cleaning now because this is difficult to do once temps dip low and things tend to freeze easily.

Before the ground freezes, you should plan and plant spring bulbs to ensure they grow next spring. A little effort now will give you a yard full of beautiful flowers next year.

Clean gutters, and have an expert check your chimney for any cracks or damage.

Don’t forget the furnace, just about the most important thing in your home. Call in a professional for a cleaning or to check for any leaks. If you heat with oil or gas, check to make sure the tank is full now vs. down the road when the temperature may be cold.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and if anything is broken, replace it promptly.

These are just some of the outdoor and indoor tasks to be done for a peaceful, home-safe winter.

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With Labor Day in the past and the school buses already out in full force, there are fortunately still plenty of sunny days to get your home and yard looking great throughout autumn and prepared for the snowy New England winter ahead. In between family events, football games, and getting those last trips around the lake, consider taking the proactive approach this fall by incorporating some of the following ideas into your autumn home and yard care routine.

The majestic views of the White Mountains each fall may make the ride to and from work more enjoyable, but come to Indigenous Peoples Day, many folks can count on spending an afternoon, if not several, working on removing all those leaves from their yard. Before all that backbreaking work, look to get all of the equipment you’ll need in order so there is one less

Helpful Tips to Keep Up Your Yard and Home This Fall

By Mike Moore

thing to worry about later. Drag the rakes, wheelbarrows, and leaf blowers out of the shed or garage and test them out to ensure nothing needs replacing. The prices for the new equipment will only increase the later it gets in the season. Don’t forget about other helpful ancillary items such as leaf removal bags, extra power chords or gas for the leaf blower, or a couple of new pairs of work gloves.

Nobody wants to start thinking about the cold and snow, but shoring up those pesky tasks while the weather is on the warm(ish) side will be something you’ll be thankful for later when you don’t have to trudge through six inches of fresh snow to retrieve it all from the shed. When bringing out the rakes and leaf blowers, grab the snow blower, shovels, and roof rake while you’re deep in the back of the shed. Test them out so you can

avoid equipment breaking down, as it tends to do at inconvenient moments. Many towns offer residents free sand to cover up icy spots on sidewalks and driveways. Protect against slips and falls right away, just in case the inevitable frost arrives early. If you’re already headed to the hardware store for any fall landscaping needs, pick up some ice melt or finally replace that shovel that’s more duct tape than metal. Take advantage of some of the early sales and better inventory for other items like winter wiper blades, all-weather wiper fluid, and ice scrapers. Prepare your car’s tires for the road conditions; all-weather tires may be great in some areas, but the snowfall in the White Mountains can put that to the test.

There are many debates about the best method for leaf removal, from bagging to mulching, composting, or in some cases, burning. Mulching the leaves not only provides an easier time for maintenance by using a mower, but it also acts as a natural fertilizer and weed blocker for your lawn. Be careful not to let the mulch pile get too thick, as it may smother the grass. For composting, after shredding the leaves with your mower, simply mix them into a compost bin with other compostable items like food waste. Many town transfer stations around the region accept yard waste removal as well.

The effort it takes just to clean up the leaves in the yard causes many to ditch the idea of climbing up the ladder and removing all those that piled up in the gutters. Avoiding this, however, could wreak havoc later down the road. In addition to keeping the water flowing, so condensation doesn’t build up and deteriorate the wood, it can prevent issues with your roof caused by the roof getting too heavy. Several products are available to keep leaves from collecting in the gutters, such as Leaf Guards

or Gutter Helmets. If climbing ladders is not for you, there are many extendable gutter rake options to assist with this task. Also, be certain that the gutters are attached properly so it doesn’t result in any safety issues by falling from the weight of the snow or ice buildup.

