01/16/20 Weirs Times by The Weirs Publishing Company

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

VOLUME 29, NO. 3

THE WEIRS, LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE, N.H., THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2020

COMPLIMENTARY

Denny Laine & The Moody Wings Band

(Top) Anatole “Annie” Paquette in the 1970s with his two daughters Belonie (L) and Danielle in front of his Paquette Signs van. (Right) Annie congratulates Roy Whitaker who recently purchased the 50-year COURTESY PHOTOS old Meredith business.

After 50 Years In Business Annie Turns Over Shop Keys To New Owner by Brendan Smith Weirs Times Editor

One of the Lakes Regions’ iconic businesses is changing hands, but not the name, after fifty years in business. Paquette Signs in Meredith, started by Anatole “Annie” Paquette in 1970 was recently purchased by Roy Whitaker of North Woodstock, who also owns

Lincoln signs in Lincoln, New Hampshire. “We are keeping the name Paquette Signs because it reflects the craftsmanship and reputation that Annie has built with this business over the last fifty years,” said Whitaker. The story of Paquette Signs goes back a bit further than the 1970s when Annie chose the career path which led to the suc-

cessful business. “My father was in the paving business and he used to hire out to someone to do the free hand lettering on his trucks,” Paquette re-called. “That impressed me so I started doing lettering and drawing on people’s arms in high school using a magic marker. I did temporary tattoos and things like flags and skulls and cross-

bones.” Annie realized that his strongest suit lay in creative pursuits. “I was getting A’s in shop and art as well as Phys Ed,” said Paquette. “I was really just barely hanging on with the rest.” His guidance counselor addressed it with Annie in his senior year. Asking him what his plans were See PAQUETTE on 22

The Flying Monkey in Plymouth presents Denny Laine & The Moody Wings Band on January 25th. Laine is former guitarist and lead singer of The Moody Blues and, later, co-founder with Paul McCartney of Wings. In 1964, Laine formed the Moody Blues with friend Mike Pinder. Laine was the vocalist on the band’s first hit, 1964’s “Go Now”. In 1971, he and McCartney formed Wings. He co-wrote the Wings hit “Mull of Kintyre,” and also co-wrote and sang lead vocals on “Deliver Your Children.” Laine’s legacy is certainly a solid one. Especially now that he has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018 for his work with the Moody Blues. No guitarist was more integral to Paul McCartney’s post Beatles career than Denny Laine. Don’t miss the British Invasion in Plymouth NH. Tickets for Denny Laine range from $29 - $42. For more information on upcoming shows or to purchase tickets call the box office at 603-536-2551 or go online at www.flyingmonkeyNH. com. RE ONLINE FOR & SHA F RE D A E RE

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Cripple Iran’s Strategic Weapons Program To The Editor: In a New Hampshire Union Leader 2017 oped Dr. Jessica Tuchman Mathews described why the Trump administration should continue the Iranian nuclear agreement. She delved into the value of the agreement and how the U.S. and the world were relatively safe from a nuclear attack by Iran for 15 years if the agreement remained in force. This was terrible thinking. Dr. Mathews and other proponents of the agreement believed the international surveillance program designed to monitor Iran’s compliance with the agreement would ensure Iran could not develop its nuclear arms program. This was a theoretical fantasy. Iran hides its nuclear weapons development activities from international surveillance systems, and Iran continues to expand its nuclear arsenal. Thankfully, President Trump exited the agreement. Iran is a primary sponsor of radical Islamic terrorism. It wants to spread its virulent anti-Western Islamic Fascism throughout the Middle East, and Iran and its proxies are threatening and attacking our military forces in the region. President Trump should continue sanctions against Iran to cripple its strategic weapons programs, and we need more defensive systems and offensive firepower in the Middle East to deter Iran from attacking U.S. forces and partners and interests in the region.

Donald Moskowitz Londonderry, NH

Direct Action Through Local Lawmaking

To The Editor: Clean water, air, and soil are essential for all living things; those that are sentient and those that are not. The major causes of environmental pollution are the combustion of fossil fuels, agricultural waste from fertilizers and pesticides, and nuclear emissions from uranium mining and storage of waste (https:// www.quora.com/What-causesenvironmental-pollution). We have paid a high and potentially irreversible price for all of our industrial progress. The price has been realized at the cost of our health and the increasing rate of extinction of many animals, flora, and fauna. When it comes to water, energy, food, and waste – all major components of our everyday lives – we find ourselves denied access to any real local decision-making authority over protecting human health and safety or that of the natural environments in our communities. Sure, the state and federal government create regulations around industrial activities, but what can we do when the state and federal government get it wrong? I’ve been following the stories about PFAS contamination from the Coakley Landfill, St.Gobain, and the application of human waste (sludge) on commercial farmland. It is incredibly alarming that these industrial activities

are all legally allowable and have caused so much harm with the direct approval and legal support from the state and the federal government. There are times when no allowable amounts of a contaminate are acceptable because they cause such serious and irreversible harm to people and natural environments. PFAS are ‘forever chemicals’ that take more years to leave our bodies and the environment than we are likely to live out on this earth. We know these chemicals cause cancers and yet their use is made legal by the government that is supposed to protect its citizens from such commercial and industrial harms. Join the growing number of communities that are taking direct action, through local lawmaking, to enumerate their right to protect the health and safety of all residents and ecosystems from industrial harms and governmental interference with Rights-Based Ordinances (RBOs). These local laws legalize rights to clean air, water, and soil along with recognizing our right to make local governing decisions that raise local levels of protection within our communities above standards determined at the state and federal levels of government. Learn more at www. nhcommunityrights.org or contact the NH Community Rights Network at info@nhcommunityrights.org. Michelle Sanborn NHCRN President

Our Story

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 20 years, this publication is devoted to printing the stories

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 30,000 copies of the Weirs Times every week to the Lakes Region/Concord/ Seacoast area and the mountains and have an estimated 66,000 people reading this newspaper. To find out how your business or service can benefit from advertising with us please call 603-366-8463 ext. 319.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

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time had passed with no attempt having been made to arrest him, Mr. Sanborn was taken by surprise, and moreover resisted the arrest. Sanborn’s sister was in the house and her calls woke the neighbors. Sanborn, meanwhile, had been handcuffed, and his captors were trying to take him to a carriage for transport. He delayed the action by bracing his feet against the casement of the door and afterwards by the stone posts next to the gate outside. According to writer Harold Carew: “Within a few minutes the church bells were ringing and dozens of men and boys were hurrying to rescue their townsman from his kidnap-

pers, who beat a hasty retreat off toward Lexington.” Actually, according to Sanborn, See SMITH on 31

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in Connecticut had led a group of men in a raid on a United States Armory at Harper’s Ferry, then on the border of Virginia and Maryland, in an effort to steal rifles and start a rebellion by slaves. Sanborn had refused to appear before the Senate committee, which resulted in a warrant being isr won e forh his Oarrest sued Cthe charge of contempt. After a couple of trips to Quebec, Canada, to avoid the arrest, he had returned to his home in Concord, Massachusetts. It was feared that if he submitted to the authorities he would end up in Maryland or Virginia and suffer the same punishment as John Brown, who was hanged for his crime. Because some

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It was just after nine o’clock in the evening of April 3, 1860, that Franklin B. Sanborn was reading in his study when the doorbell rang. Upon opening the door Franklin saw a young man who passed him a note which indicated that the man was worthy of a charitable donation. Mr. Sanborn stepped back into the hallway where the lamp afforded a clearer view of the note, and,as he looked up from reading, he saw four additional men standing in front of him. One of the men put his hand on Sanborn’s shoulder and said, “You are under arrest.” When Sanborn asked by what authority the arrest was made he was told “By the authority of the United States Senate.” Franklin Sanborn’s friendship and support of the militant abolitionist John Brown had earned him an invitation to appear before a United States Senate committee investigating the “conspiracy” led by John Brown. Brown, who was raised

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

JANUARY Through Sun. 26

The Full Monty – Theatre Series Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield Street, Rochester. www. RochesterOperaHouse.com or 335-1992 Wednesday 15th

4-Week Introduction to Curling for Adults Pop Whalen Ice and Arts Center, 390 Pine Hill Road, Wolfeboro. The session will continue 1/22, 1/29 and 2/5. Pre-registration is required a t www.WolfeboroNH/parks-

recreation or call 569-5639

Thursday 16th

NH Audubon Presents a Program on Australia

Loon Center, Lee’s Mill Road, Moultonborough. 7pm. Kurk Dorsey, Chair of the History Department at UNH and NH Audubon member, presents the program entitled, “Penguins, Pardalotes and Pademelons: Seeing Australia While Avoiding the Deadlier Species”. Australia conjures up deadly images of wildlife – crocodiles, snakes, rugby players, and dangerous landscapes, but on his recent trip, Kurk Dorsey encountered nothing more threatening than a questionable meat pie! Program is free and open to the public. 476-5666

Blood Pressure Clinic

Nor thfield Community Pines, 61 Summer Street, Northfield. 11am12pm. Free clinic offered by Franklin VNA & Hospice.

