Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Modern Family "Yard Sale" Premieres Tonight Oct. 31st

Modern Family fans will be able to watch an all new episode tonight at 9pm on ABC entitled "Yard Sale". In this new episode; Jay and Gloria hold a yard sale to help Manny and Luke with their school's charity fundraiser, and the entire family pitches in: Phil feels pressured to both sell and buy something, Mitch and Cam help Claire assess Alex's new 'boy friend,' and Manny finds an old trunk that hides a secret Gloria wants to see remain a secret, on "Modern Family,"
"Modern Family" stars Ed O'Neill as Jay, Julie Bowen as Claire, Ty Burrell as Phil, Sofía Vergara as Gloria, Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Mitchell, Eric Stonestreet as Cameron, Sarah Hyland as Haley, Nolan Gould as Luke, Ariel Winter as Alex, Rico Rodriguez as Manny and Aubrey Anderson-Emmons as Lily.

Guest cast includes Liz Jenkins as customer, Joe Metcalf as Michael, Rob Kerkovich as young guy and David Jahn as well-dressed man.

"Yard Sale" was written by Abraham Higginbotham and directed by Gail Mancuso.

Photographs in this article are courtesy of ABC.

Red Sox Legends, Miss NH Coming to Granite State Baseball Dinner

Bob Stanley, Rich Gedman join guest list; Fans to bid on exclusive fishing trip with Chris Carpenter
Manchester, New Hampshire - With just 17 days to go before the 2012 Granite State Baseball Dinner, an annual charitable event, the dinner committee has confirmed several new guests for this year's event. Former Red Sox Bob Stanley and Rich Gedman headline the latest batch of distinguished guests for the fundraising dinner, presented by Northeast Delta Dental, on November 17 at the Radisson Hotel Expo Center in Manchester.

Stanley and Gedman, both key figures on the 1986 American League Champions, join Pittsburgh Pirates lefty and New Hampshire native Jeff Locke, Fisher Cats owner Art Solomon, Fisher Cats pitching coach Tom Signore, former player and executive turned pro-scout Jim Beattie, and Miss New Hampshire 2012, Megan Lyman to help raise money for the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD), the Ted Williams Foundation, and the Fisher Cats Foundation.

UPDATE: State Beaches Reopen

Concord, New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation has reopened all seacoast state beaches.

About the Division of Parks and Recreation
The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation is comprised of the Parks Bureau, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, and Cannon Mountain. They manage a multitude of properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides, and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of four divisions of the Department of Resources and Economic Development.  To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org or call 603/271-3556.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Musician Spotlight: Rising Singer/Songwriter Maria Diebolt

There is a 13 year old talented young Lady that caught our attention from Fisher, Indiana. This talented Singer/Songwriter is Maria Diebolt who is a great Singer/Songwriter whose style of singing is Pop.

Thirteen year old singer/songwriter sensation Maria Diebolt (Dee-bolt) is already taking the world by storm with her insightful lyrics and a vocal maturity beyond her years! She has been singing publicly for about five years and has already garnered local, national, and international acclaim for her talents. Currently, Maria can be heard at local venues singing her own sets with Indy’s top band Zanna-Doo! She also has a keen interest in songwriting and recently recorded three original songs, including the heartfelt “Stay Strong” which was written for a classmate who was diagnosed with lymphoma. Maria’s other originals showcase the scope of her songwriting skills. “All I Know” is a pop/rock song in the style of Kelly Clarkson or Demi Lovato and the upbeat pop song “ I'll Be Here For You” is a catchy tune which appeals to an audience of all ages. She just recorded a soulful version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” which is available on iTunes along with her first three originals. Maria also has a full repertoire of cover songs in her catalog.

Maria has performed and competed at a variety of venues, including U.S. Cellular Field where she sang the National Anthem for a Chicago White Sox game this summer. She has won several vocal competitions, including St. Simon Idol, CarmelFest Has Talent, the Hamilton County Fair Talent Contest, as well as several regional voice and dance competitions. She was named Outstanding Performer for three consecutive years at the Catholic Youth Organization’s Music Contest in Indianapolis. Her largest live audience was in 2008 at the Circle of Lights Christmas Tree Lighting in downtown Indianapolis. Maria was the youngest soloist chosen to perform in front of an estimated crowd of 100,000 people. The event was also televised on WRTV, the local ABC affiliate.

