May 15 - Adventure Park reopens next week

The Adventure Park at Mount Sunapee opens its second season on May 25 for weekends and holidays, and beginning June 22 it will be open every day through Labor Day, Sep. 2. The fall schedule is weekends and holidays from Sep. 7 through Oct. 14.

The Park features a 2 ½ hour Canopy Zip-Line Tour, an Aerial Challenge Course, off-road Segway® PT Excursions, an 18-hole Championship Disc Golf Course, an 18-hole Miniature Golf Course and chairlift rides to the top of South Peak. 

May 15 - New London Town Meeting tonight

The annual Town Meeting is tonight at 7:00 p.m. in the Kearsarge Learning Campus Gym. The pre-meeting pot luck dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Kearsarge Regional Elementary School multi-purpose room.

The production includes the talents of many local people including actors Cindy Johnson, a long-time resident of the Kearsarge area, Judy Wallace, of New London, and Ellen Wassell, of Sunapee. Local production folks include former Grantham resident and costume designer Susan Montmagny, scenic and lighting designer Michael Lovell, of Croydon, and Sutton resident and composer Will Ögmundson.

For the full story, see Lori McClory's May 10 column.

ProPublica launched its Nonprofit Explorer today where you can look up organizations and see details like their executive compensation, revenue and expenses, as well as download their tax filings going back as far as 2001.

At the top of the list of New Hampshire's 3,286 non-profit oganizations is Trustees of Dartmouth College. In the second spot of the top five is Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, followed by Concord Hospital, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic and the Elliot Hospital of the city of Manchester.

Apr. 29 - Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn milk allergy recall

People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. 

This recall is limited to Orville Redenbacher’s Classic Kettle Korn flavor ready-to-eat popcorn packaged in 5.0-ounce and 1.5-ounce red poly bags with UPC and Sell By dates listed below. The UPC code is on the back of the bag, in the lower left corner. The Sell By date is on the back of the bag, in the upper right corner.

Orville Redenbacher’s Classic Kettle Korn 5.0-ounce packages
Case UPC: 27000 52321
Unit UPC: 0 27000 52321 6
Lot Codes: 5486234100, 5486234200, 5486234300
Best By Dates: SEP 02 2013, SEP 03 2013, SEP 04 2013

Orville Redenbacher’s Classic Kettle Korn 1.5-ounce packages
Case UPC: 27000 52325
Unit UPC: 0 27000 52325 4
Lot Codes: 5486234200, 5486234300
Best By Dates: SEP 03 2013, SEP 04 2013

This pet food recall applies to all package sizes, UPC barcodes and lot codes with expiration dates up to and including March 24, 2014.

Apr. 20 - Helping Boston bombing victims

If you're asked to make a charitable donation to support victims of the bombing in Boston, consider these tips:

• Donate only to charities you know and trust. Be alert for charities that seem to have sprung up overnight in connection with the bombing.

• Ask if a caller is a paid fundraiser, who they work for, and what percentage of your donation goes to the charity and to the fundraiser. If you don't get a clear answer — or if you don't like the answer you get — hang up.

• Don't give out personal or financial information such as credit card, social security or bank account numbers unless you are positive that you're in contact with a charity that you know and trust. Better yet, you call them at the phone number you have, not the one they give you.

• Never send cash: you can't be sure the organization will receive your donation, and you won't have a record for tax purposes.

• Check out the charity with the Better Business Bureau's (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Watch, or GuideStar.

List of charities registered in New Hampshire.

Apr. 15 - Prescription Drug Take-Back Day April 27 (NHDES)

On April 27, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., law enforcement agencies and the DEA will offer an opportunity to help prevent environmental pollution from discarded medications, medication abuse and theft, by ridding your home of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

When drugs are not stored safely, diverted to unauthorized users or disposed of improperly, drug abuse, accidental drug poisoning and/or contamination of our water resources can occur. Deaths caused by drug use has quadrupled over the last 15 years in New Hampshire.

Over the last three years, nine tons of unexpired or unwanted medications have been collected through this program, including more than two tons just last September.

Here is a list of collection locations in our area.

