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contents inside

JESSECA TIMMONS/LEDGER-TRANSCRIPT

Walter Hautanen, 87, continues his 60-year career in hand-lettered signs. From left: Walter Hautanen, Rindge Fire Chief Bob Faas, Jed Brummer.

PAGE 19

Active Aging

Bias and trusts of Medicare ............... Page 6

Copyright 2026 by the Newspapers of New England. All rights reserved.

Art Klub cultivates creativity............. Page 10

Monitor Publishing, PO Box 1177 Concord, N.H. 03302-1177 Advertising: ads@cmonitor.com Editorial: features@cmonitor.com

Keeping hand-written art alive ........ Page 19 Preventing elder abuse scams ......... Page 21 Seniors are picking up gig work...... Page 22

MONADNOCK LEDGER-TRANSCRIPT PO Box 36, Peterborough NH 03458 Advertising information: 924-7172, ads@ledgertranscript.com STAFF Publishers: Heather McKernan, hmckernan@ledgertranscript.com, and Steve Leone, sleone@cmonitor.com

ACTIVE AGING- — April 2026

Benefits of group tours...................... Page 16

Concord Monitor

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Understanding CBD ........................... Page 4

UNDERSTANDING CBD

What older adults should know

By RICK SMITH

Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become an increasingly discussed topic in recent years, especially among older adults exploring ways to support overall wellness. As interest grows, so does the need for accurate, balanced information to help individuals understand what CBD is, how it works, and what to consider before adding it to their routine.

CBD is a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, the compound responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects, CBD is non-intoxicating and does not produce a high. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network that helps regulate functions such as sleep, mood, appetite, and pain perception.

While research is still ongoing, some studies and anecdotal reports

COURTESY

SEE CBD PAGE 5 Rick and Laurie Smith are the owners of Your CBD Store Concord.

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

Quilt Now, Sleep Later • Fabric shop • Quilting Classes • Quilt patterns & Notions • Authorized BERNINA sewing machine dealer with sales & service • Long arm quilting services 199 State Route, 101, Amherst, NH 03031 603.384.2557 www.nightowlquiltingstudio.com

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CBD FROM PAGE 4

suggest that CBD may help support comfort, relaxation, and overall well-being.

For older adults, challenges such as discomfort, sleep difficulties, or stress can become more pronounced with age. CBD is sometimes explored as part of a broader wellness plan, but it is important to approach its use thoughtfully and with reliable information.

One key factor to consider is product quality. CBD products vary widely in purity, potency, and consistency. Third-party lab testing is an important standard for transparency, as it confirms cannabinoid content and screens for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, or residual solvents. Access to these test results, often provided through QR codes on packaging, allows consumers to make informed choices and ensure they are purchasing products that meet safety standards.

The method used to extract CBD is also important. CO2 extraction, for example, is a widely used process that isolates cannabinoids without the use of harsh chemical solvents, producing a cleaner, more stable product. Understanding the

By focusing on education, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making, older adults can navigate the growing interest in CBD with confidence. As research continues to evolve, staying informed ensures that wellness choices, whether CBD or other options, remain grounded in reliable information and support long-term health. extraction process and manufacturing practices can help individuals feel more confident in the products they select.

Education is another vital component. Many people new to CBD have questions about how it works, how long it takes to feel effects, and which form, such as tinctures, capsules, edibles, or topicals, might best suit their needs. Learning the basics of the endocannabinoid system and the different product options can help set realistic expectations and support a safe, informed experience.

It is also important to recognize that individual responses to CBD vary. Factors such as metabolism, body chemistry, and personal health goals can influence how the body reacts. A common approach is to start with a lower amount and gradually adjust while observing how the body responds. Keeping a simple journal to track usage and effects can be a helpful way to identify what works best.

Consulting with a healthcare professional before using CBD is strongly recommended, particularly for those who are taking prescrip-

tion medications or managing chronic conditions. Although CBD is generally well-tolerated, it can interact with certain medications, and guidance from a healthcare provider can help ensure safe use.

Beyond the specifics of CBD, the broader takeaway for older adults is the importance of informed, intentional wellness choices. Asking questions, seeking credible sources, and evaluating products carefully are all key steps in maintaining health and quality of life. CBD may be one option among many, but the decision to use it should always prioritize safety, understanding, and personal well-being.

By focusing on education, transparency, and thoughtful decisionmaking, older adults can navigate the growing interest in CBD with confidence. As research continues to evolve, staying informed ensures that wellness choices, whether CBD or other options, remain grounded in reliable information and support long-term health.

Rick and Laurie Smith are the owners of Your CBD Store Concord, located at 211 Loudon Rd STE A, Concord, NH 03301. They can be reached at (603) 715 1153 or online at getsunmed.com.

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Navigating bias and trust

By JON MORTON

concern when approaching Medicare decisions: Will an agent recommend what’s best for them, or The story of the two wolves offers timeless wisdom about inner choices. what’s most profitable for the agent? One New Hampshire resiA grandfather is teaching his dent (let’s call him Gary) hesitated grandson about life. He says: “A to work with a licensed insurance fight is going on inside me. It is a terrible fight, and it is between two agent for his Medicare Supplement plan. Worried about inherent bias, wolves. he spent hours researching on gov“One is evil — he is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arro- ernment websites, attending free gance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, workshops through ServiceLink Reinferiority, lies, false pride, superi- source Center (New Hampshire’s State Health Insurance Assistance ority and ego.

Program), and asking questions on“The other is good — he is joy, line. He wanted to ensure any peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, em- choice was truly suitable, not influenced by sales incentives. pathy, generosity, truth, compasThis caution is understandable — sion and faith.

The same fight is going on inside shortcuts exist in any field. However, licensed health insurance you — and inside every other agents in New Hampshire and person, too.”

The grandson thinks about it for a across the U.S. face significant safeguards: They must pass a chalminute and then asks his grandfalenging state licensing exam, carry ther: errors and omissions insurance, “Which wolf wins?” complete ongoing continuing eduThe grandfather simply cation, and follow strict compliance replies: “The one you feed.” rules from state regulators and the Many seniors share a common

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Agents rely heavily on word-ofmouth referrals and reputation to build long-term businesses. Unsuitable recommendations can spread quickly, damaging trust and future opportunities. This creates strong incentives for appropriate advice and excellent service. The threat of reputation loss deters poor behavior, while doing right by clients supports sustainable success.