Friday 17

Recycled Percussion Flying Monkey, Main Street, Plymouth. www.FlyingMonkeyNH.com or 5362551

Live Music with Jim Tyrrell and Guest Pa t r i ck ’s P u b a n d E a t e r y, 1 8 Weirs Road, Gilford. 7pm. www. PatricksPub.com or 293-0841

“On the Town” – Classic Movie Showing

The Village Players Theatre, 51 Glendon Street, Wolfeboro. Doors open at 7pm, movie starts at 7:30pm. Enjoy the classic movie “On the Town”, staring Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra; filled with song, dancing and fun! Tickets are just $5pp and refreshments will be available. 5394425

Saturday 18th Recycled Percussion Flying Monkey, Main Street, Plymouth. www.FlyingMonkeyNH.com or 5362551

Toots Lorraine & The Traffic

Pitman’s Freight Room, 94 New Salem Street, Laconia. 8pm. Tickets are $20pp. Pitman’s is a BYO venue. 527-0043

Learn to Ice Fish – Free Fishing Day

Squam Lakes Science Center, Holder ness. 7am-10:30am. Ice Fishing for Families is for adults and families with children ages 9 and up. All fishing instruction and equipment are provided at no extra cost. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for winter on the ice! Bring an extra pair of gloves, snacks, thermos with a hot beverage, and a camp chair. Pre-registration is required by calling 968-7194 x7

Blueberry Pancake Breakfast

First Church Congregational, 6 South Main Street, Rochester. 7:30-10am. Use Door #2 on Liberty Street. 603332-1121

Snowshoe Tracking Event Moose Mountains Regional Greenways and Branch Hill Farm, Milton, NH. 10am-Noon.These family activities are a great opportunity to take kids outside and explore what nature has to offer in all seasons.

www.mmrg.info

Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio Franklin Opera House, Franklin. 7:30pm. Putting a fresh spin on traditional Irish music, the Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki Trio will be bringing a dynamic show, full of foot-stompin’ fiddle tunes and classic sing-a-longs. www.FranklinOperaHouse.org for tickets.

Live Music with Henry Laliberte Pa t r i ck ’s P u b a n d E a t e r y, 1 8 Weirs Road, Gilford. 8pm. www. PatricksPub.com or 293-0841

“On the Town” – Classic Movie Showing

Sunday 19th Design of a Decade – Workshop for Souls Who Seek an Extraordinary Life Wayfarer Coffee, 626 Main Street, d ow n t ow n L a c o n i a . 1 p m - 4 p m . Join Emily Clement, speaker and coach for this workshop that will take from self-doubt to superpowered. Design of a Decade is a 3-hour in-person workshop for people to invest in themselves and not carry the weight of past hurt, resentment, or disappointment. Now is the time to say yes to freedom and maximum joy! Workshop is $99pp. Space is limited. Register at www.

EmilyClementLifeCoach.com

Registration and First Rehearsal for Granite State Choral Society First Church Congregational, 63 South Main Street, Rochester. Registration begins at 3:15pm in the chapel, and first rehearsal follows at 4pm-6pm. GSCS will be preparing a concer t filled with Broadway favorites. Registration is open for three weeks, so interested individuals are encouraged to attend one or more rehearsals in January before deciding to join the group. For more information email gschoral@gmail.com Tuesday 21st

Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm. Join ever y Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost. Wednesday 22nd

Cornerstone VNA’s Free Hospice Volunteer Training – 8-Week Session Cornerstone VNA, 178 Farmington Road, Rochester. 10am-12pm. Session runs each week through March 11 th . This comprehensive 8-week Hospice Volunteer Training program focuses on how to provide comfort, support and a reassuring presence to Hospice patients and their families. No medical or volunteer experience is necessary to make a positive difference. To register for this program, contact Nancy Nicolazzo at 332-1133 x1239 or email

NNicolazzo@CornerstoneVNA.org Altrusa Dinner

Monthly

Community

Meredith Community Center, 1 Circle Drive, Meredith. Doors open at 5pm, dinner served at 5:30pm. This month’s dinner will be pear and craisin salad, beef stew and rolls. Dessert will

See EVENTS on 20

“Small Works” Exhibit At Red River Theatres Gallery Small Works with Big Impact at Red River Theatres Gallery The New Hampshire Chapter of the Women’s Caucus for Art (WCA/NH) presents a special exhibition of “Small Works” in the Red River Gallery at Red River Theatres, 11 S. Main Street, in downtown Concord. Featuring works of art by 16 WCA/NH members/artists, the show opens Saturday, February 1, and runs through Saturday, February 29, 2020. The gallery is open ½ hour before a movie until ½ hour after. The Artist Reception is on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. “Small Works” are two-dimensional art pieces no larger than 11” by 14”. Created by women artists from around the state. Works are done in a variety of mediums including oil, acrylic, monoprint etching, block print, watercolor, digital drawing, textiles and mix-media. The quality, creativity, subject matter and mastery of mediums in these works are exceptional with many of the pieces for sale.

Art Reception At Rochester Museum of Fine Arts The Rochester Museum of Fine Arts will be hosting an art reception celebrating the works of Matt Demers, Lisa Paige, and Josh Dannin on Thursday, January 23rd from 6-8pm. The reception will take place at the Rochester Performance & Arts Center. The reception is open to all and the public is encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be served. The Rochester Performance & Arts Center (RPAC) is located at 32 North Main Street, in downtown Rochester. Visit www.rochestermfa.org for more information.

Program On Australia At Loon Center On Thursday, January 16th 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 Penguins, Pardalotes and Pademelons: Seeing Australia While Avoiding the Deadlier Species. Australia conjures up images of deadly wildlife — crocodiles, snakes, rugby players —and dangerous landscapes, but on his recent trip, Kurk Dorsey, Chair of the History Department at UNH and NH Audubon member, encountered nothing more threatening than a questionable meat pie. He and his family, however, saw lots of great (and very safe) wildlife and landscapes. 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. Refreshments will be served.

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online at www.weirs.com, email to info@weirs.com or mail to PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247

Brendan Smith and mail to: Best of a F.O.O.L., c/o The Weirs Times, PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247. Order online at www.BrendanTSmith.com

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

F O O L NEW HAMPSHIRE A

in brendan@weirs.com

Newest Release By Brendan Smith

Live Free or Die.

*A FLATLANDER’S OBSERVATIONS ON LIFE

Tom And Me I feel Tom Brady’s pain. After all, we are kindred spirits. This year we both have some soul searching to do as we face by Brendan Smith f r e e a g e n c y . Weirs Times Editor We’re both also looking into the eyes of Father Time. I don’t usually like to pull the reader into my professional life, but for those of you who have been following and reading this column for years, I think it only fair that you are aware of the situation. Last year, the end of the decade also marked the end of my current contract extension and with that the decision of whether to continue. Of course, if I had a contract that already extended out beyond this year, I’d be more than ready to pull on the old familiar bathrobe, brew a cup of coffee, switch on the laptop and just continue to keep churning out columns like I have been doing for the past twenty-five years. I wouldn’t even be thinking twice. But now, as I am turning sixty-five this year without a contract, it’s not all as cut and dry as that. I can remember my first few years, my rookie season especially. It was 1995 and I only contributed a column every month or so; I was learning the ropes. I didn’t know if I’d ever make it, maybe I’d burn out or succumb to serious carpal tunnel like some of the other has been columnists. After a few years I was writing a column every other week and, eventually, every week. I had my share of injuries that could have sidelined me (the infamous hangnail incident of 2012 almost ended my career) but I did what I had to to keep

going. I thought I had a pretty good season in 2019. Of course, not all of the critics agreed. Some said that I had lost my touch; was not as funny as I had been in the past. (Of course, they said that in 2013 as well. But by the end of that year, if you remember, I had put out some of my best work.) Others point to the fact that there were more than a few columns that seemed suspiciously like older ones and even some blatant reprints from my two books. I am not going to argue those points, they are true. But, hey, if a certain play has worked well over the years, wouldn’t Brady go back and use it once in a while? Why should it be any different with me? The columns still achieved their goal of making folks laugh. Still, the grumbling about my age hasn’t gone away and I understand that. Some are wondering if I can keep up with the grueling, once a week, eight-hundred-word schedule. And, unlike a professional athlete, there is no off-season to rest up in the newspaper columnist business. I will be the first to admit that I’m not the same agile writer I was those twenty-five years ago who could jump out of bed, hit the keyboard running and pound out a few hundred witty words before the coffee was even brewed. Today, I need a few extra minutes to stretch out the black muscles, scoff down the necessary medications and hope the arthritis in my knee isn’t acting up so I can make it up the stairs to my office. But once I get there, my experience overcomes my present shortcomings and the job always gets done, one way or another. I know there are more than a few of you out there who are hoping that I just close up my laptop for good. I’ve read the hate mail over the years from

those who just wish I’d give it up. Those who celebrated in the failures of some of my columns, quickly espousing to the world on social media that I had reached my peak; that it’s all over for me. Then the next week when I threw out some of my best work, there was barely a peep from the critics. This past year my less than stellar columns haven’t really been all my fault. A columnist is only as good as the material he has to work with. And let’s face it, it’s hard to take on any subject without some group expressing their offense. A sense of humor is lacking in way too many. But it isn’t up to me now. I think I have a few more years in me (at least until I can collect full Social Security). I know that there are some younger columnists who would love to step into my sneakers, and I know that will happen sooner than later. For now, I’ll do the best to make my case. I certainly wouldn’t want to finish my career at another publication. But who knows what tomorrow will bring. It could be that both Tom Brady and me will soon be riding off into the sunset together. Only time will tell. Brendan is the author of “The Flatlander Chronicles” and “Best Of A F.O.O.L In New Hampshire”. His newest book “I Really Only Did It For The Socks & Other Tales Of Aging” will be available this spring. Brendan has also entertained audiences around New Hampshire with his storytelling presentations. To find out more visit his website at BrendanTSmith.com

“The Best of a F.O.O.L.* In New Hampshire”

*Flatlander’s Observations On Life

With over 40 of the best of Brendan’s weekly columns he covers everything from politics to health to technology to shopping and more. This is the perfect sampling of his unique humor which has been entertaining readers of The Weirs Times and Cocheco Times for twenty years. Order your autographed copy today for $13.99 plus $3 for shipping. (Please include any inscription you would like the author to personalize your copy with.) Send checks or money orders for $16.99 to Brendan Smith and mail to: Best of a F.O.O.L., c/o The Weirs Times, PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247. Order online at www.BrendanTSmith.com (Pickup autographed copies at the Weirs Times)