Another helpful autumn home prep suggestion that will make you the envy of those poor souls climbing their icy ladder in December is to hang your Christmas or holiday decorations early. Combine two tasks into one trip and hang them while working on the gutters. Untangling light strands will be a bit easier when those pesky knots aren’t frozen. The lights will be ready to plug in and show the neighborhood your holiday spirit without having a sprained ankle to nurse. Anytime you can take one less trip up a ladder in cold weather is a victory for any homeowner. While the holidays are at the front of your mind,

use the opportunity to locate the Christmas tree stand or yard ornaments that always seem to be the hardest things to find. Keeping up with the landscaping all summer is a source of pride for many. All that hard work could go to waste and make next year’s work just as difficult without ending the season with just a little bit of prep work. After the last time mowing, aerate the lawn for better drainage and to avoid compaction. By spreading a judicious amount of fertilizer, the lawn will grow faster and thicker, ensuring a strong start next spring. For those with a lot of trees, plants, and shrubbery, removing any dead plants and pruning the shrubs is a great task to take care of before the mornings get too chilly to work outside for too long. It’s not just the lawn that will benefit from your proactive preparation. Driveways and walkways with the slightest of cracks can start to become a problem after a few seasons. Sealing these cracks can be done yourself with a concrete sealer and/or caulk. For larger cracks, many local professionals specialize in these repair jobs.

Broken faucets are enough of a pain point, but broken sprinkler pipes or valves can be expensive and not so easy to fix. Simply drain all outside faucets and blow out the sprinkler lines to prevent an arduous chore in the future. The evenings are longer and cooler, so put away the summer patio furniture. Other items around the yard, including kayaks, canoes, hoses, or summertime toys can be stuffed back in the shed for the winter months. While wandering around the yard, inspect all fencing, overhangs, and porch roofing. Any improvements needed to secure these structures will need warmer weather or possibly some extra time to plan for the repairs. Early fall is a great time to replace driveway spotlights and porch lamps. For those that

have exterior lights hooked up to a timer, verify that the time is adjusted properly.

Looking to show off your love for the New England fall? Spruce up the décor of your yard or porch by picking up pumpkins at a local produce stand, pumpkin patch, or farmer’s market. The Lakes Region has an abundance of green thumbs, so there’s likely only a short drive to whatever you might be looking for. With Steven King getting the inspiration for his many scary stories right in our neck of the woods, Halloween is celebrated with much enthusiasm by young and old throughout the Lakes Region. Get into the competitive spirit with your neighbors by having the best-haunted house on the block. Decking out your property with all the spooky décor can be found at the many local gift shops.

In addition to filling your flower baskets with the various gourds available in your community, collect some other fresh produce while out and about. Apple picking is one of the classic New England fall pastimes that never gets old. One of the best parts of the cooler weather is all the warm treats to be made using apples. If you have apple trees or trees with other varieties of fruits on your property, pick the ripe ones as soon as you can. Share with family, neighbors, and coworkers if the crop is more than your family can handle. Doing this will also make life easier, keeping you from running over the fallen ones with your lawn mower if you try to mulch your leaves.

Fortifying Your Home This Fall

There are many opinions about sweater season, but no one likes stepping out to the car on the way to work and discovering that winter is creeping up fast. Getting out all the warmer clothes isn’t always the most enjoyable of chores, but having

sweaters, jackets gloves, hats, and boots at the ready will offer a little convenience on those days when it’s tougher to adjust to the new season. For emergency purposes, having an extra jacket, as well as a blanket, gloves, and hat in your vehicle is a crucial step to take if navigating the roads during any inclement weather. Blankets and comforters that have been stuffed into a hallway closet might benefit from airing outside, so bringing those out while the warmer weather is still hanging on will give you an energy-efficient option to have your linens smelling fresh.

It’s never too early to start collecting firewood if you are utilizing a fireplace or wood stove. Get the stacks ready for winter use so the process can start efficiently and effectively. Trying to split a log that has been sitting on frozen ground for several weeks will take Paul Bunyon strength to accomplish. If you have a pellet stove, benefit from the extra inventory during the better weather days and stock up as needed. Those running oil and propane for their heat will want to take the recommended maintenance steps for more manageable energy bills. Fill up the tank early and see if you can be put on a delivery schedule to keep the tank from going empty. Have a professional service the furnace, verifying that all heating units are functioning properly and safely. Many companies are available to clean out your chimney, furnace pipe, and even the dryer vents so everything will be running at top efficiency, saving you money in the long run. Switching to a different heating source can be a lengthy and complicated task, but in an emergency, alternative options can be implemented if your current method for keeping the family warm throughout the colder months might not get the job done this year.

