Gilford’s Patrick Gandini, a student at the Naval Academy, set a Mt. Washington road race record for N.H. natives with a time of 1:06:44. He finished fourth overall. The Delta Dental Mount Washington Road Race and that the race raises over $50,000 each year for Coos County Family Health Dental Center.
SolonS And SlopeS; MArineS And MountAinS
by Mike Moffett Contributing Writer
Last winter at a Northeast Delta Dental legislator reception, State Senator Tim Lang beckoned me to come over to talk with him
and Delta Dental CEO Tom Raffio.
“I told Tom we’re going to do the Delta Dental Mt. Washington Road Race in June,” said the senator.
“You’re nuts,” said I.
“Why?” asked the sena-
tor.
“I did that race 37 years ago,” I explained. “It’s almost 8 miles, all uphill.”
“I’ve run it ten times,” said Raffio, a longtime racing rival.
“What are you afraid of?”
asked the senator. “What kind of Marine are you?”
Lang knew what buttons to push.
“Okay. I’m in.”
A social media devotee, Lang then made it known
“Timeless
Textiles” In New Hampton
The Dana Meeting House in New Hampton will host “Timeless Textiles,” a day of quilts old and new, textiles from near and far, and demonstrations and talks on Saturday, July 6th from 10am to 3pm. This family event is free and open to the public.
Featured will be Sara Goodman, noted Textile Artist who will talk about her work as a weaver, dyer, designer and teacher at 11:15am and will lead a dyeing demonstration at 1:30pm.
In addition to the colorful display of traditional and contemporary quilts, there will be a conversation at 10:30 with Featured Quilter Michelle Plourde of the Belknap Mill Quilt Guild. At Noon, Quilt Historian Stephanie Drake will present her analysis of historic quilts. All attendees are invited to bring along a vintage quilt for her to examine. A collection from Carol Dale, Fiber artist, will be displayed.
Quilts, Needlework, weavings, historic clothing, natural dyeing, lectures, and more.
Held rain or shine.
The Dana Meeting House is located at288 Dana Hill Road, New Hampton, NH.
ELLEN RAFIO PHOTO
Both Correct
To The Editor:
Hal Shurtleff is correct in stating, the best way to know the mind of God is by reading God’s Word- The Bible.
However not everyone reads or studies God’s word (the Bible).
Ms. Clough is correct in questioning Rev. Hollo’s Editorial/ Viewpoint Letters From God.
There have been many men and women that has used the Word of God for political and personal gain.
I do not know what is in Rev. Hollo’s heart when writing his article’s. That’s between him and God.
However I commend Ms. Clough questioning him in her Letter to the Editor. Thank You.
John Brennick, Rochester. NH.
Thanks For Letters From God
To The Editor:
I want to thank you for publishing the Letter From God column.
I’m thinking that if there is a possibility that what the Pastor is saying is true that I might one day be glad to have the opportunity to have given his words some thought.
Fran Caufield Sandwich, NH.
Do Some Research
To The Editor:
Surely one must question the validity of most of the main -
stream news outlets. The more that I discuss the current political landscape with others on the left leaves me stunned as I’m reminded that our Republic is seriously in decline if not dead.
To begin, many people on the left are either misinformed or severely lacking in intelligence when drawn to the conclusion that this current administration is trustworthy, doesn’t manipulate the truth and everything they do is in our best interest. They cannot comprehend the morons that are really running this country into the ground
All one has to do is look at the border crisis that was created since the election of 2020. We Now Have In This Country Thousands Of Military Age Men Undocumented From Countries An American Wouldn’t Even Visit.
As follows is part of what this administration has accomplished toward the destruction of America in just a little over three years. Open borders and illegal immigration, rapid crime and unsafe cities, mass addiction and fentanyl, election insecurity and interference, the education indoctrination of children, the asymmetrical weaponization of justice, destruction of private property rights, inflation of debt, global depopulation agenda, record-low fertility and plummeting birth rates, unaccountable federal bureaucracies, toxic food supply, vaccine and pandemic disinformation, trans contamination and sterilization of children, overprescription of pharmaceuticals, destruction of the nuclear family and parental rights, DEI and the new racism,
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 30 years, this publication is devoted to printing the stories of the people
moral and societal decay, the financing of endless foreign wars, the sprawling surveillance state, the centralization of government power, the destruction of trust in institutions, the censorship industrial complex, state media propaganda and the smearing of those who challenge it.
Obama once said as President that America will fundamentally be changed forever and is the only President to stay in Washington after leaving office leading to the question as to who is actually in charge.
We have the potential for a nuclear war with Russia, Iran that’s been funded by the Biden/ Obama administration in return financing terrorism in the Middle East, China is exercising it’s influence on Taiwan showing an exercise of force.
President Trump is now labeled a criminal even though no one can name a crime. This is blatant election interference.
To you out there that have never seen or even believe such a powerful country can be controlled by an unelected elite few , then I ask you to do some research.
As Paul Harvey once said, “History promises only this for certain: we will get exactly what we deserve”.
Francis Boksanske
New Hampton USMC Veteran
Iran Close To Making Nuclear Weapons
To The Editor: It appears Iran is close to
and places that make New Hampshire the best place in the world to live. No, none of the daily grind news will be found in these pages, just the good stuff.
Published year round on Thursdays, we distribute 24,000 copies of the Weirs Times every week to the Lakes Region/Concord/ Seacoast area and the mountains and have an estimated 60,000 people reading this newspaper.
To find out how your business or service can benefit from advertising with us please call 603-366-8463.
Not So LoNg Ago ...
Exploring ThE lEgEnd & lorE of our graniTE STaTE
new HAMpSHire Set Free loyAliStS And revolutioniStS
by Robert Hanaford Smith, Sr. Contributing Writer
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, more commonly called “The Fourth of July,” it is easy to forget the reason for the day and the fact that not all American colonists were ready to break ties with the Mother Country of England from whence many of them came.
We might also forget that the relatively small
Artist’s portrayal of Fort William and Mary ( now Fort Constitution)
Province of New Hampshire was significantly involved in the Revolutionary War. Yes, it is true that not all New Hampshire citizens were eager to break governmental ties to
England, and, yes, freedom from control by the British king came only as a result of war.
Some historians will tell us that the first battle of the Revolutionary War was fought
right here in New Hampshire; others say that there weren’t any battles fought in New Hampshire. The latter opinion may be because they either think
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
“Save The Persecution Christians” Presentation In Alton
Saturday, June 29th at 7pm, at the Community Church Of Alton, The Camp Constitution’s Speakers Bureau is sponsoring a presentation from Save the Persecuted Christians and Banner Display with speakers William Brown and Philip Zodhiates author of Innocent: The Price One Man Paid for Doing What’s Right.
William Brown of Save the Persecution Chrisitan will discuss the work of the organization that helps persecuted Christians around the world. Philip Zodhaites will discuss the persecution he experienced in the United States after helping a mother and daughter escape sexual abuse. He is the author of Innocent: The Price One Man Paid for Doing What’s Right. Free Admission. Donations accepted
For more information call or E-mail Hal Shurtleff (857) 498-1309 campconstitution1@gmail.com
The Community Church of Alton is located at 20 Church St, Alton, NH
July Fourth Parking Ban And Free Trolley Shuttle In Wolfeboro
The Town of Wolfeboro and the Wolfeboro Trolley Company are teaming up to be sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at the Town’s annual Independence Day Parade scheduled for Thursday, July 4 (rain date Friday, July 5.)
Celebrating the 248th anniversary of our nation’s birth, the Parade will step off at 10:00 am on North Main Street. It is sponsored by the American Legion Harriman-Hale Post # 18 and kicks off a weekend of special events in Wolfeboro.
At the request of the Wolfeboro Police Department, the Town’s Board of Selectmen voted June 5 to ban parking along Main Street before and during the Parade.
No parking will be allowed along the parade route from Old Lakeview Terrace on North Main Street to Clark Road on South Main Street from 7:00 am to Noon to be sure there is a safe distance between parade spectators and vehicles in the parade.
“Those who come to town to watch our parade have a better view without cars parked on Main Street,” said Wolfeboro Police Chief Christopher Warn, “And everyone is much safer.”
Handicapped individuals are invited to view the parade from the parking area in front of the Town Hall, 84 South Main St., which will also be clear of cars. They may park in the Municipal Lot behind the Town Hall. Other parade watchers can park and walk from the Town’s four Municipal Parking lots located at the end of Glendon Street, behind the Town Hall, at Foss Memorial Field on Lehner Street, and at 91 Center Street, Wolfeboro Falls next to Linda’s Flowers, where Molly the Trolley will offer a free shuttle to downtown.
Free parking is also available at the Kingswood Regional School Complex on South Main Street where Jolly the Trolley will run a free shuttle to downtown from the Kingswood Arts Center, 21 McManus Road.
The Free Trolley Shuttles will run from 8:00 until 9:30 am before the parade, and from Noon (or when the parade ends) until 3 pm.
“Molly and Jolly the Trolley are pleased to be able to help,” said Owner Kathy Fairman. “And they will still be in the parade. Molly told me that last year she could see her little friends better in the parade without looking around parked cars, and she was glad they were safe.”
For more information about the Parade and other Fourth of July Activities go to wolfeborochamber.com or call 603-569-2200.
Dinosaurs In Holderness
Since the first dinosaur fossil was discovered, humans have been infatuated with the gigantic creatures that roamed the Earth over 66 million years ago. This summer, visitors to Squam Lakes Natural Science Center can see life-size dinosaurs similar to the way they were during pre-historic times at Dinosaurs Return which opens on July 1. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center first brought dinosaurs to the live animal exhibit trail in 2019. The dinosaurs were so popular that a whole new group of dinosaurs will be brought back for Dinosaurs Return. The dinosaurs look, move, and sound like the real thing. The featured dinosaurs are: Allosaurus – a bipedal carnivore with 6-inch long claws; Baryonyx – a fish-eating dinosaur; Diabloceratops – its name meaning ‘devil horned face’; Dimetrodon – a dinosaur with a spiny sail along its back. There is also a dinosaur that visitors will be able to climb upon at the admissions area – Parasaurolophus.
The dinosaurs of Dinosaurs Return will be placed along the natural setting of the live animal exhibit trail and are included with regular trail admission (free for members). Accompanying interpretation will explain about each dinosaur and make the direct link between these huge creatures and modern day “dinosaurs” – birds. The dinosaurs help to explore connections with evolution and climate change. Be sure to stop by and visit these amazing creatures! Visitors will be able to see Dinosaurs Return from July 1 through November 1. Dinosaurs Return is included in regular trail admission ($26 for adults; $24 for seniors 65+; $20 for youth ages 3 to 15; free for children 2 and under; free for members).Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the last trail admission at 3:30 p.m. Visit www. nhnature.org/dinos for more information.