A common industry saying applies here: “Following the path of least resistance is what makes men and rivers crooked.” Statistics indicate that around 90–92% of new insurance agents (across life, health, Medicare, and other lines) do not last three years in the business— often due to going independent too soon without sufficient guidance or experience.

Consumers benefit from working with agents who have several years of experience. Many successful professionals start by partnering with seasoned mentors, sharing commissions to gain practical knowledge

and ethical insights. Those longterm mentors succeed by building trust through solid, client-focused recommendations.

Self-research, like Gary’s, can provide a solid education — but it requires significant time and effort.

Consider this analogy: Grocery stores offer self-checkout (with no discount) and staffed cashiers with no extra charge. The task is straightforward, the interaction brief, and it’s typically just weekly groceries.

Medicare choices — whether Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Medicare Supplement), Part D prescription drug plans, or related coverage—are different. They often commit someone for a year or longer, directly affecting healthcare access and costs. When facing such important decisions, seniors should weigh the benefits of consulting a knowledgeable, licensed professional to navigate options and avoid common pitfalls.

Jon Morton is the founder and lead agent at New England Plan Navigator.

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This continuing care retirement community offers accommodations for assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing should the need arise. All this in the company of friends.

United by creativity Havenwood art club allows residents to build their skills. Page 10

Havenwood Heritage Heights Art Klub

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Creative minds at work Art Klub challenges the artists to move out of their comfort zones

By STEVE LEONE Concord Monitor

Art Klub was conceived in May 2023 when residents were invited to display their art at the Havenwood campus. After that event, the artists decided to form a group that would meet monthly. They structured their meetings to choose a theme to paint each month. Topics include a wide range of ideas such as pets, bridges, windows, abstracts and boats.

The goal was to challenge the artists to move out of their comfort zones and try something new. The artists then share their paintings with the group where constructive criticism and encouragement are offered. The paintings are then displayed at both the Havenwood and Heritage Heights campuses until the following month when new art replaces it.

SEE ART KLUB PAGE 14 Havenwood Heritage Heights Art Klub

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

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Local Man Finds Relief from Peripheral Neuropathy Our Goal Is To Provide You With Pain Relieving Treatments So You Can Get Back To Living Your Best Life!

John J., a beloved grandfather and avid golfer, has faced significant challenges due to peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by burning, numbness, and tingling sensations in the feet and legs.

For John, these symptoms have become a barrier to enjoying life’s simple pleasures—playing with his grandkids, hitting the golf course with friends, and taking evening walks with his wife.

“I never thought I’d be able to play with my grandkids again or enjoy a round of golf without pain. Thanks to the team at Trend Acupuncture, I’m getting my life back.”

Peripheral neuropathy can be a debilitating condition that, if left untreated, worsens over time. John’s discomfort had severely limited his ability to engage in activities he cherished, leaving him frustrated and longing for relief. However, his life took a positive turn when he discovered Trend Acupuncture, a local clinic specializing in innovative treatments for neuropathy.

At Trend Acupuncture, our dedicated team focuses on addressing the root causes of neuropathy through a comprehensive, personalized approach. Using a combination of traditional acupuncture techniques and modern integrative medicine, they aim to promote healing and alleviate pain.

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- — Saturday, April 18, 2026

After starting his treatment plan, John began to notice a remarkable improvement. The burning sensations that once plagued him began to subside, allowing him to reclaim his active lifestyle. With renewed energy, he was soon back on the golf course and able to enjoy leisurely strolls with his wife, much to the delight of his family.

Dr. Kristen Markwith, founder of Trend, says that cases like John’s are incredibly common. “Almost all of my neuropathy patients have been told at one point or another that there is no hope. I like to think I specialize in offering hope.”

Acupuncture is usually the last resort with the best results!

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Trend Acupuncture Is Helping People Reclaim Their Lives For millions of people, back pain isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s life-altering.

It interrupts work, limits movement, and quietly steals joy from everyday moments. At Trend Acupuncture, patients are discovering that relief is not only possible, but measurable, long-lasting, and often life-changing.

Led by Dr. Kristen Markwith, Trend Acupuncture specializes in helping people with chronic and complex back pain find real solutions—without medications or side effects. The clinic’s approach focuses on restoring function in the body.

At Trend Acupuncture we help regulate the nervous system, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation—one of the primary drivers of back pain. By calming overactive pain signals and encouraging blood flow to injured or tight tissues, acupuncture helps the body feel better, move better, and heal more efficiently. Many patients notice reduced pain, improved mobility, and better sleep as their systems come back into balance.

What sets Trend Acupuncture apart is its integration of innovative medical solutions alongside acupuncture—most notably frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM). This gentle, targeted therapy works at the cellular level to support tissue repair and reduce pain patterns that can persist long after an injury. FSM is vital in helping results last, reinforcing the progress made through acupuncture and preventing the cycle of recurring pain.

The outcome is more than pain management—it’s restored hope. For some, success means walking to the mailbox comfortably. For others, it’s finally waking in the morning with no pain. Every win matters.

Please visit our website TrendAcupuncture.com for more information or call us at (603) 456-8294 to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Markwith.

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At Trend Acupuncture, the goal is clear: help people feel better so they can do the things they love, with the people they love—safely, naturally, and sustainably.

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

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Havenwood Heritage Heights Art Klub ART KLUB FROM PAGE 10

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

The artists work in many media, including acrylic, watercolor, oil, ink, stained glass, zentangle and mixed media. Art Klub also provides a time for socialization, where new friendships are formed.

Recently, Art Klub put together a coffee table photo book that is now available on each campus. It has a collection of work from each of the 14 artists who participated.

The Klub is currently planning an art show for this summer. It will be open to all resi-

dents, current and future. The Klub has an active membership of 18-20 artists and it’s growing all the time. The members are always happy to see the joy the monthly displays — and now the book — bring to the residents of Havenwood Heritage Heights.

