01/09/2025 Weirs Times

The RighT MaTch

by Tim Moore

One of the first lessons I teach new anglers and those looking to increase their catch is how to properly match your rod and reel to your line and lure. A properly matched setup allows you to get the most out of the equipment you are us-

ing, maximizes the potential of your equipment, and allowing you to get the most out of it. Will you catch fish with an improperly matched setup? Sure you will, but you’ll catch more fish, feel your lure, detect more bites, and ultimately become a better angler if your gear is well-balanced.

Selecting line for use in cold weather presents a unique challenge. Even the best mono filament line has memory, especially when it gets cold. When your line comes off the spool it is going to want to coil. These coils act a springs and can dampen the action

The Lakes Region Loses a Legend

John Joseph Ganong, 74 years of age, passed away peacefully at his home with his wife Brenda Ganong by his side on January 1, 2025, at 11:11 am. He was born on November 23, 1950, in Somerville, Massachusetts (MA). His childhood was filled with the love and joy of his late brother, Paul Ganong, and sister, Anne Marie Leary, as well as his loving parents, Paul G. and Mary (Kelly) Ganong. John grew up in Somerville, MA, and graduated from Somerville High School in 1969. During his childhood, he fostered incredible long-term friendships that lasted throughout his days.

While living in Massachusetts, he spent most of his weekends and vacation days at his family’s property on Hilliard Road in Laconia, New Hampshire (NH), where he learned about the joy of Lake Winnipesaukee and the differences of life in the country versus the city. He also discovered an annual tradition that became one of his favor-

See GANONG on 14

The Woke War On The US

To The Editor:

JFK famously wrote a college thesis : “Why England Slept”. The thesis discussed the failure of the English government and people to recognize the mortal danger of Hitler’s Nazism. That book became a bestseller. Nearly a decade later Nikita Khrushchev banged his shoe on the U.N. Podium in NYC and screamed “ We Will Bury You!”. Then Khrushchev asked if he could visit Disneyland. (Query whether Trump had this in mind when he invited Xi to his Inauguration?)

Charlie Kirk’s new book “ The Right Wing Revolution: How To Beat The WOKE And Save The West” bangs a shoe on our heads, explains why America sleeps and provides a detailed description for America to wake up. Charlie proves that “Wokeness” is the official ideology of the Demolitioncrats and the federal government and a nearly incurable disease. Wokeness may be defined as a petty, backwards-looking, mean-spirited political theory. Charlie’s solutions require personal awareness and sacrifice and a revival of the Ten Commandments As the blueprint for a moral society, rather than “ living with the vacuous nihilism of modernity.” He demands removal of modern poisons from our lifestyles: substance abuse, pornography and addiction to smart phones and television. Finally, the de-

mise of Wokeness requires that we protect our children from WOKE indoctrination by our educational systems and our universities.

Let’s arm ourselves to win the “War On Woke”.

Read Charlie Kirk’s book.

Charles Bradley Laconia, NH.

Silent Chronic Globalism Death Of Our Nation

To The Editor:

The silent crisis of the United Nations continues to move our nation into world government. Nevertheless, it is respected and protected by “deep state” control of government and the legacy media. Why is UN danger ignored? The UN is based on an ideology that the government is the grantor of human rights. It is the anti-thesis to American constitutional self-government in which life, liberty, and happiness are secured by inherent God-given rights. Why then is the UN not looked upon by our leaders as an enemy within?

This UN, through all of it agencies, is essentially behind every issue that threatens American liberty. MAGA will not save our nation until we get out of the UN. Widespread disinformation is the fueling dynamite of ignorance, a barrier that chokes liberty because of lack of truth. A friend magnified this truth to me when she ask her liberal leaning rela -

This newspaper was first published in 1883 by Mathew H. Calvert as Calvert’s Weirs Times and Tourists’ Gazette and continued until Mr. Calvert’s death in 1902. The new Weirs Times was reestablished in 1992 and strives to maintain the patriotic spirit of its predecessor as well as his devotion to the interests of Lake Winnipesaukee. Our newspaper’s masthead and the map of Lake Winnipesaukee in the center spread are elements in today’s paper which are taken from Calvert’s historic publication.

Locally owned for over 30 years, this publication is devoted to printing the stories

tives what the acronym “TDS” meant? Their answer revealed they didn’t have a clue that it tagged them and many of the left as be being infected with Trump Derangement Syndrome. They are not even on the same wave length of truth as we know it because their news deceives. This is key, and emphasizes to me how mountainous the disinformation we have to overcome to teach the truth that Jefferson’s words warn us of the consequence: “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a civilization, it expects what never was and never will be.”

The MAGA movement work to restore Americanism is just starting. Although the 2024 presidential campaign turned a necessary corner, we now only have its promising potential: America last policies will be turned into America first policies. But potential and promises unkept for the best interest of the people over numerous decades still linger. The fact that we still have enemies deceiving the American public with lack of information was greatly magnified during the recent run for the White House. Candidates, Fake News and even new upcoming conservative networks failed to mention the proposed legislation to completely withdraw from the UN. The hatred manifested for independence in all of its policies through their Marxist/ socialist/communist leadership add up to organized evil to See MAILBOAT on 21

of the people and places that make New Hampshire the best place in the world to live. No, none of the daily grind news will be found in these pages, just the good stuff.

Published year round on Thursdays, we distribute 24,000 copies of the Weirs Times every week to the Lakes Region/Concord/ Seacoast area and the mountains and have an estimated 60,000 people reading this newspaper.

To find out how your business or service can benefit from advertising with us please call 603-366-8463.

BIRDS For The

New England’s Wild Birds & Their Habitats

2024 BiRding highlighTs

by Chris Bosak Contributing Writer

Welcome to 2025, everyone. Without introductory fanfare, here are my top birding highlights from the past year.

10. I see more and more bald eagles every year. I’m not the only one, of course, as bald eagles are doing well as a species, thankfully. I visited family in Erie, Pennsylvania, over the holiday break and saw five bald eagles at Presque Isle during a single visit. I saw a few more on the drive home along I-86 in New York.

9. Hawks, particularly red-tailed hawks and red-shouldered hawks, are even more common than bald eagles, of course. On a few occasions this year, I came across cooperative hawks and got some good close-up photos. In a later column, I’ll show the differences between zoom focal lengths when photographing birds.

8 . Overall, it was a slow year for ducks, which is disappoint -

plovers, found

in New England.

ing considering ducks are my favorite type of bird to watch. My best “duck day” came during the Christmas Bird Count when I got closeup views of long-tailed ducks and American wigeons. I need to do better on my ducks in 2025.

7. A pair of catbirds and four purple finches were regular sightings at my local park throughout January and February. Catbirds

do not typically overwinter in New England, but these birds had a reliable food source that kept them here. It was strange to see catbirds with snow covering all the surrounding branches. Purple finches are not uncommon winter sightings, but it was fun to see them daily, nonetheless.

6. It’s always interesting to look back at what visited the birdfeeders over the past year. The

usual suspects did not disappoint and kept me entertained, but the highlights this year included a brown thrasher on the suet feeder and a two or three-day visit by a male and female purple finch.

5. I can peer directly into the woods from my office window at work.

In the winter, I see a steady stream of juncos and white-throated sparrows. Year-round,

Black-bellied

during a fishing/birding trip, rest on a beach

CHRIS BOSAK PHOTO

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Wounded Warrior Program In Laconia

Christian Lanman, Outreach Specialist with the Wounded Warrior Project will be speaking at the Laconia Knights of Columbus Veterans meeting hall on Friday January 10th from 10am to Noon.

Wounded Warrior Project began by providing simple care and comfort items to the hospital bedsides of the first wounded service members returning home from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. As their post service needs evolved, so have WWP’s programs and services. Today, through WWP’s direct programs in mental health, career counseling, and long-term rehabilitative care, along with their advocacy efforts, WWP improves the lives of millions of warriors and their families.

Any veteran, active military personnel, or those wishing to learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project are invited. The meeting hall is located at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 314 South Main St, Laconia. Parking is available at the rear of the building and access is via the rear door. The Knights of Columbus also sponsors an informal coffee, and donuts open house every Friday morning, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and is open to all veterans. Advocate services and materials are available.