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

Who Decides Who Gets In? My plan to “Keep America Great” is very simple: 1) Stop exporting American soldiers to countries that hate our guts. 2) Stop importing people from countries that hate our guts. When I voted for Donald Trump in 2016, I thought this was the plan. The “America First” champion rightly asby Michelle Malkin sailed Barack Obama for recklessly Syndicated Columnist endangering the lives of our soldiers to pursue politically driven endless wars. President Trump promised to build an effective wall on the southern border. He enacted tough travel restrictions, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, on visitors from countries whose terror-coddling governments pose national security threats. Yet, here we are at the dawn of 2020 with thousands of U.S. troops headed back to the Stone Age Middle East maw, Mexican drug cartels on the loose while our Border Patrol hands out diapers to illegal immigrants and refugees from around the world -- including nearly 1,400 welcomed just last year from the very high-risk countries the Trump travel ban was supposed to block -- transforming the nation without the consent of the governed. The leaky block list includes Syria, Iraq and Iran, which launched multiple missiles at U.S. airbases late Tuesday in retaliation for our deadly airstrike last week that killed Quds General Qassem Soleimani. Now, we are on heightened alert here in our homeland with authorities nervous that Hezbollah sleeper cells (which I’ve documented since writing “Invasion” in 2002) might strike from within. Some of you still wonder why I write so frequently and vehemently about our failed immigration and entrance policies. It’s because nothing matters more right now to the survival of our country than the right to determine who gets in and the ability to enforce it. As I reported last year, thanks to an executive order signed by Trump in September, local communities were given the explicit opt-in rights to stem the lucrative tide of refugees coming largely from Third World countries and jihadist breeding grounds. This Wednesday, religious “charities” that profit the most from this multi-billion-dollar racket will be in court to assert blanket, open-borders veto power over the people. See MALKIN on 27

Trump’s Iran Policy Isn’t the Problem; Barack Obama’s Was This week, President Donald Trump launched a global round of teeth gnashing when he ordered the killing of the greatest terrorist leader in the modern Middle East, Iranian by Ben Shapiro Syndicated Columnist Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani. Soleimani was unquestionably responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Americans in Iraq and thousands of others throughout the Middle East -- mostly Muslim. His global terror network ran from South America to Europe to Africa to Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iraq. Soleimani was an unparalleled organizer and a pitiless murderer. His death was richly earned. But for many in the media and on the domestic and international left, Trump’s action was precipitously “provocative.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Soleimani’s killing -- which came directly after a Soleimani-approved terror assault on America’s embassy in Baghdad and amidst reported further plans for escalated terror against American targets -- “disproportionate.” Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., suggested that Trump, not the Iranians, had “escalated” the situation. Former Vice President Joe Biden said that Trump had “just tossed a stick of dynamite into a tinderbox.” This reaction has been magnified by the media, many of whom have been speculating about the possibility of allout war between the United States and Iran. Think pieces have been written about whether the United States will reactivate the draft (spoiler alert: No, we won’t). Musings have filled the newspapers about the supposed conflagration prompted not by Iranian evil but by Trumpian reactivity. All of this smacks less of legitimate

concern about what comes next than it does of sheer panic that Trump has overturned a decade of American and European appeasement of the Iranian regime. Ben Rhodes, former President Obama’s deputy national security adviser, architect of the Iran deal and an overt liar who told the American public that Iran was on its way to moderation if only the United States would loosen economic restrictions on the terror state, has placed blame for volatility squarely before Trump. Susan Rice, Obama’s national security adviser during the Iran deal and another overt liar who told the American public that Islamic terror against our Benghazi embassy was rooted in anger over a YouTube video, soberly informed Americans that “Americans would be wise to brace for war.” Biden suggested that in throwing out the Iran deal, Trump had paved the way for war -- and, oh, by the way, the Iran deal was “airtight.” This is a deliberate misreading of history designed to absolve the Obama administration of its Iran policy debacle. The administration pursued a policy of strengthening Iran economically -- and did so while openly acknowledging that Iran would use that newly gained economic strength to pursue terrorism and ballistic missile testing. In speaking of the sanctions relief given to Iran, thenSecretary of State John Kerry explained in January 2016, “I think that some of it will end up in the hands of the IRGC or other entities, some of which are labeled terrorists.” That’s precisely what happened. In March 2016, then-U.S. Central Command nominee Army Gen. Joseph Votel said that Iran had become “more aggressive” since the advent of the nuclear deal. Indeed, Iran has built up Hezbollah in Lebanon, propped up Bashar Assad in Syria, inSee SHAPIRO on 27

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

Congressional Grandstanding

by John Stossel

Syndicated Columnist

Congressional hearings were created to educate lawmakers so they have knowledge before they pass bills or impeach a president. Not today. Today, hardly any education hap-

pens. During the President Trump impeachment “testimony,” legislators tried to score points. At least five times, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., shut down criticism by shouting, “Gentleman is not recognized!” I get that politicians are eager for “face time” in front of a larger audience, but I assumed they would at

least try to learn things. Nope. Maybe they don’t want to ask real questions because they fear looking as dumb as then-Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, did at a hearing on Facebook. He asked Mark Zuckerberg, “How do you sustain a business model in which users don’t pay for your service?” “We run ads,” smirked Zuckerberg. “I see,” said Hatch. What’s obvious to most people somehow eludes the oblivious “experts” in Congress. At another Facebook hearing, Congress grilled Zuckerberg about his plan to launch an electronic currency called Libra. Zuckerberg said, “I actually don’t know if Libra is going to work, but I believe it’s im-

portant to try new things.” He was right. But instead of asking about technological or economic implications of the idea, Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, asked Zuckerberg, of the companies partnering with him, “how many are headed by women?” “Congressman, I do not know the answer,” replied Zuckerberg. “How many of them are minorities?” asked Green. “Are there any members of the LGBTQ+ community?” Green doesn’t want to learn anything. He wants to sneer and score points. Politicians’ sloppy ignorance is extraordinary. Rep. Steve King, R-Iowa, grilled Google CEO Sundar Pichai about iPhones, citing a

story about his granddaughter using one, leading Pichai to explain, “Congressman, iPhone is made by a different company.” Today’s posturing is not what the founders had in mind when they invented hearings in 1789. George Mason said members of Congress “possess inquisitorial powers” to “inspect the Conduct of public offices.” Yes! Investigate government. But today, they are more likely to threaten CEOs and bully opponents. “Are you stupid?” then-Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., said to one witness. They want to showboat, not learn. Often, they ask questions even when they know the answers. See STOSSEL on 27

Back From The Brink, Again UNITED NATIONS

- An eagerly anticipated UN Security Council meeting came in the nervous aftermath of America’s targeted killing of Iranian by John J. Metzler terrorist kingpin Syndicated Columnist Qassem Soleimani by an armed U.S. drone. The rhetorical crescendo was building all week following Soleimani’s funeral cortege which wove its way across Iraq and Iran through the Shia heartland reaching a mesmerizing political frenzy. Both sides were posturing but neither wanted a war.

The scripted chants of “Death of America” echoed the Hostage crisis of 1979 and sadly so many encounters since between Iran and the USA. Tehran was in full Agitation/Propaganda mode. The mob wanted blood. Yet by the time the meeting was held, there was little suspense in the Council chamber nor was there the foreboding expectation that Iran’s allies such as China or Russia would really take the crisis to the next level. Neither did the U.S. or its key allies France, Germany or the UK excoriate Iran. This was a time for talking. Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned, “War is never inevitable; it is a matter of choice –

and often it is the product of easy miscalculations. Peace too, is never inevitable; it is the product of hard work and we must never take it for granted.” Churchill once opined “Jaw, Jaw is better than War, War.” After forty years of political sparring with many deadly flareups in between, the latest UN face-off was going through the motions but without the mendacity. After Iran fired a salvo of ballistic missiles at U.S. bases in neighboring Iraq, the world held its breath. Would there be American causalities? If so President Trump would likely respond forcefully. Happily, and perhaps intentionally, the missiles missed and both sides could

say they were even. Both the Trump Administration and the Iranians wisely stepped back. The Security Council showdown between Iran and the U.S. happily fizzled; the Council’s fifteen members and many other states did not directly address the recent flareup instead addressing the original agenda item, “Upholding the United Nations Charter.” British Ambassador Karen Pierce quoted her Foreign Minister Dominic Raab, “We recognize the danger and threat that Iran poses to the Middle East. We recognize the right to self-defense. At the same time, we want to see ten- See METZLER on 18

Happy

New Year!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

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this right away. For the most benefit, keeping a brisk pace for at least 15-20 minutes is important. • Swimming: What’s better than minimal stress on the joints? No stress at all. Swimming provides a number of benefits, including strengthened shoulders and increased lung capacity. Seniors can also take part in water aerobics or walk on underwater treadmills. • Yoga: From improving flexibility and coordination to strengthening your core, there’s very little that yoga doesn’t do. Additionally, yoga has been shown to improve mood, focus, and overall mental well-being. • Pilates: This exercise allows for very slow and concise move-

• Weight training: Weight training can be done at home, with small free weights or even moderately heavy objects that you can grip easily, or at a fitness center. Consistent repetition is key, as is advancing to heavier weights over time. • Leg Raises: These can be done at home with no equipment. Simply stand behind a chair, and while holding on to the back of the chair, move one leg to the side and then back. Repeating this, with different variations, can help strengthen lower back and thigh muscles. • Dancing: In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of dance class enrollment – and for good reason. The constant movement in dancing classes can help circulation and flexibility. Attended these classes can also provide great opportunities to socialize and connect with others.

