02/04/2021 Weirs Times by The Weirs Publishing Company

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC MEREDITH, NH • FRIDAY, FEB. 5TH - SUNDAY, FEB. 7TH VOLUME 30, NO. 5

THE WEIRS, LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE, N.H., THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2021

2021 POND HOCKEY CLASSIC

Pond Hockey Classic This Weekend

MEREDITH, NH • FRIDAY, FEB. 5TH - SUNDAY, FEB. 7TH INSIDE THIS WEEK:

WELCOME TO THE

NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC...

• teams to watch • past winners • schedule ... and more!

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC

The moment you arrive at the entrance of the Ice Castles you will be amazed and be enchanted at the sight of the colorful massive ice structures. The Ice Castles’ mission is to create happiness, laughter and unforgettable winter memories. The experience is built entirely by hand using hundreds of thousands of icicles hand-placed by professional ice artists. The LED lights frozen inside the ice light up and are dazzling and thrilling for kids and adults of all ages. For more information and tickets visit IceCastles.com.

Enchanting Ice Castles Winter Magic in Woodstock, NH by Amy Patenaude Outdoor/Ski Columnist

Mother Nature’s winter chill has once again made magic with the annual rise

of the Ice Castles in North Woodstock. More than 10,000 tons of ice is used to construct an ice castle. The ice is grown, shaped and lit with LED lights to provide

a fairytale experience for children and adults of all ages. The enchanting winter attraction opened this season in mid-January

COMPLIMENTARY

and is open every day until sometime in March when the freezing air sneaks away. Be sure to purchase your tickets well in advance See PATENAUDE on 26

The New England Pond Hockey Classic is set to go this weekend on Meredith Bay. The event will look a little different this year with fewer teams as well as less access for spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions. The event, now in its 12th year, was literally on thin ice a week ago, before a welcome cold snap provided a solid ice base keeping the Pond Hockey Classic on the Bay instead of having to move to Lake Waukewan. We want to congratulate Pond Hockey Classic organizer Scott Crowder and his fantastic team who have been working hard to see to it that this event, which has been a boon to the Lakes Region area for years, is still being held despite the hardships that the virus restrictions have presented. For the past several years, the Weirs Times has been providing a special Pond Hockey section listing game schedules, events and other information on the event. Though this year’s section itself looks a little different, we are glad to be able to continue to support this special event and look forward to its continued success in the future.

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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Belknap County Taxes Lowered To The Editor: Our late 3-term governor, Meldrim Thomson, coined the slogans “Low taxes are the result of low spending.” On this past Tuesday night, the Belknap County Delegation, comprised of all 18 of our elected state representatives, took that to heart, so for the first time in a long time the Belknap County taxes for this year will actually be lower than those last year. Although the county taxes are the smallest portion of your property tax bill (compared to those for public schools and local town or city government), they are still quite significant. The county is currently spending over $30 Million per year. It appears that many taxpayers in our county simply do not understand the budgeting process that results in setting our county taxes. The Board of County Commissioners, the elected 3-member board, proposes a budget that is then examined and possibly modified by the County Delegation, which has the final word. For this year, the County Commissioners proposed a budget that would have raised county taxes by 12% over those for last year. After spending about 20 hours examining each of the hundreds of line items in the proposed budget, with input from the head of each county department, the Executive Committee of the Delegation (5 members

of the Delegation elected by the Delegation to serve in that capacity) produced a proposed budget that would lower county taxes by 11% from those for last year. Only when that proposal from the Delegation surfaced did the county commissioners produce a revised proposal that would lower taxes by about 1%. Ultimately, the budget proposed by the Delegation’s Executive Committee was accepted by a majority vote, so our county taxes will go down this year by 11%. Finally, it should be noted that nearly every year the actual expenditures by the county are less than the amounts appropriated in the approved budget, and the excess or surplus goes into an account that is cleverly labeled the “Fund Balance.” The Fund Balance is taxpayer monies collected but not spentsome would call this a slush fund. And the amount in the Belknap County Fund Balance account over the last 10 years has varied from a high of $8.2 Million in 2010 to the endof-2020 balance of $6.1 Million, of which the newly approved budget allocates $3 Million against expenses to bring our required taxes down. The county commissioners had wanted to apply only $2 Million from the slush fund against expenditures which would have left over $4 Million in the slush fund. The slush fund, a/k/a the Fund Balance, in the money of each and every taxpayer in the county.

Some taxpayers have already complained, and will almost certainly continue to complain, that the approved budget does not fund this or that favored department or project to their desired level. But the reality is that we are living in very troubled times economically, and this is the time for austerity in our government spending and taxation of our citizens. Norm Silber NH State Rep. Belknap County District 2Gilford & Meredith Gilford, N.H

Wake Up America To The Editor: I read “My Pillow” guy Mike Lindell is considering a run for Governor of Minnesota. My first reaction was he really could not be that naive. But then I remembered professional wrestler Jesse Ventura had been Governor of the State and elections require one simply meeting the basic qualifications of citizenship to run. Then it is all about marketing notwithstanding an abuse of any governing skills -- think of Congress’s so-called “Squad” and the newly elected U.S. Senators from Georgia. The people who rightfully vote must look beyond the marketing. Nevertheless, Mr. Lindell surely can sell pillows much to the annoyance off those susceptible to his incessant T.V. ads. We do indeed reap what we sow, and the track we are on See MAILBOAT on 29

Our Story

Y EAR R OUND !

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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 1-888-308-8463.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

Not So . . . o g A g N Lo

Exploring ThE lEgEnd & lorE of our graniTE STaTE

e S h op O u r N Com rger Store ew

by Robert Hanaford Smith, Sr. Contributing Writer

Leonhard Seppala the winner of the first Laconia race in 1929. of Ashland and owned by the Mosely Taylors of Monadnock Kennel. The races in Laconia were started in 1929 and by 1934 had thus earned the main headline in the Citizen, a daily paper which cost the purchaser two cents a copy. The Derby race course covered 24 miles “plus”, and Roger Haines drove his team over the route in one hour, forty-seven minutes and fortyfive seconds, to post the best time and finish first among the twelve participating teams.

Yes, sled-dog racing is a team sport. Ed Mahoney, driving a McIlhenny team, finished second, almost three minutes behind Haines, and Godard was third, a mere six seconds behaind Mahoney. The course for the Derby has changed over the years, but in 1934 it was as follows:“ Start at Bank square on Main Street, South Main street to Province street, Coolbrouth Hill, Marsh Hill to Gilmanton corner, Belmont, Jamestown, to Lochmere, return by Horn’s

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Because it was the Laconia Evening Citizen instead of a morning publication the Laconia newspaper was able to print the results of the first segment of the 1934 Sled Dog Derby on the same day it was held. It wasn’t to be compared to the Iditarod in Alaska, but in New Hampshire and beyond it was a big deal. The weather report on Saturday predicted a fair night and not quite so cold and a Sunday with “increasing cloudiness probably followed by snow at night.” But it was cold! One of the owners of a dog team, Major A.Erland Goyette, of Peterborough, verified the report that it was 40 degrees below zero at a mill in that town on the morning previous to the race. The “FLASH” leading front page news account announced that the winning team of the first day of the main race of the derby was that driven by Roger Haines

place, to Mile Hill, Academy street, Court street to Bank square.” Being a two day event, at the conclusion of the second day’s races two “handsome silver cups, the gifts of Mrs. William B. Carroll will be presented the winners...” Prizes of $50, $25, $15, and $10 were also to be given to winners. When animals are involved in sport the owners and spectators often become the topic of conversations and news reporting, and the 1934 Laconia Sled Dog Derby was no exception. Out of the twelve teams competing only four of the drivers owned the team they were racing. The winner, Roger Haines,

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES New Artwork By Peter Ferber At Art Place

“Over The Ramp” a new work by Peter Ferber.

The Art Place in Wolfeboro is fortunate to still be able to present new original ar twork by well-known Lakes Region artist Peter Ferber. This time, The Art Place is taking a different approach fo r t h e Pe t e r Fe r b e r Gallery show that will be held in February. I n p l a c e o f h av i n g a one-time opening with many people awaiting the doors to open, they are presenting six of Peter’s new artwork for purchase on Februar y 13th and additional paintings on February 27th. They will be presented virtually on The Art Place website as well as in the two front windows of The Art Place, located at 9 North Main Street in downtown Wolfeboro. T h i s w i l l g i ve a l l a n opportunity for viewing with less congestion inside the store. On February 13th and February 27th, the ar twork will be on easels inside The Ar t Place and will be available for purchase in person beginning at 9:30am or by

telephone beginning at 9:40am at 603-569-6159. The Art Place will be requiring masks to be worn and physical distancing when inside. Masks are available at the store. Also, store capacity may be limited. The Art Place has been exhibiting Peter Ferber’s artwork since 1992 and have had gallery shows for him for over 20 years. More than 100 reproductions of his work have been made, including over 75 limited edition prints. Here are a few musings from artist Peter Ferber about this show: “My explorations for this show took me to places I’d never painted before. It’s hard to believe that with my whole life on the lake, that there are still new-old things to see. Got into some coves I’d never been to and found the interesting habitation of Harvard Island. Is that the only Ivy League island on the Lake? Also found some simple, but wonderful boat houses that have great stories to tell. “Then I ventured by land to the quintessential cliché of New Hampshire landscapes– Mt. Chocorua. I may be one of the few artists who’s never painted that picture-postcard view, so I think I’m allowed one crack at it! I was noticing the sun rising on the Belknaps one morning, and then, out the blue, thought, ‘I bet Mt. Chocorua would be striking in this light.’ So I got up there before dawn one fall day and found rich images to work with. This resulted in a large oil where I called on inspiration from the White Mountain and Hudson River schools to make up my pallet. While I have many others to complete still, this will probably be the signature piece in the show. “There will also be some smaller lake vignettes, and a couple of classic New England images that always draw me in with a warm feeling of being “home”. And, yes, there will be a cut-paper piece of a familiar Wolfeboro landmark. I hope these will warm your February and turn your thoughts a few months ahead to another wonderful sum-mer to come!” For more information, please call 603-569-6159 or toll free 866-569-6159. Look for additional updates on the Art Place Facebook page.