“Through The Lens” In Sandwich
THROUGH THE LENS” is an exhibit of photography at Patricia Carega Gallery by two artists, one from Sandwich and the other from NYC with Sandwich connections. Brook Hedge and Jonathan Pellow, will open their exhibit on June 29. Join us for a reception to meet the artists and view their captivating work from 5 to 7 p.m. Both Hedge and Pellow bring a powerful artistic vision to their photographs. Hedge’s work is emotional, offering a visual challenge to the viewer through a delicate lens. Pellow’s architectural pictures take us to new optical heights that inspire breathtaking sensations. Both Hedge and Pellow remove us from the mundane. Their images are compelling. Today, with the iPhone camera’s popularity, one can easily forget the intricate and graceful process of the art of photography - lens, light, heart, mind - the ingredients needed to capture the artistic picture that is so present in this exhibit. Hedge’s and Pellow’s photography exhibit will be at the Gallery through July 18th. For any questions or further information, please contact Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery at 603 284-7728, Caregagallery@gmail.com, or visit the website at www.patricialaddcaregagallery.com.
by Brendan Smith Weirs Times Editor
OOL
NEW HAMPSHIRE
EXTREME HEAT WARN -
ING: Be aware that this column discusses the extreme heat we had in New Hampshire last week. Please have a glass of water close by to avoid dehydration!
Even if you didn’t follow the weather reports last week, you still realized that it was really hot if you simply opened your door.
But if you did watch the weather reports leading up to last Tuesday through Thursday, you knew it was coming….and you also knew enough to be very concerned because you were told to be.
On TV the first weather maps about five days before the extreme heat days showed pleasant and green colors on the blue screen backdrops while the weather person with a smiley face, explained how that day was to be pleasant and comfortable. But in only a matter of seconds that smile turned upside down to an ominous frown as the screen progressed through the days and started to turn light red and then, finally, a dark shade of crimson where the names of towns and pictures of lakes were obscured by what was, we were told, our approaching doom.
It was going to be in the nineties, even worse, it would feel like over a hundred and things were going to get hot…very, very, very hot. So hot, in fact, that one weather person was not enough to spell out clearly the impending disaster descending upon us.
I imagine that the first weather person (pronouns unknown) couldn’t handle the truth on their own and needed to turn things over momentarily to a second weather person (also unknown) to make sure we understood what was about to happen and did not take it lightly.
Cool it!
“Yes, it’s true,” the second weather person said with a look of utter despair. “We have not seen heat like this since the last time it was this hot. We might even break a record for the hottest June 18th on record. Prepare to die!”
I couldn’t help but think for a moment that if we compared every single date on the calendar with that same date over the decades, we would have the hottest or coldest day on that date happening more often than not. But this thought only lasted a few seconds as even more important warnings came from other people on the news….some not even weather people.
Once the prognostication of the impending doom of fire was relayed to us via the weather people it was turned back over to the regular newscasters. (Perhaps having the weather folks talk too much about it would cause them psychological harm.)
So, stories about wars and crime and, yes, even politics (thank goodness) were put on hold while the newscasters explained to us what we would need to do in order to survive these ninety degree days.
“If you don’t have to go outside…DON’T.”
“Be sure to drink water throughout the day to keep hydrated.”
“If you have air conditioning… use it!”
“Be sure to check on family members, if you can make it to their houses without perishing first.”
After listening, I was grateful for their advice. These were tips that at sixty-eight years of age I would never have considered myself. I don’t know how much they pay these people, but it certainly isn’t enough.
The amazing thing about all of this was that when Tuesday through Thursday finally arrived, they were right. It was hot…very hot.
I wasn’t sure how exactly hot it was, so I turned on the TV
news again so they could let me know that it wasn’t just my imagination. The blood red on the weather map made it clear to me that they got it right. It was hot and going to get even hotter. They even made the usual small talk about it, trying to be funny to ease the minds of their viewers, but you could tell by the look in their eyes that they knew this might be the end.
Of course, I wasn’t going to rely on just the news to tell me how hot it was; they have been known to manipulate the truth after all. So, I went on social media to see that many of my friends had posted video messages about how hot it was in case the rest of us were not aware. I’m sure that seeing others post about how hot they were may have eased their minds a bit that others were very hot as well. We had to work together on this.
How did we ever know it was really hot before there was social media?
Still, I had to put on a brave face as family visiting from Tucson, Arizona was in town for a few days so I turned on the air conditioners, closed the blinds, made sure there was no way that extra heat could seep in through any cracks of windows and awaited their visit and hoped they’d be comfortable and hydrated.
Upon their arrival, it was already 92 degrees and they informed us that they were going to take a hike up Mount Major in Alton because it was such a nice day.
“What are you nuts?” I silently yelled in my head. “Didn’t you watch the news?”
After they left I took a look at the Tucson weather forecast for June. Some days would get to 110. But, as the Tucson weather reporter explained, “things should cool down to the nineties for a few days next week.”
I guess it’s all just what you are used to.
young voterS leAving deMoCrAtS And Biden
by Star Parker Syndicated Columnist
A lot of attention is being given to support being picked up by Donald Trump among non-white voters.
But the change taking place among young voters is even more dramatic.
In the elections in 2016 and 2020, Donald Trump was soundly defeated among voters 18-29.
In 2016, Hillary Clinton defeated Donald Trump among voters ages 18-29, 55% to 37%.
In 2020, Joe Biden defeated Trump in this same youth demographic, 60% to 36%.
However, a new Quinnipiac poll shows Trump leading Biden by one point among voters 18-34.
Per Gallup favorability/non-favorability ratings, in October 2020, prior to the election, 58% of those 18-34 rated Biden “favorable” against 38% who rated Trump “favorable.”
However, in the same polling done by Gallup last month, Biden’s favorability among those 18-34 was down to 33% and Trump’s was up to 46%.
In early May, a New York Times/Philadelphia Inquirer/ Siena College poll was done in six battleground states -- Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Among those 18-29, in response to the question, “If you had to decide between the two today, who would you lean more toward?” 43% said Biden and 46% said Trump.
Follow-up questions in this same poll give an idea of dissatisfaction among these young voters.
Regarding the economy, 91% of ages 18-29 rate it either fair or poor. And they favor Trump over Biden regarding confidence in fixing the economy 68% to 25%.
Regarding the political and economic system of the country, 62% said it needs “major changes” and 16% feel it should be “torn down entirely.”
None of this is particularly surprising. What is surprising is our nation’s youth are just waking up to the raw deal they are getting. They are inheriting a once uniquely great nation now heading into fiscal and social bankruptcy as a result of totally irresponsible management by the current and preceding generations.
tHe SuBverSion oF
by Ben Shapiro Syndicated Columnist
We have heard repeatedly during this election cycle that Donald Trump is a deep and abiding threat to democracy. That threat supposedly springs from Trump’s belief that he won the 2020 election, as well as his promotion of the specious legal theory that the vice president has the unilateral power to invalidate certified state electoral votes.
One can stipulate that Trump has presented no evidence sufficient to support a claim that he lost the 2020 election based on voter fraud; one can further stipulate that Trump’s pressure on Mike Pence to delay election certification was rooted in baseless misinterpretation of the Constitution. In reality, however, the truest threat to American democracy isn’t stubborn unwillingness to concede an election or groundless legal wrangling. It is the continuing attempt to create a series of institutions impervious to public rebuke or electoral accountability, comprised of pseudo-experts who act as “authorities” on a wide range of issues affecting Americans.
It is the creation and maintenance of a permanent bureaucracy, organized by the political left and catering to its whims.
This was the goal of Woodrow Wilson, who wrote in 1887 that the political sphere -- the responsibility of elected officials -- had to be circumscribed in favor of expert “administration”: “Administrative questions are not political questions. Although politics sets the tasks for administration, it should not be suffered to manipulate its offices.” The power of the administrative state, Wilson wrote, should be unhampered and discretionary.
And that is the goal of the so-called Deep State today. In preparation for Joe Biden’s possible defeat, the Biden administration is promoting new regulations from the Office of Personnel Management to prevent the reclassification of career civil servants as political appointees of at-will workers -- ef-
fectively giving them taxpayer-funded tenure. The administration has spent the last few months ramming through regulations in an attempt to avoid the consequences of the Congressional Review Act -- a piece of legislation that allows Congress to repeal regulations by passing a joint resolution immune to filibuster. The CRA can only be used, however, on regulations filed in the 60 days before a Congressional session adjourns. Hence the rush.
All of this is designed to insulate government from the elected branches. And that is good, according to our legacy media and the Democratic Party, because the elected branches may come to be run by Donald Trump. This is why The New York Times ran a piece in March titled, “It Turns Out the ‘Deep State’ Is Actually Kind of Awesome.” According to the Times, “When we hear ‘deep state,’ instead of recoiling, we should rally. We should think about the workers otherwise known as our public servants, the everyday superheroes who wake up ready to dedicate their careers and their lives to serving us.”
Those who posit that bureaucrats ensconced in regulatory positions may pursue anti-democratic ends are labeled “conspiracy theorists.” But there is no conspiracy theory necessary when the goal of bureaucratic administration is out in the open and has been for 150 years. Our Constitutional republic was rooted in checks and balances between elected branches, and an unelected judiciary delegated the power merely to interpret law rather than create it. There is no independent fourth branch of government that presides over policy, free from the electorate’s judgment.
Yet that is precisely what the Biden administration continues to promote. And that is a threat to American democracy -- a threat that has already materialized over the course of decades, turning our government into an elephantine, sclerotic and byzantine architecture shielded from public accountability. According to Democrats, that’s a good thing. At least it protects us from the true“threat to democracy,” an elected Republican president.
America is now almost $35 trillion in debt. That means every American owes $100,000.
The Biden administration doesn’t care. They want to spend more.
Already they are spending so much that they’re increasing our debt by a trillion dollars every 100 days.
President Donald Trump was no better. His administration increased our debt by almost $8 trillion. This will not end well.
Last year, we hit a new ugly milestone: Americans must pay $1 trillion per year just for interest on our debt.
That’s more than we spend on defense -- on infrastructure, education, poverty programs ... everything, but Social Security and Medicare.
If we didn’t waste these trillion dollars on interest, we could give $3,000 tax cuts to every man, woman and child to use as they please.