Maria has performed locally at several events, including “A Night To Unite” campaign against hate and bullying, Classic Movie Events at Forest Park, Circle City Voice Showcase, Second Saturday Gallery Walk, Midwest School of Voice Showcase, Art In The Park, Carmel Community Players Haunted Cabaret, Cookies ‘n Santa at Fishers Town Hall, The Fishers Freedom Festival, The Indiana State Fair, school talent shows and at her church. Maria has been dancing for over 11 years and has been trained in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, hip hop, modern and contemporary. She is the daughter of Ann Diebolt and resides in Fishers, Indiana.

Maria is available to perform the National Anthem or is available to book for your party or event. Please contact Ann Diebolt at anndiebolt@gmail.com or by phone at 317-770-7793 or 317-518-4365.

We most recently had the chance to interview this 13 year old young Lady Maria Diebolt.

When did you start singing?
I've been singing almost since I could talk!  My mom noticed pretty early on that I had a really pretty vibrato, so she enrolled me in voice lessons right before my 9th birthday.

Was it your dream to be a singer?
For as long as I can remember!!!  My mom just put together a video to my recording of Eva Cassidy’s “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” and it brought back SO many memories – I guess it shows that I've been a performer almost all my life…even just while I was standing on my bed singing into a little karaoke machine microphone!

Tell us about your style of singing?
I like all different kinds of music, but mostly pop.  I get kind of uncomfortable when people ask me who I sound like, because I really just want to sound like myself!  People have told me that they hear a little Kelly Clarkson, or Demi Lovato, or Pink sometimes in my voice, but I just want to sound like Maria Diebolt!

Are there challenges pursuing a singing career?
It’s hard to focus full time on singing at my age, but I’m trying really hard to do that!  I’m in 8th grade, so obviously school is a priority – homework gets in the way of my singing a lot!  I’m also in a couple of dance classes and I dance with my school’s dance company.  It’s also hard to find places to perform at my age – it’s easier during the summer months when there are festivals and outdoor venues.

Does your parents and friends support you?
Yes!  I'm so lucky to have a mom that supports me 100% in my singing and songwriting!  I’m only 13, so I know I wouldn't be able to do the things I’m doing now without her!  My friends are really great too – my last video (Hello) starred one of my best friends – she was my “stalker”!  It’s really cool to think that I have actual “fans”, but I guess I do!!!  I've met many of them through YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and ReverbNation – and they have been incredibly supportive of me!  It’s amazing and I’m so grateful!!!


Do you write your own songs?
Yes, I've been writing songs for quite a while now.  I have several songs in my journal and I've been able to record three of them in the studio (my EP entitled Only The Beginning).  I also have enough songs ready to record my first full-length album called Inner Beauty.  I currently have a Kickstarter campaign running in order to raise funds to record this album.  (www.Kickstarter.com)

If so, tell us what goes into writing a great song?
I get my inspiration everywhere…from relationships (boyfriend and girlfriend), or friendships, or even just looking out the window and seeing the sun shining on the water!  No matter what you write, it just ends up being a story, you're telling a story.

Where was your first performance, were you excited?
My very first vocal performance was at a Christmas function in my hometown.  I was a tiny bit nervous, but I was more excited to get up there and sing!  I sang 2 songs – first I sang Silent Night, then I sang Think Of Me from Phantom of the Opera.  When I finished, all my friends came rushing up to me and they were all telling me that I made their parents cry!  I had a lot of parents tell me how much it touched them when I sang that song and it brought them to tears!  It was hard to understand that I could have that kind of effect on people!

Where have you been able to perform?
I've been able to perform in a variety of places!  My biggest crowd to perform in front of was in 2008 at the Circle of Lights, which is the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in downtown Indianapolis.  I was the youngest soloist ever chose to perform – I sang three songs in the pre-show, then the live show was televised on our local Indianapolis TV station and I sang “My Favorite Things” to Santa Claus!  The crowd was estimated at over 100,000 people.  I have also performed at several local and regional dance/vocal competitions, festivals and fairs.  This past summer I was lucky enough to meet Lisa Sauce, who is the owner of Blonde Entertainment.  She has become my mentor and good friend!!  She has allowed me to perform live with one of the biggest bands in Indianapolis (Zanna Doo) and it’s been such a great experience.  Two of the guys from this band are going to help me with my upcoming album – they are awesome musicians and awesome people, I’m very lucky to have all of them in my life right now!  My biggest, most recent performance was singing the National Anthem at Cellular Field at a Chicago White Sox game this past summer.  It was amazing!!!!  I also got to sing the National Anthem and a couple of other songs at a 9/11 event this past September called America Remembers.  I felt very honored to participate in that event.  I have some National Anthem gigs coming up with the Indiana Ice hockey team in the next couple of months and I will be performing at a holiday event in Indianapolis on December 9th  called Evening Of Holiday Joy which is a fundraiser for St. Mary’s Child Center and Wish Upon a Wedding.