Even with properly running units, energy rates don’t seem to

be decreasing any time soon, so take every advantage you can to save money by sealing up any vulnerable areas of your home that might cause a draft. Caulking, weather stripping, plastic insulation kits, storm windows, and insulation for floors and walls are all improvements that anyone can take on as a DYI project. As it gets colder and colder and the need for heat becomes more constant, the air inside the house becomes drier and stuffier. Combat this with a humidifier to stave off potential respiratory issues.

Storms strong enough to knock out the power can show up at any time, and having a backup generator is more of a necessity than a convenience for some. Finding out that your backup option is also not an option during the dead of winter is something that no one wants to find out when it is the only option for the house to continue to stay warm. Heating the home with a wood stove is something that families will do regularly, but just as many have a wood stove as their secondary option. Sporadic usage of wood stoves and fireplaces increases the fire threat level, which means it will be important to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors so you can have the peace of mind that your family is protected.

Summertime in New Hampshire offers so much to do that landscaping and minor home improvements can and usually do get pushed to the back burner. But with school back in session and the weather thinning out the list of fun activities to participate in, fall gives everyone the chance to catch up on the yard work and get the home ready to look great when autumn is in full swing. Take advantage of those last few weekends of milder weather this fall to keep your home protected and looking amazing.

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An Electrifying Product

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

There is something fascinating about electricity. Without it, we would be lost. No lights, and no power for the many things we rely upon to make our lives easier such as washing machines, dishwashers, and cooking appliances.

Electricity also fires the fractal wood-burning craft of Brenda Babcock, an Alexandria, New Hampshire resident.

Brenda’s wood burning creates patterns on cutting boards and many other fine objects by an electrical method. Her business is called Busy as a BB and it describes perfectly how busy Brenda is making unusual and beautiful fractal wood-burned pieces. It is an amazing craft; customers at farmer’s markets have been gathering at Brenda’s booth this summer to learn more and to buy her unusual creations. There is no denying the things Brenda creates are eye-catching. One cannot help but want to learn more about how she makes the unusual patterns that seem etched into each piece of wood.

The process had a learning curve for Brenda, with help and support from her husband, Mark. She says, “He is my supporter in this business and we jokingly say he’s my Sherpa!”

She explains how she makes the pieces, “It is no secret how fractal wood burning is done; it’s all over the Internet and on some television shows like Flea Market Flip. Essentially, I place a positive lead on one end of the wood and a negative lead on the other. Then I spray or paint a baking soda water solution between the two leads. At that point, I turn the power on, safely using a foot pedal also known as a dead man switch. I also have a surge protector on my extension cord so that if anything happens it shuts off.”

She continues, “When the power is on, the positive and negative try to find each other and that is what burns the wood.

When they meet, they arc and burn very deeply. Watching it go through the woods is quite mesmerizing. It does look like lightning so that is why I call it lightning art. My other safety features are rubber gloves, Wilder’s glasses, rubber-soled shoes, and a mat underneath the product I’m burning.

“It’s important to be respectful of electricity and what it can do to the body. (Some people have died doing this, in fact.) The potential for harm and death should be taken seriously.”

If you enjoy making things by hand, the time involved is not much of an issue, and Brenda says, “Each piece I do takes its own time, depending on the density of the wood type (pine wood burns very quickly, while walnut is hard to burn), the wood grain and even humidity in the air. The rough estimate is between 10 to 60 minutes for the burn. Prepping the wood, burning, cleaning, sanding, adding resin for the color of some pieces and the drying time, then sealing the project can take upwards of four days. I tend to do things in batches because it’s easier and more efficient that way.”

As for pre-planning the electrical designs, Brenda explains, “I’m learning how to direct it to what I want to see but it’s a long process. There is a lot of prep work that happens before even touching the wood with electricity. Everything has to be on a much bigger scale because the electricity tends to jump any border I put there. Most of the time the wood chooses the design.”