Happy & Healthy New Year!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

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(BPT) - It’s the same issue every year: Jan. 1 arrives and you need to meet an annual deductible again before your health care coverage takes full effect. For people with high-deductible plans, this can be a big expense at the start of the year. High-deductible plans are increasing in popularity as a way to curb rising health care premiums. Typically, people are offered a plan at a lower monthly cost in exchange for a higher deductible. The IRS defines a high-deductible health plan as any plan with a deductible of at least $1,400 for an individual or $2,800 for a family. For many people, their deductibles are even higher. Whether you have a traditional plan or a high-deductible plan, out-of-pocket costs often hit people the hardest at the start of the year when coverage is minimal due to reset deductibles. Unmet deductibles typically mean you pay for the full cost of prescriptions, clinic visits, treatments and more. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to manage the influx of health care costs at the start of the year so you can save money and stay healthy: Budget - Health care deductibles reset an-

about comparable providers who are, so you can access savings.

nually, so plan ahead and budget for expected costs. If you or your family members see a health care provider regularly, you can anticipate these expenses and create a budget. If you have access to pretax savings plans through an employer, such as a health care savings account, opt in to save by paying with untaxed dollars. Additionally, consider setting some money aside for a rainy-day medical fund. There are always unexpected expenses and having this cushion can help curb costs. Inside Rx -If you need a prescription but currently have to pay outof-pocket costs until meeting your deductible, consider using a free Inside Rx card to access medication savings. Inside Rx helps people who need to pay out of pocket for their medication by offering discounts that average

70% on brand and generic medications. Download the free Inside Rx card at insiderx. com. Remember, not all pharmacies charge the same price for medications. While on the website, use the costcomparison tool to learn which local pharmacy offers the best price for your prescription so you can save the most. Use In-Network Providers - Every plan is unique in which providers it considers in network and out of network. In-network providers are typically covered at a higher amount by the health care plan, which means you will be charged less for services. Before visiting a doctor or clinic, call your insurance provider and verify that it’s in network so you aren’t surprised by a bill that’s higher than expected. If your provider isn’t in network, you can ask

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

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There are many emotional benefits to owning a dog, such as companionship and unconditional love, but a pet can also positively affect his or her owners physical health, too. According to studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spending

quality time with a dog can help ease stress and anxiety for the owner and can even lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. To be able to reap the health benefits of dog ownership, it’s key to ensure you’re taking proper care of your dog with quality nutrition

and plenty of exercise. Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Werber offers these five simple ways pet owners can take the best care of their dogs, because when dogs are happy and healthy, their owners can be, too. To learn more about how dogs’ health is linked to their owners

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rice and wheat, provide quick energy, and others, like barley and sorghum, take longer to turn into energy. Dog food that has a combination of these grains, such as IAMS dog food, can provide dogs an energy source, helping sustain their energy throughout the day. Keep It ConsistentWhile humans can try new restaurants and recipes on a whim, switching up your dog’s meals too frequently can cause intestinal problems. If a dog is doing fine on its current food, there’s no need to switch foods. However, if you think a change is needed, consult your veterinarian. If he or she suggests a change, be sure to introduce the new food gradually. Start by replacing 25% of the current food with new food for a couple days, a half-and-half mixture the next couple days then a mix of 75% new food and 25% old food for another 2-3 days. Your dog should

G e t Them Active - Just like humans, dogs need exercise. Walks are an important part of a dog’s days; not just for doing their business, but to expel some of that healthy energy. Knowing dogs need daily exercise is an easy health hack for pet owners. They can take their dogs on walks, runs, hikes or to a dog park, ultimately helping them get up and get active, too. Regular exercise and activity helps keep dogs&rsquo; muscles, bones and joints active. Quality Time - Taking good care of your dog extends beyond nutrition and exercise. A dog needs attention, interaction and love. After a busy day, spend some quality time with your pup, whether it’s a walk or snuggle time on the couch. Your pet will appreciate having time exclusively dedicated to him or her. Plus, it’s scientifically proven that spending time with your pet can decrease your stress and anxiety, too.

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I thought it was going to be the Winter of the Junco again, but it’s looking more and more like the Winter of the Bluebird. Last year was the Winter of the Barred Owl. As you recall, barred owls were being seen in great numbers all throughout New England. Experts had conflicting theories on why so many of these beautiful owls were being seen, but there is no denying that more than usual were found. On one trip to visit my brother in upstate New York, I found two barred owls. The second owl was perched atop a Welcome to New York sign on the Vermont border. Several years ago, Christmas Bird Count results were teeming with huge dark-eyed junco numbers. Whereas there are usually hundreds of juncos in a particular count area, there were thousands that year. I dubbed it the Winter of the Junco and have been on the lookout for similar anecdotal phenomena since then. Who can forget the Winter of the Snowy Owl a few years back? I can recall robins and pine siskins being highlighted in previous winters. As I drive to work every day, one stretch of a particular road often has a large flock of juncos. They scatter as I drive by; their white-outlined tails giving away their identity. I had seen several other large flocks of juncos in other areas so I was convinced it was going to be another banner year for the small sparrows. As the winter progresses, however, I’ve seen fewer juncos. Meanwhile, my inbox has been lighting up with people seeing eastern bluebirds throughout New England. Personally, I haven’t seen many bluebirds this winter, but a lot of people have, that’s for sure.

An eastern bluebird scans a New England backyard last March. Bluebirds are not a rarity for a New England winter. They are not common by any means in the winter, but a certain number each year brave our coldest seasons. I remember when I was looking to purchase a house about five years ago. It was early March and as we pulled into one particular driveway, a small group of bluebirds was resting on a blanket of fresh snow on a bush along the driveway. I ended up buying the house. I’ve heard from several readers about their eastern bluebird sightings this winter. Marge from Sullivan wrote to say she had several bluebirds at her suet feeder one morning. Raynee from Walpole sent in a photo of a

bluebird inspecting a birdhouse in her backyard. She mentioned she does not have nesting bluebirds. It could be that the bluebird was looking for suitable respite from the cold. Jane from Marlborough had a pair of bluebirds visit her feeders a few weeks ago. She sees them in the summer but can’t recall ever seeing them in the winter before. What about you? Can you confirm more bluebird sightings or is there another surprise visitor in your yard? Drop me a line and let me know. Chris Bosak may be reached at chrisbosak26@gmail.com or through his website www.birdsofnewengland.com

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

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by Mike Moffett Contributing Writer

WHITHER THE PATRIOTS IN 2020? The Facebook comments were unforgiving on the evening of January 4 when the New England Patriots fell short and lost 20-13 to the Tennessee Titans in what was an ugly playoff game—Pats followers being the most spoiled fans in America after witnessing almost 20 years of unprecedented NFL excellence. So is the run finally over? Quite possibly. All good things come to an end. New England quarterback Tom Brady will be a free agent in March and there’s much speculation as to where he’ll play next fall. My own guess is Los Angeles, as per earlier column. So will Pats fans finally get a sense of “how the other half lives?” Maybe. It’s sad to contemplate #12 going out on a whimper—a pathetic pick-six at the end of the Tennessee game— instead of as a champion. But that’s football. Ironically, the Patriot loss meant a bit of a financial windfall for the State of New Hampshire, which just legalized sports gambling. Governor Chris Sununu, New Hampshire’s 82nd Chief Executive, made the

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Tom Brady historic first bet, an $82 dollar wager on the Pats to win the Super Bowl. The Guv’s bet would have paid around $1000 had New England won it all. But with the preponderance of local betting being on the Pats, New England’s loss to the Titans meant dollars coming back to New Hampshire through the gaming deal with DraftKings. (More on sports betting in next week’s column.) And how much longer will Bill Belichick remain as Patriot head coach? He’ll be 68 in April. Also, owner Bob Kraft’s continuing legal drama remain a negative distraction that doesn’t help the franchise. Kraft himself is almost 80 years old. Soon Gillette Stadium will be bereft of Brady, Belichick and Bob. But Patriot nation will endure, forever enriched by New England’s unmatched legacy of success, with all those

championship banners remaining as perpetual reminders of gridiron glory and countless football thrills. But the inevitable departures of the aforementioned Patriot icons will also be accompanied by the loss of the crushing expectations that Pats fans have understandably developed during the wonder years. It will be different—and maybe even fun—to see the Pats as underdogs instead of constant favorites. So it will be interesting to see what plays out for the Patriots as 2020 unfolds. And to paraphrase Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) from Casablanca: “We’ll always have those Super Bowls.” And to paraphrase another Bob (Hope): “Thanks for the memories!” Sports Quiz When did the New England Patriots last suffer a losing season?

Mike Moffett was a Professor of Sports Management for Plymouth State University and NHTI-Concord. He co-authored the critically-acclaimed and award-winning “FAHIM SPEAKS: A Warrior-Actor’s Odyssey from Afghanistan to Hollywood and Back” (with the Marines)—which is available through Amazon. com. His e-mail address is mimoffett@comcast. net.

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*prize money based on attendance

Early Session Starts At 4:30 Regular Session Starts At 6:45 Play one or both sessions! Play paper, video or both!

FUNSPOT BINGO HALL Separate Smoking Section • Food Service Available • Lucky Seven Pull Tabs Sold at All Games RT 3, 579 Endicott St. N., Weirs Beach, NH • 603-366-4377 • Open All Year • FunspotNH.com

At Johnson’s Seafood & Steak 69 Rt 11, New Durham 603.859.7500 eatatjohnsons.com/ newdurham Orono- Tubular IPA Foundation Brewing- Spiffy Lagunitas- Born Yesterday Ale Southern Tier- Crème Brûlée COPPER KETTLE Stout Woodland Farms- Blinky TAVERN Moat Mountain- Hell Yes! At Hart’s Turkey Farm Helles Lager Restaurant 233 D.W. Hwy, Meredith ...+30 More On Tap 603.279.6212 hartsturkeyfarm.com PATRICK’S PUB 18 Weirs Rd., Gilford Allagash White Tuckerman - Pale Ale 603.293.0841 / Patrickspub.com 603 Winni Amber Stoneface IPA 603 - Winni Amber Ale Moat - Miss Vs Blueberry Woodstock - Frosty Goggles Henniker - Working/Porter Tuckerman - Pale Ale ...+6 More On Tap Sam Adams - NE IPA Patrick’s Slainte’ Ale D.A. LONG Switchback Ale ...+8 More On Tap TAVERN At Funspot Family Entertainment Ctr. THE UNION 579 Endicott St N., DINER Weirs 1331 Union Ave., 603.366.4377 Laconia funspotnh.com 603.524.6744 14th Star - Maple Bkfst Stout theuniondiner.com Foundation - Let’s Do Brunch Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale Maine Beer- Lunch Cigar City - Maduro Brown Maine Beer - Dinner (!) Hobbs - Saint Benefitta Oxbow - Moon Rocks Litherman’s - Misguided Moat Mtn - Bone Shaker Angel ...+6 More On Tap Moat Mountain - Helles Henniker - Hugs From Pat ** Tap listings subject to change! RESTAURANT OR BAR OWNER?