Worse, America’s spending growth is unsustainable. You can stretch a rubber band farther and farther, but eventually, it will break.
This column has reported on the politicians’ irresponsibility for a long time.
$100,000
In 2019, I complained that our debt increased by a trillion dollars every year. But now, it’s three trillion!
In 2023, the ratings agency Fitch was criticized for downgrading U.S. government debt. But a few months later, Moody’s Investor Service lowered its outlook from “stable” to “negative,” saying America’s “fiscal deficits will remain very large, significantly weakening debt affordability.”
No one knows which straw will break the camel’s back.
In the past, politicians at least talked about our debt problem.
President Bill Clinton said, “We’ve got to deal with this big long-term debt problem, or it will deal with us.”
gloBAl Foreign inveStMent FAlling wArnS un report you owe
How does today’s climate of international chaos and uncertainty serve as a business barometer for foreign investment?
Foreign investment has declined globally by 2 percent, to $1.3 trillion for 2022. Yet, in developing countries the dip was much deeper as investment flows fell by 7 percent to $867 billion. These numbers from the UN’s latest World Investment Report 2024, underscore both a cautious recovery from the pandemic, but even more so the results of in -
ternational political discord, civil conflict, and investor nervousness.
The Report released by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) asserts, “Foreign investment remains subdued amid the global economic slowdown and rising geopolitical tensions.”
But as UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres cautioned in the Report, “Global and regional crises, trade tensions and tighter financing conditions have had a chilling effect on foreign direct investment, which remained subdued in 2023 for a second year in succession.”
Foreign direct investment labelled as (FDI) has long been one of the key indicators of economic growth and prosperity worldwide,
but the numbers with the exception of Southeast Asia have either fallen such as in many developing economies or stayed static as in Europe. Developed economies worldwide however saw a 9 percent rise in investment up to $464 billion.
The Report underscores, “Industry trends showed lower investment in the infrastructure and digital economy sectors, but strong growth in the global value chainintensive sectors of manufacturing and critical minerals.”
Latin America and the Caribbean saw strong investment spurred by global demand for commodities and minerals critical for clean energy technologies. The Report cites, “Investment in renewable energy was
President Barack Obama said not dealing with it is “irresponsible.”
Trump said, “We’ve got to get rid of the $19 trillion in debt.”
But not one of them did anything about it.
Now they lie about it. President Joe Biden said, “We literally cut the federal debt in half.”
This is absurd. When he took office, our debt was $26.9 trillion. Now it’s $34.8 trillion.
Part of the problem is that Biden staffers listen to advocates of ‘”Modern Monetary Theory” -- the ridiculous idea that the U.S., because it prints its own currency, can spend
also prominent, with four of the top ten announced projects relating to the production of green hydrogen or green ammonia.”
Interestingly among the top FDI investors included the United States with $294 billion, Spain with $193 billion, the Netherlands $139 billion and South Korea with $54 billion.
The African continent on the other hand continues to face the undertow of global slowdown;project finance deals in African nations declined by 50 percent to $64 billion. This follows a 20 percent drop in 2022. For example, foreign investment inflows to South Africa decreased by 43 percent.
by John J. Metzler Syndicated Columnist
by John Stossel Syndicated Columnist
New England Wolves Junior Team in Need of Host Families
$525 to family stipend paid monthly.
Healthy goal oriented athletes need housing September 2024March 2025 while in Lakes Region.
Contact Tammy McKenzie for more infojtmckenzie@metrocast.net or 603-455-0153
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Protect Your Tax Returns from Past Years
Why You Should Always File Returns for Past Years, Even if You Haven’t Filed in Years Time Limits for Refunds and Audits Remedies for Missing Tax Documents
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Records You Need to Keep
BIRDS For The
New England’s Wild Birds & Their Habitats
BAd rAp For Blue JAyS
by Chris Bosak Contributing Writer
It’s no secret that Facebook is rife with links to a lot of really dumb articles. Many of the links are either clickbait or gateways to completely useless drivel.
I learned a long time ago to not even bother clicking on the links because they inevitably lead to disappointment. But, I came across an article on Facebook the other day that I just had to click on. The headline for the post read, “Why You Should Avoid Inviting Blue Jays into Your Yard.”
I know some people have issues with blue jays, but I had never seen an article devoted to keeping blue jays out of people’s backyards. I’ve seen plenty of articles on how to keep squirrels, bears, house sparrows and grackles away from feeders, but never blue jays.
Blue Jays are strikingly beautiful birds and native to the U.S. Why would anyone want to keep blue jays away from feeders?
I understand that blue jays are one of the many “bully birds” that can take over feeders and prevent smaller birds such as chickadees, titmice and nuthatches from getting a spot at the feeder. In my experience, however, blue jays do not harass other birds. They simply fly up to a feeder, grab
jays are an integral part of the New England birdscape.
a peanut or some seeds, and go on their way. Grackles, on the other hand, will approach a feeder in great numbers and remain on the feeder for a long time, keeping other “desirable” birds on the sidelines waiting.
I was curious to see how the linked article was going to suggest keeping blue jays away from feeders. Blue jays are agile and can perch on pretty much any type of feeder, and their diet is varied so offering certain types of food won’t keep them away either. Prior to reading
the article, the only way I could think of was to use one of the feeders that are either weighted or caged to prevent bigger birds from utilizing it.
The article, as it turns out, was even worse than I expected. The author had a real problem with blue jays. Instead of appreciating the blue, black and white plumage as beautiful or amazing, the article refers to the plumage as “imposing.” The article also lumps blue jays in with cowbirds, grackles and starlings as “birds you do not want to be
seeing in your yard.”
The part that really bugged me about the article is that it quoted John James Audubon as writing blue jays are known for “selfishness, duplicity, and malice.” That’s all fine and good to quote Audubon, but the article adds that the “birding community has widely adopted this perspective.”
I consider myself (and everyone who reads this column) as part of the birding community, and I certainly do not share the perspective that blue jays are
Blue
Letters From God Letters From God
This series of Letters From God is an attempt to put the thoughts of God as revealed in the Scriptures as they relate to individuals and the nation of the USA
for county probation departments. Just letting criminals go back into society is insane.
QUESTION What Do You Think Of The “Soft On Crime” Initiatives Being Practiced?
YOU CAN’T FIX STUPID! Your leadership, particularly Liberal, is killing you. Over the years so many have rejected me and my wisdom and chosen to follow their own. As a result, they have consistently rejected the design I gave for “life” and instead they have embraced their own design leading to inevitable failure and “death.” My design not only taught you how to prevent criminal activity but also how to deal with it when it is manifested among you. This fatal mistake has never been more obvious that in the way they are dealing with “crime” today. They are the poster children of the truth I spoke through the Apostle Paul when he said, “Claiming to be wise, they became fools” (Romans 1:22). Let me site some evidence of being soft on crime.
The Governor of California is proposing slashing $80 million from the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation intended to eliminate 4,600 beds across 13 prisons. At the same time, they would slash $4.4 million for law enforcement training
The City Councilors of Boston submitted a budget to slash $30 million, with $18 million in cuts to the Boston Police Department.
The Mayor recently proposed eliminating prosecution of a host of crimes. It included shoplifting, disorderly conduct, receiving stolen property, driving with a suspended license, breaking and entering of property, wanton and malicious destruction of property, minors in possession of alcohol and drug possession including the distribution of marijuana and non-marijuana types. Imagine the blank check this gives to criminals, knowing they will not be prosecuted. Imagine how it will affect you.
A Chicago Alderwoman will no longer post crime alerts on social media or send alerts to her constituents. This, as robberies and sex crimes are at their highest levels in years. Her concern was not for the victims but the perpetrators by stating her “commitment to our values of empowerment, antiracism, and community,” were her priorities. It is a policy of not punishment criminals but protection them in order to not offend them.
One person reported that of the top 30 cities with the highest murder and crime rates, 27 are led by liberal Mayors. Another, who is engaged in catching criminals in sting op-
erations, reported that last year 73,000 illegals entered your country with criminal records and were responsible for over 290,000 crimes and more than 4,000 were responsible for sexual crimes. You are experiencing the criminal “perfect storm” of an explosion of violence while calling for unprecedented reductions of police to arrest and a “soft on crime” legal system refusing to convict, penalize and if need be, remove the violence from society.
With respect to crime, I have spoken often about the human condition being predisposed to evil. In the time of Noah, which you are fast approaching, the level of evil had escalated, and at that time I said this about the hearts of mankind.
“The LORD saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time.” (Genesis 6:5).
In light of this condition, I have spoken often about the need to use loving and firm punishment of criminals to both protect the violated and rehabilitate the violent. I am God and I made you. I know what is wise and best for you. You have fallen from my original design of being “very good” (Genesis 1:31) and upright in your desires and practices. Solomon, the wisest man who lived recognized your descent from Godly to godless when he said, “This only have I found; God made mankind upright, but men
have gone in search of many schemes.” (Ecclesiastes 7:29).
As a result of your “schemes” to commit crimes as well as the way you are dealing with crime, you have created a malignant condition that will only get worse. Later in my book, the Bible, I asked Solomon to write, “When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.” (Ecclesiastes 8:11).
I also asked Isaiah the prophet to write, “When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness. Though grace is shown to the wicked, they do not learn righteousness; even in a land of uprightness they go on doing evil and regard not the majesty of the Lord.” (Isaiah 26:911). Being soft on crime, when grace is rejected aids and abets crime, because it feeds the monster.
All of this foolish behavior is a result of rejecting me and my wisdom. If you had remained faithful and sought my will, as so many in the past did, you would make and enforce laws with appropriate punishment to fit the crime. Then you would protect the innocent and either rehabilitate the criminals or isolate them from being able to inflict further pain on society. What is more foolish is that you keep electing leaders who not only
lyMe diSeASe CAn Be eFFeCtively treAted witH nAturAl
I have had Lyme since 2008 and like many people, it took many weeks for a diagnosis. While most doctors seem to be
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more aware of it symptoms in recent times, many do not acknowledge that Lyme can go chronic and it can be a debilitating disease for some.
In this article I go into what you can do for acute and chronic Lyme and live a happy healthy life.
I was recently listening to a video on Lyme disease and I really wanted to chime in. The doctors opining on the interventions used seemed well versed in Lyme and its symptoms, its persistence, and its association with Long Covid, but
as someone who has experienced both, I can assure you natural approaches work and are HIGHLY effective.