The wood for each project varies and Brenda uses a variety, from different sources. She says, “I use reclaimed wood from furniture, wood piles, cut-offs from projects and I try to source local slabs of wood for benches and countertops/bars. I do source some of my items from retailers due to the cost and time factor. I want to be conscious of the fact that a lot of people do

not want to pay more for a tiny bowl. I’d rather be able to make items that people can appreciate and afford. This is where my husband is a big help. If I want a bottom for a tray, he can cut it for me. We are currently working on creating usable items for the home such as salt and pepper shaker holders. My husband is quite a natural at woodworking and since retirement, we now have time to work together on these projects.”

With a solid knowledge of how to create wood products, Brenda learned by doing … with the help of her family. She explains, “I’ve always been pretty crafty and flitted between this and that craft but never really settled on something. Seven or eight years ago Mark and I were watching Alaska the Last Frontier, (the television show) and it was the Christmas gifting episode. I can’t recall which person on the show did this but he made a gift for somebody using the fractal wood-burning tech-

nique. I was immediately drawn to doing this. I found it mesmerizing and beautiful to watch. I then asked my husband and two of our sons to help me make this a possibility. We have a total of four children and they are all wonderful and talented in their ways. But these two particular sons have that engineering brain.

“Instead of starting me off with the big powerful microwave transformer which is dangerous, they figured out how they could make a set-up for me that was safer. They set me up with everything needed including that wonderful dead man switch. In all my research I never saw people using a dead man’s switch, but my sons thought of it.”

Brenda goes on to say, “It was funny the first time we tried it. There were four of us in the basement of our old home. We set it up and everything was checked and rechecked. There was palpable tension in the room. As a nurse, I made sure nobody touched the table, and I yelled ‘Clear!’ before I touched that foot pedal to start the electricity. Looking back now it was kind of comical. The first burn to me was amazing. I was hooked. All four of us were baffled as to how that could happen to the wood with electricity. From then on it was my passion and still is to

this day.”

The sky is the limit for Busy as a BB and Brenda’s creations. “My husband and I recently retired and I now have the time to build my business. I’m exploring new things to burn, currently working on driftwood we found at Old Orchard Beach in Maine. I’m also exploring how to perfect the technique of creating more intricate shapes. I would like to be able to teach people that this can be a safe way to create art if steps are followed. I would also love to be able to do more bars, tabletops, and even flight holders for local establishments. I’d like to just be able to follow where the art takes me.”

(Brenda would like to thank Paul, Andrea, and Tiffany who run the Meredith Farmers Market for their support. You can also find Brenda’s fractal wood-burning products at the Newfound Country Store in Bridgewater.)

Visit www.busyasabbnh.com to learn more.

(Editor’s note: Due to the knowledge it takes to create pieces using fractal wood burning, and the possible dangers associated with the process, do not try it at home.)

As fall arrives in the Lakes Region, Roche Realty Group is here to help with all your real estate needs. Family-owned since 1992, we've completed over 10,000 transactions throughout New Hampshire and are committed to making your experience smooth and rewarding. Whether you're buying or selling, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Our Local Real Estate Market

Important Local MLS Update:

As of July 15, 2024, our local MLS has implemented changes related to the NAR Settlement:

• All cooperating compensation fields and data removed from MLS.

• Cooperative compensation not referenced in any field.

• Agents must have written agreements with buyers on compensation before showing properties.

• Compensation negotiations between listing brokers/sellers and buyers/brokers can occur outside MLS but must follow buyer

As a home seller, you have options for listing your home with REALTOR® guidance. New rules require written approval for buyer broker compensation, effective August 17, and these offers can't be listed on MLS.

Buying a home is a significant financial transaction, and REALTORS® provide essential guidance. NAR's recent settlement requires clear, written agreements on agent compensation before touring homes, effective August 17.

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Tips to Make A Home Less Vulnerable to Criminals

Property crimes are perhaps more common than people may realize. Data from the Council on Criminal Justice indicates residential burglaries declined by 26 percent in 2023 compared to 2019. However, the Federal Bureau of Investigation indicates there were nearly seven million property-related crimes committed in 2019, which means there were still more than five million such crimes committed in 2023.