Apr. 9 - Hearing today on revoking free state park admission for seniors

The House Resources, Recreation and Development Committee is holding a public hearing today at 1 p.m. on SB190, a bill that would eliminate free admission for NH residents 65 and above to state parks and historical sites. It would allow those persons to purchase a season pass for $20 instead of the usual $60. The bill also eliminates the discount coupon books that are currently offered.

More

Apr. 4 - Bears are out; tips to keep safe (Lorie McClory)

Bears are out looking for food. Take in your bird feeders. If you have your trash picked up, don’t leave it out overnight. There is great information on the state's website www.wildlife.state.nh.us/wildlife/Somethings_Bruin.htm.

Mar. 31 - Natura Pet Products recalls multi-branded food (FDA)

A long list of dry pet foods with five different brand names has been recalled by the manufacturer because of possible Salmonella contamination. Brands affected are Innova, EVO, California Natural, HealthWise and Karma. 

More, including brands, sizes, UPC and lot codes.

ProtiDiet High Protein Chocolate Dream Bar bars are being recalled because of possible Salmonella contamination. The product is 210 gram (7.4 oz.) packages, 7 bars per package, bearing UPC 6 21498 42238 1, lot code CR 18 13B, and Best Before date of 2015-08.

Bravo! is voluntarily recalling its 2 lb tubes of Bravo! Raw Food Diet Chicken Blend for Dogs and Cats, product code: 21-102, batch ID code 6 14 12, because of potential for Salmonella.

The recall involves 2 lb. Bravo! Chicken Blend frozen raw diet tubes (chubs) made on June 14, 2012. Routine testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture of product collected from a single retail location tested positive for presence of salmonella. The company has received no reports of illness in either people or animals associated with this product.

Pet owners should return unopened frozen tubes of food to the store where purchased for a full refund. Pet owners should dispose of opened tubes of product in a safe manner (example, a securely covered trash receptacle) and return the washed plastic batch ID tag to the store where purchased for a full refund.

"When Dollars for Docs first launched in 2010, ProPublica spoke with several of the dozens of doctors who had earned more than $200,000 from their speaking and consulting work for drug companies. Now, with records from more companies and more years of data, we’ve identified 22 doctors who’ve earned at least $500,000 since 2009 — including one, Jon Draud, who was paid more than $1 million."

More at ProPublica.

FDA is warning the public that azithromycin (Zithromax or Zmax) can cause abnormal changes in the electrical activity of the heart that may lead to a potentially fatal irregular heart rhythm.

NH Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today released the 2011 Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) Report based on data from the 31 hospitals in the State. The report shows that 98.5% of Dartmouth-Hitchcock hospital staff received flu vaccinations, the highest in the state. New London Hospital was second highest at 98.4%. Nine of the 566 NL Hospital staff did not get the vaccine.

Most of the report looks at the rates of specific HAIs, including  central line-associated bloodstream infections and surgical site infections following heart, colon, and knee surgeries. The report also provides data on hospitals’ compliance with measures to protect patients from acquiring infections in the hospital.

Overall, statewide infection rates are showing improvement compared with national data. The overall observed number of HAIs in NH hospitals was 40% lower than expected, based on national data.

Download and view the report here.

Diamond Pet Foods has recalled several varieties of their cat foods in many states, but the only one shipped to New Hampshire is " 4health All Life Stages Cat Formula" 5 lb. and 18 lb. bags, code #NGF0802, Best by "14-Aug-2013" and "18-Aug-2013". Tests by the company indicated the products might have a low level of thiamine (Vitamin B1). 

Cats fed affected products exclusively for several weeks may be at risk for developing a thiamine deficiency. Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include decreased appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, neurological signs can develop, which may include ventriflexion (bending towards the floor) of the neck, wobbly walking, falling, circling and seizures. Cat owners should contact their veterinarians immediately the cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency typically is reversible.

Tri-Union Seafoods LLC has recalled some 5 oz. cans of Chicken of the Sea tuna in oil and 5 oz. chunk white albacore tuna in water. Seams on the can lids do not meet quality standards and could result in product contamination which could lead to illness if consumed. There have been no reported illnesses to date.

UPC (bar) code 0 48000 00195 5 is on the label and "Best By" date, on the bottom of the can, is 01/15/17.