Connecticut River Program In Moultonborough

On Thursday, January 9th at 7:00 p.m. at the Loon Center in Moultonborough, the Lakes Region Chapter of the New Hampshire Audubon Society will present a program on The Connecticut: New England’s Greatest River, presented by Adair Mulligan. The largest river in New England rises in a small beaver pond near the Canadian border and flows over 400 miles through four states, falling 2,670 feet to the sea through America’s only watershedbased National Fish and Wildlife Refuge.

Mulligan leads an armchair tour of this great river in New Hampshire and Vermont, exploring its history and natural beauty through the seasons and among the communities that have sprung up along its banks.

Next, the discussion will shift to how the river has influenced the lives of those who live there, and how they, in turn, have affected the river. Much more than a travelogue, this presentation explores the many issues involved in managing the health of this major river, and how citizens from all walks of life have created a vision for its future.

Adair is the author of multiple books, and is Executive Director of the Hanover Conservancy. She holds an MA degree in environmental biology from Smith College, and served for 20 years as conservation director of the Connecticut River Joint Commissions.

Please note that this program is on Thursday, January 9, which is the second Thursday of the month. Lakes Region Chapter programs are usually on the third Thursday, and we don’t want you to miss it! This program is made possible by NH Humanities.

The Loon Center is located on Lee’s Mill Road; follow the signs on Blake Road from Route 25 near the Moultonborough Central School, or from Rte. 109 turn on to Lee Road and turn left on Lee’s Mill Road.

Barron Ryan, Concert Pianist and Composer In Wolfeboro

Friday, January 17th at 7pm at the First Congregational Church of Wolfeboro, Concert Pianist Barron Ryan will perform ‘Classic Meets Cool’, virtuosity from ‘The Heartland of America’

Barron Ryan’s love for music has always been divided. The son of two musicians, he grew up in a house filled with the sounds of artists ranging from Mozart to Michael Jackson. So, when it comes to his own performance, he’s not content drawing on just one influence. He combines them all into a musical adventure that’s vintage yet fresh, historical yet hip, classic yet cool.

This is the fifth of nine concert performances comprising the current WFOM season running through May, 89 years of artistic excellence in service to NH’s Lakes Region! Tickets are available for $37.50 at: www.wfriendsofmusic.org; by calling (603) 569- 2151 and at the door on the day of the concert. High School students with ID will be admitted free of charge. Children accompanied by an adult ticket purchaser will be admitted free of charge. For additional info visit us at: www.wfriendsofmusic.org, or at: info@wfriendsofmusic.org

Teen Challenge In The Weirs

On Sunday, January 12th, at 10:45 AM the Weirs United Methodist Church will be hosting members of the New England and New Jersey adult and Teen Challenge. There will be several members from Teen Challenge to discuss the substance abuse program and they will be sharing some of their personal experiences of how this program has impacted their lives.

If you have any questions or concerns about substance abuse, please attend this event. There are over 220 Adult & Teen Challenge USA residential programs throughout the United States. These Christian recovery centers offer a variety of programs that include drug addiction help, alcohol recovery, and services for youth, adults and families. Admission requirements, fees, and tuition costs vary from program to program. Teen Challenge USA (a 501(3)(c)) is diligent to provide cost-effective programs, however, the significant resources required to provide training, lodging, meals, supervision, and other expenses necessitate the generous support of our friends, faith communities, and society.

OOL

NEW HAMPSHIRE

The cosT of looking good

by Brendan Smith Weirs Times Editor

Like many others in this country I have felt the rising cost of one of our most necessary commodities wreaking havoc with my finances.

Every week I find myself being more frugal, conserving what I can, even at the cost of my own comfort.

Alas, I can never hold out as long as I’d like and sooner than later I’m digging it on my pockets to cough up big bucks for that essential item that I’ve come to rely on so heavily.

Am I talking about filling up my gas tank? Maybe my supply of eggs and milk? No, not all.

I’m talking about razor blades. Have you bought any lately? Some 10-razor packs cost as much as the Gross National Product of Belize (wherever that is). It didn’t seem that long ago that razors were affordable; the price not even worth a second look at the drug store. Now a cold sweat breaks over me every time I find myself heading towards the razor blade aisle. I stand dumbfounded, along with other distraught and stubbled consumers, as we check the latest price increase.

Even having one of those shopper rewards cards provides little comfort.

Just why has the cost of razor blades gone out of control? Sue everything has gone up in price lately, but razor blades seem to have broken the barrier.

Back in the good old days when everyone used a single blade straight razor it seemed like the supply was endless and very inexpensive. Razor blades were so cheap we brought them by the box and used them for many other things besides shaving: opening packages, cutting rope, slicing garlic, etc. Using them for shaving was never the sole purpose.

We (or at least I) would throw them away after just a couple of shaves. We were reckless. We thought the party would never end.

Then came the fancy and more convenient two-blade razors. We thought we were so smart. It was supposed to be a closer shave, but we were just being sucked in by Big Razor. They were setting us up for the fall. We left behind the thought of the single-bladed straight razor as now being thought of as “old-fashioned.”

Next was the disposable razor, we were shaving wily-nilly, laughing as we discarded each plastic blade. We were shaving ourselves like there was no tomorrow. There was even a special pink one just for the ladies. Households were filling up with the things. It was becomong an epidemic.

Still, we weren’t satisfied. We wanted bigger and better razors. We wanted more power in the palm of our hands. We didn’t want to just shave our whiskers; we wanted a new experience. Hence, the triple-blade razor. As the TV ads informed us, the first blade pulled the whisker while the second held it in place while the third blade cut it deeper than any blade ever had before in the history of mankind.

Soon a fourth blade was added. We didn’t even know what it did but we wanted it.Then an aloe strip was included and a smoothing edge and more and more. We were hooked, we could never go back.

But now we’ve paid the price for our selfishness, trapped due to our own vanity and comfort. As we became more dependent on razors the supply began to fall behind demand.

We started to pay big time.

I can’t imagine the thought of ever going back to a single straight razor shave again, but I just might have to. I have friends who have overcome their own addiction and have happily switched back.

I never thought I could give

up that comfort of a fourbladed, aloe smeared aerodynamically handled shave, but I may have no choice.

What can we as American consumers do about it?

I’ve tried to tone down my razor consumption by not shaving as much but after a couple of days my face looks like a kiwi. Not shaving at all is the most extreme option but in the end it could cost me too much emotionally. My wife has gotten used to my fourblade shaven face and may not be ready for the adjustment.

Someone sent me an email that claimed if everyone in America who shaves didn’t for one day then the price of razors would fall. Some have stated that boycotting the “Big 3” razor makers and buying from the little guy might make a difference.

Both seem unlikely.

I have tried to conserve. I am attempting to use one blade for at least two weeks at a time. Unfortunately, I have found this leads to a type of gouging more painful than that of prices. The increased cost of styptic pencils and BandAids makes this a moot point.

Of course the environmentalists proclaim that the only way to end all of this is to go electric. I’ve tried that in the past more than a few times and each time I have been lured back to the hand-held. As far as I’m concerned alternative forms of shaving just aren’t perfected enough.

I’m not here today to proclaim I have an answer to this dilemma. If the cost of four aloe-vera aerodynamically correct razor blades goes up fifty percent we’ll just pay it. What choice do we have?

But I think we should all be aware of our shaving habits and be more careful.

Just be thankful that shaving cream is still fairly inexpensive. But who knows what the future will bring?

Order your autographed copy today for $16.99 plus $3 shipping. (Please include any inscription you would like.) Make out checks or money orders for $19.99 to Brendan Smith and mail to: Socks Book c/o Weirs Times, PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247 Or order online at BrendanTSmith.com (Autographed copies also avail. at the Weirs Times) “I Really Only Did It For The SocksStories & Thoughts On Aging”

Order your autographed copy today for $16.99 plus $3 shipping. (Please include any inscription you would like.) Make out checks or money orders for $19.99 to Brendan Smith and mail to: Socks Book c/o Weirs Times, PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247 Or order online at BrendanTSmith.com (Autographed copies also avail. at the Weirs Times)

Really Only Did It For The SocksStories & Thoughts On Aging”

Following defeat in the presidential election, Democratic Party leadership is doing much needed soul searching. Those not in denial know there is something wrong.