Who inspires you with your singing and songwriting?
As I said before, I get my inspiration everywhere.  There are so many artists out there that inspire me to use my songwriting for good use – like to try to stop bullying, to encourage hope, to inspire others to go and make a difference in their lives as well as others lives.  Artists I look up to are Demi Lovato, Taylor Swift, One Direction, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and many, many more.  One of the first songs I recorded was called Stay Strong – it was a song I wrote for a friend of mine who was diagnosed with Lymphoma.  When I heard the news, and found out what she was going to go through, I felt helpless!  I wanted to do something, but we couldn't afford to donate money…so I decided to use my talents and write her a song.  Today, she is cancer free!  She is such an inspiration, not just to me but to everyone!

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I want to perform EVERYWHERE in the world!  It’s always been my dream and my goal to go on a World Tour!

Along the same line, who would you love to perform with?
I would be thrilled to work with any artist right now – there are so many!!!  Of course, any of the artists that I mentioned above would be at the top of my list!!!


What are some of your goals for your Music?
My ultimate goal is to get my music out there and to inspire people the way I've been inspired!  And to go on a world tour!  But my immediate goal right now is to get my album recorded, hopefully by reaching my funding goal in my Kickstarter campaign.

Kickstarter.com is a website that helps people get funding for their projects, whether it’s music, dance, film, games, literature and so on.  You put your project on their website with your funding goal and you have a set amount of time that your campaign will run.  If you don’t meet your financial goal by the end, you don’t get anything, no one is charged, and the project just dies – or you try it again at some point.  My campaign is currently running through November 24th – which is my birthday!!!  I’m hoping for the BEST birthday present ever – to get that project fully funded so that I can go into the studio and record my album!

My project can be viewed here:  http://kck.st/WeudIN

What do you hope to accomplish with your singing/songwriting?
I hope someday I can inspire others the way I've been inspired.  And it doesn't have to be a huge, big thing – sometimes it’s that lonely moment when you're sitting in your room, and you think you're ugly and no one likes you….then you hear a song that tells you you're beautiful just the way you are, that you can stay strong and make it through those lonely times, that it’s OK to break up with that boy, because something better is waiting for you down the road!

Do you have any advice for those wanting to start a career in singing and songwriting?
Just start writing and keep a journal.  Write down everything, even if you don't think it’s good, it probably is!  A lot of the stuff I've written, I'm not sure it’s good, but then people read it or hear it and say “Whoa, that is amazing!!!” Just believe in yourself, write everything down, and keep practicing!  It’s hard because there are so many great young artists out there, but just be true to yourself and keep working!

Is there anything else you want our readers to know about you, your singing/songwriting?
I really couldn't do any of this stuff without the support of my mom.  She has raised me by herself – I don't even know my dad, he has chosen not to be a part of our lives.  I know it’s been hard, she owns a dance store (which I try to help out with) and she works 2 or 3 jobs, depending on the time of year and she takes care of my grandma, who lives with us.  We don't have a “typical” family, but we do our best!  I've learned so much over the past few years – we've struggled like a lot of people these days, and I've learned that I can get by on just a little bit….I don't have to have all the best shoes, or the best clothes, or the latest phone…at the end of the day, that’s not the important stuff.  It’s important to have the love of your family and friends, we have a roof over our heads and we are making it.  We have a very strong faith, and that has helped us through all the really rough times!  Maybe someday I'll be able to repay my mom for all the sacrifices she’s made so that I can sing and dance!


Here are the links to my online websites:

www.MariaDiebolt.com
www.YouTube.com/mariasmama
www.ReverbNation.com/mariadiebolt
www.Facebook.com/mariadiebolt
www.Twitter.com/maria_diebolt

I also have some of my songs on iTunes – my first three originals (Stay Strong, I’ll Be Here For You and All I Know) and my cover of Eva Cassidy’s Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

Do you have any other talents?
I love to dance!  I've been taking dance for over 11 years.  In addition songwriting  it’s another good way to express my emotions.  For quite a few years I danced on a competitive team, which was a lot of fun, but I had to scale back on that because my music is my main priority now.  I’m still taking a few dance classes a week and I just got my first pair of pointe shoes!!  I'm taking my first pointe class, which has been one of my dreams for a long time!  I also dance on my junior high dance team, which is so much fun! I love spending that time with my friends!

Maria is a very talented young Lady that has a very bright future ahead of her. We wish all the best as she follows her dreams.