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NE-484361

ACTIVE AGING- — April 2026

The benefits of a group tour Traveling can be overwhelming — but Active aging means continuing to there are options to make it easy, fun

By KELLY COOKE

explore, learn and enjoy the world in new ways. Travel can be one of life’s great pleasures, especially later in life, when many people have more time to explore, learn and enjoy new experiences. Traveling later in life is about more than getting away – it is about making the most of the years ahead! It can lift your spirits, give you something to look forward to and create memories that last long after you return home. The only downside? The stress of planning or not wanting to travel alone. That’s why joining a group tour can be such a welcoming option. It takes away many of the hassles that can make planning feel overwhelming.

Where to start

The benefits First, there is an ease of travel when joining a group tour – you make your reservation, pack your bags and are ready to go! Being a passenger on a tour means no driving, no planning, no tough deci-

Kelly Cooke of Terrapin Tours on a trip to Greenland.

sions… just relax and enjoy the destinations and the company of your fellow travelers.

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something new to take in and helps break up the routines of everyday life. Just as important, it can bring a sense of fun back into the calendar.

A day spent enjoying a beautiful place or a special event can leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.

Group travel also offers something many older adults appreciate: companionship. Whether it is sharing a meal, chatting on the bus or discovering a new place with others, travel can open the door to new friendships and easy conversation.

Calling the number above will direct you to a licensed agent. Not affiliated with the US government or federal Medicare program.

COURTESY

Travel can support healthy aging in quiet but meaningful ways. It keeps you moving, gives your mind

Not sure where to start or which company to choose? Here’s the key – remember that not all tours are created equal. The modern group traveler is more active, more adventurous and savvier when it comes to travel. There are a lot of differences between tour companies and it is important to choose the one that is SEE GROUP TOURS PAGE 18

Several Hundred New Hampshire Nursing Several Hundred New Hampshire Nursing Home Residents are Experiencing Severe Home Residents Experiencing Severe Medicaid Cuts are Despite bipartisan efforts

by Gov. Ayotte Several Hundred New Hampshire Nursing

and legislators shore upefforts Medicaid Despitetobipartisan

by Gov. Ayotte Medicaid Cuts Home Residents are Experiencing funding, care in manySevere nursing homes, Despite bipartisan efforts by Gov. Ayotte including Holy Cross Health Care Center in and legislators to shore up Medicaid Medicaid Cuts Manchester, took severe cuts January 1. funding, care in many nursing homes, Despite byCare Gov.Center Ayottein includingbipartisan Holy Crossefforts Health and legislators shorecuts upschool Medicaid SisterManchester, Jacqueline, atosevere former took January 1. funding, care in many nursing homes, principal, is among Holy CrossCare residents including Cross Health Center in SisterHoly Jacqueline, a former school affected, as her care funding was cut 1.

Manchester, took severe cuts January principal, is among Holy Cross residents 11.74%, or $31.14 day.

Holywas Cross affected, as per her care funding cut Sister Jacqueline, a former school 11.74%, $31.14 per day. Holy Cross was among 19 or hard-hit nursing homes principal, is among Holy Cross residents was among 19 hard-hit nursing homes where daily careas cuts no less than affected, herwere care funding cut where daily care cuts were no was less than or $31.14 perand day.

Cross $10.4711.74%, per resident and as much as $10.47 per resident asHoly much as was among 19 hard-hit nursing homes $45.89 for another smallsmall nonprofit. $45.89 for another nonprofit. where daily care cuts were no less than $10.47 resident andbe asbalanced much as stateper budget cannot The stateThe budget cannot be balanced through such cuts. $45.89 for another small through such cuts.nonprofit.

through such cuts.

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PLEASE tosavenhseniors.com provide more carecare PLEASEask askstate statelegislators legislators to provide more funding session for for ourour mostmost fundingininthe the2026 2026legislative legislative session PLEASE askGranite state legislators to provide more care vulnerable Staters. vulnerable Granite Staters.

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GROUP TOURS FROM PAGE 16

right for you.

Pace: When choosing a trip, comfort matters. So does pacing.

A well-planned outing should feel enjoyable, not rushed. It should leave enough time to take in the scenery, enjoy the company, and appreciate the moment. That kind of thoughtful travel can be especially rewarding as we get older.

The true cost: Looking at the price isn’t always a clear picture of the cost of a trip – make sure you understand the difference between price and overall cost.

Take a close look at what is included in the price of the tour — a lower price on the brochure doesn’t always mean a lower cost to you. There is also a difference between budget tours and higher-end tour offerings – learn more about the accommodations, inclusions, and pace before deciding which is best for you.

WHERE TO START? Traveling is a great way to stay active and to continue learning later in life. Whether you want to experience a Broadway show, take a scenic or cultural regional trip, or if you are looking for a bucket-list

adventure – the options are endless. If group travel is new to you, it may be a good idea to test the waters with a day trip to a nearby destination. It is a great way to learn more about a local tour company, meet other travelers and get a sense of what it is like to travel on a group tour without committing to a longer tour. A final note: At the end of the day, traveling is a very personal experience. Traveling with a group has always been a great option for me. I love the camaraderie that comes with traveling with a group of strangers that become friends; I love sharing the experiences along the way with fellow travelers; and I love sitting down at the end of the day and sharing stories of our adventures. A group tour can be a great option for you, where after you take that “first step” and get on the bus, you are in for a fun-filled adventure. So, hop on the bus! You won’t regret it!

Kelly Cooke is the Owner of Terrapin Tours, loves traveling and has 30 years experience in the travel industry. Learn more at TerrapinTours.com or by calling 603348-7141.

Kelly Cooke of Terrapin Tours during a visit to Scotland.

I couldn’t lie down. I couldn’t sit up. Now I walk up to 14,000 steps a day. Life is good.

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

—Louise DelPapa, New Ipswich, NH

When osteoporosis caused pain that limited Louise’s life, she turned to Dr. Vache Hambardzumyan and Monadnock Orthopaedic Associates (MOA). She found a team that listened, explained, and delivered expert care that combined medication and physical therapy. She now says, “I can do nearly everything I used to! I refer everyone to MOA and MCH—they have the solutions. I’m so glad they are right down the road.”

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COURTESY

Keeping the art alive Walter Hautanen, 87, continues his 60-year career in hand-lettered signs

By JESSECA TIMMONS

Authentic Antiques & Fine Art

Ledger-Transcript

After 60 years of hand-lettering signs, Walter Hautanen, of Jaffrey, can spot his own work a mile away.