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

Wicked BREW Review

The

wickedbrews@weirs.com

Serving ServingLaconia LaconiaDaily Daily

M r. CC’’ss Ta xi Mr. Taxi 267-7134 or 527-8001 OPEN AT 5AM DAILY

267-7134 or 527-8001

OPEN AT 5AM DAILY

Twin Barns Lake Cruiser DIPA As proclaimed last week in this column, January is Double IPA month. And as mentioned before, a double IPA beer is more by Jim MacMillan malt followed Contributing Writer by hops to maintain a balance of bittering verses malt character. With this in place, we shall proceed to our next variety of DIPA locally brewed for us to enjoy. It is worth mentioning here that I work closely with the folks at Twin Barns as a server. I will try to not get tasting notes and work mixed in this review. So please welcome Lake Cruiser Double IPA. A chance meeting of two guys with common interests who became fast friends and now owners of a new enterprise that has impacted us in the Lakes Region. These two men have realized their dream and created a destination for craft beer lovers. Twin Barns Brewing Company, opened in July of 2019, with owners Dave Picarillo and Bruce Walton, purchased the 1850 Antique Motorcycle Museum property on Rt 3, Meredith. Remodeling the inside of the co-joined barns allowed the wooden structure to be seen by craft beer lovers who stop in. Downstairs is where the brew production happens. A 10-barrel state-of-the-art brewhouse was assembled where all TBBC beers are created. Brewer Randy Booth makes his delicious recipes here. 4 oz pours of the core tap beers (called flights) are available as well as 16 oz pints and growler fills. 16 oz four pack cans of Sand Bar Blonde ale and Lake Cruiser are available for sale. With over 8 taps of freshly made local brews available, their offerings are quite sensational. Find out more about TBBC at

WHERE YOU ALWAYS FIND

GREAT CRAFT

ON DRAFT! GET THE

CRAFT DRAFT

GET 10% OFF

DEAL...

Pair one of our draft beers with a sandwich or entreé and get 10% off the price of your sandwich or entreé with this coupon.

exp. 1/31/20; Cannot combine w/other offers.

OPEN Mon-Wed 6am - 3 pm • Thur & Sat 6am - 7:30pm Fri 6am - 8pm • Sunday (breakfast only) 6am to 1pm Dinner served Thurs, Fri & Sat evenings 1331 Union Ave., Laconia • 603.524.6744 • theuniondiner.com

D.A. LONG TAVERN twinbarnsbrewing.com Lake Cruiser Double IPA is an intense treat in the New England style IPA with more malt character than their Palmer Town IPA. Intensely popular and deceivingly strong (a 7.8% that drinks like a 4%), Cruiser is one of the most requested growler fills at TBBC. Poured into a pint glass, the first encounter is a fluffy white head due to a healthy amount of rolled oats in the recipe. This helps head retention and smooth mouthfeel. Lots of citrus, pineapple, and orange or nectarine notes waft into your senses as you approach for your first sip. Flavor follows closely to the aroma and you experience the extra malt character that a DIPA brings to the game. Hops balanced to the

malt bill is what makes this one a winner. BeerAdvocate.com hasn’t officially rated Lake Cruiser DIPA as of this writing. Folks that have tried it posted a rating of between 3.79 to 4.37. Currently, you can find both Lake Cruiser and Sandbar Blonde Ale in 16 oz four pack cans at Twin Barns Brewing Company and Case-n-Keg, 5 Mill Street in Meredith. With the early success Twin Barns is earning for their food and beer, you should plan to visit them soon.

Always Lots Of Fun On Tap! Located in a quiet corner Exceptional Craft Beer List Specialty Cocktails of Funspot, steps away Made to Order Pizza from lots of fun stuff... Pool • Darts 20 bowling lanes, 18-hole mini-golf and the largest arcade in the world including a huge collection of classic video & Keep Up To Date pinball With Our Rotating games! Selection of Craft TAVERN HOURS

Open Every Day, year round

Sun. - Thur. noon - 11pm Fri. & Sat. noon - 12am

Drafts... We’re A Verified Venue on the Untappd App!

Located Inside Funspot, Rte. 3, One Mile North Of The Weirs Beach Sign 579 Endicott Street N. • Weirs • NH • 603-366-4377 • funspotnh.com

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

Laconia Adult Education

Course Title

Winter/Spring 2020 Enrichment Catalog Laconia Adult Education Winter/Spring 2020 Enrichment Catalog

Course Title Arts & Crafts Intro to Pastel Painting Mosaic Tile Procreate Digital Painting Class Quilt As You Go- Table Runners

Day(s) Start Date Times Start date Times

#Weeks # weeks

Cost Cost

Wed

3/3/2020 1/28/2020 3/31/2020 4/1/2020

5:30-7:30 5:30-7:30 5:30-7:30 6:30-8:30

2 weeks 2 weeks 2 weeks 4 weeks

*$40.00* *$50.00* *$40.00* *$20.00*

LHS-509 LHS-509 LHS-509 LHS-828

Elizabeth Keefe Elizabeth Keefe Elizabeth Keefe Ardy Eaton

Thurs

3/5/2020

6:00-8:30

5 weeks

*$60.00*

ctc-H220

Yan Li

Wed Tues Mon Tues Tues Thurs Tues Thurs Tues Wed Thurs Wed Thurs Tues Thurs

6:30-8:00 7:00-8:30 5:30-6:15 7:45-8:45 5:45-6:45 6:30-8:30 7:00-8:30 6:30-8:30 6:45-7:45 7:00-9:00 6:30-8:30 5:30-6:30 6:30-8:30 5:00-6:15 5:00-6:15 5:00-6:15

1 week 1 week 4 weeks 4 weeks 4 weeks 1 week 4 weeks 1 week 4 weeks 5 weeks 1 week 8 weeks 1 week 8 weeks 8 weeks 8 weeks

Free Free $45.00 $90./$50. $90./$50. $45.00 Free $45.00 $45.00 $50.00 $45.00 $70.00 $45.00 *$55.00* *$55.00* *$85.00*

LHS-603 LHS-605 Downtown Gym LHS-Café LHS-Café LHS-615 LHS-605 LHS-615 LHS-Café LHS-514 LHS-615 ctc-H235 LHS-615 ctc-H225 ctc-H225 ctc-H225

Celeste Lovett Brian Paterson, ND Janine Page Juli Pruden Juli Pruden Brenda Paquette Brian Paterson, ND Brenda Paquette Juli Pruden Sharon Fleischman Brenda Paquette Nancy Frost Brenda Paquette Bonnie Morin Bonnie Morin Bonnie Morin

Day(s)

Tues&Thurs Tues&Thurs Tues&Thurs

Cooking Chinese Cooking

Location Location

METZLER from 7

Instructor Name

Health & Wellness Abundance and the Law of Attraction! Acupuncture, Herbs, & Holistic Medicine Better Posture Better Life Beginner Ballroom- Couple/Individual Beyond Beginner Ballroom- Couple/Individual Freedom Through Forgiveness Holistic Roots to Healthy Living & Life Style Choices Introduction to Spiritual Energies Line Dancing- Vintage Style Mah Jongg Made Easy and Fun Meditation 101 T'ai Chi Chih What are Angels & How to Communicate with them Yoga for Everyone: Beginning Yoga for Everyone: Beginning Yoga for Everyone: Beginning

Tues&Thurs

1/29/2020 1/28/2020 1/27/2020 1/28/2020 1/28/2020 4/23/2020 2/11/2020 3/12/2020 1/28/2020 1/27/2020 4/9/2020 1/29/2020 3/26/2020 1/28/2020 1/30/2020 1/28/2020

Informational Classes/Seminars 1st Time Homebuyer Seminar Creating a Family Tree for Beginners Estate, Wills, Trusts & Guardianship Planning Estate, Wills, Trusts & Guardianship Planning Financial Literacy Personal Credit Seminar Savvy Social Security & Medicare Planning Smart Retirement Strategies Wealth Planning 101

Thurs Mon Tues Tues Wed Wed Wed Wed Wed

2/6/2020 3/16/2020 2/4/2020 3/3/2020 2/5/2020 1/29/2020 1/29/2020 2/5/2020 2/12/2020

6:00-8:00 6:00-8:00 6:00-8:00 6:00-8:00 6:00-7:30 6:00-8:00 6:30-8:30 6:30-8:30 6:30-8:30

1 week 1 week 1 week 1 week 12 weeks 1 week 1 week 1 week 1 week

Free Free Free Free *$60.00* Free Free Free Free

LHS-613 LHS-606 LHS-613 LHS-613 LHS-615 LHS-615 LHS-613 LHS-613 LHS-613

Donald McLelland Lynn Keltz Kristen Gardiner Kristen Gardiner Stacy Brown Stacy Brown Greg Caulfied Greg Caulfied Greg Caulfied

Language French Travel and Language Sign Language Spanish for Beginners Spanish Intermediate Level I Spanish Intermediate Level II