Per Gallup, in the 10 months in 2024 prior to the election, January to October, the Democrat partisan advantage -- the percentage identifying as Democrat or lean Democrat minus the percentage identifying as Republican or lean Republican -- was in negative territory 5 of the 10 months. This is more Democrat negatives than in any presidential

WhaT’s WRong WiTh

The deMocRaTic PaRTy?

election year since Gallup started reporting this in 1992.

The percentage of the electorate not happy with either party is growing. In 2004, per Gallup, 31% identified as Independent. Twenty years later, in 2024, this was up to 43%.

More general measures show a displeased American public.

In December, Gallup shows just 19% satisfied with the direction of the country.

Gallup has been polling annually since 2001 asking, “How proud are you to be an American?” In 2001, 55% said they are “extremely proud.” In 2023, this was down to 39%.

To summarize, the 2024 presidential election plus polling data tells us that Americans are not

happy with the status quo, almost half of Americans are not happy with either party, but between the two major parties, they are less happy with Democrats.

The late Peter Drucker, who pioneered the field of management consulting, wrote that when a firm hired him for advice, the first question he would ask management was to define the business they are in.

Drucker observed that a common characteristic of companies that are in trouble is that management cannot clearly define their business.

We can apply Drucker’s rule to our country. What business is the United States of America in?

Although there were many debates in the founding of the coun-

try, the principles that define it, which show up in our founding documents -- the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution -- are very clear. It is a country about individual freedom, with a limited federal government, whose responsibilities are enumerated in the Constitution, but all with the objective of protecting the individual freedom of our citizens. Democratic Party leaders can focus here to understand what the problem is with their party. Democrats fail the Drucker rule. They have completely detached from what our country is about. We are completing four years of a Biden administration that paid zero attention to anything but spending

gReenland - aMeRica’s noRTheRn RaMPaRT?

by John J. Metzler

Everybody it seems is suddenly interested in Greenland. Canada, Russia, China and the United States all are vying for a foothold on the Arctic island.

A fantastically beautiful but often foreboding place locked in ice and isolation, Greenland’s remoteness has been both its blessing and its bane. This may now be changing.

In a politically stunning New Year’s Address from the capital Nuuk, Greenlandic Prime Minister Múte Egede has called for “independence from Denmark.” Given its geographic location and

largely untapped mineral riches, Greenland has gained the overdue attention of both nearby and faraway countries, both as a place of mining and foreign investment as well as a military bases for security through emerging Arctic Ocean waters and maritime passageways.

The remote if overlooked Arctic island, three times the size of Texas , sits between North America and Europe, just north of busy commercial aviation routes. Once a colony, Greenland became selfruling with its own parliament since 1979. Greenland remains a Danish territory, with Copenhagen exercising control over its foreign and defense policy.

Though a self-governing region of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland is largely dependent on the

Copenhagen government for revenue, trade and protection. The entire population of 57,000, mostly Inuit, is that of one medium sized American city! Greenland receives an annual subsidy of around €500 million, ($550 million) supporting a classic Scandinavian social welfare state.

Denmark is a founding member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and a very close ally of the United States. During the Cold War, Greenland hosted a number of U.S. military bases most of which have been phased out. Even today the Thule facility near the North Pole remains a vital American facility with over the Arctic horizon radar and monitoring of Russian airspace and communications.

This writer has had the privilege to visit Greenland on a few occasions during the region’s relatively warm nearly always daylight Summer to accompany units of the New York Air National Guard who maintain a unique airbridge to the territory. In the past flights serviced the Sonderstrom Air Base, served by an Air Guard C-130 Ski-plane Squadron flying in supplies and supporting inland icecap locations. Does truth mirror fiction? In the popular edgy Danish political drama series Borgen on Netflix the most recent season (2022) evokes the current situation; a Canadian petroleum company sets up in Greenland largely with local approval. Before long it turns out the company has secret

Syndicated Columnist

by Star Parker Syndicated Columnist

This series of Letters From God is an attempt to put the thoughts of God as revealed in the Scriptures as they relate to individuals and the nation of the USA.

Letters From God Letters From God

QUESTION

Any Message For The New Year?

You are launching into a New Year, which I have graciously provided for you. There will, however, be a year that will be your last. Either you will die before the next or my Son, Jesus, will return as I promised in my book, the Bible (2 Peter 3:110). When he does, he will consummate human history and eternity will begin for all those I have brought into the world. Those who have had their sins forgiven, which kept you from a relationship with me, a holy creator God, will be brought back to a new and recreated heaven and earth. Unlike the first, sin will never touch this creation and death will never be experienced (Revelation 21:1-7). Those, however, who remain in their sins, without a savior and who do not know me, will be excluded from this environment of life, in which I live. They will spend eternity with the Devil and all those who chose to make themselves a “god” and continue in their sins (Revelation 21:8). Christmas is behind you but there was an event that, should you take it to heart, can change your eternal destiny. If you choose to learn from the past you can enjoy the rich benefits of the future.

I promised to send my son, Jesus, as your savior. As early as the third chapter of my book, the Bible, I announced that a male child would be born from Eve’s seed and that he would crush the head of the Devil (Genesis 3:15). That mortal blow would open his grasp that held all of you in the destiny of death. It was the Devil, who deceived Adam and Eve to make themselves so-called gods, rebel against me and live in ways that were contrary to my holy and perfect ways which I commanded. Since then, all who have been born of Eve’s seed have followed in kind. “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way;…” (Isaiah 53:6).

Without this promised male child, who alone can free you from the Devil’s death grip, you can’t stand before me a holy God and live. You will be allowed to “have your way” and to live apart from me, continuing in death for eternity.

Not only did I promise your savior in one of the earliest chapters of my book, the Bible, but I also told you where he would be born in one of the last chapters, just before the child was born. In the book of Micah I had written, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2).

As a result of these and many other prom-

ises and predictions before the birth of my son Jesus on Christmas, some in Israel took me seriously and anticipated that day. One of them, was a man named Simeon, and his story was recorded in my book, the Bible. Because he was anticipating this event, he lived in such a way that he pleased me. He was “righteous” and “devout” while he was “waiting for the consolation of Israel.” (Luke 2:25). I wanted to reward him, so I made a special promise to him alone. As he was growing older and would soon die, I told him that his savior, was about to be born. I also told him that as a reward for his faith and devotion, he would actually see him before he died.

today. He said, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people.” (Luke 2:30-31).

That day came, when I led him to the temple in Jerusalem on the very day Mary & Joseph brought Jesus to the temple. They were being faithful to obey my command to bring the firstborn male child into the Temple and offer him to me for my service (Exodus 13:2).

Because both Simeon and Jesus’ parents were trusting me and obeying me, they met at the right place and at the right time. As a result, as the child was being dedicated, Simeon recognized him as the “one.” The “one” I promised long ago to the world and also the one he would see and even hold before he died.

Can you imagine his joy of having this privilege before he died? His words in response at that moment are so significant for you

I know each one of you who will die this year! When you do, your next waking moment will be standing in my presence. If you have a savior because you, like Simeon, longed for, beheld and held my son Jesus, not physically but by faith and trusted him to be your savior, you will stand. I will bless you with eternal life and you will enjoy the perfect environment of a new heaven and earth. If, however, you stand alone in your sins, you will be cast away from my presence and never experience the life that only I can give (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9). As one of your credit card companies says of the need for financial security by having their card, “Don’t Leave Home Without It!” Your money will be useless when you stand before me and without my son, being your savior, your eternal destiny will be hellish. So, I say, “Don’t Leave Home Without “HIM” and the forgiveness of sins! Bow now, before it is too late!

I love you, God

These letters are written by Rev. Dr. Sam Hollo of Alton, NH

KINDRED SPIRIT FARM

A breakthrough in Ear-Brain Technology™:

Intrigue AI mimics the cerebral cortex of the human brain to quickly and more accurately ‘fill in’ the gaps produced when our hearing system falters.

• Replicates how our “normal” auditory system works.

• Distinguish words and speech more intuitively and naturally.

• Hear soft sounds without distracting noise.