Homeowners recognize the importance of protecting themselves, their loved ones, and their valuables. Locking doors at night is one measure of protection anyone can employ, but there’s a host of additional steps individuals can take to make their homes less vulnerable to criminals.

• Embrace some simple solutions. The Insurance Information Institute recommends utilizing simple security devices such as padlocks, door and window locks, grates, bars, and bolts. These devices may not prevent burglars from entering a home, but they can increase the amount of time it takes criminals to gain access. That can be enough to discourage criminals and also provide extra time for homeowners and neighbors to see and report suspicious individuals lurking around homes.

• Periodically assess existing security devices. Locks, security cameras, and additional devices are effective deterrents, but only if they’re working properly. It’s easy to overlook security devices, but routine inspections can ensure they continue to serve as a security blanket between residents and criminals.

• Install a burglar alarm. Burglar alarms can be effective deter-

rents and even help homeowners save money on their insurance policies. The Electronic Security Association estimates that home alarm systems can save homeowners as much as 20 percent on their insurance policies. Such savings can offset the cost of purchasing and installing burglar alarms. Homeowners who doubt the efficacy of burglar alarms as a crime deterrent should know that a study from researchers at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte examining the habits of burglars found that 60 percent decided against burglarizing properties they learned had burglar alarms.

• Trim privacy trees and shrubs around the perimeter of your home. Privacy trees and shrubs can make it harder for passersby to see into a home from a nearby street or sidewalk. However, such features also can provide hiding space for criminals looking to gain access to a property. Routinely trim trees and shrubs near doors and windows so they are not inadvertently providing cover for criminals.

• Light up the outside. Exterior lighting is wildly popular among homeowners for its aesthetic appeal. But lights around walkways and throughout a landscape also illuminate the exterior of a home, making it harder for criminals to get around without being seen. Spotlights and motion-detection lights can alert homeowners if someone is outside, and such lighting also can make it easier to spot criminals on exterior cameras, which can deter burglars. There’s no shortage of ways for homeowners to make their properties less vulnerable to criminals. ~Metro

Build Your Gift List for DIY Enthusiasts

Rising prices have pushed people to look for new ways to save money. The do-it-yourself approach to home repairs has long been seen as a potential avenue to save money, and holiday shoppers can consider DIY when shopping for loved ones this year.

A recent survey by the remodeling company Allstar Home reported that 70 percent of Americans have recently engaged in DIY home improvement projects. Similarly, a new Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of the DIY Network found that 73 percent of Canadian homeowners have done a renovation project themselves in the past. With so many homeowners tackling projects around the home on their own, DIY-related products may be just what’s needed to hammer down the perfect gift. The following are some potential home improvement presents for DIY enthusiasts.

• Magnetic wristband: Keeping items close at hand takes on new meaning when one utilizes a magnetic wristband. The BinyaTools Magnetic Wristband is just one of the versions of this handy tool that’s ideal for wrangling screws, nails, washers, and any other ferrous items. It’s also a great option for crafters and jewelry makers.

• Painting essentials kit: Painting is an easy and effective way to transform a room. For those DIYers who have yet to compile all of their painting gear, local home improvement retailers often package kits that include a dropcloth, assorted roller sizes, brushes, a paint tray, and even painter’s tape to get started on

projects.

• Rolling workbench: People serious about projects will need a place to store all the tools they have collected. A rolling workbench, such as the Gladiator nine-drawer workbench, has drawers to store tools and a wooden top on which smaller tasks can be tackled. Roll it where needed.

• Hearing protection: Drills, sanders, and other power tools can be noisy. DIYers will want to protect their hearing, and a set of workshop earmuffs can be a thoughtful gift. Some, like the 3M WorkTunes headphones, even come with Bluetooth technology to offer both hearing protection and the ability to listen to tunes while working.

• Headlamp: DIYers need both hands to tackle jobs effectively, which can make holding a flashlight to illuminate the area challenging. Hands-free lighting is possible with an LED headlamp. The light is easily focused where the user is looking.

• Laser measuring tape: A smart measuring tape utilizes a laser to increase measuring size, calculate distances, and ensure that every home improvement project lines up.