Lyme is endemic in NH. This is a tick-born blood disease carried mostly by the black legged tick (aka deer tick). While any blood sucking insect could potentially carry Lyme, the deer tick is so small, it usually goes undetected and will go on to create offspring which will also carry Lyme. Lyme is caused by a spirochetal organism which acts like a parasite in the body. It can persist for a lifetime
hiding from the immune system by going dormant in its cystic stage (among other stages) and also getting into areas of the body the immune system doesn’t go. It is not easy to eradicate from the body so a person must be cognizant of its symptoms and not excuse them away for some other illness.
Acute Lyme and chronic Lyme present differently, with a bit of an overlap. Acute: stiff neck and joints, fatigue, heart palpitations, nervousness. Chronic Lyme: fatigue, insomnia, deep
Sara Woods Kender Sacred Tree Herbals
Teasel
by Stephanie Ryan, DC Crossroads Chiropractic
Beauty products promise flawless skin and luscious hair, but behind these promises often lie harmful chemicals that can pose significant health risks. Thankfully consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of what they put on their bodies. With over 10,000 chemicals used to formulate cosmetics, understanding the hidden dangers in beauty products and how to choose healthier alternatives is more crucial than ever.
The Hidden Dangers
1. Parabens Parabens, commonly used as preservatives, prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in cosmetic products. However, research has linked parabens to hormonal disruptions because they can mimic estrogen in the body. This hormonal imbalance is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive issues.
2. Phthalates Phthalates are used to make products more pliable and to stabilize fragrances. These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to reproductive abnormalities, early puberty in girls, and even obesity. Despite their risks, phthalates are often not listed on product
tHe Hidden dAngerS in your BeAuty produCtS: A guide to HeAltHier CHoiCeS
labels, hidden under the term “fragrance.”
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) These surfactants are found in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers to create lather. While they effectively remove dirt and oil, they can also strip the skin and hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Prolonged exposure can cause more severe skin problems and has been linked to liver toxicity.
4. Formaldehyde Releasers Used in products to prevent bacterial growth, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. Ingredients like DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15 release formaldehyde over time. Exposure can lead to skin sensitivity, respiratory issues, and a heightened risk of cancer.
5. Synthetic Fragrances Often listed simply as “fragrance,” these can contain a cocktail of chemicals, many of which are harmful. Synthetic fragrances are known to cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and hormone disruptions. The term “fragrance” can mask the presence of phthalates, further increasing health risks.
Choosing Healthier Alternatives
Navigating the beauty aisles for safer prod -
ucts requires knowledge and vigilance. Here are steps to make healthier choices for your skin and hair:
1. Read Labels Thoroughly Become an avid label reader. Avoid products that list parabens, phthalates, SLS, SLES, formaldehyde releasers, and synthetic fragrances. Look for clear, transparent labeling from brands that prioritize consumer health.
2. Opt for Natural and Organic Products
Certified natural and or ganic products are less likely to contain harmful chemicals. These certi fications often require stringent standards, ensuring the absence of synthetic preserva tives, fragrances, and other toxic ingredients. Brands like Dr. Bron ner’s, Burt’s Bees, and Weleda are known for their commitment to natural ingredients.
3. Understand Certi fication Labels iarize yourself with cer tification labels such as USDA Organic, Ecocert, and COSMOS-standard. These labels indicate that a product meets specific organic or natu ral standards. However, be cautious of “green washing,” where brands falsely claim to be natu ral or organic without proper certification.
4. DIY Beauty So lutions Embrace DIY beauty treatments using ingredients from your kitchen. Coconut oil,
honey, avocado, and aloe vera can serve as effective, chemical-free alternatives for moisturizing, exfoliating, and treating skin and hair.
5. Use FragranceFree or Naturally Scented Products
Choose products labeled as “fragrance-free” or those scented with natural essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and rosemary not only smell
FUNCTIONAL CHIROPRACTIC CARE
DEAR DR. ROACH:
I am wondering what the best treatment is for sciatic pain. Would a steroid shot help? The pain is behind my knee, down the outside of my leg, and now on my foot. -- J.F.
ANSWER: “Sciatica” is a general term for a process that compresses the nerve roots, which causes symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and a loss of reflexes. The sciatic nerve supplies much of the innervation to the leg. The area that you describe is most
likely the first sacral nerve (S1), and pain here is most frequently caused by disc herniation at the L5-S1 space. This can cause acute symptoms that are often quite severe. Initial treatment is usually conservative, consisting of antiinflammatories and avoiding activities that worsen pain. While bed rest was sometimes prescribed, it is seldom necessary for more than a day or two, and many people actually feel better when they are up and about. After a week, most people are able to do light activity, and I tell my patients neither to push themselves to do more than they can, nor force themselves to rest if they feel OK with light activity.
Steroids have certainly been used in this situation, and they are injected into
the epidural space by an expert who uses imaging. Although there is a slight improvement in pain around three months among those who are treated with epidural steroids, there was no longer a benefit found around six months. This means that you get better only a little faster than normal at the cost of a small risk from the injection. If a person isn’t recovering well within a few weeks, I often refer them to physical therapy. If they aren’t getting benefit at all (or they are getting worse), then it is time to find out what the cause is with an MRI and a referral to an expert. ***
DEAR DR. ROACH:
I recently read some comments stating there are studies indicating that metoprolol can cause Raynaud’s.
I have been taking 25 mg of metoprolol daily (to control palpitations, not for high blood pressure) for about eight years, and last year, I was diagnosed with Raynaud’s. Are these comments accurate? I do not have any known autoimmune diseases that would indicate secondary Raynaud’s. -- H.B.
ANSWER: Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is an accentuated physiological response to cold. When the known diseases that cause RP aren’t found, we call it primary RP. Drugs that constrict blood vessels can certainly precipitate RP. Decongestants, amphetamines, some cancer chemotherapy drugs, and cocaine are more likely on the list than beta blockers like metoprolol. But what you read is correct. Metoprolol, even at the low dose you take, can sometimes cause RP. However, it’s also possible that you just have primary RP and metoprolol has nothing to do with it. It’s worth rethinking whether you need metoprolol. Palpitations can happen in healthy people without any pathological heart issues. If you have a known reason for the palpitations, ask your cardiologist (or whomever is prescribing the metoprolol) whether it would be possible for you to take a calcium blocker. Some calcium-channel blockers
by Dr. Keith Roach Syndicated Columnist
joint pain (especially the knees), body weakness, brain fog, among others.
I use many herbs to help with acute or chronic Lyme Disease. Here is a few in my tool box: Cat’s claw, Astragalus, Sweet Annie, Teasel Root, Cryptolepis, Sida Acuta, Isatis, Lomatium, Japanese Knotweed.
All these herbs in different combination in tea, extracts, or even encapsulation help kill the organism and support the body. I also use medicinal mushrooms to stimulate an immune reaction to fight the pathogen as well. Medicinal mushrooms are important for both acute and chronic lyme, but always be mindful of any autoimmunities you may have.
Always work with a knowledgeable practitioner when dealing with Lyme. There are many Lyme Literate Doctors (LLMDs) as well as Clinical Herbalists like myself that can work with you to get you feeling better. Antibiotics are typically given in the early stages, but show diminishing returns for chronic Lyme. Antibiotics and the herbs to target Lyme work synergistically to kill the spirochete, and especially so for acute Lyme. Not so much for chronic Lyme. Integrative approaches can be key to help people maintain health and quality of life.
Sara Woods Kender is a Clinical Herbalist and Reiki Master, owner of Sacred Tree Herbals in Meredith NH. She sees clients and offered classes in herbal medicine. www.sarasherbs.com
wonderful but also offer therapeutic benefits.
6. Patch Test New Products Always perform a patch test when trying new products. Apply a small amount to your wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions. This simple step can prevent potential irritations and allergic reactions.
7. Research Brands and Products Take advantage of online resources and apps that rate the safety of beauty products, such as EWG’s Skin Deep database or the Think Dirty app. These tools provide insights into the safety and toxicity of product ingredients, helping you make informed choices.
8. Simplify Your Routine Less is often more when it comes to beauty routines. Minimize the number of products you use daily. A simple routine with a gentle cleanser, mois-
turizer, and sunscreen can be just as effective as an elaborate regimen, reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals.
Awareness is the first step towards healthier beauty choices. By understanding the hidden dangers in conventional beauty products and knowing how to select safer alternatives, you can protect your skin, hair, and overall health. Remember, beauty should not come at the cost of your well-being. Prioritize products that care for you naturally and healthily, and let your inner beauty shine through safely.
Stephanie Ryan, DC, CCWP is the owner of Crossroads Chiropractic, PC and is the host of the “Half Hour to Health” radio show on WEMJ, WTPL and WTSN.
are vasodilators and are the first-line treatment for primary RP.
Unfortunately, calcium blockers with antiarrythmic properties are not effective with RP, so it’s possible that you may need both.
DEAR DR. ROACH:
I read a recent headline that said people who fast intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease. Is there merit to this story? -- K.O.S.
ANSWER: Intermittent fasting is an increasingly common weight-loss strategy. The two most common approaches of intermittent fasting are alternate-day fasting (eating nothing one day, then whatever you want the next) and time-restricted feeding (eating at certain times throughout the day, usually dur -
in the treatment of chronic heel
are pleased to offer Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT) for patients who have been suffering from prolonged heel pain. This non-surgical procedure helps to heal painful ligaments and promotes the body to heal itself. This and other conservative treatments eliminates the potential for surgery.
If you, a family member, or friend have been suffering from heel pain (arch pain), it is important that a proper evaluation be performed by our trained Doctors. Please call our office for an appointment to determine whether these treatment options are right for you.
ing an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the benefits of these diets show short-term weight loss (i.e., 12 weeks), but no longterm weight loss (1 year), compared to the standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential harm from intermittent fasting. Studies have shown an increased risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating).
One study showed that disordered eating worsened in those assigned to an intermittent-fasting schedule. However, other studies do not show this.
The concern for disordered eating is highest among younger and female populations, who are at the most risk for eating disorders, and I advise against intermittent fasting for a person with a history of an
See ROACH on 31
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The Simple Feast
The Simple
by Eric N Gibson Contributing Writer
There are so many versions of pasta salad it really is beginning to become “old hat.” And, as I pointed out in a recent article on Grilled Chicken, there are so many recipes claiming to be the “Best” that it is hard to discern for certain which one really is the best. So, I make no claims to this pasta salad being the best, but what I can offer is an easy, delicious, and colorful composition along with some suggestions that will make this (or any pasta salad) appeal to many.