Mon Mon Mon Mon Mon

1/27/2020 1/27/2020 2/3/2020 2/3/2020 2/3/2020

7:00-8:15 6:30-8:00 6:00-7:00 7:00-8:00 8:00-9:00

5 weeks 10 weeks 10 weeks 10 weeks 10 weeks

$40.00 $50.00 *$45.00* *$45.00* *$45.00*

LHS-201 LHS-315 LHS-205 LHS-205 LHS-205

Marta Burke Elizabeth Gammon Mark Frattarola Mark Frattarola Mark Frattarola

Learning a skill Basic Home Maintenance & Repair Basic Woodworking Dog Obedience: Advanced Dog Obedience: Beginning Dog Obedience: Trick Dog Intro to Graphic Arts Open Shop Woodworking Planning a Novel Theatre Basics Voice Overs…Now is Your Time! Welding Basics: ARC, GAS, MIG & TIG Welding Basics: ARC, GAS, MIG & TIG Welding Basics: Advanced MIG,TIG,Stick,Fabrication

Mon Thurs Wed Wed Wed Tues Tues Thurs Tues Thurs Tues Wed Thurs

1/27/2020 1/30/2020 3/11/2020 3/11/2020 3/11/2020 2/4/2020 1/28/2020 3/5/2020 2/4/2020 3/19/2020 2/4/2020 2/5/2020 2/6/2020

6:00-9:00 6:00-8:30 7:00-8:00 6:00-7:00 7:00-8:00 6:30-8:30 6:00-8:30 6:00-8:00 6:00-8:00 6:30-8:30 5:30-8:30 5:30-8:30 5:30-8:30

6 weeks 8 weeks 8 weeks 8 weeks 8 weeks 3 weeks 12 weeks 4 weeks 8 weeks 1 week 10 weeks 10 weeks 10 weeks

$185.00 *$110.00* *$70.00* *$70.00* *$75.00* $60.00 $110.00 $50.00 $75.00 $30.00 *$350.00* *$350.00* *$350.00*

LHS-517 LHS-517 WHS WHS WHS LHS-507 LHS-517 LHS-612 LHS-514 LHS-315 LHS- Welding LAb LHS- Welding LAb LHS- Welding LAb

Michael Pace Ed Philpot Carolyn Bancroft Carolyn Bancroft Carolyn Bancroft Betsy Jacobson Ed Philpot Abi Maxwell Rebekah Billings Suchavoice.com Rick Hewitt Rick Hewitt Rick Hewitt

* * Additional Supply/book fee or pre-class requirement is additional in this course.

Check out our other great offerings:

A.B.E.- Free Adult Basic Education Tuesday & Thursday nights 6:00-8:30 HiSET (Formerly GED) Prep- Free Tuesday & Thursday nights 6:00-8:30 E.S.L.- Free for those learning English Tuesday & Thursday nights 6:00-8:30 A.D.D.- Free for Adults with Developmental Disabilities Tuesday & Thursday nights 6-8:30

Check Online For More Detailed Information (Including materials, fees or labs) CHECK ONLINE FOR MORE DETAILED Course COURSE INFORMATION (Including materials, book feesbook or Labs) REGISTER ONLINE at: at: adultedlaconia.weebly.com Register andAND PayPAYOnline www.adultedlaconia.weebly.com Still have questions? Call Laconia Adult Education at 524-5712 Still have questions? Call Laconia Adult Education at 524-5712

sions de-escalated. We want to find a diplomatic way through.” While diplomats sighed a breath of relief, everyone knew in a sense yet another bullet had been dogged and another war averted, at least for now. U.S. Ambassador Kelly Craft stated, “We will act decisively in the exercise of our inherent right of self-defense to protect Americans when necessary, as is recognized under the Charter.” Yet she added optimistically, quoting President Trump’s recent remarks, “we want a future, and a great future at that, for Iran. It is a future that people of Iran deserve, one of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world.” The annals of war and peace have so many close encounters which either end in horrible conflict or regained opportunities. The recent showdown may happily fall into the second category as both sides in Washington and Tehran stepped back from the brink. The unfathomable arrogance of the mainstream media predicted a war; Trump preferred a deal. But just as tempers cooled the situation whipsawed back again. In yet another stunning development, a commercial Ukrainian 737 mysteriously crashed just hours after the Iranian missile salvo. The civilian airliner with 176 passengers and crew became the cruel and unexpected victim. Among the dead were 57 Canadians, 82 Iranians and 11 Ukrainians.

After the initial coverups, the truth slipped from behind Iran’s usual veil of secrecy and lies. The Iranian military had mistakenly shot down the civilian jet with a SAM 15 missile! Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called on the Islamic Republic for accountability and justice. As this column warned last week, one of the biggest dangers in any crisis is miscalculation. Indeed the unintended consequence to the crisis showed the strange twist of fate for the Ukrainian jet’s 176 passengers, sacrificed on the altar of stupidity of Tehran’s theocratic regime. The callous air disaster coverup has caused a new round of anti-government demonstrations inside Iran where citizens are furious over the flagrant incompetence of the Islamic regime. Now there’s an interesting turn of events. As the drums of war have calmed, attention has turned to the Tehran authorities and especially the aging Ayatollah in whose name Iran is run. Will Iranians focus on their own future and not hating the West? John J. Metzler is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author or Divided Dynamism The Diplomacy of Separated Nations: Germany, Korea, China.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

PEMI TREEWORKS LLC

We Have Ice!

Now In 3rd Printing!

The Flatlander Chronicles

by Tim Moore Contributing Writer

I’m no stranger to off years in terms of ice. In the past ten years or so, we have experienced several bad ice years. We’ve broken the record for the earliest ice out ever recorded three times since 2012. It is becoming more common each year, and this year is no exception. The ice fishing season runs from January 1 through March 31 and most years there is plenty of ice to fish on when the season opens, but that was not the case this year. Winnipesaukee just doesn’t want to freeze. That said, many of the bays and coves have finally locked up and are froze thick enough for some ice fishing, and I have kicked off my season with some great fishing. My first trip out was supposed to be more of a scouting mission to check ice and then get in some much-needed fishing time. I headed out on my snowmobile to see if the areas I guide on were ready. I would get off my snowmobile, walk ahead and drill a hole, measure the thickness, walk back to my snowmobile, drive it up to the last place I checked, and repeat the process. After several hours of checking ice, I had determined that there was an area I was comfortable bringing clients, but I was so tired that I didn’t want to fish. The next morning, I returned to the area I had checked the previous day with one mission, to enjoy some fishing. I drove out to an area I picked as a starting point. I drilled my first hole and set up with my Vexilar fish finder and a jig rod. I had a couple of short videos fishing reports that I wanted to do, so I started getting those out of the way. I was part way through y second video when a fish came in and bit my lure. It was a moderate-sized white perch. I tossed it on the ice and as soon

TREE REMOVAL - PRUNING - PLANTING - STUMP GRINDING 603-494-6395 • pemitreeworks.com

Weirs Times F.O.O.L columnist, Brendan Smith’s first book with over 30 of the best of his original Flatlander Columns. From learning to Rake The Roof to Going To The Dump to Buying Firewood for the first time and everything in between, Brendan recounts the humorous tales of his learning to fit into New Hampshire life as a Flatlander from New York.

Tim hoists a couple of nice Winnipesaukee white perch. as I could get my lure back to the bottom, another fish came it. I’m not a hundred percent sure what it was, because I lost it part way up, but I’m pretty sure it was a lake trout. There was a brief lull in the action, at which time I was contemplating a move to another spot, when a large school of white perch appeared on the screen of my fish finder. Bang! A quick thump and I was on again. This time it was a sizeable white perch. I got it to the hole and watched it swim by, giving me a glimpse at how big it was. I guessed it to be around 2-pounds, a respectable size for Winni. Aas it swam by my hole a second time, I watched as the lure bumped on the edge of the ice, knocking it out of the fish’s mouth. I was disappointed, but there were more fish down there. Another couple of flurries of white perch and a couple of lake trout came to pass in what seemed like a long day. Eventually the action came to a screeching halt. I made a move to another spot not far away, but the only thing I found there were smelt, and lots of them. I wanted to get ready for my

first guide trip the next morning, a boy scout troop of 21 people, so I packed it in. The reality was that I was only on the ice a total of three hours, and I caught all of my fish through the first hole I drilled. So, while we don’t have a ton of ice, and while it seems like every time we get some good freezing temps they are followed by warm and rain, but there are some areas of the lake that are ready. My ice fishing guiding season is under way and the fishing is good. To those heading out, please be careful. Check the ice before you venture across to your favorite spot. The thicknesses I found varied widely. Play it safe so that you have many more trips in your future. Tim Moore is a full-time professional fishing guide in New Hampshire. He owns and operates Tim Moore Outdoors, LLC. He is a member of the New England Outdoors Writers Association and the producer of Tim Moore Outdoors TV. Visit www.TimMooreOutdoors. com for more information.

Order your autographed copy today for $13.99 plus $3 for shipping. (Please include any inscription you would like the author to personalize your copy with.) Make out checks or money orders for $16.99 to Brendan Smith and mail to: The Flatlander Chronicles, c/o The Weirs Times, PO Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247. Order online at www.BrendanTSmith.com (Pickup autographed copies at the Weirs Times)

F AMILIES G ROUPS S INGLES

L AKE W INNIPESAUKEE 603-842-3572

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

OUT on the TOWN Great Food, Libations & Good Times!

EVENTS from 4

be brownies and ice cream. The meal is free, although d o n a t i o n s a r e gra t e f u l l y accepted and will be used to fund future dinners. www.