“One time, we were in California, and I saw a sign, and I said to my wife: I know I did that sign,” Hautanen said. “I’m not sure how it got there, but I know it was mine.”

Hautanen can also identify the work of fellow Monadnock region sign painters, including Mark Johnson in Swanzey, at a glance.

“Everyone has their own style.

There are not many of us left, and we all help each other out,” he said.

“Walt does beautiful work. There are not many like him anymore,” said Jed Brummer of Rindge, who has known Hautanen since they were both teenagers. “Nobody else is more ‘Jaffrey.’ He’s a native, and he’s been here his whole life. “

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ANTIQUES • FINE ART • VINTAGE JEWELRY • SILVER • PORCELAIN PERIOD • COUNTRY • MODERN 200 Dealers 2,000 Consignors 20,000 Sq. ft.

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Walter Hautanen at his workshop in Jaffrey.

At 87, Hautanen is still going strong. He still works at his business, Walt’s Signs, on Route 202 just before the Rindge town line, almost every day. Recently, Hautanen re-painted the sign at the Rindge

JESSECA TIMMONS/LEDGER-TRASNCRIPT

Fire Station and touched up the department’s original fire helmetshaped signs donated by the Brummer family in the late 1950s.

SEE ART PAGE 20

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Main Street 45 Main45Street 45 45Main Main Street Peterborough, NH 03458 Peterborough, NHStreet 03458 Peterborough, Peterborough, NH 03458 03458 (603) NH 924-3050 (603) 924-3050 (603) 924-3050 924-3050 www.runyonlawoffice.com www.runyonlawoffice.com (603) www.runyonlawoffice.com

Hearty home-cooked meals and restaurant style dining A dedicated team of caregivers 24/7 A full calendar of activities including yoga, gardening, happy hour, and much more Fitness Center, Auditorium, Café and other onsite amenities Onsite Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Spacious, private apartments Free local transportation Pet Friendly

ACTIVE AGING- — April 2026

At Scott-Farrar, we proudly carry forward our 117 year tradition of caring for local seniors of the Monadnock Region. Some of the great benefits of calling Scott-Farrar home include:

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ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

ART FROM PAGE 19

Hautanen’s handiwork can be seen around the region and around the country. In the peak years of his career, he traveled the Northeast for jobs, spending time in the Boston area, Pittsburg, Penn., and sending many signs to New York City.

Hautanen grew up in Jaffrey and played on the 1956 championship baseball team at Conant High School. He fondly remembers skiing the rope tow at the Woodbound Inn, “showing off for the girls.” When he was a teenager, there was also a rope tow behind Conant High School.

“There were a lot of things you could do then that you can’t do now,” he said. “It’s a different world.”

After graduating, Hautanen went into the military. When he returned in 1960, he enrolled at New Hampshire Technical College in Manchester for three years, where he learned commercial sign painting.

Sixty years later, he can still quote his instructors.

“I learned from a French sign painter, and man, that guy was fast,” Hautanen said. “Right before I graduated, he said, ‘You have to remember, somebody’s going to come along one day with letters that you just stick on, you’ll have all the fonts you want, everything.’

And now, everything is vinyl. But it’s a good thing. It’s progress. I’m just an old fuddy-duddy now; I just do specialty things now.”

Hautanen said learning his trade was a challenge.

“When I started, I thought, ‘ This will be a piece of cake,’ but I thought wrong. There’s a lot to it,” he said. “I didn’t touch a brush for two years. All we did was pencil and work on plates. We did the alphabet with block letters, and we measured all the squares out by eye.

It got you used to letter sizes. Now I don’t even have to measure, I just make a pencil mark and go back and paint it.”

Despite the onset of stick-on vinyl letters, Hautanen’s services are still in demand. He also specializes in painting stripes, logos, and letters on trucks, including fire trucks and dump trucks. Hautanen painted all the Jaffrey fire trucks.

“I’ve painted trucks for over 100 fire departments,” Hautanen said.

Hautanen was also a Jaffrey firefighter for 30 years.

“Heights never used to bother me. Then one day, I got so I couldn’t wait to grab that ladder again when

Walter Hautanen with an Old Jaffrey Center street sign.

JESSECA TIMMONS/LEDGER-TRASNCRIPT

It’s a good business, it really is. I’d love to see some young people start doing this stuff, by hand, because it’s a lost art. ... It’s been a good life.”

Walter Hautanen

I was up on the roof, and I thought, it’s time,” he said.

Hautanen also created custom wooden plaques for longtime guests of the Woodbound Inn, which Brummer’s family owned.

“Walter did all the painting on those. I can remember him coming into the Inn and him saying, don’t touch it, it’s still wet,” Brummer said.

Hautanen is currently working on a custom sign for an antique pickup truck owned by Red’s in Jaffrey, which will have letters filled in gold leaf.

“Painting with gold leaf. It’s a process; you have to paint it, then layer the leaf, then you clear coat it, then you put on the black outline, then you clear coat it again. The top layer dries, but the inside doesn’t dry for months,” Hautanen said.

Hautanen was trained to paint with his painting hand braced over his other hand, to keep it steady.

“I’m 87, and I can’t keep going forever, but I can keep painting as long as there are no shakes,” he said.

“Some people use one hand, or a

maul stick, but I learned this way. I got a wicked callus on my hand from painting that way.”

Just recently, Hautanen restored a sign using gold leaf paint for a business in Fitzwilliam that he says may have been the largest one he ever worked on.

“The guy that bought the place brought this old sign down, and it was 16-feet long, 15-inches wide, and it was one board, several inches thick. There were no knots or anything, and it has square nails. It was old,” he said.

Hautanen was able to source gold leaf paint to match the original sign.

“I get it from Newburyport, Mass.

It’s the only place you can still get it,” Hautanen said.

Hautanen also painted all the decorative road signs in the Old Jaffrey Center historic district. Each sign has a profile horse, which was the symbol of Jaffrey, from Lord Jaffrey.

“That’s how people used to find their way. The horse was the symbol of Jaffrey, because of Lord

Jaffrey and it’s facing a certain way, ” he said. “Every town had a different symbol on their signs, so you knew what town you were in.”

Hautanen said people sometimes underestimate the importance of signage.

“The first thing people should think about when they open a business is the sign. There’s a new business down the road, they’ve been open for a year, no one knows they’re there,” he said.