The Simple SiMple SuMMer pAStA SAlAd
The Simple Feast
Let’s start with the basics. At the heart of any Pasta Salad is, yes, you guessed it, PASTA! Pasta, as any well stocked grocery store shelf can attest, comes in many shapes, sizes, and even colors and most pasta’s will fit the bill for pasta salad. For the layperson I would advocate sticking with a common pasta: Penne, Ziti, Farfalle (bow tie), Fusilli, Rotini, Elbow (casserole elbow noodle is even better). These larger noodles take the coating of thinner dressings and spread it over a broader surface, adding more flavor. If you were to use a thicker
cream, mayo, or dairy based dressing smaller pastas like regular elbows and mini-shells are great as the veggies, saucy dressing, and smaller noodles come together and hold onto one-another. These are just a few suggestions of the many pasta’s out there. While I am aware that people do have their favorites for different applications, contrary to what the “experts” say, within reason, there really is no right or wrong. While on the subject of basics let’s talk about dressings for a moment. Here it is summer and with this past week of temperatures reaching far into the 90’s many thoughts for dinner and lunch turn to grilling and serving outside
so as not to heat up the house. There is nothing wrong with this idea but we do want to be mindful of food safety and that means putting some thought into what goes into your pasta salad? From the standpoint of keeping food safe while in the heat of summer you should consider oil and vinegar (acid) based dressings for pasta salads. Oil and acid based dressings have better “staying power” lasting longer when out on the table in the heat than a cream or mayo based pasta salad. Why? Because cream and mayo are typically protein based and protein is sensitive to time and temperature. The higher the temperature the less time it can stay outside
of refrigeration without becoming food safety compromised. For this reason you may want to explore pasta salads that have oil and vinegar (acid) bases as these are not as susceptible to heat and spoilage as fast as a protein based dressed salad. This does not mean that oil and acid pasta salads can stay out in the heat without being compromised or susceptible to spoilage but they do stand up to the heat better than protein based dressings.
Beyond pasta and dressings there are other commonalities to pasta salads. Most will have diced vegetables. Usually fine to medium dice, the size of the diced vegetables may depend upon personal preference, the pasta, and the dressing used. If you want your veggies to cling to the pasta then use a fine or small dice with a pasta that will “catch” the bits of veggies, ie, pasta that has loose spirals, ridges, or tubes. If you want your veggies and pasta to share equally in the fun, then use a larger dice on your veggies and select pastas that are flat, broad, or tightly spiraled so they do not catch the veggies as easily.
What vegetables should you use? Again, that is up to personal preference but people are drawn to color. The most common vegetables in pasta salad are your traditional salad peppers (green, yel
vertiCAl Jigging Striped BASS
by Tim Moore Contributing Writer
Of all the ways to catch striped bass, vertical jigging is my favorite. There’s a thrill in feeling the thump of a striper that is directly beneath my boat or kayak, setting the hook, and trying to bring the fish to the surface. Do it from a kayak and I’m in virtual heaven. When you’re vertical jigging, your line is (ideally) straight down, and you feel everything. The fight feels harder, especially in current, and the fish feel bigger. With stricter slot limits the past two seasons and fish caught recreationally measuring over 35 inches being put back, there are more fish in the 40-inch range than I’ve seen in years.
One of the most common questions about vertical jigging is where to fish. Striped bass are migratory. Once they are finished spawning, which happens mostly during early spring in the Chesapeake Bay and Hudson River, the stripers continue their northerly migration with one thing in mind…food.
If you find the food, you find the stripers. In New Hampshire, the striped bass arrive sometime between Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. This year, with much earlier spring weather, they were about a week early. As we progress through the month of June, more, and bigger, fish are arriving.
I asked Jack Houghton, (formerly of Daddy Mac Lures) one of the Northeast’s leading vertical jigging specialists, what he looks for when choosing a location to vertical jig for striped bass. “Presence of bait and moving water,” says Houghton. “When moving water is mixed with bait structure does not matter, although you typically find more bait around structure,” he notes.
Choosing the right jig is as important as where to fish. The right color or shaped lure can make all the difference. Color comes down to time of day and the forage. The general rule of thumb is to use bright colors on bright days and dark colors on dark days. When deciding which lure to use try to match the hatch so to speak. Choose a lure with a good dying action to simulate a wounded or dying baitfish. When choosing a lure Houghton says, “Match the size and shape/profile of the forage, second try
by Mike Moffett Contributing Writer
A favorite travel terminal is at Boston’s Logan Airport which features numerous championship banners honoring Boston’s pro teams: Bruins, Celtics, Patriots and Red Sox. Will a ceremony occur there when the Celtics’ 18th banner joins all the rest?
The afterglow from the Celtics’ recent NBA title triumph still lights our sports world. And it will for a while. One loves how a title team unites a community— regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, or political persuasion.
So, what can one add to all that’s been written about 6/17’s record 18th Celtic championship?
How about a SportThought re: the extraordinary spiritual/ religious reflections expressed by so many of the C’s following their wonderful win?
Boston head coach Joe Mazzulla shared that his family’s postchampionship travels will take them to the Holy Land—as opposed to Disney World.
Mazzulla is a devout Catholic who claims his identity flows from his “purpose” and “faith.” He has a green and gold wooden rosary made from the Boston Garden’s original parquet floor.
Other Celtics like Jayson Tatum were prayer-
SpirituAl CeltiCS
ful following the victory.
“First of all, God is the greatest,” said Tatum, according to NBC sports. “Not because we won, but to put me into a position to maximize my God-given ability to surround me with these guys, my family. It’s an incredible feeling.”
Thirty-eight-year-old C’s forward Al Horford is a devout member of the Church of God Ministry of Jesus Christ International. He wasn’t shy about showing his grateful side on national television minutes after the Celtics’ penultimate 106-88 win over the Mavericks, proclaiming “La Gloria a Dios” (The Glory of God) to countless millions. Faith and perseverance eventually rewarded the Dominican star with a title, ending the league’s longest active streak of career playoff games without a championship (186). Horford had certainly been otherwise blessed in many ways. (His wife, Amelia Vega, was Miss Universe 2003.)
Celtic star Jrue Holiday has a Bible passage tattooed on his left forearm from Philippians 4:6-7 about finding
glow” was compelling and inspiring, at least to those willing to enjoy—if not embrace—it all. Will this new “Celtic Way” influence others positively in the future?
One wag suggested that the Detroit Pistons—who just finished 50 games behind the Celtics—hire a chaplain as an assistant coach.
Maybe Al Horford?
“La Gloria a Dios.”
Sports Quiz
peace through faith in God.
Other Celtics like backup center Luke Kornet also draw strength, hope and inspiration from their beliefs. A devout Catholic, Kornet is a “Knight of Columbus” who attends Mass whenever he can. He’s proud of the perspective and balance his faith has provided him during his life journey. And so it goes with all of the above as well as with playoff MVP Jaylen Brown and other Celtics—and many of their fans.
There’s no shortage of unhappy folks who denounce and demean people of faith. Our world has changed into a coarser place since I was a youngster when most folks went to church, and we actually prayed in public schools. And to be sure, religious communities have their share of hypocrites and charlatans—which angry progressives love to point out. And Celtic spiritual energy didn’t keep them from losing a Game 7 at home to Miami last year.
Still, the Celtic postgame religious “after -
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What year did the Celtics win the first of their 18 NBA titles? (Answer follows).
Born Today
That is to say, sports standouts born on June 27 include Red Sox shortstop Rico Petrocelli (1943) and NBA forward Chuck Person (1964).
Sports Quote
“He who climbs upon the highest mountains laughs at all tragedies, real or imaginary.” –Friedrich Nietzsche
Sports Quiz Answer
Boston beat the St. Louis Hawks in seven games to win the 1957 NBA Championship. The Celts prevailed in Game 7 at the Boston Garden, 125-123, in double overtime.
State Representative Mike Moffett was a Sports Management Professor for Plymouth State University and NHTIConcord. He co-authored the award-winning “Fahim Speaks: Between Two Worlds: A Hollywood Actor’s Journey as a U.S. Marine Translator through Afghanistan” which is available on Amazon.com. His e-mail address is mimoffett@ comcast.net
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Boston Celtic Coach Joe Mazzulla.
In Africa, the top foreign investors remains the Netherlands at $109 billion, France $58 billion, the U.S. and UK at $46 billion each, and China with $41 billion. Among the largest investments announced include one establishing a $6.4 billion electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility in Morocco.
Asia Foreign Direct Investment in developing Asia fell by 8 per cent to $621 billion last year. Significantly China, the second largest FDI recipient in the world, saw a rare decline in investments. Sizable declines were recorded in India too.; overall South Asia saw investment declines of 37 percent. FDI inflows to Southeast Asia however stayed stable. The top foreign investors throughout Asia remain China $181 billion, Hong Kong $102 billion, the U.S. $690 million, Japan $509 million, and South Korea at $253 million.
In 2023 the United States, FDI inflows declined by 6 per cent to $311 billion, but FDI in other developed countries, including Australia, Japan and South Korea, dropped sharply. China slipped as well to $163 billion. So too did India and Indonesia.
“In a world grappling with global and regional crises, the delicate balance of foreign direct investment (FDI) hangs precariously,”
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.
METZLER
Summer Fun! Summer Fun!
AMeriCAn independenCe FeStivAl to Bring HiStory to liFe
EXETER - On Saturday, July 13, 10am to 4pm, visitors to the American Independence Festival will be transported back almost 250 years to the brink of the American Revolution.
One highlight of the Festival will be special exhibits, highlighted by a temporary exhibition featuring weaponry of the Revolution. “The exhibit will explore antique arms from this period, including a high-speed video of the arms firing, and the history behind a French shipment of muskets that came into Portsmouth in 1777,” said Ashley Hlebinsky. Nationally known Arms Historian, Hlebinsky designed the exhibit and will serve as AIM consultant through 2024. “I’m excited to be part of AIM and the Festival,” she added.
At the Festival, hosted by the American Independence Museum (AIM), visitors will also have the opportunity to experience the museum’s new educational garden, an interactive exhibit-in-the-making.
“It will provide people with an opportunity to see changes in agricultural practices and the ways in which plants were used by peoples over the centuries,” said Jennifer Carr, who designed the exhibit. “It will bring that history to life by allowing guests to touch and taste the products of the garden.”
This year’s Festival is
presented by Service Credit Union, whose support enables AIM to offer free admission. “Led by Service Credit Union, the Festival is a big celebration with many community partners,” said Dr. Robert Levey, AIM’s Interim Executive Director. “Downtown Exeter has a unique charm that is difficult to match.”
Additional support is provided by New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, which presents a Traditional Artisans Village with demonstrations, and Kennebunk Savings.