More 

Mar. 8 - Dog food recall (FDA)

Steve’s Real Food of Murray, Utah is recalling its 5 lb. bags of "Turducken Canine Diet" 8oz. Patties due to potential contamination of Salmonella. The product is in green and cream colored biodegradable film bags with lot number 209-10-27-13 and expiration date of October 27, 2013. Distribution was between Oct. 2012 and Jan. 2013 to retail stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New York , California, Minnesota and Tennessee.

Charity Navigator has published its latest Top 10 lists including:

10 Charities Overpaying their For-Profit Fundraisers

These 10 charities are not living up to their missions. Each spends more than 50% of its budget paying for-profit fundraising professionals to solicit your hard-earned money. As a result, very little of the charity's spending is directed towards its programs and services.

 10 Highly-Rated Charities with Low Paid CEOs

The leaders of these 10 organizations run highly-rated charities, yet they earn far less than the average compensation of $150,000 reported by the over 5,000 charities rated by Charity Navigator. Less than 20% of your dollars are going to such costs as fundraising and administration, including the salary of the CEO. 

 10 Highly Paid CEOs at Low-Rated Charities

The leaders of these 10 organizations are taking high salaries at the expense of spending dollars on the charity's programs. Despite receiving more than $200,000 in annual pay, these CEOs run organizations that devote less than 60% of their budgets to their programs and services. Ast least 40% of your dollars are going to such costs as fundraising and administration, including the salary of the CEO.

 

Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, has issued a voluntary recall on specific codes of 5-ounce Chunk White Albacore and Chunk Light Tuna products. Loose seals or seams could result in product contamination by spoilage organisms or pathogens and lead to illness if consumed. There have been no reports to date of any illness associated with these products.

More, including UPC codes and "Best by" dates.

Tuesday, March 12 is voting day in New Hampshire. (Whipple Memorial Town Hall in New London and various locations in other towns.) Polls will be open 8a.m. - 7.pm. Absentee ballots are available at the Town Clerk's Office through Monday, March 11th Sample ballots for Newbury are: Newbury Town Election; Kearsarge School District

New London tax bills are due. A gentle reminder that the 4th quarterly tax payment of your 2012 real estate tax bill is due on Friday, March 29th . After that date, interest will be charged at 12% per annum so please avoid these additional costs by paying on or before March 29th.

The NH Bar Association will hold a free one-on-one with an attorney for homeowners concerned about foreclosure, Thu., Mar. 14, 3 to 5 p.m. "Together you can come up with a solution!"

The clinic will be in Concord at the New Hampshire Bar Center, 2 Pillsbury St., Suite 300. Contact Vanessa at 603-715-3255 or vbeauchesne@nhbar.org to pre-register.

Heartland® Harvest Spice Granola Cereal — 14 oz.; UPC 024300 090394; Best If Used By dates from 20130326 (March 26, 2013) through 20130910 (Sept. 10, 2013).

Heartland® Fruit & Nut Harvest Granola Cereal — 14 oz.; UPC 024300 090387; Best If Used By dates from 20130325 (March 25, 2013) through 20130910 (Sept. 10, 2013).

No other Heartland® brand products are involved in this recall. No consumer complaints or injuries have been reported.

One batch of Instinct® Raw Organic Chicken Formula with a "Best if Used By" date of 10/04/13 has been recalled because pieces of clear plastic may be found in some bags and could cause a potential choking risk to pets. 

The source of the issue was identified and resolved. To date, there have been no reports of harm to dogs or cats.

If you don't vote on March 12, you know what will happen to your non-vote. Absentee ballots work just fine if you're out of town. Preview the ballots here: Newbury Town Election; Kearsarge School District

Feb. 13 - "Pease Greeters" running out of money

For the past eight years, day and night, regardless of the weather, armed forces men and women on their way to or from overseas duty have been met at the Portsmouth International Airport with hot drinks, warm food, a cell phone to call home, and the sense that the rest of us care about them. Thanks to the all-volunteer Pease Greeters.

This week alone, more than 1,200 troops are scheduled to arrive on nine flights, according to an airport official. With the scheduled acceleration of troops returning from Afghanistan, numbers like that are expected to increase dramatically, and the timing couldn't be worse for the dwindling funds. Charles Cove, chairman of the Pease Greeters, said the organization's funding has hit an all-time low.