• Reduce the effort it takes to listen and hear.

Happy New Year! & Healthy & Healthy

oldeR adulTs can PRevenT sliPs, TRiPs and falls WiTh These TiPs

(StatePoint) Among older Americans, falls are the number one cause of injuries and death from injury, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Not only are seniors more at risk for falls, but when they do fall, they are at a greater risk for injuries, hospitalization and complications. Medical experts say that for people of all ages, a ground-up approach to fall prevention starts with healthy feet.

“Painful foot conditions, such as osteoarthritis, calluses, bunions, hammertoes and diabetes complications, can make it difficult to maintain balance and coordination when walking or standing,” says Bryn J. Laubacher, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ACFAS). “Compounding the issue is that when you are suffering from a painful foot condition, it can be more difficult to engage in the strength and balance exercises that ultimately reduce fall risk.”

Experts say that elim inating foot pain can lessen one’s chances of experiencing a lifealtering fall. That’s why the foot and ankle sur geons of ACFAS offer these steps for keeping feet and ankles strong and healthy: Don’t ignore pain:

Foot pain is not just a normal consequence of aging, so don’t ignore aching and suffering or resign yourself to it. You likely have a treatable condition. See a foot and ankle surgeon when you experience pain for proper diagnosis and treatment.

EXAMINE YOUR FEET: Regularly inspect your feet. If you notice any bumps,

lumps or other changes, make an appointment with your foot and ankle surgeon for evaluation.

EXERCISE: Simple stretching exercises can help you maintain strength and mobility in your feet and ankles, as well as provide pain relief. Talk to your physician about appropriate exercises for you.

PROTECT: Wear cushioned insoles or any special footwear you are prescribed, along with comfortable, well-fitting and supportive shoes, every day – even around the house.

CONSIDER ADVANCED OPTIONS: Know that at times, surgery is the most appropriate treatment for a given condition. Fortunately, many surgical techniques today can be performed on an outpatient basis. There are also more options than ever before.

According to Dr. Laubacher, new medical technologies and ground-breaking surgical interventions, such as bioengineered scaffolding for reconstructive surgery, minimally invasive techniques and stem cell regeneration, are helping patients restore functionality and get back

BoWl Mania: Too Much college fooTBall!

by Mike Moffett Contributing Writer

The college football season will finally approach an end on January 20 with a national championship game. Finally.

Recall that college football games used to cease after the New Year’s Day Bowl extravaganzas featuring Rose, Cotton, Sugar, and Orange. Then there’d be a poll to determine the national champion.

Times have changed.

Inevitably there was controversy over those polls. Sometimes a coaches’ poll would conflict with, say, an Associated Press poll.

“We should have a playoff to determine the true national champion!” cried many.

And so it came to pass. A playoff sequence integrating existing bowls with the top four teams seemed reasonable. But what later also came to pass was unreasonable. This season involved an unwieldy twelve team “tournament.” How can college football studentathletes properly study and go to class with an extra month of games taking them into spring semester?

One would think these college gridsters were pros!

Truth be told, big time college football players are pros now, replete with free agency, sports agents, major endorsement deals and compli-

cated contracts

Knute Rockne must be rolling over in his Cedar Grove Cemetery grave on the University of Notre Dame campus.

The first college bowl game took place on Jan. 1, 1902, in Pasadena, Calif. Sportscaster Keith Jackson always referred to the Rose Bowl as the “Granddaddy of them all!” Michigan (110) came west to play Stanford (3-2-2). Trailing 49-0 in the third quarter, Stanford quit playing and the game ended early.

The 1902 Rose Bowl was such a hit that the second Rose Bowl game didn’t take place until 1916 when Washington State defeated Brown University to restore west coast honor. Eventually other Bowl games joined the Grandaddy on New Year’s Day. In 1935 the Sugar, Orange, and Sun Bowls came about.

The Cotton Bowl started in 1937 and the Gator Bowl in 1946. Warm weather was obviously a

requirement.

This year featured around 40 Division I bowl games, starting on Dec. 14 when the Veterans Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama, pitted South Alabama (6-6) against Western Michigan (6-6). That’s right, a Bowl Game in which neither team had a winning record.

Then there was the Myrtle Beach Bowl on Dec. 23, in Conway, S.C., where Coastal Carolina (6-6) played UTSA (6-6).

I wonder what scalpers got for ducats to that grid classic.

Even cold weather cities are now afflicted with Bowl Mania. New Englanders have the Fenway Bowl in Boston, which on Dec. 28 featured North Carolina (6-6) playing the UConn Huskies— who actually had a winning (8-4) record!

Not to be outdone, Yankee Stadium also hosted the Pinstripe Bowl Game the same day, which ironically pitted Boston College (7-5)

against Nebraska (6-6). So why couldn’t BC play in the Fenway Bowl?

The Pinstripe Bowl actually started in 2010, predating the Fenway Bowl by 11 years.

(An aside: The Boston Garden opened in 1928. In a burst of originality, it was originally named the Boston Madison Square Garden. New York’s Madison Square Garden dated back to the 19th Century and was seen as something Boston should try to emulate. I kid you not.)

Anyway, while I understand the appeal of bowl games, I actually wish some of them would just go away! Too much is too much. Enough with the 6-6 teams! And there are defunct Bowl Games. We’ll hopefully never again see a Bacardi Bowl, a Bluebonnet Bowl, an Aloha Bowl, a Cherry Bowl, a Poinsettia Bowl, or a Salad Bowl (born 1948, expired 1955).

If only the Myrtle Beach Bowl could also die with dignity.

(Fun Fact: The NFL actually has an expired bowl—the Playoff Bowl, 1960-69, aka the Burt Bell Benefit Bowl. This grid classic featured the Eastern Conference runner-up against the Western Conference runnerup for the coveted title of “Third Best NFL Team.” It was played annually in the Orange Bowl following the NFL title tilt. After Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers lost the 1965 Playoff Bowl to the St. Louis Cardinals, the legendary coach called

Knute Rockne

Not So LoNg Ago ...

Exploring ThE lEgEnd & lorE of our graniTE STaTE

a neW yeaR BRoughT neW Plans a gRange iniTiaTive

by Robert Hanaford Smith, Sr. Contributing Writer

In the first decade of the twentieth century a man by the name of Richard Pattee was the lecturer of the New Hampshire State Grange for a span of six years. He would later, in the year 1910, become the State Master of the Grange, otherwise known as The Patrons of Husbandry. As the holder of the office of lecturer Pattee had control over the programs of the state organization and its guidance of the local Grange organizations called the Subordinate Granges. It was in January of one of those years, likely 1908, that a newspaper reporter interviewed Richard Pattee about the new program the Grange was introducing in the state, but, before he did that, the reporter asked some general questions about the organization called “The Grange.”

“Just what is the grange?” he asked.

“The grange, or the Order of Patrons of Husbandry,” replied Mr. Pattee from his little office in a back room of a brick building on Main Street in Plymouth, “is a society of farmers.”

He went on to say, “The distinguishing feature of this order is that women and men are admitted on equal terms, and that though, nominally a secret fraternal organization, it has assumed a semipublic aspect through its discussion of public affairs and its action in promoting legislation.”

Though the Grange was and is a national organization, Mr. Pat-

tee’s answers to the reporter focused on the state organization in which he had a leading position. He explained that the grange was a growing organization with a state membership of nearly 30,000 meeting in subordinate (local) branches in nearly every town in the state, with some towns having more than one branch.

“What are its purposes and its work?,” was the reporters next question.

“Its purposes are in the promotion of the interests of agriculture, the betterment and the education of people

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engaged in that calling, and especially the creation of social life in rural communities,” Pattee answered. He continued by saying, “Socially, it is the biggest factor in the country life of the state. Its semimonthly meetings are occasions for gatherings of young people; indeed, about the only criticism we hear is that we keep late hours while the young people have their fling.”

Pattee suggested that life would be dreary on New Hampshire farms without the grange meetings. He further explained, however, that the grange was not just for amusement and socializing. Essays and papers on applicable subjects were regularly read and discussed in the meetings and an officer called the lecturer was responsible for arranging those programs under the leadership and guidance of the State Lecturer, the office that Richard Pattee held at that time. Mr. Pattee worked out of the Plymouth office though he was a member of the New Hampton Subordinate Grange, No. 123, in his native town.