AltrusaMeredithNH.org

Friday 24th

Denny Laine & the Moody Wings Band F l y i n g M o n k e y, M a i n S t r e e t , P l y m o u t h . www. FlyingMonkeyNH.com or

536-2551

603-332-1121

Live Music with Jim Tyrrell and Guest

Tall Granite Big Band

Live Music Laliberte

Patrick’s Pub and Eatery, 18 Weirs Road, Gilford. 7pm. www.PatricksPub.com or 293-0841 Saturday 25th

Recycled Percussion F l y i n g M o n k e y, M a i n Street, Plymouth. www. FlyingMonkeyNH.com or

“THE FINEST SZECHUAN & MANDARIN CUISINE IN THE LAKES REGION”

For Health Conscious People ...

Celebrating

SPECIAL GLUTEN FREE ITEMS & VEGETARIAN DISHES

20 YEARS

Serving e Lakes Regth ion!

All-Day Buffet Lunch & Dinner

Lunch: Tues. - Sun. 11:30am-4pm • Dinner: Tues. - Sun. 4pm - 8pm FULL LIQUOR LICENSE • GIFT CERTIFICATES • HOLIDAY PARTIES 331 SOUTH MAIN ST., LACONIA

603-524-4100 SHANGHAINH.COM

Pitman’s Freight Room, 94 New Salem Street, Laconia. 8pm. Tickets are $20pp. Pitman’s is a BYO venue. 527-0043

Design of a Decade – Workshop for Souls Who Seek an Extraordinary Life Wayfarer Coffee, 626 Main Street, downtown Laconia. 6pm-9pm. Join Emily C l e m e n t , s p e a ke r a n d coach for this workshop that will take from self-doubt to super-powered. Design of a Decade is a 3-hour inperson workshop for people to invest in themselves and not carry the weight of past hurt, resentment, or disappointment. Now is the time to say yes to freedom and maximum joy! Workshop is $99pp. Space is limited. Register at www.

EmilyClementLifeCoach. com

Jumble Sale

First Church Congregational, 6 South Main Street, Rochester. 8am-Noon. Use Door #2 on Liberty Street.

with

Henry

Patrick’s Pub and Eatery, 18 Weirs Road, Gilford. 8pm. www.PatricksPub.com or 293-0841

Snowshoe Yoga

Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, White Oaks Road, Laconia.11am-12pm. In this unique and peaceful snowshow exper ience, par ticipants are in nature as they practice yoga in snowshoes, are guided through a walking meditation, and are introduced to shinrinyoku, or “forest bathing”. This event is perfect for individuals of all yoga and snowshoe levels. Pre-registration is highly recommended. To register and for more information call Andie Hession at 366-5695

Jay Fitzpatrick & Ellen Goddard Co-Host Photography Workshop Lakes Region Art Association’s Ar t Galler y, Tanger Outlet Mall, Suite 132, 120 Laconia Road, Tilton. 9am-noon. The workshop, Basic Photo Processing in Photoshop, will focus on how to use Photoshop to brighten and darken photos,

Copper Kettle

Turkey • Steaks • Prime Rib • Seafood

Exit 23 off I-93 • 233 Daniel Webster Hwy • Meredith Connect 603-279-6212 • HartsTurkeyFarm.com With Us!

Mon. 27th & Tues. 28th

Friday 31st

Red Hot Chilli Pipers

Open Auditions for “Really Rosie” Winnipesaukee Playhouse, 33 Footlight Circle, Meredith. 4pm-6pm. The Winnipesaukee Playhouse Education Depar tment is eager to welcome students ages 8 to 13 to audition and perform in the April production of “Really Rosie”. Complete information and online audition registration are found at www.

WinnipesaukeePlayhouse. org/really-rosie-auditions

Tuesday 28th

Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Public Meeting for Anticipated Building Project at Peabody Home

T A V E R N

OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH & DINNER

F l y i n g M o n k e y, M a i n S t r e e t , P l y m o u t h . www. FlyingMonkeyNH.com or 536-2551

There will be a day class (10am-12pm) offered, as well as an evening class (6pm8pm), every Wednesday until Feb. 19th. In this 4-week class, you will learn the basics of rug hooking with Pam Bartlett. You will complete the 12”x12” project that can be used as a wall hanging, chair pad or pillow in your choice of available colors. Tuition is $155 per student with NO additional materials fee. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. 279-7920 or www.

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm. Join every Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost.

The

—THURSDAYS— Trivia - 7pm —FRIDAYS— Prime Rib & Turkey Buffet 5-8pm Live Music - 6:30pm

add or reduce contrast and saturation, straighten and crop images. They will also cover the best formats, how to clean-up unwanted elements, and how to resize images for printing and posting and more! Class is limited to the first 10 students to sign up. Call 4556595 or email jall@tds.net Sunday 26th

BARBECUE, BURGERS & BREW GRAB & GO!

an! —Friend of the working m

35 Center Street • Wolfeboro • 515-1976

Peabody Home, 24 Peabody Place, Franklin. 9am-10am. Learn about the anticipated new building project at Peabody Home. The public i s i nv i t e d t o a t t e n d t h e meeting hosted by the Board of Managers & Planning Committee Members. There will be a Q & A and a viewing of the concept drawings. 9343718 Wednesday 29th

4-Week Rug Hooking Class The Woolen Pear, Brookside Mall, 563 Route 106, Loudon.

Meredith.NHCrafts.org

Broken Arrow F l y i n g M o n k e y, M a i n S t r e e t , P l y m o u t h . www. FlyingMonkeyNH.com or 536-2551

Live Music with Jim Tyrrell and Guest Patrick’s Pub and Eatery, 18 Weirs Road, Gilford. 7pm. www.PatricksPub.com or 293-0841

FEBRUARY S 1 aturday

Live Music Laliberte

with

Henry

Patrick’s Pub and Eatery, 18 Weirs Road, Gilford. 8pm. www.PatricksPub.com or 293-0841

Tuesday 4th Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm. Join every Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost.

Tuesday 11th Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm.

See EVENTS on 21

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

OUT on the TOWN Great Food, Libations & Good Times!

EVENTS from 20

Join every Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost.

Tuesday 18th Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm. Join every Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost.

Tuesday 25th Center Harbor Soup Kitchen – Free Community Meal

Center Harbor Congregational Church, 52 Main Street, Center Harbor. 5pm – 6pm. Join every Tuesday night for an opportunity to meet new friends and families and enjoy a good meal together at no cost.

ONGOING Senior Ten Pin Bowling League

Funspot, Rt. 3 Weirs Beach. 10am every Monday morning. 50 years and older welcomed! Call Gail 569-1974 or Al 8552561

Northern Grafton County Republican Committee Meeting Littleton Regional Healthcare Conference Room, 580 St. Johnsbury Road, Littleton. NGCRC meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm. Any interested persons are asked to contact Janice Novak at janicenovack@ myfairpoint.net or call 8235011

55+ Singles Club

Tuftonboro Library, Tuftonboro. Tuesdays 6pm-7:30pm. Come to share your interests, hobbies, favorite books and movies, a story, song, place to hike or more! Have fun making new friends.

Lakes Region Detachment Marine Corps League

Meredith Community Center, Rt. 3, Meredith. 6:30pm. Second Thursday of the month. New members always welcome. 630-3439.

Tuftonboro Country, Bluegrass & Gospel Music Jam Session

Old White Church, 109A, Tuftonboro. Every Tuesday from 6:30pm-9:30pm. The public is invited to attend the jam session. Fans of country, bluegrass and gospel music are invited to come enjoy an evening of music! Bring your instruments to play and sing along, or just come to listen. There is no admission charge, donations are requested. For more information call Joe at 569-3861

Lakes Region Brain Injury Support Group Meeting Lakes Region Community Services, 719 Main Street, Laconia. 6pm-7:30pm. Group meets 1 st Thursday of the month. 225-8400 for more information.

Toastmasters Meetings – All Welcome

Moultonborough Public Library, Moultonborough. 2nd th & 4 Tuesdays of the month from 6:30pm-8:30pm. All are welcome to check out this fun, supportive group of individuals finding their voice and honing their communication, listening and leadership skills. For more info contact Marcia at 5697494

Plymouth Brain Injury and Stroke Support Group Meeting T h e W h o l e V i l l a g e, 2 5 8

s ak e t • S od ts a afo Pa Se

Highland Street, Plymouth. 6pm-7:30pm. Group meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. 225-8400 for more information.

Public Skating Merrill Fay Arena, 468 Province Road, Laconia. Public skating will be offered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 11:30am-1pm and Saturday & Sunday 12pm-1:30pm. $5pp, kids age 5 and under are free.

info@merrillfayarena.com or 528-0789

Line Dancing

Gilford Public Library, 31 Potter Hill Road, Gilford. 9am10:30am Every Wednesday. 524-6042

Marine Corps Meetings

Granite Steak & Grill, Rte 11, Farmington Rd, Rochester. 11:30am. Third Tuesday of every month. All Marines and Navy FMF Corpsmen and spouses welcome. 335-7414 or 781-956-6982.

“Moving Through Grief” – A Monthly Drop-in Support Session

Lakes region VNA Office, 186 Waukewan Street, Meredith. Sessions will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 1:30pm. Carol Snow-Asher, Spiritual Care Counselor and Bereavement Coordinator at LR VNA will facilitate the monthly support session for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. 279-6611

Family Story Time

Concord Public Library, Green Street, Concord. Wednesdays at 9:30am. This class includes stories, fingerplays, songs, and fun, all designed to strengthen children’s reading or pre-

reading skills! Registration is not required, and all ages are invited; groups welcome! 2258670

MAN’S T I P FREIGHT ROOM

Hooks & Needles – Knitting & Crocheting Group

Meredith Senior Center, 1 Circle Drive, Meredith. Group meets every Tuesday 9:3011:30am. All are welcome. 279-4647

ALL SHOWS B.Y.O.B.

SAT 1/18 TOOTS LORRAINE & THE TRAFFIC band delivers a focused blend of classic 8:00PM The vibe that will drench your soul with the vintage

Support Group for Caregivers & Those with Alzheimer’s or Other Dementias

TICKETS- $20 sounds of West Coast Jump Blues and Swing.