• Sawhorse: DIYers working on large projects can benefit from an adjustable sawhorse to support materials and ensure safer cuts. The ToughBuilt C700 is an option to consider since it has support pegs that fold out of the legs to allow for greater ease of use.

The list of gifts for DIYers is endless. Tools and additional gear can help people nail holiday shopping this year. ~ Metro

Tips for Outdoor Christmas Decorating

New Hampshire, with its picturesque landscapes and snowy winters, provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor Christmas decorations. However, decorating for the holidays in this region requires some special considerations due to its unique weather conditions. Here are some tips to make your outdoor Christmas decor both beautiful and practical, including when to consider hiring a professional.

1. Embrace the Natural Scenery

New Hampshire’s natural beauty shines during the winter months. Use this to your advantage by incorporating the elements around you. Pinecones, evergreen boughs, and branches can be easily collected and used to create rustic garlands, wreaths, and swags. Adding red berries or ornaments can give these natural decorations a pop of color. Consider hanging wreaths on windows and doors or using garlands to frame entryways and

railings. These natural elements blend seamlessly with the snowy landscape and provide a classic, festive look.

2. Choose Weather-Resistant Decorations

The winter weather in New Hampshire can be harsh, with heavy snowfalls, ice, and frigid temperatures. To ensure your decorations last through the season, choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant. For example, opt for shatterproof ornaments and LED lights that are designed for outdoor use. Metal, plastic, and weather-resistant fabric decorations will withstand the elements better than glass or paper.

3. Use LED Lights

LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and perfect for outdoor use in cold climates. They remain cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire, and are less likely to break than traditional incandescent bulbs. Use LED string lights to outline

your home’s roof, windows, and doors, or wrap them around trees and shrubs for a magical effect. Consider using warm white or multi-colored lights to enhance the festive atmosphere.

4. Secure Decorations Properly

New Hampshire winters often bring strong winds, so it’s essential to secure your decorations properly. Use sturdy hooks, zip ties, or heavy-duty outdoor adhesive strips to attach decorations to your home or other structures. If you’re displaying inflatables or other large items, make sure they’re anchored securely to prevent them from being blown away.

5. Illuminate Pathways and Driveways

Safety is crucial when decorating outdoors. With shorter days and potentially icy conditions, it’s important to keep pathways and driveways well-lit. Solar-powered stake lights or LED pathway lights can guide guests safely to your door and add a festive touch. You can also use lanterns or luminaries filled with battery-operated candles to create a warm, inviting glow.

6. Hire a Professional

For those who want to go all out or simply lack the time or expertise, hiring a professional decorator can be a great option. Professional decorators have the experience and equipment necessary to create stunning displays that are safe and weather-resistant. They can handle the heavy lifting, including climbing ladders to hang lights on high rooftops, installing complex

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lighting displays, and ensuring everything is securely anchored. This option is especially helpful for homeowners with large properties or those who want a truly unique display. Plus, professionals can often provide storage and maintenance services, so your decorations look perfect throughout the season.

7. Add a Personal Touch

Personalize your outdoor decorations to reflect your family’s style and traditions. Whether it’s a DIY project or a collection of cherished decorations, adding unique touches can make your home stand out. Consider crafting a sign with a holiday message or creating a themed display that tells a story.

8. Plan for Snow

Snow is a part of New Hampshire’s winter charm, but it can also cover up your decorations. Keep this in mind when planning your outdoor decor. Elevate decorations by placing them on fences, railings, or raised planters to keep them visible even after a snowfall. You can also incorporate the snow into your design by creating snowmen or using it to fill in displays.

By following these tips and considering professional help when needed, you can create a beautiful and festive outdoor display that withstands New Hampshire’s winter weather. Embrace the season, get creative, and let your decorations bring joy to all who see them. Happy decorating!

We can no longer take the safety of our water for granted. When you turn on your faucet, bathe your child, water your lawn, or flush your toilet, you want to know that your water is safe and clean. We will test and explain your water chemistry in a way that is easy to understand and then recommend the most efficient, effective and economical water treatment solution, custom fit to your needs.