In explaining the mission and accomplishments of the Grange, Pattee said that the then present form of state aid to rural schools was

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Richard Pattee, NH Grange Master.

Time for New Year’s Financial Resolutions

Now that the calendar has flipped, it’s time for some New Year’s resolutions. You could decide you’re going to exercise more, lose weight, learn a new skill, reconnect with old friends — the possibilities are almost limitless. This year, why not add a few financial resolutions to your list?

Here are a few to consider:

• Reduce your debts. It may be easier said than done, but if you can cut down on your debt load, you’ll increase your cash flow and have more money available to invest for your future. So, look for ways to lower your expenses and spending. You might find it helpful to use one of the budgeting apps available online.

• Boost your retirement savings. Try to put in as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. If your salary goes up this year, you’ve got a good opportunity to increase your contributions to these retirement accounts. And once you turn 50, you can make pre-tax catch-up contributions for your 401(k) and traditional IRA. You might also want to review the investment mix within your 401(k) or similar plan to determine whether it’s still providing the growth potential you need, given your risk tolerance and time horizon.

• Build an emergency fund. It’s generally a good idea to maintain an emergency fund containing up to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments to pay for short-term needs, such as an expensive auto or home repair.

• Keep funding your non-retirement goals. Your traditional IRA and 401(k) are good ways to save for retirement — but you likely have other goals, too, and you’ll need to save and invest for them. So, for example, if you want your children to go to college or receive some other type of post-secondary training, you might want to invest in a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan. And if you have shortterm goals, such as saving for a wedding or taking an overseas vacation, you might want to put some money away in a liquid account. For a short-term goal, you don’t necessarily need to invest aggressively for growth — you just want the money to be there for you when you need it.

• Review your estate plans. If you haven’t already created your estate plans, you may want to do so in 2025. Of course, if you’re relatively young, you might not think you need to have estate plans in place just yet, but life is unpredictable, and the future is not ours to see. If you have already drawn up estate plans, you may want to review them, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life and family situation, such as marriage, remarriage or the addition of a new child. Because estate planning can be complex, you’ll want to work with a qualified legal professional.

You may not be able to tackle all these resolutions in 2025. But by addressing as many of them as you can, you may find that, by the end of the year, you have made progress toward your goals and set yourself on a positive course for all the years to come.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Investing is about more than money.

At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the question: “What’s important to you?” Without that insight and a real understanding of your goals, investing holds little meaning. Contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’s really important: your goals.

GILFORD

NICK TRUDEL, CFP®, ChFC®, AAMS™ , CRPC™, FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 293-0055

nicholas.trudel@edwardjones.com 28 Weirs Rd., Suite 1, Gilford, NH

LACONIA

BENJAMIN J WILSON CEPA®, FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 524-4533

benjamin.wilson@edwardjones.com 55 Canal Street, Laconia, NH

LACONIA

JASON R POCHILY FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 524-4533

jason.pochily@edwardjones.com 55 Canal Street, Laconia, NH

LACONIA

DAVE BOCHICHIO FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 524-4533

dave.bochichio@edwardjones.com 55 Canal Street, Laconia, NH

MEREDITH

DEVON SULLIVAN, CFP®, ChFC®, CRPC™ , FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 279-3284

devon.sullivan@edwardjones.com 164 NH Route 25, Unit 1A Meredith, NH

MEREDITH

CARI LAMONTAGNE FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 279-3161

cari.lamontagne@edwardjones.com 3 Mill Street Meredith, NH

MOULTONBOROUGH

KEITH A BRITTON FINANCIAL ADVISOR (603) 253-3328

keith.britton@edwardjones.com 512 Whittier Highway, Suite 1 Moultonborough, NH

The Simple Feast

by Eric N Gibson Contributing Writer

The Simple Feast Simple The Simple Baked haM

While making a baked ham may seem daunting to some, it need not be. With proper selection, proper cooking methods, and a little luck, you too can create a center of the plate masterpiece that is, at once, very easy and very impressive. And pretty darn tasty too! And what’s more, you can do it with little effort (or as much as you prefer to put into the task).

First Thing’s First: Selection

Now there is really no right or wrong in selecting a ham (unless you buy a canned ham, in which case you may now flip the page.) For those of you still with me, as I was saying, there is no right or wrong in selecting a ham. Let us assume you have selected a smoke cured ready cooked ham. (I will glaze over those differences when we talk about cooking. And yes, the pun was intended.) The choice of which brand of ham to purchase is merely a matter of personal preference.

However, when it comes to carving a

ham there are only three principle types: a whole ham, a butt half ham, and a shank end half ham. (Sometimes the shank end will be called a shankless shank end ham.) The whole ham is just what it sounds like, it is the entire ham, uncut. And honestly a whole ham is not recommended unless you are feeding an army, trying to compete with the cousins who have the biggest and the best of everything, or you really really like ham. And if you find yourself buying the whole ham, you may as well stop in the housewares aisle because you are probably going to need at least one if not two or three of those disposable roasting pans used at Thanksgiving. Why? Because that is about how big a whole ham is. Yes, that’s right, a whole ham will run about 16 to 22

pounds… or more. And, as anyone who has ever cooked a ham will tell you, a half ham will most likely be ample for your meal. And, quite frankly, if you need the equivalent of a whole ham you would probably find it easier to have two halves. Half hams are easier to handle, both in preparation and during the cooking and serving. My suggestion is to leave the “show boating” to the professionals and stick with halves. Which half should you choose, Butt or Shank? To some it makes little difference and in terms of flavor I’d say that’s right. However, for ease of cutting, the shank, in my opinion, wins every time and a shankless shankend ham is even better because there is even less bone to carve around.

ACKERLY’S

Grill & Galley

83 Main Street, Alton

603.875.3383

Akerlysgrillandgalleyrestaurant.com

Stoneface - IPA

Moat Mtn. - Blueberry

Great Rhythm - Pale Ale

Baxter - Coastal Haze

603 - Amber Ale

COPPER KETTLE TAVERN

At Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant

233 D.W. Hwy, Meredith 603.279.6212

hartsturkeyfarm.com

Fiddlehead - IPA

Guinness

Tuckerman Pale Ale

Allagash - White

Shipyard - Pumkinhead

+6 More On Tap

D.A.

LONG TAVERN

Anatomy 101

Before I go any further, let’s talk about basic anatomy for just a moment. If you haven’t figured it out by now, a ham is, in its most basic form, a portion of the posterior of the pig. When facing the south end of a north bound pig, you see (without getting too detailed) a tail. To the right of the tail is one whole ham and to the left of the tail is the other whole ham. Remember, when the carcase is split down the middle, it becomes Noah’s Ark: two of everything. The lower portion of the ham that connects to the leg is the shank portion. The portion that connects with the pelvic area and base of the spine (approximately) is the butt portion. The butt portion is just as good as the shank portion but the butt offers a challenge when it comes

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Founders - CBS (2019 Vintage)

603- Coffee Cake Porter

St. Bernardus - Wit

Schilling - Kinsman

Lawson’s - Mad River Maple

Barreled Souls - Blue Steel +6 More On Tap

FOSTER’S TAVERN

403 Main Street

Alton Bay, NH

603-875-1234

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Tuckerman pale ale

Aqua Vue Haze

Allagash white

Maine Lunch

Guinness

Stoneface IPA +10 More On Tap

JOHNSON’S TAPHOUSE

At Johnson’s

Seafood & Steak

69 Rt 11, New Durham 603.859.7500

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newdurham

Lone Pine -Brightside

Widowmaker -Blue Comet

Shipyard -Smashed

Pumpkin

Jack Abby -Red Tape

Muddy Road -1762 Porter

Northwoods -Autumn Buzz +30 More On Tap

MORRISSEYS’

Porch & Pub

286 S. Main St., Wolfeboro

603.569-3662

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Morrisseys’ 20 Year Lager by Great North

Smithwick’s

Guinness Harp

Concord Craft Safe Space +11 More On Tap

PATRICK’S PUB

18 Weirs Rd., Gilford

603.293.0841 Patrickspub.com

Patrick’s Slainte House Ale

Great North - Moose Juice

Guinness

Clown Shoes - Bubble Head

603 - Winni Amber Ale

Tuckerman - Pale Ale +9 More On Tap

PUB 23

6 East Side Drive, Alton Bay,NH 603-875-2110

Tuckerman - Winter Ale

Maine Beer - Lunch

Michelob Ultra

Bud light

Budweiser

Blue Moon

THE WITCHES BREW PUB

At The Craft Beer Xchange

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Jack’s Abby – Blood Orange Wheat

Golden Rod – Mango Cart

1911 – Raspberry Cider

Kettlehead – Dreamstate

Able Ebenezer – Lady of the Lake Lager

Last Chair – Powder Bear +30 More On Tap

** Tap listings subject to change!

ite weeks of the year, Laconia Bike Week, and he became a “Motorcycle Man” in 1976 with the purchase of his Kawasaki KZ900. John, his brother and closest friends went on to ride their motorcycles on the open roads together in the decades that followed.