SAT 1/25 SWING DANCE WITH THE TALL 7:00PM GRANITE BIG BAND

Laconia Congregational Parish Hall, 18 Veterans Square, Laconia. 2pm on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday’s of each month. Group is confidential and non-denominational. 5366060

TICKETS- $20 Free Dance Lesson before the show 7 – 8 PM

SAT 2/1 DOWNTOWN DAVE & THE DEEP POCKETS band is impassioned by Blues and R&B 8:00PM This music and they deliver honest, fun, real and

TICKETS- $20 up-tempo music.

A UNIQUE FUNCTION HALL FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Once Read Bookstore – A Project of the Friends of Meredith Public Library

Weddings • Birthdays • Bar / Bat Mitzvahs • Buffets • Conferences Proms • Fund Raisers • Sports Banquets • Receptions • Anniversaries

94 New Salem Street, Laconia • 603-527-0043 www.PitmansFreightRoom.com

Hannaford Shopping Center, 38 Whittier Highway, Meredith. Bookstore is open every Thursday and Friday from 10am to 2pm and Saturday 10-3:30 and Sunday 11 to 2. All proceeds fund programs for children and adults at the Meredith Public Library. 5200434

Newfound Knights – Chess Club Sleeper-Minot Library, Bristol. 5-7pm. Twice a month (Tuesdays). Any and all chess players are welcome, even if you have never played, people will be willing to take time and teach you how to play. Learn a new game, meet new people and have fun! Free and open to all. Tron84nh@gmail.com for dates and more details.

Lunch & Breakfast Daily • Dinner Thu-Fri-Sat

Myrna s Classic Cuisine ’

603.527.8144 myrnascc.com

Italian & American Comfort Food

DINNER SPECIALS THURSDAY NIGHT Yankee Pot Roast Shepherds Pie

FRIDAY NIGHT Prime Rib & AYCE Fresh Fried Haddock

SATURDAY NIGHT PASTA SPECIALS •butternut squash ravioli w/maple cream sauce •Chicken, spinach tomato alfredo • Chicken, broccoli alfredo ... & more!

Formerly known as Nadia’s Trattoria, voted one of the SMALL PLATE SPECIALS top ten restaurants in NH by OPEN Mon-Wed 6am - 3 pm • Thur & Sat 6am - 7:30pm Tuesday - Thursday from 3-5pm Boston Magazine. Veal Francese and Eggplant Fri 6am - 8pm • Sunday (breakfast only) 6am to 1pm Offering discount drafts Rollatini Hours: Tues. Wed. & Thur 3-9pm & select — Join us Tue-Thurs from 3-5 house p.m.wines for Small Plate Specials — 1331 Union Ave., Laconia • 603.524.6744 Fri. & Sat. 3-9:30pm

THIS WEEKEND SPECIALS

Located under the canopy at 131 LakeatStreet At Paugus Bay Plaza,Bay Laconia Located under the canopy 131 Lake Street at Paugus Plaza Hours: Tues. Wed. & Thurs. 3-9pm; Fri. & Sat. 3-9:30pm

(603)527-8144

myrnascc.com

www.theuniondiner.com

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

PAQUETTE from 1 for the fall and if he was interested in college. It was suggested that maybe he’d like to pursue music since he had started the High School Rock band “Annie & The Orphans” which was generating a good loyal following. But Annie said that what he would really like to do was to learn how to paint signs. “So, he asked if I was interested in going to art school,” said Paquette. “I immediately said yes.” With a portfolio of his work, Paquette interviewed at Butera School of Art in Boston and was accepted in 1966. “I did three years there learning how to make signs as well a graphic design courses,” said Paquette. “I was also one of the school janitors to help with some of my finances.” Next up for Paquette was joining the Army Reserve in the late 1960s. A spot opened up for a draftsman who

Annie Paquette (R) stands by the first sign in front of his Rte 3 Meredith business, Paquette Signs, in the early 1970s.

Annie Paquette (R) at his first sign job after he finished art school was campaign signs for an Assemblyman from New York who had a summer home in the Lakes Region. With Annie is Paul Repasy who was a great mentor to Annie as he learned the sign business. COURTESY PHOTOS

was retiring after six years and Paquette’s knowledge of sign making got him the position. “I did eight weeks of basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky,” said Paquette. His first “job”, long before Paquette Signs was an actual business, was in making some political signs for a summer resident of

A Unique Bookstore for the Avid Reader...

HUMP DAY SPECIAL! (WEDNESDAYS IN JAN.) Buy a used book & get one for equal or lesser value for free! No other credits or discounts allowed.

170 Daniel Webster Highway Belmont, NH 03220 603-524-2308 www.homeenergyproducts.net

Credit for your good used paperbacks! SATURDAY - WEDNESDAY 10-5 THUR. & FRI. 10-6 Closed Sundays

anniesbookstop.net anniesbookstoplr@gmail.com 1330 Union Ave., Laconia

603-528-4445

the Lakes Region who was running for selectman. “I made like eight of these signs for him and it seemed like a really big deal at the time,” said Paquette. He turned to Paul Repasy from Meredith who was also a sign maker for a little help with the project. “Paul was a huge influence and mentor to me,” said Paquette. “I learned a lot about the business from him.” In 1970, now married, Paquette knew he now needed a permanent job. “My father wanted my brother and me to join him in his paving business,” said Paquette. “I said ‘I love you, Dad, but that’s not for me,’ He was very supportive as I started my own sign business for real.” One of the first jobs for Paquette Signs back in 1970 was lettering a tow truck for Meredith Ford. Since then there has been no looking back. See PAQUETTE on 23

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020— PAQUETTE from 22 Over the past fifty years, Paquette Signs has done thousands, if not tens of thousands of signs, across New Hampshire, mostly centered in the Lakes Region. From small signs for local businesses to lettering the side of the newly renovated M/S Mount Washington after its renovation in 1982. Of course, as technology in the sign business began to creep in, Paquette kept right up with the changes, learning as he went. “I did the original lightbulb sign for Funspot back in the 1980s.” said Paquette. “I had done a lot of handcrafted signs for them over the years, but this was my biggest job up to that point for anyone at $50,000. I really didn’t have much experience with those kinds of signs before-

Doing the lettering on the M/S Mount Washington after it was extended in 1982. (L To R) Sonny Ambrose, Annie Paquette, Bruce Garvany. Paquette Signs just did a touchup on the Mount’s lettering COURTESY PHOTO this past summer.

hand so I had help from the factory in installing it.” Recently, Paquette installed Funpsot’s newest sign, a computer controlled message board with LED lights, far advanced from that first sign some thirty plus years ago. It would take pages to list all of the businesses that Paquette created signs for over the years. Chances are good that as you travel around the Lakes Region you will have seen more than a handful of his work. Many of those businesses he started with back fifty years ago he was still working with right up to his decision to sell. “A lot of those customers became my good friends over the years. It’s been very rewarding in many ways,” said Paquette. In considering buySee PAQUETTE on 24

WEAK OR NO SIGNAL DISAPPEARING CHANNELS? Changes in your local TV frequencies might make it seem that way. But there’s a quick fix. Something is happening to TVs across America as local channels change their frequencies to open up airwaves for new high-speed wireless services. If you use an antenna to watch free over-the-air TV, you might find that one or more of your channels is missing. But no need to worry. You can fix it in just a few minutes with your TV’s remote control.

Rescan Your TV Channels Learn More Now

www.fcc.gov/TVrescan 1-888-CALLFCC (1-888-225-5322)

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—

PUBLIC MEETING Thursday January 28th 2020 9.00a.m – 10.00 a.m. Learn about our anticipated new building project at Peabody Home, Franklin, NH. Attend the Public Meeting hosted by the Board of Managers & Planning Committee Members. Opportunity for Q & A and viewing of conceptual drawings

24 Peabody Place, Franklin, NH (603) 934-3718 • peabodyhome.org

Dumont Cabinet Refacing & Counter Tops No Messyn! Demolitio E

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Cabinet refacing includes new doors and drawer fronts of your choice The DOOR SAMPLES BROUGHT TO YOU! Affordable Cabinet refacing e! starts at only • New Countertops Alternativ

35% Cost of cabinet replacing.

Annie Paquette working the crane during installation of the Super 8 Motel sign. COURTESY PHOTOS

• Countertop Refacing (Save Big!) • New Drawers • Custom Vanities • Closet Storage

Free Estimates… Compare and SAVE BIG! • Meredith, NH 603-279-6555 AFTER

The photo on top left shows a dark woodgrain kitchen that was refaced with a light cherry woodgrain, plus new doors and drawer fronts to brighten up kitchen. The same kitchen could have been refaced with any woodgrain or solid color you see in the photo of sample doors.

Refacing your cabinets is less than HALF THE PRICE of replacing them, SAVING YOU BIG MONEY.

Call us for your free in-home estimate 603-279-6555

Started 55 years ago, Annie & The Orphans is still going strong. PAQUETTE from 23 ing the business from Paquette, Roy Whitaker saw the importance of those relationships. “The relationships that Annie built over the years are the kinds of things that businesses are built on,” said Whitaker. “I had been admiring Annie’s work for years and when we met and talked for the first time last year I told him if he was ever

thinking of selling his business to give me a call.” Still, at seventy-one years of age, and fifty years removed from the 21-year old who started Paquette signs, he isn’t planning on riding off into the sunset any time soon. His old high school band “Annie & The Orphans” is still as popular as ever and still going strong today,

performing at venues around the Lakes Region. “I still plan to keep on doing that for as long as I can,” said Paquette. As far as taking over Paquette Signs and its future, Whitaker isn’t about to change a good thing. “I’m keeping it the same, except I won’t be playing in the band.”

Animal Crackers

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, January 16, 2020—