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Firewood For Winter

By Mark Okrant

As winter approaches, many will be placing logs inside a fireplace or wood stove. You’ll light them, then sit back while appreciating the ambiance that is created. Homeowners watch television, crochet/needlefelt, read the newspaper, cuddle with a loved one, and think creatively in the warm atmosphere.

According to American Woodcutters, “Wood is an essential part of American culture, serving many functions from constructing houses, to producing common items, to providing sustainable energy.” By definition, firewood is any wooden material gathered, then cut or not cut, split or not split, as long as it is used for fuel. Firewood is often in the form of a log or branch and can be seasoned before using it either dry or fresh/wet. It is generally classified as either a hardwood or softwood. Unlike fuel sources such as coal, oil, or natural gas, firewood is a renewable resource.

Burning firewood is not without its concerns. Smoke from firewood has been linked to respiratory and other diseases. Furthermore, moving firewood long distances can potentially transport diseases and invasive species. For example, the emerald ash borer, Asian long-horned beetle, brown spruce longhorn beetle, sirex woodwasp, and spotted lanternfly are believed to have been introduced into New Hampshire by infested firewood moved from out of state. For this reason, most states have very strict quarantines regulating the movement and use of firewood. For firewood produced in the state, the government of New Hampshire requires it to be treated by being heated to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for at least sixty minutes. It must be clearly labeled with the name

and address of the federal or state-approved facility.

Where is our wood harvested? Some firewood is harvested in managed woodlots, while much is cut from heavily wooded natural forests. Harvesting timber for firewood is normally carried out by using chainsaws. In most of the United States, the standard measure of firewood is a ‘cord’ or 128 cubic feet (3.6 m3); however, firewood also can be sold by weight. The price of the resulting firewood is determined by several factors: its heating value (i.e., the amount of heat released during the combustion of a specified amount of it), the distance from the customer to the wood lot, and the quality of the wood.

The moisture content of firewood determines how it burns and how much heat is released. Unseasoned (green) wood moisture content varies by the species. Green wood may weigh 70 to 100 percent more than seasoned wood due to water content, while seasoned (dry) wood has 20 percent or less moisture content. The higher the moisture content, the more energy that must be used to evaporate (boil) the water in the wood before it will burn. Therefore, dry wood delivers more energy for heating than green wood of the same species.

Most homeowners obtain their wood from a wood harvester. Firewood may be delivered in suitable lengths for burning, or it may necessitate that the wood be cut, either by a professional or the homeowner. Once the wood is delivered and/or cut, it needs to be stored. There are many ways to store firewood. These range from simple piles to free-standing stacks to specialized structures. The goal of storing wood is to keep water away from it

and, just as important, to continue the natural drying process.

The simple stack is where logs are placed next to and on top of each other, forming a line the width of the logs. The height of the stack can vary, generally depending on how the ends are constructed. The length of the log plus the pile’s length determines the height of a free-standing stack. Some people feel that wood will dry more quickly when covered; others point out the risk of the wood getting wet. A cover can be any material that sheds water, including a large piece of plywood, sheet metal, an oiled canvas cloth, or plastic sheeting. Experts remind us that wood will not dry when completely enclosed.

Some homeowners prefer to stack their wood under a roof, as this eliminates the problem of wood being subjected to the elements; however, ventilation needs to be provided if the wood is green. Whether your wood is split or not, it should be stacked

lengthwise, which is the most stable and practical method. Firewood always should be stacked with the bark facing upwards. This allows the water to drain off, and it will keep frost, ice, or snow away from the wood. Be advised that storing wood near a dwelling increases the likelihood that insects such as termites can become established indoors.

Close to home, North Atlantic Fuels in Epping, New Hampshire offers a range of delivery options, including firewood. It appears that this company represents multiple wood-cutting concerns, as they promote sufficient acreage to store high volumes of inventory, an in-house trucking fleet, and commitment to the forestry, wood processing, and delivery industries. This company abides by strict regulations established by New Hampshire, just as other states have their own.

Another excellent source of wood can be found on the www. firewoodscout.org website. The site offers more than one hun-

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