NH Audubon Needs Your Help With Statewide Bird Survey What’s happening with the birds this winter? While you’re at home during the pandemic, yo u c a n h ave f u n counting birds and helping NH Audubon at the same time. Take par t in the annual Backyard Winter Bird Survey on Saturday, Fe b r u a r y 1 3 , a n d S u n d ay, Fe b r u a r y 14. Biologists need assistance from citizens all over the Granite State to get a clear picture of what is happening with our winter birds. NH Audubon biologists are anxious to see what this year’s numbers show. “This winter we have seen an influx of visitors from the north,” said Dr. Pamela Hunt, Senior Biologist with NH Audubon. These are species such as Common Redpolls and Pine Siskins that nest in northern Canada and stay there when food supplies are good. In years with poor food crops, they move south for the winter in what’s called an “irruption.” “Sometimes we see lots of these northern species and other years we see none,” said Dr. Hunt. NH Audubon needs your help to track these northern invaders and other feeder birds. All New Hampshire residents are encouraged to take part. Anyone can participate in the Survey by counting the birds in their own backyard on the Survey weekend and reporting online or sending the results on a special reporting form to NH Audubon. To receive a copy of the reporting form and complete instructions, e-mail your name and address to bwbs@ nhaudubon.org or call 603-224-9909. Forms are also available on-line. Find more information about the survey at https://nhbirdrecords.org/backyard-winter-bird-survey/.

Oil Painting Class At Lakes Region Art Association Gallery Artist Acacia Rogers will be teaching a 6 week evening oil painting course! It will be held in the LRAA Gallery, 120 Laconia Road (Tanger Outlets), Suite 132, Tilton NH. Beginning Thursday, February 18th, 5:30pm8:30pm. Dates are as follows: (2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25) This thorough beginner friendly class is a perfect start for any new painter, or a great repertoire builder for the intermediate artist, Rogers will use a combination of tested and proven academic principals with my own self taught techniques to improve and refine your representational painting skills. The class will cover everything from materials and how to choose them, to color mixing and values, choosing references, using layers to build dimension and much more. With ample side by side easel time and a group critique at the conclusion. Join me in October to take your painting the next level and learn what you can really do! Students will bring their own supplies. A supply list can be found at AcaciaRogers.wix.com/FineArt under the “Workshops” tab.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

F O O L NEW HAMPSHIRE A

in brendan@weirs.com

New Hampshire's Choice for Local & National News,Talk & Weather

Live Free or Die.

*A FLATLANDER’S OBSERVATIONS ON LIFE

Go Team! There has been a lot of attention over the past few years about the names of certain sports teams on both a local and national level. by Brendan Smith These team Weirs Times Editor names are considered by some to be derogatory reflections of a particular group’s heritage. Unlike those who are against these names being used, I am not going to mention the names of theses teams endlessly to try and make my point. In fact, I never really thought about these team names until the people who are against them continued to say them over and over again bringing attention to them on a regular basis. Whether or not I am for or against these names being used is not the point of this column. I merely want to suggest that if any of these teams decide to change their names to quell the uproar created by those offended who keep repeating the names, I hope they might consider using a name that represents a part of my own heritage, as well as the heritage of many others here in New Hampshire. My suggestion is to call these teams “Flatlanders”. The Washington Football team comes to mind first. Searching for a new name, I believe my idea would work well. The Washington Flatlanders. How cool would that be? Washington D.C is actually full of “Flatlanders” in a sense. Of course, there is our own Senators Shaheen and Hassan from Missouri and Boston originally. Plus, other representatives from other states who are, in a way, flatlanders. Folks who were born elsewhere. I’ll bet there are more than a few of you Flatlanders yourselves who are sitting there, open-mouthed

and slack-jawed as you read this. After all. The term “Flatlander” is considered derogatory to many who have moved to New Hampshire from the big cities to settle into more rural areas. At one time, this was true. It was a badge none of us liked to wear and I was no exception. Still, over the years I have embraced the term “Flatlander” and have used it to my advantage, basically creating a whole cottage industry based on it. It has been twenty-five years now since I first approached the subject of being a Flatlander on these very pages. I knew not everyone would be happy. There were some who berated me hoping that if it just wasn’t talked about it would all go away. I knew that wasn’t about to happen. I knew that calling us “Flatlanders” was the only thing that natives (and those that think they are) had as ammunition against us. The only thing that they thought they could use to wear us down. For many years they were successful until I decided to take over the fight. Today the term “Flatlander” has, for the most part, lost its sting and is no longer a stigma. In fact, many today wear the designation proudly. That is why I think it would be a great idea in helping dilute this once offensive term even further by seeing it become more widespread. What better way than as the name of different sport teams? I’m sure that thinking on a national level might be a bit of a stretch at the moment, but I’ve always been one to aim high. There are a variety of high school teams in New Hampshire that are under a lot of pressure by people who keep saying their names to bring attention to them, to change them. I feel “Flatlanders” would be a great choice. I imagine that more than a few players on the teams are Flatlanders themselves or,

more likely, descended from Flatlander Heritage. So, it certainly wouldn’t be much of a stretch. And for you transplants who are reading this in your silent rage (or noisy rage, if you are from New Jersey) think about how much fun it would be to go to a high school football game and hear a group of natives screaming” “Let’s Go Flatlanders.” How about picking up a local paper and reading the headline: “Flatlanders Are State Champs.” You know you would love it as much as I would. It would be a sweet victory in many ways. I’m sure that the new debate would now focus on what the team logos should look like. Some might choose a man holding a roof rake. Others might go with a perplexed figure at the local dump for the first time. But, it won’t really matter. Symbols of Flatlanders would become ubiquitous throughout the state and the original, hurtful purpose of the name would become diminished and even something to be very proud of. Over the years the Flatlander name might find its way to college teams or even pro sports. Nothing is impossible (except, of course, a balanced national budget). We might not live to see the day, but our grandkids just might. Future generations might not even know the term “Flatlander” was once a bad thing. I hope I have changed the minds of some who would be against such a thing. I hope you have come to see my point of view. “LET’S GO FLATLANDERS!!” Brendan is the author of “The Flatlander Chronicles” and “Best Of A F.O.O.L. In New Hampshire” available at BrendanTSmith.com. His latest book “I Only Did It For The Socks - Stories and Thoughts On Aging” will be published soon.

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Now In 4th Printing!

The Flatlander Chronicles 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.

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)

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

The Matter of Tori Rose Smith’s Life Victoria “Tori” Rose Smith lived a tragically short life. Three years. That’s less than 200 weeks on this earth. She was a girly girl who sported oversized bows in her straw-blonde hair and a megawatt smile on her face. A great-aunt described the blue-eyed baby as “bubbly,” “sassy” and “full of life” despite bouncing around by Michelle Malkin foster homes for much of her brief exisSyndicated Columnist tence. Last week, authorities in South Carolina revealed that Tori had perished as result of multiple bluntforce injuries to her tiny head. She was beaten to death. Her adoptive parents, Ariel and Jerry “Austin” Robinson, are now charged with homicide by child abuse. A sixpage police incident report describes how first responders rushed to the Robinsons’ home on the afternoon of Jan. 14, 2021, after Mr. Robinson called 911. Little Tori was not breathing. EMTs performed CPR. She was rushed to the hospital, where she died. Investigators immediately suspected child abuse. The key to Tori’s murder lies in 17 redacted lines of the police report from a Simpsonville, South Carolina, police officer documenting his crime-scene interview with Ariel Robinson, who described an unknown incident involving her adopted daughter that had occurred the day before. The entire paragraph is blacked out -- an ominous chunk of hidden information about Tori’s last day on the planet. Thanks to her ubiquitous social media presence, however, we can fill in a lot of blanks about Ariel Robinson. She was a fame-chaser, an aspiring comedian, and a wannabe social media influencer who paraded her entire blended family (two biological sons, plus Tori and her two brothers, whom the Robinsons adopted all together) on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for clicks and likes. Robinson had achieved minor notoriety as the Season 20 winner of the Food Network’s “Worst Cooks in America” contest. She hosted a podcast with her husband and was set to launch a new YouTube this month called “Cooking, Comedy, and Convos.” Her YouTube channel has now been deleted. But other dark clues remain. In her past podcasts, Robinson spoke of battling depression and violent thoughts. “I don’t feel like I want to hurt others, but some days I do want to hurt others,” she rambled. “I don’t feel I would...I See MALKIN on 28