When asked how he has stayed so fit, Hautanen laughed and said sign painting and painting trucks is hard work.

“I was never sitting around,” he said. “Always moving and on the go.”

Hautanen says while he knows most signs are now created by machine, he wishes more young people would get into the sign painting business “It’s a good business, it really is.

I’d love to see some young people start doing this stuff, by hand, because it’s a lost art,” he said. “It’s been a good life.”

Preventing elder abuse scams in NH relatives that can help identify suspicious financial activity. Early warning signs may include sudden changes in financial behavior, changes in spending, secrecy about finances or new “friends.” A common theme in Romance Scams is for the victim to send large quantities of gift cards to the scammer. Encouraging seniors to consult a trusted family member before making large financial transactions can reduce vulnerability.

Setting up joint monitoring on accounts or alerts for unusual transactions provides additional protection.

Education is also important. Understanding how these scams work will help seniors identify red flags, such as urgent requests for money or requests for personal information. In New Hampshire, there are also free public education campaigns by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office and various financial institutions that provide training designed to assist older adults with recognizing, avoiding, and responding to scams. Often-

times, financial institutions are the first to notice unusual account activity and staff are often trained to identify the warning signs of financial exploitation.

Any suspected scams should be reported promptly to minimize and prevent further financial harm.

The New Hampshire Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services is tasked with investigating reports of financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. The New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office assists in cases of consumer fraud, and local law enforcement agencies should be contacted in cases of suspected fraud.

Preventing elder abuse scams requires a proactive approach that requires careful estate planning. It is important to contact your estate planning attorney with any questions or concerns you may have regarding safeguarding your finances from scammers.

Laura Dudziak, an attorney with Upton & Hatfield, LLP, focuses her practice on family law, estate planning and probate and guardianship.

ACTIVE AGING- — April 2026

Financial scams involving seniors are a growing concern with millions falling victim to financial fraud schemes each year. Often, older adults are targeted due to their accumulation of assets, loneliness, and sometimes cognitive decline.

Prevention is key and requires a proactive approach, including legal planning, financial oversight, education and knowledge of state resources.

Common types of elder abuse scams include the following: ■ Romance Scams where scammers pose as a romantic partner to gain trust and seek money under false pretenses; ■ Lottery Scams where scammers inform the victim they have won a lottery but require payment of taxes or fees before they claim their winnings; ■ Grandparent Scams where scammers impersonate a grandchild in distress, requesting money for a fabricated emergency; ■ Technical Support Scams where

scammers convince victims to pay for unnecessary services or software and sometimes gain access to the victim’s computer; and ■ Government Impersonation Scams where scammers pose as government officials threatening arrest and demanding payment of fines.

The most effective way to prevent exploitation is through early estate planning. A properly drafted durable power of attorney will allow a trusted person to manage financial affairs when a senior becomes incapacitated. Revocable trusts provide a layer of protection as assets in the trust are under the management of a trustee who has a fiduciary obligation to act in the senior’s best interest. Advance Directives and HIPAA authorizations allow a trusted individual to monitor any cognitive changes that might make seniors susceptible to scams.

Financial monitoring is another important safeguard. Family members and caregivers can provide an essential line of defense by having regular communication with older

21

By LAURA DUDZIAK

Why ‘unretired’ seniors are picking up gig work nretired” in recent years. After fessor job teaching statistics would Paying the bills “u concluding decades-long careers at pay. doesn’t come easy hospitals, universities and corpora- “Uber came up, and it was not a

By CATHY BUSSEWITZ Associated Press

22

ACTIVE AGING - — April 2026

Before Stu Goldberg begins his night shift driving for Uber, he pulls out a notebook to read a handwritten list of reminders. “No tickets. Full stops,” he’d scrawled in the book. “Careful backing up.

Watch for pedestrians and bikes.”

With a Ph.D in neuropsychology and decades of experience running his own business, Goldberg, 74, didn’t picture chauffeuring strangers around when he retired.

But financially, things didn’t go as planned. So he makes the best of his situation shuttling passengers through New York City at night.

“I like the freedom. I like the flexibility. I like meeting people,” Goldberg said. “I like that most of the time I can get, once or twice a day, a good conversation with somebody.”

Goldberg is one of a growing number of Americans who have

The work keeps her active. “I get my steps in and do hill climbing,” she said. tions, they returned to the workIn a leafy New Jersey suburb, bad choice for me because I was force due to insufficient retirement comfortable driving people,” he Baratta set out to coax Barley, a mix savings, rising living costs and a de- said. “I felt it could be a good way to of pit bull, beagle and shepherd, make money and keep most of it.” sire to stay active. into the afternoon air with a wind Some are finding gig work, or About 1 in 5 Americans over age chill pushing the temperature down contract jobs, through apps or dig- 50 who aren’t retired say they have into the 20s. ital platforms. Delivering people no retirement savings, according to “Barley, if you turn this way, the and parcels, taking care of pets or a survey the AARP conducted in wind will be blowing behind you,” folding other people’s laundry suits January 2025. she said gently, leading the dog them because they can set their Retirees and employment experts down a wide street. own hours and work, or not, when say gig work has advantages and Baratta likes the physical nature they choose. of dog walking. She ran two halfdownsides, including limited job “We’re living longer, so people protections and wages that may be marathons in the past year but noare working longer because they insufficient to cover on-the-job ex- tices that “being older and not have to fund those extra years,” said penses. Here are some factors to having knees that are totally great” Carly Roszkowski, vice president of consider. makes steep or uneven terrain a financial resilience at the nonprofit challenge even for her. She advises organization AARP. “And this con- Stay active, but know people in her age group to be careful cept of retirement for most people your limits about which pets they agree to as like a cliff or a day they’re walk.

Barbara Baratta, 72, retired as a working towards really isn’t a re“Some dogs are big and strong, pediatric nurse in 2018. But she got ality for most.” restless after a few years and signed which can be an issue, a lesson I Goldberg wanted to teach after learned very early on,” Baratta said. up with the pet care app Rover, winding down his software and “An 80-pound dog, ... they’re going which connected her to jobs telemarketing company. But he walking dogs and using her nursing to pull, they’re going to run away.” needed to earn more money than skills to administer medications to SEE WORK PAGE 23 what the occasional adjunct procats.