More at seacoastonline. Donate now to help support the Pease Greeters.

Feb. 11 - Save $5 - $15 a month on electricity?

Those ads that claim to save you money on your electricity bill are legitimate.

Deregulation has dropped the price of producing electricity with natural gas, but PSNH, Unitil and New Hampshire Electric Cooperative can't take advantage of it, at least for now. That opened an opportunity for intermediaries to offer reduced rates.

Amanda Noonan, Consumer Affairs director for the NH PUC, estimated that about 40,000 home and business customers in the state have switched from their default provider, and there haven't been many complaints about it.

Repairs and upgrades remains the same. If you loose power, the same repair crews take care of it.

More, including how to choose, at the Nashua Telegraph.

Jan. 31 - Bill could roll back Obamacare for NH (Gayle Hedrington)

The Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee has scheduled a legislative committee hearing next Tuesday, Feb. 5, on House Bill 271, one of the few bills this session that will push back on Obamacare in NH. Deliberations will begin at 10 a.m. in Representative Hall at the State House. 

Sponsored by ex-Speaker of the House William O'Brien, the bill would prohibit the state from expanding Medicaid. NH’s option to reject Medicaid expansion was one of the few choices that the U.S. Supreme Court left to the states last June when it upheld Obamacare.

Jan. 23 - Annie's frozen pizza recalled (FDA)

All varieties of Annie’s RISING CRUST FROZEN PIZZA with a best by date including "09Jan13" through "14Sep13" are affected. Recalled varieties are:

Organic Four Cheese Pizza, 23.5 oz UPC 013562 200016
Organic Pepperoni Pizza, 23.6 oz UPC 013562 200009
Organic Supreme Pizza, 25.4 oz UPC 013562 200023
Organic Spinach and Mushroom Pizza, 25.0 oz UPC 013562 200054
Four Cheese Pizza, 22.5 oz UPC 013562 200078
Pepperoni Pizza, 22.6 oz UPC 013562 200061
BBQ Recipe Chicken Pizza, 23.1 oz UPC 013562 200092

The company announced the recall after learning a fine metal mesh screen failed at a third-party flour mill and fragments of flexible metal mesh were found in the flour and pizza dough. Pieces of fine wire were too small to be detected and could have found their way into the finished product. While no metal has been found in Annie’s finished product, as a precaution, Annie's initiated this voluntary recall. There have been no consumer complaints, illnesses or injuries reported to date.

Jan. 22 - Welfare a "drug-free zone" in NH?

State Reps. Donald LeBrun, R-Nashua, and Jeanine Notter, R-Merrimack authored a bill (to be heard in the legislature today) that would require people applying for temporary welfare assistance to pass a drug test.

The Department of Health and Human Services would determine what drugs the test would screen for. Applicants would pay for the drug test, and if they pass, the cost would be refunded in their first benefit check.

More at the Union Leader.

  Jan. 15 - Tiny hole almost sank the Kearsarge (seacoastonline.com)

The MV Kearsarge dinner cruise boat anchored in Sunapee harbor partially sank last week because of an "eraser-sized hole in the coupling from a sea valve to the port engine".  

Owned by the Fenton family, Tim Fenton said that the boat was floating again yesterday on its own, but may require further repairs. He said that he expects the vessel to be ready in time for the 2013 season.

Jan. 11 - LGC to refund less than half to over-charged communities

Last summer, a hearing officer ruled that the Local Government Center (LGC) had over-charged communities for health insurance premiums, and ordered the return of more than $52 million to participating communities. The LGC is appealing the order to the state Supreme Court. However, the LGC board has authorized the return of $22.5 million.

The LGC originally planned to offer credit for more insurance, but that met with opposition from some communities. Now, member communities can get their refunds in cash or credit.

Below are approximate totals due back to towns, water and school districts in our area:

Town of Bradford - $25,256.79
Croydon School District - $169.55
Town of Croydon - $1,242.05
Town of Goshen - $8,666.70
Goshen-Lempster Sau #71 - $34,209.73
Town of Grantham - $1,781.97
Grantham Sau #75 - $22,615.25
Town of Sutton - $23,797.47
Town of Lempster - $9,557.69
Town of Newbury - $33,904.80
Town of New London - $54,629.25
New London Springfield Water Prec - $6,265.33
Town of Newport - $45,482.23
Newport Economic Corporation - $424.08
Newport School District - $8,509.80
Newport Sau #43 - $105,153.03
Town of Springfield - $8,690.42
Town of Sunapee - $57,501.11
Sunapee Sau #85 - $61,617.70
Upper Valley Lake Sunapee Rpc - $1,080.85

More, including state-wide database, at npr.org.