In addition to special exhibits and Traditional Artisans Village, the Festival features reenactors and soldiers, games, vendor marketplace, beer garden, and a display of an original copy of the
tion
joining Swasey Parkway, nonprofit TEAM (Town.Exeter.Arts.Music) will host Independence Fest, which features live music, food, and art.
“On July 13, we bring history to life here in Exeter, New Hampshire,” added Levey. “It will be educational, experiential, and a lot of fun.”
Home to 3,000 historic artifacts, AIM develops programs, events, and exhibits that engage people of all ages in the ongoing struggle for freedom and selfgovernance. To learn more about the Festival, visit independencemuseum.org.
Summer Fun! Summer Fun!
“peAk SeASon” For nHBM’S ‘MiSS lAuren’ BeginS end oF June
LACONIA - “Peak season” for tours on New Hampshire Boat Museum’s (NHBM’s) replica 1928-style Hacker-Craft, Miss Lauren, begins the last week of June and runs through Labor Day.
Launching from North Water Marine, Monday through Thursday, and The Margate Resort, Friday through Sunday, Miss Lauren takes passengers on 45-minute cruises that explore the southwest side of Lake Winnipesaukee and Paugus Bay.
“It’s really a lovely ride,” said Martha Cummings, NHBM executive director. “These tours give passengers the opportunity to experience history, geology, architecture, and wildlife from the water.”
Tours carry up to eight people and pass landmarks such as Spindle Point Lighthouse, Ossipee Mountain Range, Bear Island, and The Witches, a notorious rock formation east of Governor’s Island.
“The locations where the Miss Lauren docks allow us to do a few different routes,” Cummings added. “Tours departing from The Margate Resort will explore Paugus Bay, which has its own unique history.”
Acquired in 2022, Cummings said tours on Miss Lauren are one of the on-water experiences offered by NHBM. “This is an opportu -
nity to go for a ride in a beautiful 1928-style, mahogany triple cockpit motorboat,” she said. “There are some modern changes, but not many.”
Beginning June 21, Friday through Sunday, Miss Lauren will launch from The Margate Resort, 76 Lake Street, Laconia. Starting the last week of June, tours on Miss Lauren will be of -
fered Monday through Thursday, departing from North Water Marine, 18 Endicott St. N., Laconia.
During peak season, NHBM also offers 45-minute tours on Millie B, which depart from the Wolfeboro Town Docks and Boat Ramp seven days a week.
Tickets for all tours must be booked in advance. To find tour
Summer Fun! Summer Fun!
CAStle in tHe CloudS HAvAnA nigHt gAlA
Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated 2024 Havana Night Gala on Friday, July 12th at 5:00pm. This year’s gala will be an evening filled with vibrant music, dancing, and cuisine, all while supporting an exciting new restoration project at Lucknow.
Guests are invited to dress in their finest
This ensemble of lo - ing event of the year,” said Charles Clark, Executive Director of Castle in the Clouds.
“With the support of our generous attendees, we are confident that this year’s gala will surpass all expectations and significantly contribute to our preservation efforts at Castle in the Clouds.”
Tickets are priced at $175.00 each, with all proceeds benefiting the restoration initiatives of Castle in the Clouds. Ticket and auction purchasers will receive a tax deductibility statement in late July.
To purchase tickets and for more information about Castle in the Clouds, please visit www.castleintheclouds.org/gala ABOUT CASTLE IN THE CLOUDS
As the premier historical museum in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Castle in the Clouds provides each visitor with a look into the past while providing
contemporary comforts to make every visit memorable. Originally called Lucknow, this breathtaking 6,300-acre property was developed in 1913 by Thomas G. Plant, a wealthy shoe manufacturer, to create a luxurious lifestyle with state-of-the-art amenities, beautiful handmade furnishings, and a large staff to run the estate. These days, visitors come from all around the world to tour the mansion and exhibit gallery, dine in the Carriage House Restaurant or Café in the Clouds, hike miles of hiking and walking trails maintained by partner organization the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, or enjoy one of our many programs and events. Operated by the Castle Preservation Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Castle in the Clouds is revered as a cultural and educational resource and listed on the National Register of Historic Places with national significance. Castle in the Clouds is also available as a fairytale wedding venue and versatile private event rental. For more information about Castle in the Clouds, visit www. castleintheclouds.org.
Photo by Stoddard Whitridge
Summer Fun! Summer Fun!
CeltiC ConCert in tuFtonBoro
Cantrip, a very talented four person Celtic band will be performing at the Old White Church, Tuftonboro at 3pm, Sunday, July 7th.
The name Cantrip is an Old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief and it aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in their musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Swirling order pipes, raging
fiddle, thunderous guitar and three rich voices blend to create a sound energetic enough to tear the roof off.
Catri sprung from a local session in Edinburgh nearly twenty years ago. With their first album “Silver” in hand, Cantrip made its way across the water to the Unite States, where they were received with roars and is an accomplished player on the flute, bouzouki anshouts (of enjoyment).
After a period of hiatus in which children wee born and continents were le for new ones, Cantrip redefined its sound. The band tightened its arrangements while expanding its influence.
After 20 years of touring, Cantrip has found a character like no other. Danj Houghton, Jon Bews, Alasdair White and Eric McDonald stir the elements into chaotic order.
For more information and/or tickets,
contact Greg or Teri Heppe at 603-9980826 - phone or text. Doors open at 2:30.
On Wednesday, July 3rd at 1pm a special one-hour event will take place at the Meredith Public Library featuring captivating readings of short stories, poems, and authentic local historical letters. This unique celebration is a collaboration between The Winnipesaukee Playhouse, The Meredith Public Library, and The Meredith Historical Society. Come celebrate Independence Day with stories that bring our Nation’s history to life! Refreshments served by the Friends of the Meredith Library.
Summer Fun! Summer Fun!
The Best Summer Ever Starts Right Here! The Best Summer Ever Starts Right Here!
interlAkeS SuMMer tHeAtre openS witH newSieS
The Interlakes Summer Theatre will open it’s 17th Season with Disney’s Newsies on July 3rd at 7:30 pm. Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this new Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys’ expense, Kelly and his fellow newsies take action. With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognizes the power of “the little man.”
Disney’s Newsies will run from July 3-14th, with a matinee on July 4th. Next up will be “Chicago” July 17-28, Legally Blonde July 31-Aug 11, and Million Dollar Quartet August 14-18.
Interlakes Summer Theatre is grateful for our Sponsors-Season Sponsor-Meredith Village Savings Bank, Show sponsors-The Mug Restaurant, Golden View Health Care, Voila Salon, Friedman & Bresaw Law, Sanders Management, RC Brayshaw Printing, The Daily Sun.
Tickets can be purchased at our Box Office at 1 Laker Lane from 10-5 every day, or online at interlakestheatre.com, or by calling 1-603-7076035.
that we’d be running the famous race, thus making it hard to back out. We were trapped.
The next day I got a message from Lang.
“What have we done?”
“If you back out you can forget about getting reelected!” I replied. “We have four months to train.”
Lang is many years younger than me. (I’m pushing 70.) And at least 40 pounds lighter. (I’d have to push 210 pounds up those eight miles.)
“Hopefully there will be doctors and ambulances on call,” Lang tweeted.
While the senator was trying to be funny, the truth is that Mt. Washington is one of the world’s most lethal mountains. While around 300 have died on Mt. Everest’s slopes, around 170 people (that we know of) have perished on Mt. Washing-
ton’s slopes in many ways over the many years. Just this past winter one of my former students froze to death on an adjacent mountain.
And while I’m a runner, I’m forever aware that my brother passed away due to a cardiac event during a 5K race
Delta Dental Mt. Washington Road Race was penned into our calendars. There was no getting away from it.
Some Race History
In the fall of 2004, I walked to an NHTI sports management night class with one of my students, Andy Tabor, who worked for Northeast Delta Dental. He mentioned that his boss—Tom Raffio—was a serious runner. Event management was part of our curriculum, and we came up with an idea for a 5K involving NHTI and Delta Dental.
My people called his people and eventually the first annual NHTI/ Delta Dental 5K Road Race took place the fol-
countless thousands of dollars for worthy causes.
Raffio and I regularly competed and became friendly rivals of sorts with comparable run times— except for a period when Tom became something of an elite runner. One Saturday he ran three separate 5Ks in less than 75 minutes.
But Father Time conspired with Mother Nature to lengthen our run times. Still, we and our running friends remained CARS fixtures. Which brings us to June 15th and Mt. Washington.
Only One Hill Mt. Washington run-
Mt. Washington, one of the world’s most famous mountains. lowing spring to raise scholarship funds for NHTI students.
in 2007. Also a Marine, John was a serious runner who loved the White Mountains, and me doing an occasional road race or hike helps keep his spirit alive.
So, for four months I tried to do a modicum of training. (“What kind of Marine are you?”)
I occasionally messaged the senator to remind him that he should also train for the grueling eight-miler. Lang invariably messaged back a photo of himself drinking a beer. He was more concerned about running for reelection than about running up Mt. Washington.
But the June 15th
Little did we know it then, but that race was the genesis for other subsequent area race events. Both new and existing road races were eventually coordinated to create the Capital Area Race Series. Eight area races would partner and offer discounts and awards to runners who signed up for all the CARS events. Raffio and his Delta Dental team were prime movers behind it all. Fitness, fun, fellowship, and funding were the watchwords.
Countless thousands of runners helped raise
ners like to say the course has only one hill. But the route up that hill is almost eight miles with some 20-degree slopes. The first runner to do a timed run was George Foster in 1904. A medical student trying to impress a girl, Foster completed the ascent in 1:42 (one hour and forty-two minutes). I got online and found my 1987 time—1:48, good for 466th out of 1000+ runners. Not that much slower than Foster’s— and I wasn’t trying to impress any girl! Could I break two hours in 2024? Doubtful. Three hours? A more reason-
N.H. State Senator Tim Lang, NE Delta Dental CEO Tom Raffio, and Mike Moffett, who clearly looks “less than enthused” about being coerced into running up Mt. Washington at age 69.
New Hampshire’s
State Senator Tim Lang, NE Delta Dental CEO
able goal. The race stops timing after 3:35.
June 15th was sunny down in the valley as hundreds of cars brought 1300 runners to the start. But the word was that the summit had temps in the high 30’s with wind gusts up to 50 mph. (Got wind chill?) I wrapped a windbreaker around my waist and after the national anthem a gun fired, and we were soon ascending. In 1987 I “ran” for an hour before inevitably walking. In 2024 I ran for a much shorter time before “breaking into a walk.” But steadily, inexorably, we all ascended.