NE-484805

WORK FROM PAGE 22

Driving can be hard on the back and legs, and the challenge of finding restrooms to use on the go becomes difficult to deal with as you age, Goldberg cautioned.

A social buzz Days can feel long and lonely after one retires.

Working part-time can provide social interaction.

Baruch Schwartz, 78, was a wedding photographer for decades until the work became too physically demanding to do full-time. He started driving for Uber and Lyft and derives satisfaction from feeling needed. “I feel like I’m on a mission,” he said after taking a passenger home from a kidney dialysis appointment.

Driving for Uber gives Goldberg a chance to meet a variety of people. One night he spoke with a Scottish historian about the movie “Braveheart.” Another night a passenger asked him how to know whether it was the right time to propose to his girlfriend.

“I’m amazed at what people will tell me about their relationships,” Goldberg said.

AP ILLUSTRATION

by his job, he went several days without income.

“When that happens, even though you have the flexibility, which you like, and you don’t have to call anybody and say ‘I’m not driving today,’ you still don’t make the money that day. And you’re still paying insurance,” Goldberg said.

Make sure the work is worth it

Before investing time into gig work, research what percentage the company takes from workers’ earnings.

“The house always wins, so the amount of money you are going to get as a driver or delivery Flexibility — for a price worker is very much controlled by the platform,” One of the draws of working for gig platforms said Alexandrea Ravenelle, a sociologist and gig is the ability to set your own hours. Baratta’s economy researcher at The University of North schedule allowed her to babysit her grandchilCarolina at Chapel Hill. “There are no workplace dren. protections, so if you get injured on the job, if Goldberg appreciated the flexibility of setting you have any types of problems, if you have a car his own hours when there was a recent death in accident, for instance, you are entirely out of his family. But between that unplanned trip and luck.” a root canal, and no vacation or sick days offered Uber maintains commercial auto insurance

coverage on behalf of its drivers, although New York City requires drivers to hold that insurance themselves, said Uber spokesman Ryan Thornton.

Goldberg hit three nasty potholes in three weeks, paying $144 each time to replace the tires. He lost money those weeks, despite working, he said.

“I’d say most drivers are not happy with the money that they’re making, unless they’re working more hours than I’m willing to do,” Goldberg said.

LisaKay “LK” Foyle, 64, of Orange, Texas, found a way to maximize her earnings on Poplin, an app which connects her with clients who need help with laundry. She has seniority among workers on the app so chooses to accept express orders, which pay the highest rate, and declines lower-paying jobs.

Foyle marvels at the state of some families’ dirty laundry: “all the socks are inside-out, all the underwear is in the pants, and you’ve got to check every single pocket, or you’re washing marbles or frogs or the snacks they had that day.”

Baratta’s dog-walking income supplements several small pensions and Social Security benefits. She charges $20 for a half-hour walk, not including her driving time to and from the location. Rover keeps about 20%, she said. The $1,000 to $2,000 she makes per month helps pay the bills, she said.

“The dogs and cats are delights,” Baratta said.

“I’m not becoming rich doing this, ... but I’ve met a lot of great families doing it.

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REGION : Families celebrate Easter with egg hunts. Page 6 IN OUR SCHOOLS: Elementary schools celebrate reading.

Page 12

CASH

BACK See page 3 for details!

PETERBOROUGH, NH

26, 2026

s indefinitely

HANCOCK

close Windy Row Bridge

given its condition.

Smith the structure, voiced concern during member Virginia Residents Red List of Board “Anything rated four or below of nice the meeting. it to the state’s Municipal 2025 re- added, here, the sound poor, which is a a dangerous condi- deficient structures after its “Since I moved is classified as The deteriorated to changed,” resident of saying ‘dangerous.’ the bridge has port. tion. cited ac- way “I’ve heard vehicles it, the better.” spans the spillTina Trudel said. wonsooner we close A November inspection The bridge, which to recommend bridge and I’ve Pond, was ordered material deterioration, The state declined for the bridge drive over the large crack.” way for Halfmoon March 23 Select celerated significant rustwhen I’ll hear a weight limit a girder bowing and rat- a revised tons — in- dered surprised you haven’t closed closed following where Chair Betsy ing. The bridge’s superstructure the — previously rated for 15 “I’m

By TYLER DION Peirce Board meeting, to consult an resident Nathaniel than 40 residents from a 4 to a 3, while a stead advising the town Ledger-Transcript Pe- it already,” Villaume told more been worsening ing dropped were rated Board member has engineer. Select SEE BRIDGE A4 deck and substructure that its condition would be surBridge over the Webster said he would certify 4. for years.

The Windy Row the state’s ter New Hampshire will close indefiVillaume explained and Select prised if any engineer Since 2020, the has McDowell Reservoir traffic beginrating system, of Transportation nitely to all vehicular 25, after offi- Department adding nine-point March the bridge annually, H ning Wednesday, LYNDEBOROUG structure has inspected the cials determined

Open to foot, horse and bicycle traffic

Town recounts zoning amendment vote

PE TERBOROUGH

JAFFRE Y

Fire station addition moves forward

Article passes with same 135-132 margin

By TYLER DION Ledger-Transcript

voters upLyndeborough Meeting held a narrow Town Article 6 in a vote on Warrant leaving the recount Monday, by the measure approved same 135-132 margin. was conThe ballot recount March 23 in ducted at 1:30 p.m. the article Citizen’s Hall after just three by initially passed votes. of AdjustZoning Board Bob Newton ment member margin warsaid the slim count. ranted a second con“Even if the recount be it should firms the result, assure both done if only to vote is accusides that the COURTESY said. he rate,” Dr. a reTonya Morrow, RN; Under RSA 40:4-c, if 10 Marybeth Quill, RN; tion. count may be requested reBrianna Blake, RN; calling for a written Hambardzumyan; The town is now voters submit to right: Dr. Vache qualifications clerk within Pictured from leftand President & CEO Rich Scheinblum. statements of quest to the town firms by April election. The John LaBranche from interested seven days of the a single schedule the 7. Officials are seekingboth the town must then 10 days of recompany to handle of the recount within design and construction ceiving the request. residents add 9,690 project, which would station.