During his younger years, he was notably a great boxer, speedskater, racquetball player, and basketball player before growing up to be an entrepreneur at heart. John was a muscle car enthusiast, loved street racing in the suburbs of Boston, and his passion for noise and excitement never stopped.

In 1973, he married his former wife and mother of his children, Elizabeth Searles. They went on to have his wonderful daughter, Kristy Ganong, in March of 1979 and his loving son, Jason Ganong, in May of 1982. In 1985, the family relocated to Weirs Beach, Laconia, NH, to join the amazing community. John was one of the many “city slickers” that joined the community and somehow, they all connected through their original city roots, establishing bonds that were inseverable.

During his early years, while fostering new relationships in the area, he enjoyed fishing and ice skating on Pickerel Cove, night cruises to The Broads of Lake Winnipesaukee under the stars, and networking at the local watering holes such as Karl’s, Christmas Island Steakhouse, Crossroads, Nothin’ Fancy, Smokehouse, The Cackling Crow, The Lobster Pound and Gulbicki’s Gas Station!

John was a hardworking entrepreneur

who started many successful businesses along the way and also supported every other entrepreneur in the area. He was a salesman at heart who always wanted to refer business to other owners for locally generated support. He was the owner of The Groundskeeper landscaping business until he found his love for real estate, when he joined the Century 21, Keewaydin office with some of his favorite longstanding real estate colleagues and friends. John was always so grateful for

all that he learned in his early days as an agent and had an affinity for teaching new agents, many of which remain in the real estate community today. He went on to open his own real estate offices under Ganong Real Estate before eventually returning to his true home in real estate, the welcoming office of Roche Realty Group. He sold many properties multiple times over in the Lake Region area over the past 35 years. He also owned and operated multiple restaurants, including Jeff the Chef, Bridgeway

Restaurant and Nothin’ Fancy. His other businesses included a car dealership, a trucking company, an insulation and vinyl siding business, a Hawaiian shaved ice shop, and most recently, a small apparel business under the Nothin’ Fancy name. He also found time to volunteer as a coach for the Lou Athanas basketball league, where he impacted many young players that still call him “Coach.”

In 1998, John met his caring wife, Brenda Ganong, who supported him in all of his adventures. They have enjoyed many years of riding motorcycles together, hosting barbecues, and welcoming even strangers that became friends into their home for a burger and a beer. They also enjoyed some of the latest and greatest social places, all of which are incredible supporters of the local community, such as Bernini Italian Pizzeria and Wine Bar, The Looney Bin, and High Octane Saloon.

Over the years, you could often (or always) find John somehow with a microphone in his hands, singing some of his favorite songs with a band, singing Karaoke, or

playing the drums if he had the opportunity. He was always charismatic, with a fond desire to be the master of ceremonies. John and Brenda also enjoyed establishing fundraisers for an exceptional number of beneficiaries, including Brenda’s Ride for Cancer, The Laconia Sports Benefit for Children, Celebrity Bartender events benefiting Tufts Medical Center, the Laconia Fire Department, and other fundraisers for individuals. With their commitment to providing funding for “goodness” combined with the unbelievable support and participation from the local community, they raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for others in need.

To those participating community members and businesses, you know who you are; John is forever grateful for each of you making every fundraising event a success!

John, otherwise known as “The Bionic Man,” experienced an exceptional number of medical surgeries be -

ginning at the age of 52 when he had his first heart valve replacement and aortic patch. He later went on to have a pacemaker installed, a defibrillator implanted, and even lived with an LVAD (Left Ventricular Assist Device), or as he would call it, an electronic heart, while waiting for a much-needed heart donation. One year later, on January 4, 2011, he was graciously offered a new heart and received a heart transplant, which was performed by Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA. He had many other medical procedures in the years that followed. Thanks to the amazing doctors and nurses, and most notably Dr. David DeNofrio and his team, John lived many additional years and was able to attend his children’s weddings, meet and enjoy time with his five grandchildren, and continue to live life to the fullest! He was a man of integrity and was afforded the opportunity to teach his family the true values

of life; the importance of treating people with kindness and respect; how to have fun; and to always seek thrills.

John was forever grateful for all that everyone has done for him, including giving him those extra years that he cherished so deeply.

He was a tenacious man, a fighter, and had the will to keep going like no other, but always knew he had the support of his doctors and nurses, that, like everyone else, became his valued friends.

From John’s Family, we want to express our upmost appreciation to Tufts Medical Center, Dr. Denofrio, Dr. Kiernan, Dr. Salehi and their teams; Catholic Medical Center, Dr. Patten and the CMC staff; Comfort Keepers, Home Instead and the nurses and caretakers that have taken care of him over the years; those close friends that were always there to support him; the community members that loved him; and most importantly, the donor family that provided him with 14 additional years of an amazing life.

To all of John’s family, friends and the

rest of the community, just like the old days, please just “have one more” and continue to smile and laugh, dance, enjoy live music and instruments, ride your motorcycles and boats, and continue to seek thrills. Have the will to keep going because life is wonderful, so live it to its fullest like John Ganong did! John is survived by his wife, Brenda Ganong; his children: Kristy Ganong Blanchard and her husband Rich of Tewksbury, MA; Jason Ganong and his wife Michelle “Belle” of Gilford, NH; Christina Day and her husband Keith of Northfield, NH; his grandchildren: Benjamin Gloddy, Jackson Blanchard, Kyle Day, Jasper Blanchard, and Grayson Ganong; his sister Anne Marie Leary; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who have become family. John was predeceased by his grandparents, his parents, Paul G. and Mary Ganong, his brother Paul E. Ganong, and many friends who were lost too soon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Tufts Medical Center, Advanced

Heart Failure Program where John received his care. To make a gift please visit https:// giving.tuftsmedicalcenter.org/give-now , select “other” and type in Advanced Heart Failure Program or you can mail your donation to the address below; please indicate you’re

making a gift in memory of John to the Advanced Heart Failure Program.

Tufts Medical Center Development Office, ATTN: Katie Puzo 800 Washington Street, Box 231 Boston, MA 02111

The family of John Joseph Ganong (19502025) will be gathering to celebrate his life, listen to music, dance, smile, laugh, share a story or two, burn some rubber, and toast to a man who did it “My Way.”

They’d be honored if you’d join them at High Octane Saloon, located at 1072 Watson Road, Laconia, NH, on Saturday, January, 11, 2025, at 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

you are attempting to produce with your lure. Line coils also prevent you from detecting bites. Your line should be light enough

that the lure you’re using can straighten it out. Small tungsten drop jigs like the Clam Epoxy Drop work best with 2-4 pound test line. Increase the size

Lots Of Fun On Tap!

of your lure and you should increase the size of your line. Many companies have begun working on lines with improved cold weather performance. Clam Outdoors teamed up with Sunline to produce Frost ice fishing monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braid that is IGFA rated and performs in cold weather much the same as regular lines in warmer weather.

& French Fries

Rod construction is very specific. Every rod is built to certain specifications based on power and action. Power (light to heavy) refers to how much pressure it takes to flex a rod, and action (slow to fast) is determined by where the rod flexes. To take the end of a 6 or 7 foot rod that was built for a 1 ounce lure and 12 pound test line, and use it with 2 pound test line and a size 12 tungsten jig can put an angler at a disadvantage because it isn’t properly matched for most of the lures used for ice fishing.