Distance runners focus on breathing, pace, and stride length but they also have time to think. I thought of my brother. Of the finish line. Of what a great event the race was. And of the associated charity: Coos County Family Health Services. As a Coos County native, I naturally supported that. The race is pricy, so it was good to know that it was all for a good cause.
Above the tree line the
Finally, we rounded a corner and could see the summit. A half mile to go. I always try to finish with a kick, but the last 100 yards were the steepest. I finished as strongly as I could—well under three hours. Yay! A nice lady immediately put a medal over my head, and another gave me an orange blanket. I squeezed into the summit building with hundreds of other runners, trying to warm up. Success!
Whither Senator Lang?
wind became a factor as we seemed to face a constant headwind—at least 40-50 mph. It was brutal, but it was also dry and clear. Usually, the summit is shrouded in clouds, so I thanked the running gods for the views.
Around 100 minutes in, a runner came speeding down the hill. Having done eight miles up, he was now running back down with a smile on his face.
I hated that runner— who was carrying an orange blanket. Soon other descending runners came by, also wrapped in orange blankets. Super sleuth that I am, I deduced that they were giving out orange blankets to the finishers.
The last mile was a freezing ordeal, up into the howling wind. I was almost blown off the road a couple times, despite my 210 pounds of ballast. My head started spinning and my breathing became difficult, over a mile high into the troposphere. But I would die before I’d stop. Lang had told too many people we were racing. And, of course, there was the Marine thing.
Around a half an hour later the word was passed to find our return vehicles. A member of Team Delta Dental (thank you Tom!), I’d get to ride in the first van heading back down. None other than Andy Tabor and his Delta cohort Joe Kasper were loading runners into the vans. But Team Delta was missing a runner: Tim Lang.
Apparently, the senator didn’t draw a race bib with a sensor, so there was no way to confirm he’d passed the various checkpoints. Had he been blown off the mountain?
Kasper was getting upset.
“Does anyone know what this guy looks
Joe Gray won the 2024 Delta Dental Mount Washington Race with a time of 1:02:21.
Tom Raffio, and State Rep. Mike Moffett near the start line for the 2024 Mt. Washington Race.
Amber Ferreira and Patrick Gandini won Crossan Cups as the top N.H. female and male finishers at the 2024 Delta Dental Mountain Washington Road Race
like? Where is he? Everyone will be waiting for us!”
Scores of vehicles were staged, waiting to follow the Delta van back down the mountain.
I spoke up. “I know Tim. We still have ten minutes before the clock stops. Let me look.”
a beer!”
“You’ve got about five minutes before they turn the clocks off. Everyone’s waiting for you.”
Lang bravely picked up his pace and finished just before the clock stopped at 3:35—the last of a thousand runners to get a recorded time. But without a bib sensor, his name and time would not be recorded for posterity.
Anyway, into the van we went for the ride down.
“We did it,” said the smiling senator, who acknowledged that he could have trained better for the big race. Recalling how he’d goaded me into signing up for Mt. Washington, I had one thing to say to him.
I headed back down the road wrapped in my orange blanket, fearing the worst. Had the senator succumbed to the
elements? A couple hundred yards down I saw a figure wrapped in an orange blanket bravely limping forward. It was Tim! (At first, I found it odd to see an orange blanket ascending, rather than descending, but super sleuth that I am, I figured a descending runner saw the freezing senator clad in only a teeshirt and then gave up his blanket.)
“Hey!” shouted Lang. “I’m ready for
“Marines always take the hill.”
State Representative Mike Moffett was a Sports Management Professor for Plymouth State University and NHTI-Concord. He co-authored the award-winning “FAHIM SPEAKS: A Warrior-Actor’s Odyssey from Afghanistan to Hollywood and Back” which is available on Amazon.com. His e-mail address is mimoffett@comcast.net. SOLONS from 29
ROACH from 13 eating disorder.
The study you read about was presented as an abstract in the March meeting of the American Heart Association; it is not yet published or peerreviewed. But it did show that people who report an intermittentfasting diet (specifically those who ate over an 8-hour time frame) were at a higher risk for death from heart disease than those who ate over a 12-16 hour time frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already had issues that put them at a higher risk for heart disease. Still, given the absence of longterm benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some people who do benefit from this type of diet, and as long as they are eating well and are being monitored by their physician, they should continue to follow their diet if it is working for them.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu
BOSAK from 8
undesirable and birds to be eliminated from backyards. I’ve been writing this column for close to 30 years, and I’ve received thousands of emails from readers sharing their own thoughts on birds. I can count on one finger the number of readers who expressed a desire to keep blue jays out of their yards.
If you are interested, the article suggests discouraging blue jays by using feeders designed to keep large birds away (as predicted), changing the type of seed offered (also as predicted) and setting up a separate feeding station for blue jays offering the things they like the most, such as peanuts.
I’ve always liked blue jays, so perhaps I went into the article without an open mind. Blue jays were also my dad’s favorite bird and that always gave them a soft spot in my heart as well. But to be honest, I’ve never witnessed a gang of blue jays chasing away the smaller birds to the point that those birds disappeared. The article states that if you have blue jays, you’re likely to not have other types of birds in your yard as well. In my experience anyway, that’s simply not true.
I think most backyard birders, myself included, are guilty of favoring some birds over others to the point of trying to exclude certain birds or animals from enjoying the free feast. House sparrows and gray squirrels come to mind. I’ve rapped on a window many times to chase away swarms of house sparrows or persistent gray squirrels. But all of the birds and animals that visit feeders are doing what all living things do: trying to survive. In a perfect world, we could
pick and choose what birds visit our feeders, but that is not the world we live in. Yes, to a certain extent we can limit some birds from visiting by using specialized feeders or certain types of food, but if a hungry bird or animal is determined enough to get some food, it is going to get some food.
Blue jays may have their downsides (yes, I know they sometimes eat eggs or baby birds), but my thought has always been to appreciate native birds, regardless of any preconceived notions one may have of them. Blue jays have been part of the native landscape far longer than the advent of backyard bird feeding, and they are part of the natural cycle of our ecology. To me anyway, to try to deter them from feeders just seems ridiculous.
June 1st - Sept. 1st, 2024
June 6, 2024, marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, also known as Operation Overlord.
low, orange, and red), carrots (shredded or diced is preferred rather than chunks) and if you are going to dice carrots you may want to consider parboiling them to be tender. Diced celery will add crunch without breaking teeth, along with a finely diced onion. Onion, used sparingly, be it a red, yellow, or sweet onion, is often welcome but it is better to use less than you initially think. Then taste the salad to see if you have used too little. If so you can add a little more diced onion or onion powder to give the pasta salad a bit more desired flavor. Other additions may include tomatoes: grape or small cherry tomatoes are best as these just need a rinse, no cutting. Tomatoes add that pop of color and summer flavor
to any meal and just seem to be a fitting addition to pasta salads. My personal favorites for pasta salads are pitted black olives and marinated quartered artichoke hearts. Both bring an indescribable unique delicious flavor and two vastly differing textures to salad, especially a pasta salad dressed with an oil and acid base. If you really want to kick up your salad you can use a pitted Kalamata Olive. In addition to their great taste, olives have many health benefits including antioxidants, good fats, and vitamins.
Consider adding protein to your pasta salad and make this a one dish meal. Cheeses and meats, when added to pasta salad, can make any pasta salad a mouthwatering meal. While block cheddar is common in many
SIMPLE SUMMER PASTA SALAD
Servings:12-16 Time: 30 Minutes Plus Chill Time In Refrigerator INGREDIENTS
1 16 oz. Box Penne Pasta
1 half medium sized green pepper diced
1 half med sized red pepper diced
1 half medium sized red onion diced
1 english cucumber diced
1 medium size carrot shredded
1 Tblsp. minced garlic
1 12oz. Jar artichoke hearts
1 cup your favorite italian dressing
2 tsp. sugar heaped
1 tsp. Dry Italian Seasonings mix
¼ tsp. Black pepper (cracked or course)
1 tsp. Dry Dill
Sprigs of Chive chopped for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
- Cook pasta according to directions on the box (boil until tender, al dente, or desired texture) then drain, rinse, drain again, and pat dry with paper towels, then chill in the refrigerator.
- While pasta is cooking, rinse all raw vegetables and process (dice, shred, chop) and combine in a bowl.
- Combine italian dressing, sugar, italian seasonings, black pepper, and dill in a bowl and whisk together. Taste and, if needed, add a dash more sugar.
- Combine pasta, vegetables, and dressing and toss to mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.
refrigerators, provolone or even feta cheese will make a pasta salad seem high end. Add in some small pieces of salami or pepperoni and what a delicious difference this makes. Again, be mindful of the food safety implications when adding proteins to pasta salads but they
can bring a welcome dimension to the mix.
A word about seasonings. I prefer fresh, right from the garden, herbs but I’ll be honest, this year, my herb garden just didn’t happen. Thank heaven chives are a perennial otherwise I’d be without, but the rest of that garden is seriously lacking. No basil, and my sage, rosemary, and others have been taken over once again by those dreaded “weeds” called mint and lemon balm. As much as I like both, these once easy to grow herbs, seem to have taken advantage of my generosity and, given an inch, they took a mile and more. While there is oregano out there, it too has migrated, taking up residence where it was not supposed to and I never can find it unless I have the weed whacker handy. These vexes aside, I do like herbs in my pasta salad so I
tend to purchase a dry Italian herb mix and this, along with minced garlic in oil seems to be my all purpose “go to” for anything remotely “Italian”. Mixed with the dressing, they will rehydrate during their chill time in the fridge. Lastly, a few tips that may help you enjoy your pasta salad even more. I have found that adding a little sugar to commercial Italian dressings curbs the acid a bit. You still get that Italian Dressing bite but you also get a bit of sweetness, perfect for if some of your fresh veggies are not quite in their peak seasonal flavor yet. I have also found that after rinsing and draining your pasta, tamping it off with a few paper towels helps get the excess water off. Many are probably thinking, “What’s the big deal? A little water in the bowl never hurt, right?” Wrong. Remember the old saying, “oil and water don’t mix”? Well, it’s true. That water does two things, it “prevents” your dressing from properly coating your pasta and it dilutes the robust flavor that all those veggies and dressing bring to the salad. So, once your pasta is rinsed and drained, toss a few clean paper towels in and toss the pasta about for a minute to soak up that extra bit of water; you will be happy you did. Pasta salad is not rocket science. It need not be complicated. It need not be specific. It doesn’t have to be the same every time. And it should never feel like a chore to make this dish a summer time favorite for lunch or dinner. Make your next pasta salad what you want it to be: a delicious Simple Feast. Enjoy!
having enough enriched uranium to produce nuclear weapons. The International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) carries out routine inspections of Iran’s DECLARED atomic facilities. It recently reported Iran
has enough uranium for several nuclear weapons, which could be produced in a matter of a few weeks. Iran purchased 300 tons of refined uranium from Niger.