6 asked Article fire amendments square feet to the inwhether to adopt people, quality of care Zoning OrdiPlans for the addition Former CFO prioritizes to two sections of locker room in Ormy priority, and clude shower and to denance 700 and language “My family is always priorfacilities for firefighters admired his lead- everyone’s family should be their dinance 400. calls, as we can to is intended ing him. I’ve always contaminate after for emeralways do what Ordinance 700 developis ity. We will

By JESSECA TIMMONS ership style.” well as bunk spaceduring exScheinblum said. his goal as CEO to allow residential Ledger-Transcript Scheinblum said of his time “out- support that,” says while he doesn’t densities than gency responders when the 50% ment at higher Scheinblum while preto spend at least tended emergencies changes in the immediother parts of town helm of Monadnock side his office.” rural the plan any majoris creating some new iniSince taking the A4 walking around he serving Lyndeborough’s three weeks ago, SEE FIRE STATION “By that, I mean resources said. ate future, around staff retenCommunity Hospital has been on the to people,” he character, natural and tiatives, particularly hospital talking and safety.

CEO Rich Scheinblum part to play here, and public health tion. changed “Everyone has a 11 new things with go.

The amendments 7 Spor ts I’m planning to is important.”

“We’re trying some We’re having Opinion 702:02.

“The first 90 days, people, ” Schein- everyone’s job has been at MCH for 26 engagement.

Sections 702:01 and previously 9 Classified 14 Scheinblum Ar ts my the CFO. A employee just listen and support ‘Coffee Connections,’ Section 702:01 are going to be of those years as 10 For the Record15 lot size of first once-a-month in just to talk blum said. “People time in the first two years, 19 Calendar required a minimumof dry land native, Scheinblum’s at where we’ll invite staff on. We’re go16 my was in Connecticut focus. I’ve spent going Crossword 10 Obituaries 2 contiguous acres every department Monadnock region and find out what’s once-a-month lunch wetland, pond de- job in the weeks trying to hit Foundation in doing a not divided by we have over 50 Crotched Mountain focused on reim- ing to start The amendand management, the hospital, and or drainageway. where he with five employees our Employee Fominimum Greenfield, the operational partments.”

Cyndee analysis, scheduled ment increases while rebursement, fiscal in com- and I’ve Scheinblum succeeded year. We will be lot size to 5 acres,contiguous in February after and decision supportobtained rums out for the next out for the next 2 McGuire, who retired hospital for 12 redesign, things quiring at least environments. He kind of mapping to exnot divided leading the community who was previ- plex care will know what in Business Adacres of dry land drainageSokol, Bachelor of Science University of year, so people years. Rochelle has suc- his the wetland, pond or by from finance, of pect.” soils rated ministration Busipart-time employously director his Master’s in way and containing in the CFO role.

With 650 full and “somewhat Connecticut and ceeded Scheinblum of the largest employfrom Plymouth been a big “not limited” or emees, MCH is one “Rich has always Gingras, vice ness Administration Scheinblum says Laura ers in the region.

College.

SEE VOTE A4 ’rounder,'” said sons were born and commu- State Both Scheinblum’s SEE VISION A4 president of philanthropy from ConVal “He knows people’s at MCH and graduated nity relations. their kids’ names, High School. names, he knows comfortable approachand people feel

of Contractor statements 7 qualifications due April

By ASHLEY SAARI Ledger-Transcript

ahead Jaffrey is moving station exwith a major fire voters overpansion after funding whelmingly approved million $3.5 for the roughly Meeting. project at Town a bond for Voters backed clearing the the work, 151-10, to begin seekway for the town contractor ing a design-build addifor the new two-story

vision Hospital CEO outlines

ONT COTTAGE BEAUTIFUL WATERFR RD., HARRISVILLE 199 HANCOCK sq ft. • $599,000 Shower • 858 • 2 bed • 1 bath

• Outdoor

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026

Heroes

50 $1.$1 THURSDAY, MARCH PETERBOROUGH, NH

OUR 2026 COMMUNITY PARTNER

Shelter managers Mary Wright and Heidi Bourgeois are March's Hometown Heroes

enclosed spaces that let them experience the outdoors.

It is their dedication to running the allvolunteer, no-kill shelter that makes Wright and Bourgeois the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript’s Hometown Heroes for the month of March.

The 501c3 nonprofit shelter, which was Mary Wright and Heidi Bourgeois, started in 2001, is staffed by volunteers — shelter managers for Monadnock Kitty including Wright and Bourgeois — who Rescue and Adoption in Jaffrey, know the dedicate their time every day to making sure the cats are fed and medicated, cats in their care.

Some are at the shelter for a short stay rooms are cleaned, and intake and adopbefore being adopted. Others are feral or tion of about 200 animals each year are have serious medical needs, and though handled.

The duo was nominated by Carole all cats are up for adoption, some may be William of Peterborough, who knows residents for life.

“But that’s okay. They’re not homeless. them through their work. After adopting two cats from Kitty Rescue in 2004 and This is their home,” said Wright.

Many of the feral cats aren’t in individ- several more since, William became one ual cages, but live in groups in open SEE HOMETOWN HEROES A4 rooms, with access to outdoor “catios,”

By ASHLEY SAARI Ledger-Transcript

MASON

Residents voice concerns

ASHLEY SAARI / Ledger-Transcript

Mary Wright gives a kiss to one of the Kitty Rescue and Adoption cats prepared for adoption.

While the challenges continue, so do the good works done by our neighbors, our teachers, our health care providers, our volunteers and so many others. This is their story.

Savings Bank of Walpole is proud to support the 2026 Hometown Heroes who were nominated by members of the community and selected by editors of the Monadnock LedgerTranscript. Nominate your Hometown Hero today at ledgertranscript.com.

HUNDREDS JOIN PROTESTS

PETERBOROUGH, NH

MASCENIC SCHOOL DISTRICT

The district may consider

$1.$1 50

sports

after the Mascenic district budget 2026-27, reducing the number of failed to pass. about 8.75% higher default, but voters rejected than the tivities at Boynton and a reduction Held in the Boynton sports programs offered in costs of about $32,700. it March cafeteria in- 10. That stead of the SAU offices, leaves the district operating administrative assistant hours at the the meeting under a Pogorzelski said one drew parents who voiced default budget of $23,431,429, SAU offices. approach to

By ASHLEY SAARI bring down the strong sup- or $467,678 Superintendent Liz port for preserving less than the proposal.