This Is Not Normal For four years, we were informed by our establishment media that President Donald Trump’s behavior was “not normal.” The abnormality of Trump’s behavior became a near rallying cry for the selfby Ben Shapiro appointed heroes of Syndicated Columnist journalism, who spent every waking hour poring over his bizarre tweets and his bloviating self-absorption. The media dedicated themselves to preventing Trump’s supposed normalization. Now, the media inform us, we have been graced by the most normal normal person to have ever normalled: President Joe Biden. Biden, they proclaim, is utterly boring, nondescript, barely worthy of coverage. His administration, too, is paradigmatically normal. Yascha Mounk of The Atlantic tweets, “It is so nice to have a boring President.” Alleged media watchdog Brian Stelter asked this week whether Biden is “making the news boring again,” adding, “The Biden White House is clearly a break from the chaos and incompetence of Trump world.” For his part, Biden obviously revels in this sort of coverage. This week, his favorite ice cream flavor (chocolate chip) was tweeted out as well as a retweet of first lady Jill Biden’s announcement that Champ and Major, the new first pets, had entered the White House. On a personal level, Biden is clearly more “normal” than Trump -- although treating Biden, a career politician worth nearly $10 million, as the height of normality is rather stunning. The goal for the establishment media isn’t to point out merely that Biden is a sort of American Everyman. It’s to use that supposed normalcy to disguise the fact that his agenda is absolutely abnormal. The dirty little secret of the Trump administration is that despite Trump’s personal abnormality, his agenda was

well in line with past precedent, and with mainstream American opinions on everything from taxes to military policy. Trump did not radically shift American policy. Biden will. Within the first five days of his presidency, he issued 30 executive orders, compared with four for Trump, five for Barack Obama and zero for George W. Bush. Those executive orders included endorsement of radical reinterpretation of American history; killing the Keystone XL pipeline, along with its attendant estimated 11,000 American jobs; forcing the military to allow troops to undergo gender reassignment surgery; and forcing federally funded institutions to allow biological men who identify as transgender to compete alongside biological women, among others. He is reportedly pursuing an immigration plan directed toward reopening America’s borders. He has staffed his Cabinet by intersectional box-checking. Biden’s policy is indeed radical. But because Biden is presented as a normal person, we’re supposed to ignore all of that. We’re supposed to simply be grateful for the “return to normalcy” -- complete with caving to the teachers unions that seek to keep schools closed indeterminately, reentering a long-dead deal with the Iranian theocracy, firing government staffers with whom he disagrees and lying openly about the vaccine distribution plan he inherited. Meanwhile, our media pat themselves on the back. It’s rare to see a profession declare itself irrelevant, but that’s what many in the media are doing these days. According to Stelter, it’s “refreshing” that Biden’s team promises accountability and transparency. According to Margaret Sullivan of The Washington Post, the media must learn their lesson from the Trump era and cover Democrats more sycophantically. Joe Biden may be a relatively normal guy. But none of this is normal. And pretending it is represents just another way for the media to reject legitimate criticisms of an administration seeking radicalism right off the bat.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

Rule-Breaking Politicians After Joe Biden’s inauguration, he ordered everyone on federal lands to wear a mask. That night, he and his family posed for pictures at the Lincoln Memorial by John Stossel -- none of them Syndicated Columnist wearing a mask. California Governor Gavin Newsom told Californians it’s “essential” to avoid “mixing with people outside of your household.” Then he had dinner with lots of people outside his household, without masks. You can see the mask-less gover-

nor and the Biden family in my new video. Newsom did apologize for attending “a friend’s birthday party.” Maybe you heard about that. But you might not know that the restaurant charges $800 for dinners or that the governor’s “friend” is a lobbyist, a politically connected “fixer” who helps select Hollywood businesses get exemptions from government shutdowns. Restaurant owner Angela Marsden, instead of hiring an expensive lobbyist, spent her money building an outdoor patio that complied with COVID-19 regulations. But then the state shut down even outdoor

dining. “I’m losing everything,” she cried in a viral video. But the business right next door wasn’t shut down. NBC’s TV show, “Good Girls,” was allowed to set up a dining area right outside her restaurant. “She doesn’t have a powerful team of lobbyists to argue on her behalf in the state’s capital,” points out Jarrett Stepman, a reporter who covers politicians’ hypocrisy for The Daily Signal. California gives him plenty of fodder. San Francisco Mayor London Breed went to a party at that fancy restaurant, too.

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi got her hair done when California salons were closed. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves held three Christmas parties, violating his executive order limiting the number of people at gatherings. When a reporter asked, “How is that not in conflict with the order?” Reeves responded that his parties “send a message to the people of Mississippi that you can return to a life that is somewhat normal.” But “the people” can’t. Only politicians get to do that. Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo attended a wine and paint See STOSSEL on 29

Global Economy Facing Biggest Hit Since Great Depression; UN Report Massive worldwide economic disruptions and setbacks continue as the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps the globe, devastating commerce, industry by John J. Metzler and people’s liveliSyndicated Columnist hoods. And even with modest economic gains expected this year in many developed countries, the virus and vaccines to counter COVID will ultimately set the agenda for success or failure. That’s the gloomy outlook from the UN’s World Economic Situation and Prospects, an annual forecast of

economic conditions. “In 2020, the world economy shrank by 4.3 per cent, over two and half times more than during the global financial crisis of 2009. The modest recovery of 4.7 per cent expected in 2021 would barely offset the losses of 2020,” says the latest report. Ominously the survey adds, “A once-in-a-century crisis, a Great Disruption unleashed by a viral pandemic, hit the world economy in 2020.” The report adds, “The pandemic spread like a forest fire, reaching every corner of the world, infecting more than 90 million and killing close to 2 million people worldwide.”

This is sobering data to think that after years of largely positive growth, eradication of poverty and growing global trade that the entire system would be jolted almost overnight by the COVID virus. Sustained economic expansion in the United States and many East Asian states came to a halt from fear and uncertainty in the pandemic’s early stages. The United Nations warned of devastating socio-economic setback from the still expanding pandemic. The report adds that 131 million more people were pushed into poverty in 2020, many of them women and children. The report cites, “Massive and

timely stimulus measures, amounting to $12.7 trillion, prevented a total collapse of the world economy and averted a Great Depression… financing these stimulus packages entailed the largest peacetime borrowing, increasing public debt globally by 15 percent. The report cautions, “This massive rise in debt will unduly burden future generations unless a significant part is channelled into productive and sustainable investment and to stimulate growth.” A spiral of dangerous debt accumulation shadows even the richest countries. The report underscores, while the m a j o r i t y See METZLER on 28

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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5 Easy Ways to Say “I Love You” (Family Features) If gift-giving isn’t your strong suit, occasions like Valentine’s Day are likely to bring on stress and worry, but procrastinating will only serve to elevate your unease. Follow these steps to simplify your shopping, and while you may not come to love the task of finding the perfect gift, your loved one will undoubtedly appreciate your effort. 1. Browse for ideas online. Many retailers offer special promotions and gift idea sections on

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their websites, so finding inspiration can be as easy as visiting the sites of your loved one’s favorite stores. There are also dozens of articles online to help get the ideas flowing. Searches such as “gifts for horse lovers” or “Valentine’s gifts for a new boyfriend” will reveal a long list of ideas to peruse.

Valentine’s Day isn’t really all about the bling. Sure, a pretty bauble is a welcome gift, but there are plenty of ways to show your affection that don’t require spending a month’s salary. A heartfelt card paired with a memento of a meaningful event or place in your relationship sends the same loving sentiment.

2. Keep it simple. Although the advertising industry works hard to convince consumers otherwise,

3. Make it a (different) date. For many couples, navigating the demands of work, kids and life make spending time together a luxury. Instead of fighting crowds at busy restaurants on the official date, celebrate your love on a day of your own choosing, when you can relax and enjoy the time together without the pressure to rush through dessert so your table can be flipped for the next waiting couple.

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stem red roses is a beautiful gesture, but unless your intended rose receiver is a strictly traditional type, try adding a little spice to your floral arrangement. Go for a bouquet in her favorite color, or have the flowers arranged in a practical vessel she can reuse to remember the occasion, such as a cocktail shaker or a watering can. 5. Go ahead, gift yourself. It may seem counter-intuitive, but finding a gift you’ll enjoy may inspire an idea for your loved one. The trick is finding something you can share together, whether it’s tickets to a show or his and hers mugs for enjoying your favorite brew. Just be sure the item is something your intended will share your enthusiasm for, or you may as well go buy a blender.

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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It’s time to help the birds again. As usual, New Hampshire Audubon’s Backyard Winter Bird Survey and the Great Backyard Bird Count take place on the weekend so you can kill two birds with ... oh wait, bad expression. You can help two birds (really all of them) with one walk in the woods. New Hampshire Audubon’s Backyard Winter Bird Survey takes place Saturday, Feb. 13, and Sunday, Feb. Feb. 14. Your job is to count birds on those days and submit your results (species and number of individual birds) to the organization to help biologists better understand what is going on with our winter birds. These annual snapshots of data give biologists a broader picture of bird populations and behavior. It helps ornithologists better understand and perhaps find patterns in the winter irruptions of finches and other northern birds. Irruptions are when food scarcity up north drives birds down to New Hampshire and farther south. This fall and winter have been particularly strong for red-breasted nuthatches. I have two of them visiting every day and many readers have emailed me to say these cute little birds are visiting them as well. Real data on these birds

Hermit thrushes may show up on winter bird surveys in New Hampshire.