Jan. 8 - Air quality advisory expands to four counties tonight (NHDES)

Unhealthy levels of air pollution are expected in populated valley areas of Cheshire, Hillsborough, Merrimack, and Sullivan counties tonight and into tomorrow afternoon. This advisory expands the area of concern from the southwestern corner of NH, including Keene, to valley communities further north and east, including those along the Merrimack River Valley between Manchester and Franklin.

Sensitive individuals include children, older adults, and anyone with heart or lung disease such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. Healthy individuals may experience mild health effects and should consider limiting strenuous or prolonged activities. 

Unhealthy air quality is caused by locally emitted pollution stagnating under temperature inversions that occur during calm, cold nights when warm air above traps cold air below. Much of it is from heating devices, especially wood burning fireplaces, stoves and boilers. Conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday afternoon as wind speeds increase.

Jan. 2 - Ayotte opposes Obama-approved pay raise for Congress

Senator Kelly Ayotte said that she will introduce legislation to stop the salary increase for Members of Congress and other high-ranking federal officials that President Obama authorized last week. Senators and House members are set to receive a pay hike after March 27.

Ayotte said, "With our country $16 trillion in debt and every American facing a tax increase, it's astounding that the president would approve a pay raise for Congress and others serving at the highest levels of government."

Dec. 27 - Kearsarge Regional School District meeting (Kim Hallquist)

Please make plans to attend the Deliberative Session of the Kearsarge Regional School District Annual Meeting Saturday, January 5, 2013, 9:00 a.m. at the Kearsarge Regional High School in Sutton.

To review information and explanation of the articles to be considered at the Deliberative Session, please download material prepared by the School District here.

Dec. 26 - Pet owners win anti-freeze battle (DVM Newsmagazine)

It took decades, but finally the Consumer Specialty Products Association (CSPA) and the Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF)  jointly announced that US manufactured anti-freeze and engine coolant will contain a bittering agent to make the products less attractive to animals, including humans.

HSLF estimates that up to 90,000 animals are poisoned every year from ingesting ethylene glycol, the toxic substance in antifreeze.

Dec. 21 - Dangerous imported drug deceptively relabeled (FDA)

Some distributors have deliberately relabeled the dangerous drug Reumofan Plus with new names, including widely-distributed "WOW". 

Earlier this year, the FDA warned consumers about Reumofan Plus which was marketed as a "natural" dietary supplement for treating many conditions, including arthritis and bone cancer. It contains undeclared active ingredients found in prescription drugs.

One of the hidden ingredients is dexamethasone, a corticosteroid. Anyone who abruptly stops taking it after long-term use or high doses runs the risk of withdrawal syndrome and life-threatening adrenal suppression.

Immediately consult a health care professional if you are taking Reumofan Plus. Do not use any products with "Riger Naturals S.A." on the bottom of the bottle. Reumofan Plus is manufactured in Mexico by Riger Naturals.

Dec. 19 - Zicam nasal spray recall (FDA)

Zicam non-drip liquid nasal gel decongestant in a 0.5 oz. spray bottle with NDC number 62750-005-10 could be contaminated with burkholderia cepacia. It could cause respiratory infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic lung conditions. The organism is resistant to many antibiotics and may be difficult to eradicate if an infection occurs.

Dec. 15 - Smoked salmon recalled (FDA)

“Nathan’s Brand 3oz Cold Smoked Atlantic Salmon” and “LASCCO Cold Smoked Nova Atlantic Salmon 4 oz” have been recalled because of possible Listeria contamination. Potentially affected products have UPC codes "0 72840 01751 7"  or  "0 73030 80368 2".

Consumers with the products should not eat them and should discard open packages. Return unopened packages to the place of purchase for a refund.