Pogorzelski gram would overall cost of the proLedger-Transcript middle opened the meeting by be to change the In addition to proposed sports through fundraising, school outlining pos- trict’s cuts to sible options pay-to- middle school policy on transporting disfor the district and the play or a combination sports, the Parents packed a School stuof both. dents, to allow efforts also facing the eliminationdistrict is advantages and drawbacks of like The discussion followed meeting and community Board each. of fourrather than transporting carpooling the defeat and-a-half She said the total forum of Mascenic’s students by teaching positions Wednesday to weigh proposed budget for be- dle school athletics cost of the mid- bus. She said there may in on the future the tween Boynton Middle be liability isthird year in a row. The program is about sues of sports at Boynton School and $82,601.

Middle School, had associated with that. district Highbridge The largest expenses proposed a $23,899,107 Hill associbudget for the elimination Elementary School, ated with the program “If we don’t provide transportaare stipends of of extracurricular acabout $25,500 and transportation SEE SPORTS A5 PE TERBOROUGH

Cornucopia wins $50K T-Mobile Hometown grant

FIREFIGHTING

Funds will be used to complete commercial educational kitchen for teens Ledger-Transcript

By ASHLEY SAARI Ledger-Transcript

DON MACINTOSH / Courtesy

Musicians lead the Peterborough "No Kings" rally down Grove Street towards the Route 101 intersection. See the story and more photos on page 9.

The Cornucopia Project has been awarded a $50,000 grant from T-Mobile Corporation to support the completion of a “Farm-to -Table Campus,” which will provide a permanent, accessible hub for hands-on learning in sustainable agriculture, cooking and environmental stewardship.

Cornucopia was selected as one of just 25 recipients of grant out of nearly 1,000 the applicants.

Cornucopia Project founder Kin Schilling, who was present at the grant presentation ceremony Thursday night at the Cornucopia Learning Farmhouse, was taken by prise at the announcement.sur“Thank you, everybody, for what you have done to make Hancock Fire Chief Tom this community a better Bates shows his crew’s place, gear. and to support learning and knowledge and good food,” Schilling said. “This makes my heart so full, it makes me want to cry.”

Schilling founded Cornucopia Project on a plot of land SEE CORNUCOPIA A8

Opinion Spor ts Calendar Crossword

SEE CONCERNS A4

Opinion Calendar Crossword

Sports, Page 9

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026

Parents rally to save middle school

By JESSECA TIMMONS

Traffic, noise, air quality among main issues for gravel pit proposal

More than 100 residents packed the Mason Elementary School meeting room Wednesday night to weigh in on a proposed gravel pit at 1524 Brookline Road, voicing concerns about traffic, noise and environmental impacts.

The 67-acre property — largely wooded and undeveloped aside from a single-family home — is the site of a proposal by Onyx Corporation and 1524 Brookline Road, LLC. The hearing marked the second review by the Mason Planning Board, and the first time the public was invited to comment.

Representing the applicant, engineer Jeffrey Brem of Meisner Brem Corp. said the company is considering scaling back its plan in response to feedback. The original proposal outlined eight phases of excavation over eight to 15

LOCAL STARS SPRING INTO COLLEGE ACTION

$1.$1 50

ABOUT THE SERIES Each month, the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript will recognize one of our region’s many Hometown Heroes.

Follow along at ledgertranscript.com and learn how you can nominate a Hometown Hero.

Kitty Rescue gives cats a second chance

7 Business 11 10 Classified 14 10 For the Record15 Obituaries 16

FRANK GORGA / Courtesy

JESSECA TIMMONS / Ledger-Transcript

Francestown resident Sean Radcliffe, right, held a sign showing his opinion of kings.

Residents from across the Monadnock region march to Route 101 from Grove Street at Peterborough's "No Kings" rally.

7 Business 11 9 In Our Schools12 10 Classified 14 10 For the Record 15 Obituaries 16

Low staff hampers response Local chiefs say they are often

By CHARLOTTE MATHERLY

CHARLOTTE MATHERLY / Ledger-Transcript

short-handed at emergency

scenes

the problem and didn’t Ledger-Transcript need that cav- service alry.” makes it difficult to respond to don’t anymore. larger emergencies, Unlike career departments When Ed Walker responds Walker said, esthat pecially at certain to a call, are typically “The concept of volunteerism it’s often something times of day. In the is for something population found in cities and larger evenings, as many as 18 people might down,” he said. “People really don’t routine, like resetting areas, most of small-town the have the capacity anymore show up. During the tector or monitoring carbonsmoke de- New Hampshire fire departments workday, it’s of- teer to volunmonoxide erate on op- ten just a handful. in the communities levels. a part-time or volunteer That’s sufficient for amount of time people … The total ba- most calls, but it sis. Some, like Peterborough, The person who requested have can are a if local volunteers get hairy quickly teer has really decreased.” to volunterborough Fire Department’sthe Pe- combination, employing a and mutual aid chief and don’t come The situation is similar help, one or two full-time through. he said, often thinks in small firefighters, then the only reason relying towns across the state.

“We are relying he showed up alone — heavily on per diem and not with a ders respon- to stop whatever on our responders In Canterbury, near and other towns’ departments larger team or firetruck they’re doing in the — Chief Michael Gamache the capital, for real world, come additional support wasn’t is because support. down here works needed. calls during the daytime,” and go on time after retiring from 37 years partAside from Walker and That’s not necessarily at the Walker said. his deputy, “That can the case. who are be a challenge, because Manchester Fire Department. The Sometimes, no one else full-time employees can come. of the most people switch took him from town, the Peterborough have a staff of 200 to a “Quite honestly, sometimes full-time jobs.”

Fire Departtown of roughly 2,000. there ment runs on Those reserves have is no cavalry there,” an on-call basis, dwindled in said “There was no problem.

Peterborough fire chief. Walker, the ing from a reserve of roughly draw- the 12 years that Walker has been It was us, on and if we had something 25 fire- the job. Many “We’re just fighters really lucky that me who can choose when people work multiple big, we called or another chief want the suburb stations to they jobs or have family to work. officer was able to get basically cover responsibilities, he our there and solve station, said, and employers that occasionally to come The per-diem nature used to to of local fire workers leave to respond to fire let calls SEE FIREFIGHTERS A4

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