There is such a thing as overkill when it comes to rod selection. Too heavy and you lose sensitivity. Too light and you lose lure control. Your rod should match the lure and line you are using. Think of it as a theme. If you’re fishing with a light lure and line, fish with a light rod. Having a rod that is matched to the line and lure you are using means better sensitivity, better lure control, and more success. When you decrease the size of your lure, make sure you make the necessary adjustments to the rest of your gear. If you’re goal is to catch more fish through the ice, then make sure you have a correctly matched setup. First choose your lure, then choose a rod and line accordingly. The right match is going to mean more fish through the ice.

Tim Moore is a fulltime licensed professional fishing guide on Lake Winnipesaukee. He owns and operates Tim Moore Outdoors, LLC. He is a member of the New England Outdoors Writers Association, and the producer of TMO Fishing on YouTube and the Hooked with TMO Fishing Podcast. Visit www. TimMooreOutdoors.com for more information or email info@TimMooreOutdoors.com with questions or comments.

the Playoff Bowl “the Sh*t Bowl, a hinky dink football game, held in a hinky dink town, played by hinky dink players. That’s all that second place is—hinky dink.”)

The bad news now is that after January 20th’s championship game there will still be more college football.

The Senior Bowl all-star game will take place in Mobile, Alabama on February 1. The good news is it will then be at least ten months until the Celebration Bowl, the second week in December in Atlanta.

R.I.P Knute Rockne.

Sports Quiz

Due to fears of Japanese attack in 1942, the Rose Bowl was moved from the west coast to where? (Answer follows)

Born Today

That is to say, sports standouts born on January 9 include Hall of Fame Packer quarterback Bart Starr (1934) and 5-6 NBA phenom Muggsy Bogues (1965).

Sports Quote

“As far as the bowl games go, I don’t think the players think too much about them. At least not at USC.” – USC football coach Lane Kiffin

Sports Quiz Answer

The 1942 Rose Bowl was played at Duke University in North Carolina, which was deemed safer from Japanese attack. Oregon State beat Duke 20-16.

I often see chickadees, titmice, cardinals and blue jays. Three times this year, I was treated to a pileated woodpecker sighting. Who doesn’t love the occasional pileated woodpecker sighting?

4. The Christmas Bird Count is always a fun day, and this year included several out-ofthe-ordinary birds such as merlin, American pipit, pine warbler and yellow-rumped warbler. One never knows what the weather has in store for the CBC, and the cold, blustery day this year froze our fingers and watered our eyes, but we muddled through and found some good birds.

3. A mid-May visit to Presque Isle in Erie, Pennsylvania, yielded more than 64 bird species in a single day. My brother Paul and I set out to reach 60 species and surpassed that number on our last stop within the park. It was a good mix of songbird migrants, seasonal nesters, year-round residents and shorebirds.

2. The local park where I walk a few times a week yielded a sur-

prise sighting one day. I got to a break in the tall, thick brush just in time to see an eastern coyote trotting across a big field. Coyotes are certainly not rare in New England, but it was the best view I’ve had of one in a long time.

1. It was the perfect combination of hobbies that can be done at

the same place. My son Andrew took up coastal fishing this year, and I accompanied him on a few trips to the water. I’m somewhat ambivalent toward fishing, but I took several birding breaks and enjoyed spending time outdoors with Andrew.

Here’s to another great year of birding.

BOSAK from 3

to carving because the butt portion has an irregular shaped bone. The shank portion typically has one (perhaps two) long straight bones end to end and the leg joint that connects the two. (Think of a knee X-ray, the two bones coming together with connective tissue between them.) These straight bone(s) make the ham easier to carve. In the case of a shankless shank end, as the name implies, one of the long “shank” bones is removed and only part of the joint and a portion of the upper strait bone that would lead to the “butt” bone is left. There is much less frustration and time expended in carving when you select a shank end ham as you are not whittling away at oddly shaped bones and yielding meat that is ready for ham salad.

To Cut Or Not To Cut?

Some people cannot help but score a ham. I admit I too like the looks of a well scored

ham. As it cooks, that outer layer of fat and rind begin to separate and offer a visual design that can be quite impressive, especially when studded with whole cloves. Each point of the diamond checkering being accented with little fragrant blackened twigs. But does it serve any useful purpose? In a word: No. Other than scenting the house, which could be done with a spiced potpourri, all you are doing is subjecting your guests to the potential of biting into a missed whole clove. No, given the time it takes to stud your ham with all those prickly little slivers of shrubbery sans the green, the time spent, in my mind, is not worth a few seconds of visual appeal. Some argue too that scoring the ham will actually dry the meat. While I have not experienced this I do think scoring, when done correctly, judiciously (shallow cuts are best) will actually hold onto some thicker glazes. Remember,

lightly scored is better as deeper cuts will look like gaps on the finished product.

How To Cook A Ham

If you have selected a precooked smoked cured ham chances are you can actually eat it right out of the pack-

age cold. With most hams available at the store the cooking instructions are merely there as a guide to reheat the ham. However, the onus is on you, the purchaser, to know what type of ham you are buying so always read the package before buying to determine what type of ham you are about to purchase: cooked, smoked, cured,

uncooked, fresh, etc.. Or ask to speak with the butcher or Meat Department Manager. Assuming you have purchased a precooked, smoked cured ham and are removing it right from the packaging of the manufacturer, the rule of thumb for “cooking” is heating the ham to an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. This can be achieved by using 1215 minutes per pound at 325 degrees F. as a general guideline. However, I recommend you have a thermometer on hand to check the internal temperature. At under $10.00 for a bimetallic stem thermometer, when correctly calibrated, it is an exceptionally sound investment. Also, when cooking the ham two things I have found will help keep moisture in. One is to add water into the roasting pan. About a cup should be plenty. And secondly, be sure to “tent” your ham with foil. These two steps will keep your ham in a moist heat while cooking.

To Glaze Or Not To Glaze?

Some people are puritans while others are adultorators. (Hmmm, perhaps more definition is needed.) Some people prefer the “natural” flavor of smoked ham. (Now there’s an oxymoron.) That is to say that for some the subtle smokey flavor of a smoked cured ham is perfect in and of itself. Whereas, others may prefer a glaze of some sort. If a glaze is more to your liking, suggestions on the web abound. What I have found to complement ham is a blend of citrus juice such as orange or pineapple juice mixed with a little apple cider and maple syrup or brown sugar add -

ed for sweetness, and perhaps a tablespoon or two of prepared or spicy mustard. All are flavor profiles that go great with ham. Heated in a saucepan, stirred until combined, and allowed to reduce a little, this makes a good glaze during the last half hour of cooking. Remove the foil and apply the glazing liquid with a baster or ladle every 10 minutes and once more upon removing the ham from the oven. The sugars will add a bit of caramel or darkening to the outer surface while not burning or leaving a burnt flavor. Letting the ham rest for about 15 minutes before you carve it as well as adding a little glazing liquid to the ham once it is laid out on the platter will help keep the meat moist during service. Is this the “end all be all” for baking a ham, probably not. But hopefully you found a few nuggets to take away from this article. Sliced thin and served with a choice of sides like Mac and Cheese, Green Bean Casserole, and biscuits or Corn Bread well, I’d say you have the makings of your next holiday meal. O maybe just another Simple Feast. Enjoy!

For more information on Food Safety and the proper handling of Ham and other foods please visit the USDA website: www.fsis.usda.gov/ food-safety/safefood-handling-andpreparation/meatfish/hams-and-foodsafety

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established through the efforts of the organization, as was the then current system of state aid in road-building. Other legislation had been passed as a result of Grange influence. The State Lecturer gave instructions each year to the Subordinate Granges as well as suggestions to guide them in building programs for each meeting. One of the requirements was that the granges spend time going over the items in the Town Warrants in their towns in preparation for the yearly Town Meetings.