Dec. 13 - PetSmart recalls holiday dog treats (FDA)

 7.5 oz. bags of DogCandy® Holiday Hound Cake and Blueberry Hound Cake have been recalled because of potential mold. These treats were manufactured specifically for PetSmart Corporation by Claudia’s Canine Cuisine®. If you purchased these items, please return them to any PetSmart store for a full refund.

The product is in a paw print bag with a best by date of 08-2015 on the ingredient label on the back of the package just above the UPC bar code. The UPC for the Blueberry Hound Cake is: 692614010058; The UPC for the Holiday Hound Cake is: 692614010041.

Dec. 7 - More than 2,300 Americans killed on this day

On Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese warplanes attacked the home base of the U.S. Pacific fleet at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, drawing the United States into World War II. More than 2,300 Americans were killed.

Dec. 6 - "Cares & Shares" at Mount Sunapee (Bruce McCloy)

In an effort to stock local food shelves for the holidays, Mount Sunapee is hosting Cares & Shares Day Sunday, December 16. Skiers and snowboarders who bring five non-perishable food items to the ticket window can ski or ride all day for $35. Generally, more than a ton of food is collected and distributed to food shelves in nearby towns.

The Stop & Shop Supermarkets has recalled 9 ounce packages of Veggie Patch Ultimate Meatless Burger, UPC 61012900211, with a January 12, 2013 sell-by date. Packages were removed from sale because of  possible contamination by Listeria monocytogenes.

Stop & Shop has received no reports of illnesses to date. Customers who have purchased the product should discard any unused portions and take their receipt to Stop & Shop for a full refund.

Nov. 9 - Nestlé Chocolate Powder recalled (FDA)

Nestlé USA is recalling some of their Nesquik® Chocolate Powder in 10.9, 21.8 and 40.7 ounce canisters because of possible salmonella contamination. There have been no reports of any illnesses or adverse health effects associated with the product. 

The affected powder was produced during early October, 2012. For the production code, consumers should look on the bottom of the canister, adjacent to the consumer expiration date. Affected products have an expiration date of BEST BEFORE Oct 2014. 

More at FDA

A market withdrawal of the continuous spray Banana Boat sun care products was announced today because of a potential risk of the product igniting on the skin if contact is made with an of ignition source before the product is completely dry.

More from the FDA and list of Banana Boat products recalled.

Oct. 17 - Dog treats recalled (FDA)

Distributed through Target retail stores, Boots & Barkley Roasted American Pig Ears and Boots & Barkley American Variety Pack Dog Treats have been recalled because of Salmonella contamination.

The Roasted Pig Ears product is in a clear plastic bag with 12 pig ears marked with UPC bar code 647263899158. The Variety Pack product is in a 32 ounce clear plastic bag with UPC bar code 490830400086. "BESTBY 13SEP2014DEN" are for both products. 

Because of a label printing error, Red Velvet Cake Truffle (UPC #20335800000) and Triple Chocolate Cake Truffle (UPC # 20335700000) sold in Hannaford's  bakery department may contain undeclared allergens. People sensitive to egg, milk, peanuts, wheat, soy and tree nuts should not consume these products.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this. Customers may return them to the store for a full refund.

Oct. 12 - Nut butter and whole peanut recall widens considerably

Editor's note: As with the mango recall last month, the nut butter recall now includes whole peanuts, and has reached into products such as ice cream, candy, baking ingredients and many other foods that include nut butters, particularly peanut, distributed by Sunland, Inc. Every day, more companies using Sunland's nut butters are removing their products from the market, in fact too many to report here. Consequently, my personal decision is to not buy peanuts nor anything with peanut and other nut butters listed in the ingredients for the next month or two.

KELLOGG FRST MINI WHEAT B-SZ, 16/18.00 oz, Date Code APR 01 2013 KB – SEP 21 2013 KB, UPC 00038000318290

KELLOGG FRST MINI WHEAT B-SZ, 14/24.00 oz, Date Code APR 01 2013 KP – SEP 21 2013 KB, UPC 00038000318344

KELLOGG UNFRST MINI WHT B-SZ PK, 16/18.00 oz, Date Code APR 01 2013KB – SEP 21 2013 KB, UPC 00038000359828

Oct. 8 - In what country is this "Third World" corruption legal?