CHRIS BOSAK PHOTO

will be critical to get when submitted by participants of the survey. Other irruptive species include pine siskin, common redpoll, purple finch, evening grosbeak, pine grosbeak, red-winged crossbill, white-winged crossbill and and snowy owl. Are these birds visiting your backyard or favorite place to walk in the woods? Let the New Hampshire Audubon biologists know. Count the common birds as well, of course. That data is just as valuable to have. The survey is open to everyone, regardless of skill level. Spend an hour or 30 hours counting the birds that weekend and submit your results online at the New Hampshire Audubon

website. You may also receive a hard copy of the reporting form and instructions by emailing your name and address to bwbs@nhaudubon. org or calling (603) 2249909. While you’re out there (or in there if you’re watching backyard feeders) counting birds, you may as well submit your results to the Great Backyard Bird Count, too. The GBBC started in 1998 as a relatively small initiative to get a snapshot of winter bird populations across the country. It has mushroomed into a global phenomenon with more than 160,000 checklists turned in online worldwide last year. According to GBBC officials, it created the “largest instantaneous snapshot of

global bird populations ever recorded.” The GBBC runs from Friday, Feb. 12 to Monday, Feb. 15. Again, all skill levels are welcome, participation is free and no set time commitment is required. Visit www.birdcount.org for more information and instructions on how to submit results. What will show up on New Hampshire checklists? It’s hard to say. It’s been a strange winter with a sage thrasher being seen regularly in Hinsdale, boreal chickadees being found on Mt. Monadnock far from their northern range, a redheaded woodpecker frequenting Keene and evening grosbeaks showing up everywhere in the Granite State. Have your See BOSAK on 29

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Every sport features a pyramid of sorts. The broad base of the pyramid involves the numerous young players who start out loving a particular athletic endeavor—like basketball. Early on, countless youth-league players aspire to play in the NBA—or the WNBA. But as time passes, fewer and fewer basketballers ascend that narrowing hoop pyramid. Typically only four or five high school seniors still pursue hoop dreams as varsity players. And but a small fraction of those go on to play college ball. And of those collegiate hoopsters, only a few ascend to the highest steps on that pyramid—the professional level, where there’s room for only the very select. Alone at the top of the pyramid, of course, is Lebron James. Which brings us to Durham, N.H., and the University of New Hampshire Wildcat men’s basketball team—and Tayler Mattos. The 6-foot-10 Mattos recently transferred to UNH from Bowling Green University. Due to relaxed NCAA transfer regulations due to COVID, Tayler’s already playing for Coach Billy Herrion’s Wildcats—and playing well.

Tayler Mattos to the hoop. That’s good news for UNH fans because Tayler is that rare Granite State native with the size and talent to excel at the Division I level. And more good news is that the NCAA declared 2020-21 a “lost year” due to COVID, so now student-athletes will get a “free” season eligibility-wise—meaning Tayler will still get to play two more years at UNH after the current season concludes. Tayler’s circuitous journey to Durham started at Kearsage High School, from which he graduated in 2018. As a KHS sophomore, Tayler teamed up with older brother Zach, a 6-foot-10 senior, to

help the Cougars to the NHIAA Division III title game. “Zach’s been about the most influential person in my life,” explained Tayler. “He’s always been there for me. He has a great work ethic and he pushed and inspired me to do things the right way and to be the best person or player I can be.” So where is Zach now? He’s ascending a different pyramid as a baseball pitcher at Bryant and Stratton College near Albany, N.Y. Imagine batting against a towering left-handed mound presence even taller than the 6-foot-9 Hall-of-Famer Randy Johnson! (BTW, as close as

Zach and Tayler are, they differ in terms of favorite baseball teams, as one loves the Red Sox while the other loves the Yankees. The identity of the Yankee fan will be withheld to protect the innocent.) After Zach graduated from KHS, Tayler led the Cougars to their first and only Division III state hoop title in 2017. The next year Kearsage moved up to Division II, and finished 14-4 during Tayler’s senior year. But championship dreams were dashed when the Cougars lost a first-round home playoff game to Merrimack Valley on a three-pointer at the buzzer. Still ascending that hoop pyramid, Tayler traveled around the country playing in AAU basketball tournaments and attracting the attention of numerous Division I college scouts. Bowling Green University’s veteran head coach Michael Huger invited Tayler to visit BG’s Ohio campus and a few days later Tayler committed to play for the Falcons. After seeing limited action as a freshman, Tayler became a starter during the 2019-20 season. “My best memories from BG involve beating #14 Buffalo at home before a sellout crowd and seeing our fans storm the court afterwards,” recalled Tayler. “And the MAC playoffs at Rocket Mortgage See MOFFETTon 25

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NEW ENGLAND POND HOCKEY CLASSIC MEREDITH, NH • FRIDAY, FEB. 5TH— SUNDAY, FEB. 7TH

PHOTO BY THOMAS MISSERT/ TGM PHOTO

OFFICIALPRODUCED TOURNAMENT GUIDE BY THE WEIRS TIMES NEWSPAPER 2020 NE PHC Champs

• schedule ... and more!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC

2021 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Thursday, February 4th

Welcome Party and Player Check-In is cancelled this year due to Covid-19.

Friday, February 5th

Welcome Players For The 2021 NE Pond Hockey Classic Parking, Event Lots And Shuttle Service

8:00AM-4:35PM Games 7AM - Shuttles start from Prescott Park & Rink Venue 5:00PM - Shuttles stop to Prescott Park & Rink Venue

The Pond Hockey Classic appreciates your cooperation in parking in the correct locations while on site at our event. There is no parking at local businesses for the PHC event. There are numerous Public Parking lots around downtown Meredith, these are available for parking during our event.

Saturday, February 6th

We have organized event parking at Prescott Park and have shuttle service down to the tournament village. There are also public parking options in and around the town of Meredith. Shuttle Service is for Players Only.

7AM Player Shuttles start from Prescott Park & Rink Venue 8AM - 4:35PM Games 5:00PM Shuttles stop to Prescott Park & Rink Venue 8PM Playoff Brackets Announced - Online

Friday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

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Sunday, February 7th 9AM-12:45PM Playoff Games 1:15PM Championship Games 1:50PM Award Ceremony

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• schedule ... and more! — THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC Guidelines To Make The Event Safe & Fun For 2021 Here at the Pond Hockey Classic, we are and always has been committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all of our staff, spectators and participants. Due to the current pandemic, we have created a Preparedness Plan for our business, and the 2021 New England Pond Hockey Classic tournament, based on guidelines from Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Executive Orders set forth by the State of New Hampshire’s Reopening Taskforce and Governor Sununu. We plan to operate in accordance with the most up to date version of the Amateur and Youth Sports Guidelines as well as the Festivals and Fairs Guidelines issued by the Reopening Taskforce. We have made major changes to the 2021 New England Pond Hockey Classic tournament to ensure the safety of our staff and participants at this years event as well as to meet the guidelines set forth by the State of New Hampshire. In order for us to comply with the Guidelines issued by the State of New Hampshire, SPECTATORS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED INSIDE THE RINK VENUE. We know the New England Pond Hockey Classic has become a highlight of the

Scott Crowder (R) greets a New England Pond Hockey Classic player. Crowder started the event in 2010.

winter for people other than our participants but unfortunately due to the complexities this year we are unable to welcome anyone other than players inside the venue and on our shuttle buses. We appreciate your cooperation and we look forward to welcoming you all back to the event in the future. This years event will see 130 total teams competing on 14 rinks. We have eliminated tournament village, beer gardens, locker room tents and live music to comply with the the regulations and to minimize the potential implications of Covid-19. This year we will host a stripped down version of the event we love with a focus solely on the pond hockey and we cannot wait. Any questions please email info@pondhockeyclassic.com.

• schedule ... and more!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC The 2021 Teams

OPEN DIVISION Broots Magoots - Amherst, NH Rippers - Rockland, MA IFPT Hockey Club - Londonderry,NH Ingalls Pictures - Grand Rapids, MI Islanders - Nantucket, MA Young Guns - Boston, MA DOGS III - Newburyport, MA Paddy’s - Lexington, MA Settlers of Capo - Boston, MA The Mountain Men - North Conway, NH 30+ OPEN DIVISION Shrinkage - Framingham, MA Hoptown Bulldogs - Hopkinton, MA Dirty Dekes - Charlestown, MA Puck Bearers - Norwood, MA The Dump Trucks - Boston, MA Stonedam Islanders - Meredith, NH

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50+ OPEN DIVISION Markham Metal Puck Steelers - Winchester, MA Andover Convalescents - Andover, MA Andover Convalescents II - Andover, MA Cheevers Pack - Winchester, MA Bumbles - Laconia, NH Essex 73’s - Nashua, NH Milton Maple Leafs - Milton, MA Lakeview Tavern - Burlington, MA The Boot 3 - Providence, RI Boston Whalers Bartlett - Plaistow NH DarkStar - Byfield, MA Planet Fitness - No Critics - Hampton, NH Richard Cranium Hockey Club - Londonderry, NH KOFC 109 - Arlington, MA Shinny 35+ DIVISION Yesterday’s Geros - Bridgewater, NH Tri-State Microbrew - Abington, MA Massholes - Fitchburg, MA Done By Saturday - Bridgewater, MA Hit the Net Sports - Littleton MA Modest Roots Brewing - Billerica MA HIBLITS - Bedford, NH The Mighty Cucks - Boston, MA Emerald Bandits - Boston, MA Snap On Tool Bags - Derry, NH

PHL - Norwell, MA Toxic Shotguns - Melrose, MA Puck Monkeys - Somersworth, NH Reggie Dunlop - 2019 Shed Kids - Hampstead, NH The Boot - Needham, MA Mugs - Mount Pleasant, SC South of Berlin - Berlin, NH Green Bees - Manchester, NH Drunk Uncles - Manchester, NH Blades of Grey - Multi-Town, MA Top Notch - Methuen, MA Bill’s Auto - Woburn, MA Richman Club “RC” - Scituate, MA