The interview of Mr. Pattee at length focused on the new thing that he was bringing to the work of the New Hampshire State Grange. The plan involved helping rural schools in the education of the children by providing new resources for them. Pattee stated that the Grange had already done things “... to equalize the school privileges of the city, village and country places.” They had asked the legislature to extend the

length of the school year and to raise the quality of the teachers hired for the country schools. The new plan involved a proposal by the Grange “...to follow up the pub-

lic school system with able, free public lecture courses dealing with educational, agricultural and general matters. These courses we propose to establish and maintain through the grange until such time as the state or some other agency can and will conduct this work.”

Pattee stated that in the country towns there was very little “intellectual stimulus.” The public lectures that the grange was proposing were to be funded by a surplus that had been gained by an increase of membership and the yearly dues the members paid. Pattee stated that while he was the Master of the New Hampton Grange he was involved in promoting his home town which helped him to prepare for the new task he was leading in the grange.

The Lecturer revealed

that they were planning to provide over 100 lectures that would be of help to farmers available to the local granges. The subjects included things like Farm Law, Farm Sanitation, First Aid and Home Remedies, Domestic Science, Public Administration, “and a multitude of other matters of interest to farming people.”

The names of those who were to give the lectures included Professor H.C. Morrison, the state superintendent of public instruction, Dr. J.E. Klock, the principal of the state normal school, Phillip Ayres, forester of the state forest association, Professors Sanderson and Rasmussen of the state college, Rev. Mr. Babb of Laconia, and Rev. Mr. Dorion of Plymouth.

When Mr. Pattee had completed his sixth year as the state lec -

turer he was elected to become the Master of the State Grange in the year 1910. Mr. Andrew Felker of Meredith followed Pattee as the state lecturer. Of interest is the fact that about that time a New Hampshire resident was the Master of the National Grange. His name was Nahum Josiah Bachelder who had a farm in East Andover and also served as a Governor of New Hampshire. He and I have a common ancestor, the founder of Hampton, New Hampshire, Rev. Stephen Bachilder.

The Grange still functions in New Hampshire, though with many fewer branches than were active 100 years ago, and now welcomes members from various backgrounds, not just those involved in agricultural endeavors.

U.S. Postal Stamp honoring the National Grange.

Russian connections, which triggers immediate American security concerns. Before long Chinese investors are meddling in the mix. As Denmark remains responsible for Greenland’s foreign affairs, the indefatigable Minister Birgitte Nyborg walks a political tightrope between giving political space to the self-governing Greenland government while at the same time being pressured by Washington. The entire imbroglio causes the near collapse Danish coalition government.

Now enter Presidentelect Donald Trump. He recently stated

American control of Greenland now has become an “absolute necessity.” But this is more aspirational namely to get Denmark to do more for its own defense, for which to be fair hasn’t been much. After Trump’s comments the Danes said they would send a few extra ships and two long range dogsled teams, to beef up defense in an area bigger than Alaska!

Following WWII, President Harry Truman offered to buy Greenland from the Danes and got an icy response from our ally. Trump was equally rebuffed by the Greenland Government and Copenhagen. Prime

Minister Egede declared Greenland is “not for sale.”

Under a 2009 agreement with Denmark, Greenland can only declare independence after a successful referendum.

Trump’s offer is not novel. During his first Administration he offered to buy Greenland. Indeed the U.S. bought the Danish West Indies in 1917 for $25 million in gold. They’re now called the U.S. Virgin Islands. That was about strategy too in the midst of WWI. The incoming Trump Administration asserts that both mineral deposits as well as maritime lanes of communication both

across the Atlantic as well as possible new channels in the Arctic Ocean call for Greenland’s pro-active defense.

A 2024 public opinion poll taken by the University of Greenland by Professors Nielsen, Rasmus Leander & Maria Ackrén show that of respondents 59 percent favor wider cooperation with the U.S. and 80 percent with Canada as compared to 12 percent with Russia and 25 percent with China. But only 18.8 percent favor closer security links with the U.S. but 44 percent to NATO.

Prime Minster Múte Egede demanded, “It is now time to take

the next step for our country”. He should speak with Donald Trump about a deal.

John J. Metzler is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of Divided Dynamism

The Diplomacy of Separated Nations; Germany, Korea, China.

to normal faster than ever before, For more ways to keep feet and ankles healthy and prevent falls, and to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts. org, the ACFAS patient education website. Foot and ankle surgeons are experts in providing both conservative care as well as surgical approaches to foot and ankle healthcare.

“Remember, just one fall can have a major impact on a person’s independence and quality of life. That’s why it’s so important to prevent falls by taking care of your feet and ankles,” says Dr. Laubacher.

THE CLASSIFIEDS

LP Gas/Oil Service Technicians

White Mountain Oil & Propane, a local family-owned business, is currently seeking experienced LP Gas/Oil Service Technicians, based out of our North Conway or Lincoln, NH offices.

These are full-time positions. We offer competitive pay, a full benefit package including paid vacation, holidays, health & dental insurance, 401 (K), and profit sharing.

Minimum

BUY WILL I

* Art * Antiques Fine * * Jewelry * Silver * Judy A. Davis Antiques

One Item or Entire Estate ~ Cash Paid For: All Antiques: American and Continental furniture, paintings, oriental rugs and bronzes. Historical documents, old books and maps, nautical items, barometers and sextants. Old prints, movie and travel posters. Old photography, cameras and musical instruments. Gold and Silver U.S. and foreign coins Civil war and all military items, guns, swords, medals and old flags. Old advertising, wooden and metal signs, vintage whiskey and wine, old weathervanes, old pottery, old jugs, crocks and textiles, lamps and lighting, glass and china.

Old toys, banks, trains, sports memorabilia and comic books.

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All estate and contemporary jewelry, diamond rings, brooches, Patek, Rolex, all watches and charm bracelets. All Fine Gold and Silver Jewelry Sterling silver flatware, tea services, trays and all silver and gold.

The principles of individual freedom and personal responsibility, as a national ideal, is and has been totally lost to the Democratic Party.

Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign promised only a new chapter of the same. She had not one idea or proposal that did not involve more government.

With individual freedom comes personal responsibility. This implies standards of right and wrong. In our nation, the Bible has always been the source for these standards.

George Washington said it in his farewell address. Abraham Lincoln said it in

his second inaugural speech. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said it in his “I Have a Dream” speech.

Anyone that viewed President Joe Biden’s Christmas video message from the White House heard him say, “Too often we see each other as enemies, not as neighbors, not as fellow Americans.”

It is, sadly, true. But responsibility for this destructive mindset lies at the doorstep of Biden and his party. It is the Democratic Party that has fostered a culture, the antithesis of what America is about, that says that some do not have enough because others have too much. And that government should decide who has what and should use its political power to redistribute wealth.

The eternal truths that define our nation

are the rules of the game that give all better lives.

Everyone seems to grasp this these days, except those leading the Democratic Party.

Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.” Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now.

To find out more about Star Parker and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

hate God, family and country.

The UN globalist project Agenda 21/30 to manifest control over the U.S., State sovereignty, and local laws and to destroy all private property ownership still remains an issue seldom discussed. Yes , we have President Trump’s track record of withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement, UNESCO, and his initiating the withdrawal from WHO. All good moves, but we must take an axe to the UN root. Ending UN membership would end the UN umbrella of control over the U.S. and every evil attacking our nation.

Our officeholders seem to embody a partiality to global UN style government and a prejudice against constitutional Ameri -

canism. Unfortunately, their actions reveal the ignorance Jefferson describes above, “ … being ignorant and free can never be.”All Americans need to educate their leaders. Pick up the truth when it is stopped. The buck stops with you! The cage of silence they hide in must be rattled. Federal, State and local officials need truth. Freedom is in peril if we fail to challenge the coming Administration to support the reintroduction of the DEFUND ACT by TX Rep. Chip Roy’s , H.R. 6645

& Senator Mike Lee’s S.3428 to completely withdraw the U.S. from the UN and all related agencies. Without getting the U.S. out of the UN, Making America Great Again will never be!

Start by watching this 16 minute video. https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=UETZZCftd2s

Russ Payne Merrimack, NH.

by Parker & Hart

SUPER CROSSWORD

B.C.

PUZZLE CLUE: CATCHING SOME WAVES

MAGIC

THEME THIS WEEK: MATES

Answers on Page 21

The Winklman Aeffect

by John Whitlock