Iran has enriched its uranium stockpile to 60%, and it can con -
tinue the enrichment process to the weapons grade level of 90%.
The IAEA believes Iran might have secret facilities producing enriched uranium for nuclear devices at undeclared locations where uranium particles have been detected. If Iran produces nuclear weapons Middle East countries, including Saudi Arabia and other Sunni countries, will probably rush to produce their nuclear weapons. Israel, who Iran calls the Little Satan (U.S. is called the Great Satan), will not allow Iran to have nuclear weapons, and it will surely try to destroy them. The potential for a major war could be triggered by Iran producing nuclear weapons.
Donald Moskowitz
Londonderry NH
to match color. Stripers are opportunistic eaters, a frantically falling or dying bait fish is what they are looking for.” For this reason, Daddy Mac Lures makes a multitude of lures in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can really tailor your presentation to what will best entice more or bigger fish to bite.
Probably the most important aspect of vertical jigging stripers is the term vertical. It is imperative that your lure remain as vertical as possible for a number of reasons, most importantly is lure control. Vertical jigs, as the name implies, are designed to be jigged vertically in order to give you the most control of the lure. You can certainly cast vertical jigs, but they shine when jigged from above. When striped bass are down deep or holding in heavy current vertical jigging may be your best chance at getting one to bite. Sometimes it’s your only chance. You can cover a lot of water by drifting with the current, and often get your lure down below the smaller fish that hang above the bigger ones. Vertical jigging isn’t something that comes naturally to every angler. If you try it one or two times with lackluster results, keep at it. Change your location and presentation until you learn what works best.
Tim Moore is a full-time licensed professional fishing guide in New Hampshire. He owns and operates Tim Moore Outdoors, LLC. He is a member of the New England Outdoors Writers Association, and the producer of TMO Fishing on YouTube and the Hooked with TMO Fishing Podcast. Visit www.TimMooreOutdoors. com for more information.
that the battle was a pre-war one or that it was only a skirmish or raid and not a real battle.
Here in the Granite State we do like people to know that four months before Paul Revere’s ride to Lexington and Concord, which was made famous by Longfellow, Revere made a 66 mile ride to Portsmouth, New Hampshire with the same warning that the British were coming. By the mid 1770’s many New Hampshire residents, along with Massachusetts and other provinces, were not happy with the control over them of the British king. School history classes like to illustrate the unrest among the colonists with the account of the Boston Tea Party when tea on a ship in Boston Harbor was dumped into the sea in protest of English taxes on the same. Paul Revere’s message to the colonists in New Hamp-
certainly not in favor of separation. In New Hampshire the Wentworth family had two members who served, by appointment of the king, as the Governors of New Hampshire, and it is my understanding that they were popular Governors, despite the fact that they were faithful to the Crown in carrying out its policies. Still, Governor John Wentworth had to flee the state and return to England. Later he would become the Governor of Nova Scotia.
In New Hampshire, of the town returns that were preserved, 66 % of the eligible males signed. Many of those who didn’t sign stated the reasons as being religious with only 6.9 refusing to sign without giving a particular reason for their unwillingness to support the war. There were those who felt it was wrong for the colonies to reject the government of England’s jurisdiction over them, and some of them were returned to their Motherland.
shire who had seen enough of the restrictive regulations King George III was imposing on them was that there were British troops being sent to take control of American forts including Fort William and Mary at New Castle. The response was an attack on the fort by hundreds of local militants. The fort was being guarded by just a Captain John Cochran and five soldiers under his command. Cannon and muskets were fired, but the fort was easily captured by the local men, and gun powder and weapons were captured by the colonists and hidden to keep them out of British hands. When we think of the American Revolution in comparison to other wars we do well to remember, as already indicted, that not all colonists were in favor of separation from Great Britain, and there was war because the King of England and his associates were
We are familiar with the fact that when the United States goes to war it is regularly true that not every citizen is on board with that decision. The Revolutionary War was really a result of rebellion against the King of England. There were Tories among the Colonists, including in New Hampshire. Otis G. Hammond, in writing about the Tories of New Hampshire, wrote that the word Tory “has always had a negative significance, an idea of opposition to political changes and a reverence for the existing order of government.”
On the other hand, “The Whig,” according to Mr. Hammond, “was always the restless, ambitious, progressive element, eager for a change, without necessarily having established the fact that the change would be practical or beneficial to his party.” Hammond was Superintendent of the New Hampshire Historical Society when he wrote this in 1917. He said that the word “Tory” was almost synonymous with the word “traitor” during the Revolutionary War. The Tories of those war times were also called Loyalists or Royalists. Tories or Royalists before and during the
Revolution included professional men and the wealthiest, most educated, and oldest among the people. Not all of these were activists, in other words, they did not actively support the Crown, but were more or less neutral in their actions. Of about 200 suspected Royalists in New Hampshire, according to Hammond, only 76 were considered offensive enough to receive the penalty of banishment from the Province and the country. That was the cost for those who would not support the revolution and actively supported continual obedience to the King of England. I suppose if there had never been a Declaration of Independence (and New Hampshire was first to formally make the break) the United States of America would, like Canada, still be part of the British Empire.
To protect the citizens who supported the American Revolution, Congress, in March of 1776, recommended to the colonies that they require the people of such to take a test of loyalty. The test was called the Association
Test which those agreeing with would sign, and those who didn’t agree would be disarmed to prevent them from armed opposition against the Revolution.
The Association Test read as follows:“We, the Subscribers do hereby solemnly engage and promise that we will to the uttermost of our Power, at the Risque of our Lives and Fortunes, with Arms oppose the Hostile Proceedings of the British Fleets and Armies, against the United American Colonies.”
All males above twenty-one years of age were asked to sign the pledge.
By my count there were 409 New Hampshire soldiers who were either killed in action or died at other times or means in the Revolutionary War. We might think of them as casualties of the Declaration of Independence that gave birth to a new nation whose birthday we celebrate yearly on “The Fourth.” Think of that during this year’s celebration and as you “Pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands.”
May you strive to make it better, not bitter!
CLEAN OUT SERVICE
CLEAN OUT SERVICE
John Wentworth’s uncle, Benning Wentworth, who was the New Hampshire provincial governor before John and was also a Royalist.
Silversmith & Patriot Paul Revere.
As low as
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Despite current polling showing the youth vote leaning to Trump, according to the same poll, still almost twice the percent of those voters ages 18-29 identify as Democrat, 27%, compared to Republican, 15%. However, 44% identify as Independent.
We need look no further than the nation’s oldest and largest entitlement program, Social Security.
It is well publicized that the system is bankrupt. According to the latest Trustees Report, the system will be insolvent in the year 2035, with a shortfall of about 20%.
Yet all these youth, ages 18-29, are immediately forced to pay into this broken system with their very first paycheck, despite the cold fact that the funds are not there to pay them their benefits in full when they retire. In a private company, the management would be facing legal action.
Is it any wonder that our youth are cynical about their country?
The Biden administration continues to spend and borrow like economic reality does not exist. According to the Congressional Budget Office, “If current laws governing revenues and spending go unchanged ... Debt held by the public would soar from 99% of GDP in 2024 to 166% of GDP in 2054 -- exceeding any previously recorded level and on track to increase further.”
Let’s note that in 1980, this debt was less than 25% of GDP. At the end of 2008, just prior to the Obama presidency, it stood at 43.6%.
Larded down by big government and debt,
CBO projects annual growth 2024 and onward at less than 2% per year. Growth averaged more than 3.5% annually from 1950 to 2000.
Can things be fixed?
Of course, with principled, courageous leadership. Trillions in wasteful spending needs to be cut, and dinosaur government programs should be eliminated or privatized.
But the last place to look for leadership for any of this is the current administration in Washington, which loves growing the welfare state by mortgaging the future of our next generation. It’s time for change, and our young voters know it.
Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.” Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now.
To find out more about Star Parker and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
even more.
“There’s nothing to prevent the federal government,” says Stephanie Kelter, Sen. Bernie Sanders’ economic adviser, “from creating as much money as it wants to and paying it to someone.”
This is crazy. Look what’s happened to countries that tried it.
After World War I, the German government couldn’t afford its reparation payments, so it printed more money. That led to 300% inflation and created anger that set the stage for Hitler.
Similar hyperinflation wrecked lives Argentina, Zimbabwe and, most recently, Venezuela.
People work their whole lives to build savings; politicians steal it through inflation.
Today, silly people like Biden and Sen. Elizabeth Warren say we can “fix” our deficit by taxing the rich.
Since the stock market’s risen almost 30,000 points in 15 years, there are a lot of absurdly rich people around.
“Pay your fair share,” shouts Warren.
But rich people already pay a bigger share, and raising taxes on the rich wouldn’t even get us out of the mess we’re in.
First, many wouldn’t pay. They’d move abroad or invest abroad or spend even more on tax lawyers to slime around the rules.
Even if they didn’t, there aren’t enough rich people to tax to compensate for what our politicians spend. If Warren were able to grab all billionaires’ wealth, that would only cover about a seventh of our debt.
The only solution is to address what causes the debt in the first place: excessive govern-
ment spending. It shouldn’t be so hard. Politicians don’t even need to stop spending more. They don’t need to balance the budget.
They just need to limit spending increases to about 4%, just below America’s average yearly economic growth. Then we could grow our way out of our debt burden.
But our politicians won’t even do that.
They don’t even talk about debt.
They are irresponsible cowards.
Every Tuesday at JohnStossel.com, Stossel posts a new video about the battle between government and freedom. He is the author of “Give Me a Break: How I Exposed Hucksters, Cheats, and Scam Artists and Became the Scourge of the Liberal Media.”
reject my wisdom, but through their foolish policies are hurting you. You are on the verge of a barbarism that will destroy all of the rich blessings your Nation has experienced over time.
I leave you with a final challenge. It was recorded by King David and written in the book of Psalms in my book, the Bible. Speaking for me he said, “take heed, you senseless ones among the people; you fools, when will you become wise? (Psalm 94:8).
Time is short and the Barbarians are at the door, “take heed,” quickly!
I love you, God
These letters are written by Rev. Dr. Sam Hollo of Alton, NH