Shinny 21+ DIVISION Glory Hounds - Moultonborough, NH Shanks - Boston, MA Gunrack - Boston, MA The SQUAD - Dover, NH Last Call - Red Bank, NJ Sunnyvale’s Finest - Newburyport, MA Franklin - Franklin, MA Plimoth Pilgrims - Plymouth, MA Mass Cape Bulldogs - Boston, MA STATE - Everett, MA Super Smashed Bros - Woburn, MA Hardo City - Malden, MA MooseKnuckles - Lowell, MA Mighty Wasted - Somerset MA Chit Cho - Berlin NH Easton Fection - Boston, MA Shamrock Entertainment - Boston, MA Community Sauce - Hampton, NH Bent Shafts - Boston, MA Lowell Sinners - Lowell MA Fish Cove Eskimo Brothers - Windham, NH Sundercutters - Boston, MA Boston Nuggets - Boston, MA Baxter - Stoneham, MA Central House Kings - Westborough, MA Average Flows - Manchester, NH The Locals - Chelmsford, MA Leaning Jowlers - Natick, MA D1 Detailing - Exeter, RI Spencer Financial Benders - Brentwood, NH Polar Bears - Milford, CT

TWIG DIVISION Southie Sharks - South Boston, MA The Bad Guys - Winthrop, MA Mounted Reinbeers - Manchester, NH Wheeler Boys - New Ipswich, NH Original Badgers - Andover MA Beer Thrashers - Worcester, MA Jersey City Police Enforcers - Jersey City Punch List - Boston, MA Fat Pucks - Boston, MA Dump ‘n Chase - Wakefield, MA Ugly Pucklings - Boston, MA Olde Devils - N. Billerica, MA Puck Nuts - Meredith, NH Casella Resource Solutions - Portsmouth, NH Beaver Beaters - Cherry Hill NJ Happy Cows - Windham, NH The 5th Line - Billerica, MA Spare Parts - Southern NH Frozen Piggies - South Boston, MA O’Brien Car Care - Holbrook, NH Beers - Lovell, ME Granite State Wild - Salem, NH No Clowns Allowed - Mason, NH Lint Headz Hockey Club - Manchester, NH Ballard House Bull Dogs - Auburn, MA Manning Building Company - Narragansett, RI The Ricotta Warriors - Pittsburgh, PA Fatbacks - Rutland, VT The Maggots - Cambridge, MA Swamp Donkeys - Burrillville, RI Delta House - Newark, NJ Henniker Brownouts - Henniker, NH Bombers - Bunch O’ Massholes Puck It - Farmingdale, ME DUSTER DIVISION What About Bob? - Braintree, MA Methuen Goons - Methuen, MA Boylston Schul-Verein - Walpole, MA French Revolution - Worcester, MA Puck Ewe Too - Boston, MA WOMEN’S DUSTER DIVISION 4Play - Hingham, MA Saucy Dames - Boston, MA Bad Booze Bears - Hingham, MA

• schedule ... and more!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC

Official Pond Hockey Classic Rules

FROM PHC COMMISSIONER SCOTT CROWDER... If we all play by them we all have fun. We appreciate you taking the time to read the rules and we look forward to a weekend filled with everyone playing by them! New England PHC teams play 4v4 1. The winner of a captain’s coin toss will determine which goal to defend. Teams will switch goals after first half.

2. All players must wear helmets and hockey skates. Protective equipment is optional but highly recommended. 3. No goalies, goalie equipment or sticks permitted. 4. All teams must have light and dark jerseys or uniforms. 5. All rinks will start and stop on the master horn. 6. Penalties will be called for rule infractions. Penalties called by Rink Monitors are final. A minor penalty will result in possession of the puck awarded to the opposing team. Rink Monitors will have the discretion to also award a goal to the opposing team when a minor penalty is flagrant and/or a team is consistently playing in a reckless manner. 7. Any major penalty, which

includes any action that could possibly injure another player, will result in that player being ejected from the tournament. The team that received the ejection will play the remainder of the tournament shorthanded (3 vs. 4) or (2 vs. 3). Rink official will determine major penalties.

the crease area and act as a goaltender. A defender may deflect the puck in the crease area, but the defender must do so while continuing to move through the crease area. The crease area is defined as an imaginary box extending out four feet from the outside corners of the goal.

8. Abuse of Rink Monitors will be considered a major penalty. This includes yelling, swearing, or arguing about calls.

13. Contacting the puck with a stick above the waist will result in a loss of possession.

9. No checking is allowed. Such action will result in a minor penalty unless deemed serious enough to be a major (Rink Monitor discretion). 10. No slapshots allowed. Such action will result in a minor penalty. 11. Players cannot fall or lay on the ice in an effort to protect the goal area. Such action will result in a minor penalty. 12. Goaltending is not allowed. A player may not patrol, “camp out” or remain stationary in

14. Saucer passes (i.e. pucks that are lifted low, below the knee) are acceptable. 15. If a puck goes out of bounds, the last team to touch it loses possession. During restart, the defender must give his opponent 2-stick lengths of space. 16. There are no off-sides or icing calls. 17. Setting picks in offensive zone is not allowed. Deference will be given to a defender in front of their own net where their progress is impeded by the pick or inter-

DAN SEUFERT PHOTO

ference of an offensive player. Goals must be scored from the attacking side of center ice.

18. Rink Monitors will call out the score after each goal. This includes goals scored by players or awarded from minor penalties. (There is one rink monitor and many players, helping the rink monitor is encouraged) 19. Teams must give their opponents 1/2 ice after a goal is scored or an infraction takes place. 20. Games will be composed of two 15-minute halves with a 2-minute halftime for the New England, Lake Champlain and Montana tourneys 21. Pool Play games can end in a tie. However if playoff games end in a tie, the play will move to sudden death format 22. All games are running-time and substitutions can be made during play (“on-the-fly”) or while a puck is being retrieved. There is no stoppage of play after a goal is scored, or after a penalty is awarded. It is up to each team to ensure that there are only four players on the ice.

tournament are allowed. The four to eight players that are on your roster (depending on division) at 8:00 a.m. on the first day of the event must be the same players that play on your team throughout the tournament.

25. Games start and stop on the master horn, for every minute a team is late they will be penalized a goal. 26. In the event of a forfeit during pool play of any division, the team who did not forfeit will receive a win and, for tie breaker purposes, will be assigned a goals for and goals against total for that game

equal to the averages of their other pool play games. These will be assigned at the conclusion of the pool play round when advancement is being determined.

27. It is the responsibility of the team captain to ensure the correct game score has been logged on the scorecard. By signing the scorecard at the conclusion of the game, your team captain is acknowledging that they agree with the final score. Teams cannot contest scores/results after they have signed the scorecard.

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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WHAT’S ON TAP IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?? A listing of some of the area’s beercentric watering holes where you can find old favorites on tap as well as some cutting edge seasonals.

ACKERLY’S JOHNSON’S GRILL & GALLEY TAPHOUSE 83 Main Street, Alton 603.875.3383 Akerlysgrillandgalleyrestaurant.com Henniker - Kolsch 603- Winni Ale Tuckerman - Pale Ale Great Rhythm - Squeeze Moat Mountain - Stout

COPPER KETTLE TAVERN

At Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant 233 D.W. Hwy, Meredith 603.279.6212 hartsturkeyfarm.com Bud Light Stoneface IPA Moat Mtn - Blueberry Tuckerman - Pale Ale 603 - Winni Amber Ale ...+6 More On Tap

D.A. LONG TAVERN

At Funspot Family Entertainment Ctr. 579 Endicott St N., Weirs 603.366.4377 funspotnh.com Foley Brothers - Fair Maiden Oxbow - Moon Rocks Founders - Rubaeus Nitro Rockingham - 3 Little Pigs Bunker - Machine Czech Pilsner Maine Beer - Mean Old Tom ...+6 More On Tap

At Johnson’s Seafood & Steak 69 Rt 11, New Durham 603.859.7500 eatatjohnsons.com/ newdurham Maine Beer Co- Lunch Throwback- Cheek Squeezer North Country Cider- Original Lawson’s- Sip of Sunshine Harpoon- Winter Warmer 603- Coffee Cake Porter ...+30 More On Tap

PATRICK’S PUB

18 Weirs Rd., Gilford 603.293.0841 Patrickspub.com Patrick’s Slainte House Ale Sam Adams - Seasonal Guinness Tuckerman - Pale Ale 603 - Winni Amber Ale Harpoon - IPA Woodstock - Frosty Goggles ...+8 More On Tap

THE WITCHES BREW PUB

At The Craft Beer Xchange 59 Doe Ave., Weirs Beach 603.409.9344 FB @craftbeerxchange Schilling – Czech Pils 603 – Wood Devil DIPA Moat – Bone Shaker Brown Wormtown – Table Talk Chocolate Pecan Pie Ale Woodstock – Maple Porter Spencer Trappist – Stout ...+30 More On Tap ** Tap listings subject to change!