A politician helped secure tax breaks for racehorse owners, then bought seven horses for himself when the new rules kicked in. Another politician co-sponsored legislation to double the life span of government grazing permits for ranchers, including her husband. Another politician co-sponsored a natural gas bill resulting in millions for his wife's shares in two natural gas companies.

Find out where this is and More at The Washington Post

FDA investigators found Salmonella bacteria in Nature’s Deli Chicken Jerky Dog Treats at Kasel Associated Industries of Denver, during a routine sampling inspection this week. Notified of the results, the company recalled and ceased distribution of its product.

The FDA reminds pet owners that commercially produced pet food is very safe and contains all the nutrients that pets need. Jerky pet treats have no nutritional value, so eliminating them is harmless, and removes a potential source of disease. 

The FDA advises pet owners who still choose to feed their pets jerky treat products to watch their pets closely for any signs of disease that may occur within hours to days of feeding jerky pet treats: decreased appetite; decreased activity; vomiting; diarrhea, sometimes with blood; increased water consumption and/or increased urination. If your pet shows any of these signs, stop feeding the product. Owners should consult their veterinarian if signs are severe or persist for more than 24 hours.

Oct. 5 - Popcorn recall (DHHS)

Dale and Thomas Popcorn is recalling some of its ready-to-eat bags of Indiana-brand popcorn because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Recalled products are in various size red bags and distributed on or after August 8, 2012 with Best By dates of February 4, 2013 through March 12, 2013. A list of recalled items is at http://www.popcornindiana.com/recall-list.

Products involved in the recall should be discarded or returned to the original point of purchase for a full refund or replacement.

Oct. 4 - Open forum about New London school building (NL Admin.)

The New London Board of Selectmen invite citizens of New London to discuss and share thoughts on the future of the 1941 Central School Building. The public forum for this important community issue will be Sat., Oct. 6, 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Whipple Memorial Town Hall. Email townadmin@nl-nh.com or call the Town Office at 526-4821 ext 10 for information.

Oct. 4 - New London Town Clerk closure correction (Linda Hardy)

The ad that ran in the Oct. 2 Intertown Record showing closure days for the New London Town Clerk and Tax Collector was incorrect. The correct day that the Town Clerk and Collector's Office will be closed is Tuesday November 6 for the State General Election.

Oct. 2 - More nut butter products recalled (FDA)

Newman's Own Organics announced that due to the expanded scope of Sunland, Inc.'s recall of nut butter products (peanut butter in particular), they are initiating a recall of certain lots of Peanut Butter Newman-O's Sandwich Crème Cookies, with expiration dates 27MAY13 and 3MAY13. The products may be contaminated with Salmonella. 

Oct 1 - CU says "not yet" to Fluzone High-Dose for seniors

Consumers Union recommends that adults 65 and older should get the "regular flu shot" instead of the Fluzone High-Dose vaccine. "Initially we hoped this high-dose vaccine might particularly help seniors who are very ill or have compromised immune systems, but given the lack of clinical trial data, and that there is a risk of making sick people even sicker, our medical consultants don't advise it for anyone at this time. Until more is known about how protective the high-dose shot is for all seniors, the regular flu vaccine remains the best option."

More at Consumer Reports

Sep 25 - Twenty-nine sickened by nut butters;  recall expanded (FDA & NHDHHS)

A complete list of recalled nut butter products is available here. These products were distributed nationwide including New Hampshire and online. You should not eat any of these products and discard them immediately. 

"Food that is contaminated is always a concern," said Dr. José Montero, Director of Public Health at DHHS, "and while there have been many recalls in the news lately, it is important to be aware of all food recalls because the implications can be serious, even deadly. Please take the few minutes now and in the future to check for these products."

Twenty-nine people are reported to have Salmonella Bredeney in approximately 18 states.

Warm, dry days and cool, longer nights create conditions to promote the brightest of colors, according to Kevin Smith, Ph.D., project leader and plant physiologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service office in Durham.

Overall, the weather has been good this year, with no devastating storms or severe drought conditions. Smith said that another positive sign is that trees are healthier this year. "Last year, some maples, birches and beeches across the state experienced a foliage disease that left leaves brown and crinkly, and unable to change color", he said.

More at the Union Leader / NH.com