RESTAURANT OR BAR OWNER?

by Jim MacMillan Contributing Writer

When winter’s cold finally takes control of New Hampshire’s lakes, ice is bound to happen. When water is able to support the weight of man and his machinery, winter occupations and sports take place. In the past, horses dragged heavy timbers across ice from island logging. Man depended on thick ice to get his job done. Winter sports were inevitable. Skating was one of the original winter sports besides skiing in New England. Families would don their skates and take to the smooth ice, gliding freely as if in flight. Later, the competitive side of skating was born and hockey became a winter event. As teams developed and skater honed their skills, skating became a serious game. Tournaments were born and people gathered to cheer on their home team. Today we have the annual Pond Hockey Classic so why not have a beer that celebrates it. 603 Brewery is located in Londonderry, NH and has enjoyed

their share of success over the past 10 years in business. As with many breweries having the same beginnings, three friends shared their love of homebrewing together in college. Geoff and Tamsin finally married after graduation. Their friend Dan was in the wedding. A few years later, the three reunited and made a batch of homebrew together. During that effort, they exclaimed how it would be fun to make this hobby a livelihood. Plans and investments were procured and 603 became a reality. Today, they offer year-round beers as well as seasonal beers matched to their climates. In 2019, they opened their Beer Hall at Woodmont Commons in Londonderry where freshly brewed 603 beer and tasty food is served. 603

beer is distributed throughout NH and now in Massachusetts as well. Visit their website at 603brewery.com Knuckle Puck IPA has been released for the past couple of years. Each year, its popularity has grown so it is now among the winter seasonal rotation from 603. It celebrates the Pond Hockey Classic tournaments held around the state in late January and early February. Hue is golden-yellow with a slight haze to it. An attractive white head presents itself upon a slightly vigorous pour and glass lacing is shortly evident. Aromas of pineapple, melon and grapefruit are aggressive which helps to balance against a slight bready malt. Much of the mouthfeel is gentle and clean

with a dry and sharp finish, much of which is to be expected from an IPA. Overall, this 7% ABV beer is quite refreshing and will serve as a testament to 603’s quality. Although BeerAdvocate.com has not yet rated this year’s version officially, followers of 603 have rated it last year as high as 4.01 out of 5.0 and proves the Knuckle Puck is a solid 603 contender. Skate to your heart’s desire but find this IPA while it is in season. Their slogan on each can delivers a clear message; Live Free, Drink 603!

• schedule ... and more! — THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

2021 NE POND HOCKEY CLASSIC The Legend of Lake WinnipeHockey’s Cup

To many people today the thought of Lake Winnipesaukee brings to mind summer fun, baby blue skies, rich green mountains and the dark blue waters of this tranquil mountain lake. However many years ago this was not the case, Lake Winnipesaukee (or as it was known then Lake Winnipehockey) was once synonymous with pond hockey. Legend has it, many years ago in the dead of winter this area came alive. Native America tribes from all over the Northeast flocked to this great lake to stake their claim as the Pond Hockey Champions. Wars were put on hold, grudges forgotten and truces formed for one weekend out of the year. Native American folklore is filled with stories of tribes raising, and training their children to become warriors, not in battle but on the ice. It was not uncommon for tribes to save the best warriors for this annual event because winning it not only meant bragging rights for the tribe but also brought great pride and satisfaction to their villages. As the tournament grew, the tournament Chiefs called a meeting to discuss the creation of what would become the most coveted trophy in all of sports. After hours of deliberation, the chiefs announced the decision and presented to the world for the first time - Lake Winnipehockey’s Cup. The word spread from tribe to tribe and the following year hundreds of tribes from all over North American made their way to Lake Winnipesaukee for a chance to hoist this miraculous trophy. As years passed and countless champions crowned, the tournament went on. Until one year, as the settlers from Europe began to impede on the natives land the trophy was hidden. During a battle in what is

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www.pondhockeyclassic.com/nephctrophy now the town of Meredith, the settlers attempted to steal this trophy for themselves. Risking his own life, a young warrior tracked down the settlers took back the trophy and buried it somewhere on Bear Island. On his way back across to mainland, this young man lost his life when he fell through the ice, taking with him the whereabouts of this coveted trophy. With the trophy lost the tournament was never played again. Countless explorations have been made to find the whereabouts of this lost relic with no success. Thought lost forever, this trophy has become folklore with many wondering if it ever existed at all. During the summer of 2009 a group of dedicated archeologists set out to finally discover the resting place of the Lake Winnipehockey’s Cup. With state of the art equipment these scientists from all over the world finally located its whereabouts and unearthed the trophy in the interior of Bear Island. After some careful restoration, Lake Winnipehockey’s Cup has once again been up for claims. See the list of teams on this page who were last year’s champs... Who will hoist it after this year’s tournament? Only time will tell!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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The Mediterranean diet is in the news again, not only because it’s the start of a new year, but also because it was named as one of the most popular and healthiest diets by several publications. The origins of the “Mediterranean diet” are lost in time because it’s based on the eating habits of the Middle Ages, in which the ancient Roman tradition -- on the model of the Greeks -- identified in bread, wine and oil products a symbol of rural culture and agriculture. These were supplemented by sheep cheese, vegetables (leeks, mallow, lettuce, chicory, mushrooms) and a little meat, and among Romans, a strong preference for fish and seafood. According to a National Center of Biotechnology Information article, the discovery of the health benefits of the Medi-

terranean diet is attributed to American scientist Ancel Keys, who researched the correlation between cardiovascular disease and diet for the first time. In the 1950s, Keys was struck by a phenomenon, for which he could not, at first, provide a full explanation. The poor population of small towns of

southern Italy was, against all predictions, much healthier than the wealthier citizens of New York, many of whom had Italian ancestors who emigrated to the United States. Keys suggested that this depended on food, and tried to validate his original insight, focusing on foods that made up the diet of these populations.

This study proved that populations that had adopted a diet based on the Mediterranean diet presented a very low rate of cholesterol in the blood and, consequently, a minimum percentage of coronary heart disease. This was mainly due to the plentiful use of olive oil, bread, pasta, vegetables, herbs, garlic, red onions and other foods of vegetable origin, and a s rather moderate use of k 603.527.8144 a e meat. t myrnascc.com • S ood The modern Meditera t af s ranean diet is charPa Se acterized by the emItalian & American Comfort Food phasis on plant foods Formerly known as such as grains, vegNadia’s Trattoria, voted etables and fruits. Olone of the top ten restaurants ives, olive oil, nuts, Veal Francese and Eggplant Rollatini in NH by Boston Magazine. beans, legumes, seeds — Join Tue-Thurs from p.m. for Small Plate Specials — and herbs/spices are Hours: Tues.us Wed. & Thur 3-9pm Fri. &3-5 Sat. 3-9:30pm also part of the MediLocated under the canopy at 131 LakeatStreet At Paugus Bay Plaza,Bay Laconia Located under the canopy 131 Lake Street at Paugus Plaza See DIET on 23

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

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DIET from 22 terranean eating style. The Mediterranean lifestyle also recognizes the importance of physical activity and social interaction at mealtimes. Grains should be mostly whole grains and can include whole-wheat breads, whole-wheat pasta, oats, brown rice, couscous, quinoa or barley. Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, frozen or canned. The nutrients are similar between the three forms. Canned vegetables can have more sodium, so rinse before using or buy lower sodium options. Fruits and vegetables can be cooked or eaten raw. Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean eating style. Olive oil is the main source of fat and is used in cooking, as salad dressing, as a light drizzle on vegetables or as a dip for bread. Olive oil is higher in hearthealthy unsaturated fats and should replace saturated fats like butter or margarine. Nuts, beans, legumes and seeds are the main sources of protein, healthy fats and fiber. Common beans include chickpeas (garbanzo beans), cannellini beans, kidney beans, lentils and black beans. Nuts are good as a snack, on a salad or added to other dishes. Herbs and spices add flavor and aroma to foods. They reduce

the need for salt and can be rich in healthpromoting antioxidants. This delicious baking-pan recipe for Salmon Roasted with Broccoli and Tomatoes is an effortless way to incorporate the Mediterranean diet eating plan into your lifestyle. SALMON ROASTED WITH BROCCOLI AND TOMATOES 1 pound fresh or frozen skinless salmon fillet 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons Italian or poultry seasoning 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes 2 cups broccoli florets 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 lemon 2 tablespoons snipped fresh basil and/or parsley 1 tablespoon honey

1. Line a 15-by10-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Rinse salmon; pat dry. Place salmon in prepared pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the Italian or poultry seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of the salt and the pepper. 2. In a medium bowl, combine tomatoes, broccoli, garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, the Italian or poultry seasoning, and the salt and pepper; toss to coat. Place in pan with salmon. Roast 15 to 18 minutes or just until salmon flakes. 3. Meanwhile, remove 1 teaspoon zest/ peel from the lemon (do not use the white flesh or pith) and squeeze 3 tablespoon juice from lemon. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest and juice, the basil and/or parsley, and the honey. Spoon the mixture over salmon and veg-

etables before serving. TIP: To thaw frozen fish, place in a sealed bag and submerge in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. *** Angela Shelf Medearis is an award-winning children’s author, culinary historian and the author of seven cookbooks. Her new cookbook is “The Kitchen Diva’s Diabetic Cookbook.” Her website is www. divapro.com. To see how-to videos, recipes and much, much more, Like Angela Shelf Medearis, The Kitchen Diva! on Facebook. Recipes may not be reprinted without permission from Angela Shelf Medearis. (c) 2021 King Features Synd., Inc., and Angela Shelf Medearis

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

SMITH from 3 drove for the Moseley Taylors of Monadnock Kennels. The Taylors arrived in Laconia by train the night before the race. Mrs. Taylor has also started racing dogs though she did not compete at Laconia. She did her first race at Meredith and was planning to compete in a race in Jaffrey. Their driver,Roger Haines of Ashland, began racing when he was an eight year old boy, and had previously competed in the Olympics with a seventh place finish and in Quebec two years before, also finishing seventh there. In the summer Haines drove speed boats for Fred Perkins on Squam Lake. Roger was 23 years old in 1934 and was said to look “years younger.” The dogs in his team were the lead dog, Beulah, and Tim, Jerry, Nick, Tah, and Chief. The Tavern was a busy place the morning of the race as the Derby chairman Charlie Lyman met

Newspaper headline of Derby. with owners and drivers who had arrived from various locations. Secretary Ed L. Lydiard, a member of the Laconia Sled Dog Club, had recently been homebound with a cold, but was one of those who arrived at the Tavern before the race. Mr. Lydiard had previously made a spe-

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cial train trip to Boston to persuade the Boston & Maine Railroad officials to add some additional cars to the Sunday morning 9 o’clock “round trip” train from Boston to Laconia. Charles Lyman was called the “Barber Musher” and was said, according to the Citizen, to on occasion drive his dog team from his Belmont farm to his barbershop. Ross Stanard of Lancaster was also one of the owners who drove his own team in the

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race. Ross was an undertaker who insisted on using that label instead of calling himself a funeral director or mortician, so could have been designated the “Undertaker Musher.” He had four dogs which were a cross between a Doberman Pinscher and an Irish Setter. Stanard attributed the unusual mix to “careless parents” though both of them were prize animals. The mother was a $2,000 prize setter named Lady Kocovo and the father was a prize Doberman Pinscher named Buddy. Stanard came to New Hampshire from Syracuse, New York, and was enjoying his hobbies of hunting and fishing in the Lancaster area. J. H. McIlhenny of Philadelpha and the owner of the team that finished second in the Saturday race, arrived in Laconia on Friday evening. Mr. McIlhenny had two teams entered in the Derby. They were driven by Ed and Clem Mahoney. Also coming to town with the Philadelphia team owner was Leonhard Seppala of Fairbanks, Alaska, the

Another picture of Leonhard Seppala. winner of the first Laconia race in 1929, and famous for his part, along with his lead dog, Togo, in the 1925 effort (The Great Race of Mercy) which delivered the desperately needed diphtheria serum to Nome, Alaska. He served as a trainer for the McIlhenny dogs. The February 10th issue of the Laconia Evening Citizen paid attention to some of the wives of the team owners. We have already mentioned the driving ambitions of Mrs.Taylor. She said that she would have a team of her own in Laconia in 1935. The paper noted that she arrived in “.. a navy blue out of doors costume...” It was noted that Mrs. A. Erland Goyette did not accompany her husband to Laconia “...as she is not acclimated to northern winters.” Roland Bowles’ wife was mentioned as helping him start his dogs at the beginning of the race. Bowles was driving for Mrs. J. Milton Seeley of Wonolancet who didn’t attend the races because she was

at the Westminster Kennel Show in New York. Because of the pandemic there will be no Sled Dog championship races in Laconia in 2021, but we expect there will be in future years. There are certain local names that are recognizable by many as ones associated with dog racing in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. I don’t know if many remember the name of Roger Haines or not, but if not, you might include him among the Lymans, Bryars, and Dick Moulton. Certainly there are other favorites of the dog racing fans who have often braved the wind and cold and prayed for plenty of snow in February. There was no shortage of other winter events taking place in the Lakes Region in February of 1934, but the Sled Dog Derby seemed to take first place among them all.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 — MOFFETT from 11 Arena in Cleveland were awesome. But my best memories are of hanging out with my teammates on and off the court.” But while Tayler clicked with his peers, he realized that BG’s style would leave him as a role player in a guard-oriented offense. So he tested the “free agent” waters by entering the NCAA’s “transfer portal.” He received plenty of attention but Herrion’s offer to bring him back to New Hampshire really resonated. “Coach Herrion described what UNH had going on and indicated that I could fit in nicely with his program,” said Tayler. “And the idea of returning home to play in front of family, friends and the whole New Hampshire community certainly appealed to me.” The Tayler Mattos era commenced on Dec. 27 when young Mattos scored ten points to go along with five rebounds to help UNH to a 77-69 conference win over Hartford. Tayler soon moved into the Wildcat starting five, but suffered a setback three minutes into a home game against Albany on January 23. Mattos switched to cover Great Dane star C.J. Kelley who was driving to the hoop. A Kelly elbow caught Tayler square in the mouth, knocking out several teeth. A quick trip to an oral surgeon in Dover mitigated the damage but dental implants will be a permanent reminder of the challenges that go with ascending that hoop pyramid. Still, Tayler remains undaunted and his goal remains to help UNH compete for its first-ever America East title this year. And next year. And the year after

certain qualities cannot be—like heart or desire. One has them or one doesn’t. Mattos has them. And of course, Tayler is 6-foot-10. Height is a God-given attribute that can’t otherwise be acquired, taught, or implanted. And size certainly helps when one seeks to climb those final big steps to the top of the hoop pyramid that so many see from afar, but that so few ever get to stand upon. Sports Quiz Who did Billy Herrion replace as UNH men’s basketball coach? (Answer follows)

Tayler Mattos takes a jumper. that. And then what? “Well, of course I dream of playing pro ball,” Tayler acknowledged. Pro ball might mean going to Europe, but the NBA remains on Tayler’s radar screen. Were that to happen, he’d be the second native Granite Stater to ascend to that level. Concord’s Matt Bonner earlier had a wonderful 12-year NBA experience with the Raptors and Spurs, winning a couple title rings along the way. Bonner did play a year in Italy before going to “The Show” in Toronto in 2004. “I know Matt,” explained Mattos. “He called me and invited me to help out with his basketball camp in Concord.” Bonner was known as a three-point specialist, a rarity for 6-foot-10 hoopsters. But Mattos has also been known to hit an occasional trey and he has some of the same skills that Bonner developed so well. Like Bonner, Mattos is an intelligent, unself-

ish team player with a great attitude and that wonderful work ethic inspired by his brother Zach. While new teeth can indeed be implanted,

Sports Quote “Talent is God-given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.”—UCLA basketball coach John Wooden Sports Quiz Answer Billy Herrion replaced Phil Rowe as head men’s hoop coach in 2005. Rowe earlier served as head men’s basketball coach at New England College, Plymouth State College, and Keene State College.

State Representative 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 WarriorActor’s Odyssey from Afghanistan to Hollywood and Back” which is available on Amazon. com. His e-mail address is mimoffett@comcast. net.

Born Today That is to say, sports standouts born on February 4 include golf great Byron Nelson (1912) and star NFL linebacker Lawrence Taylor (1959).

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

PATENAUDE from 1 - often nights and the weekends sell-out. Ticket sales are limited and everyone must wear a face covering and maintain 6-foot social distancing. There is one-way foot traffic flow through areas of the castles, staff sanitize high touch services and best of all there is plenty of fresh cold mountain air surrounding all the features and guests. Last Wednesday night Charlie and I visited the Ice Castles and we had a wonderful time from the moment we arrived and until the moment we left. As we turned off Route 112/Lost River Road onto Clark Farm Road we noticed that there were plenty of signs and directions from the numerous parking lot attendants that pointed their glowing orange wands to lead us to our parking space. The first attendant we reached

The Ice Castles are completely outdoors so wear your warmest winter clothing. Tickets are limited, face coverings are required and 6 foot social distancing are all part of following guidelines being followed to keep guests and staff safe. asked us if we had tickets and our reservation time. Satisfied with our answers we were permitted to drive ahead.

Our reservation to enter was the 7:30 to 8 pm block. I asked a couple holding hands with their

obviously tired 5 or 6 year old what time they had arrived and their answer was a quarter of six and the dad added with a smirk, “He really loved the ice slides.” They had spent a good two hours inside the Ice Castle outdoors--that’s See PATENAUDE on 27

Ice Castles where everyone is part of the wintery fairy tale.

25 million pounds of ice! Local water frozen to build giant castles will turn back into water in the Spring!

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

Every guest is royalty at the Ice Castles.

Ice Castles visitors pose for a photo while seated on an ice throne. The Ice Castles are entirely made of ice and the LED lights are frozen inside the ice. the forest where the trees and forest floor are magically transformed

Ice chutes and slides are part of the fun. Tickets and reservations can be made at IceCastles. com. Ticket Pricing Weekday adult $19.99, children $14.99; Weekends adult $24.99 and children $19.99. One of the curious and bright moments along the Ice Castles’ Mystic Forest Light Walk Trail. sit together for a family The 1/4 mile path is an arrangement of lights and photo or a selfie. Ice and more ice, high music and magic. pointed spires of ice, PATENAUDE from 26 a lot of winter fun. Wearing warm winter clothing from head to toe is necessary. At the entrance we waited in line maybe ten minutes before we reached the window where they scanned the code on my phone’s screen and we made our X’s on the release form. The Ice Castle’s entrance is impressive. The massive high ice walls were lit from inside and glowed and

changed colors and made us eager to pass through the archway to get inside to see more wonders. Inside the Castles’ walls we wandered about following pathways deeper inside and down ice hallways that opened up to balconies and courtyards. The floors were covered in crushed ice. Everywhere lights danced and glowed. There was even an immense ice throne with a cushion where all the royal guests could

frozen ice bubbles, large rooms of ice and more ice make it a Castle. Ice slides, chutes, tunnels and dazzling magical lights of all colors surrounded us and music and laughter filled the air along with plenty of “Oohs and Aahs.” Encircling the Castles’ main ice structures are more things to see and do. We entered the Ice Castles’ Mystic Forest Light Walk Trail. The Trail is a quarter mile long sanded path through

by ever changing twinkling lights and surprising shapes. Oh my goodness we loved it! The lights and delightful trees made me feel joy and I allowed my imagination to run wild believing nature had gone wild. There is also a tubing hill and since there was nearly no line we decided we should go for a ride down the icy hill. The beautiful view from the small hill over to the gigantic Ice Castles’ glowing ice walls and across into the lighted forest was an added bonus. The fast ride down the chute on the slope was fun. Near the tubing hill people were getting ready for a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Sleigh rides can be booked on-line at the same time as you make your reservations or if available purchased on-site. The 15-minute ride travels through the woods past more lights and surprises. Before we headed home we decided to walk through the Mystic Forest again.The trail dazzled and enchanted us once more and was it a fine encore for the evening. Have Fun.

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

MALKIN from 6 don’t feel homicidal,” she told her audience, then seemed only to half-joke: “Everybody want (sic) to hit somebody some days but I don’t want to kill nobody.” She talked about the temptation to just “snap” and warned openly that “(i) f you get angry today and fly off the handle, punch somebody, kill somebody, assault, murder, you are one bad decision away from ruining the rest of your life.” Perhaps most troubling, she used her apparent propensity for violence as material for her stand-up routines. One video from 2019 shows her recounting how a social worker came to visit before she adopted Tori and her brothers. Robinson’s own biological sons were making noise upstairs during the home

interview, prompting Robinson to scream at the top of her lungs: “SHUT UP, BEFORE I COME UP THERE AND PUNCH YOU IN YOUR THROAT.” The audience laughed as she described how she downplayed the violent threat to the social worker (“Aw, ya know, it’s just a game”) and then delivered the punchline about the adoption to more peals of laughter: “We got approved” for Tori’s adoption -the audience erupted in cheers and giggles -- “we gonna have her by December.” I’ve devoted this column space to beautiful toddler Tori because you probably won’t hear anything more about her in the “mainstream” media. That’s because this homicide is wrapped up in a package of race and crime taboos you

are not supposed to discuss. Robinson is Black. Tori was white. On her social media accounts, Robinson promoted Black superiority, bashed Donald Trump and cops, and griped about institutional racism. “In my house,” she wrote, “my black children get treated the same as my white children, and my white children get treated the same as my black children. It’s a shame that when they go out into the real world, that won’t be the case.” Robinson punctuated the Jan. 6, 2021, Instagram post with the hashtags “#whiteprivilege” and “#BlackLivesMatter.” Eight days later, Robinson’s adopted white daughter succumbed to multiple blunt force trauma to her head and will never have a chance

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to “go out into the real world.” Did child welfare bureaucrats overlook Robinson’s mental health issues because of her race? Were they aware of her resentment of white people before they allowed her to adopt three white children? Did the system lower their standards to appease social justice and affirmative action crusaders? Were signs of abuse ignored out of deference to a rising celebrity whose politically correct status as a BLM-promoting do-gooder shielded her from scrutiny and criticism? Ideas have consequences. So do lies. Americans have been hopelessly conditioned to look the other way at cases like this, lest they commit what they’ve been taught is the greatest sin of all: “racism.” Until it is thoroughly demolished by people of courage, the myth of white privilege will surely claim more victims. Say her name: Victoria “Tori” Rose Smith’s life mattered. Michelle Malkin’s email address is MichelleMalkinInvestigates@protonmail.com. To find out more about Michelle Malkin and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

METZLER from 7 of the stimulus spending went into protecting jobs and supporting current consumption, it also fueled asset price bubbles worldwide, with stock market indices reaching new highs during the past several months.” Global trade and investment have been traditional indicators of growth, until now. But here too the past year has proven dismal both for developed countries and the developing world. According to the survey global trade shrank by an estimated 7.6 per cent in 2020 against the backdrop of massive disruptions in global supply chains and tourism flows. Investment flows have dried up demonstrably. Global foreign direct investment (FDI) collapsed in 2020, falling by 42% to an estimated $859 billion from $1.5 trillion in 2019. According to the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the declines were concentrated in developed countries where FDI flows fell by 69% to an estimated $229 billion. Investment flows to Europe fell drastically and a serious decline was recorded in the United States with FDI cut by 49% down to $134 billion. Equally foreign investment fell -37% in Latin America and the Caribbean, and -18% in Africa. On the other hand China’s FDI while falling in the early stages of the pandemic, actually ended the year with a 4% increase! India saw an even better rebound in foreign investment with an 13% increase mostly in the digital sector. Yet, FDI across

Southeast Asia in the ASEAN states saw a serious overall slip of 31% in investments. UNCTAD predicts that 2021 FDI trends are expected to remain weak in 2021. “The depth and severity of the unprecedented crisis foreshadows a slow and painful recovery,” stated UN Chief Economist Elliot Harris who added, “ As we step into a long recovery the with the roll out of the vaccines against Covid 19, we need to start boosting longer term investments.” But investments and renewed economic growth will follow only if safe and available vaccines promote the confidence to counter the dismal narrative of prolonged fear and recurring lockdowns. “We are facing the worst health and economic crisis in 90 years. As we mourn the growing death toll, we must remember that the choices we make now will determine our collective future,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Sadly the pandemic is far from over, the virus is not yet conquered. 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.

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 — STOSSEL from 7 event, just days after tweeting, “Stay home except for essential activities & wear a mask.” Even after a photo showed her at the event, Biden nominated Raimondo to be secretary of Commerce. “Instead of being booted out, they get a promotion,” complains Stepman. Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser ordered a 14-day quarantine for anyone going to several states, including Delaware, for “nonessential” activity. Then she went to Delaware for a Biden victory celebration, something that strikes me as “nonessential” as they get. “I do a lot of things to advance the interests

of the District of Columbia,” was Bowser’s arrogant defense. “All of them are necessary.” If politicians do it, it’s always necessary. Rules are for the little people. In Chicago, after politicians ordered salons closed, Mayor Lori Lightfoot still went to one for a haircut. She defended her decision, saying: “I’m out in the public eye. I take my personal hygiene very seriously.” Stepman says Lightfoot is a “double hypocrite” because “she was seen attending Election Day parties and giant street festivals not wearing a mask.” The Heritage Foundation tracks such political hypocrisy, calling it “COVID Hypocrisy.” As I write, they’re up to 57

examples of “Rules for thee, but not for me.” Stepman concludes, “It’s up to us to say, ‘You’re either going to follow these rules, change these rules, or we’re going to throw you out.’” Throwing out these hypocrites would be a good start. John Stossel is author of “Give Me a Break: How I Exposed Hucksters, Cheats, and Scam Artists and Became the Scourge of the Liberal Media.” For other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit www.creators.com.

MAILBOAT from 2

BOSAK from 10

as a Country does not augur well for success as a democratic republic. Candidates and politicians whose beliefs consist of: spending money we don’t have, open borders, ignoring crime, ending fossil fuels and seeing their political opposites as racist enemies and who are supported by a Media that tells the truth by accident are destroying America. Wake up folks and get involved to fight these trends toward socialism. Or, don’t complain when you wake up some day realizing your basic freedoms are no longer there. Semper Fi,

say and participate in the NH Audubon Winter Bird Survey and GBBC. I heard from some readers this week who will have some interesting sightings to submit if the birds stick around for a few more weeks. Mimi from Troy reported seeing double-digit numbers of blue jays, chickadees and juncos, as well as several whitebreasted nuthatches, red-breasted nuthatches, cardinals, mourning doves, hairy woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, evening grosbeaks and three eastern bluebirds. The bluebirds have been eating mealworms and suet. Brian from Keene sent some great photos not related to the winter surveys, but as a follow up to last week’s column about the importance of saying native insects.

Harold B. Wilber, Col. USMC (Ret) Dover, NH.

I had mentioned that fish feed on insects and birds such as herons feed on the fish, hence the important, but sometimes indirect, role insects in helping birds. Brian sent some photos he took a few years ago of a great blue heron eating grasshoppers. It reminded me of when I watched a green heron eating dragonflies near a pond several years ago. Mark your calendars for next weekend and let me know what you find out there. Chris Bosak may be reached at chrisbosak26@gmail.com or through his website www.birdsofnewengland.com

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— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

Super Crossword

PUZZLE CLUE: TECH BUZZ

B.C.

by Parker & Hart

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —

Sudoku

Magic Maze NATIONAL --DAY: JANUARY

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Runners Up : The original models for Picasso’s “Clown and Horseman” - Alan Dore, Rochester, NH.

CAPTION THIS PHOTO!!

The Winklman Aeffect

Circus performers line up for their vaccines under Phase 7D. Robert Ferlito,

PHOTO #843

Gentlemen, please turn in your seltzer bottles before entering the Capitol area. -Robert Patrick, Moultonboro, NH.

The Farmwear Co. should ‘be laughed out of business’ for sending these hardworking farmhands silly circus clown outfits instead of rugged everyday wear.. Jean Cram, Pittsfleid, NH

PHOTO #845 Send your best brief caption to us with your name and location within 2 weeks of publication date... Caption Contest, The Weirs Times, P.O. Box 5458, Weirs, NH 03247 email to contest@weirs.com

by John Whitlock

— THE WEIRS TIMES, Thursday, February 4, 2021 —