Rocky Coast News is pleased to have Maria Diebolt as our latest "Musician Spotlight", where we highlight, promote up and coming musicians that have amazing vocals, sound, style and/or who are able to play an instrument well singing.

Monday, October 29, 2012

BREAKING NEWS: Governor Lynch Declares State of Emergency Urges Citizens to Avoid Afternoon Travel

Concord, New Hampshire - Governor John Lynch this morning declared a state of emergency for New Hampshire and urged all motorists to stay off the roads this afternoon.

The Governor met with state officials and led a conference call with local officials to coordinate the state's response to Hurricane Sandy.

"With anticipated high winds and heavy rain we are asking people to stay off the roads this afternoon, particularly after 3:00," Governor Lynch said. "Water in the roadways, flying debris and downed power lines are all possible because of the severity of this storm, which is why we are urging people stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary."

The Governor is also urging employers to consider releasing workers early this afternoon, so as to avoid the need for travel after 3:00. The Governor has directed that non-essential state workers, as determined by state department heads, be released from work by 3:00 this afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service, the main impact of the storm will reach New Hampshire around mid-afternoon on Monday, and continue through the early morning hours of Tuesday. The Weather Service predicts wind gusts of up to 70 MPH, rainfall ranging from 1-4 inches, and coastal flooding as a result of the storm surge.

Governor Lynch directed the National Guard to place 100 soldiers on state active duty, with an additional 100 on standby, to assist with the storm response.

"This will be significant storm for New Hampshire, and we are urging all citizens to exercise common sense and extreme caution," Governor Lynch said.

Emergency officials are urging citizens to follow these public safety recommendations:
  • New Hampshire beaches are now closed, and citizens should stay away from the beaches.
  • Secure all loose objects in your yards.
  • Don't drive on flooded roadways.
  • Don't venture outside during the storm because of the danger of flying debris.
  • Stay away from downed utility wires and assume they are live.
  • Operate emergency generators only in well-ventilated areas to avoid the buildup of deadly carbon monoxide gas.

State Beaches and Historic Sites Closed


Concord, New Hampshire –  The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation has closed all seacoast state beaches and Historic Sites. The closure will remain in effect until at least tomorrow.

About the Division of Parks and Recreation
The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation is comprised of the Parks Bureau, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, and Cannon Mountain. They manage a multitude of properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides, and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of four divisions of the Department of Resources and Economic Development.  To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org or call 603/271-3556.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Monarchs Shut-OOT Senators

Manchester wins 4-0 on Canadian Heritage Night
Manchester, New Hampshire - Canadian Heritage Night marked the fifth win in six games this season for the Manchester Monarchs as they defeated the Binghamton Senators 4-0 at the Verizon Wireless Arena on Sunday afternoon.

Manchester (5-1-0-0) is in first place in the Atlantic Division with 10 points.  The Senators (3-3-1-0) are tied for third place in the East Division with seven points.

“We played with a lot of energy in the early going and that paid dividends for us,” said Monarchs Head Coach Mark Morris .  “I thought (Martin) Jones was stellar.  He made a lot of tough saves look easy again and he erased opportunities that they had.  He kept the momentum moving in the right direction.  I thought our best periods were our first and third period.  We got a little lazy and took some penalties in the second period.  We had a tough time keeping our energy high because we were a man down most of the period.  We picked it up again in the third and we started to skate and play physical and we didn’t give them as much in the third because I thought we were a lot more thorough with our whole game.”

Right wing Brandon Kozun snatched the first of four goals on the day for the Monarchs at 11:02 of the first period.  Center Andrei Loktionov played the puck back to defensemen Thomas Hickey who fired a slap shot on net.  Kozun grabbed the loose rebound at the left door step for his second goal of the season and the eventual game-winning goal.

The Monarchs took a 2-0 lead with a one-timer from center Andy Andreoff at 13:20 of the opening frame.  Defensemen David Kolomatis fired a slap shot from the right point that went wide of the net and bounced off the end boards.  Right wing Stefan Legein attempted to stuff the puck through Binghamton netminder Ben Bishop’s pads at the right door step but the puck trickled out to Andreoff in the bottom of the right face-off circle.  Andreoff wasted no time shooting the puck past Bishop for his third goal of the season.

Only 55 seconds into the second period, the Monarchs increased their lead on the Senators to 3-0 with a goal from Loktionov.  Kozun gained the zone on the right wing and skated down and behind the net to the left wing corner.  Kozun sent a quick pass to defenseman Andrew Bodnarchuk at the center point.  Bodnarchuk fired a pass to the right wing face-off circle for Loktionov who shot a wrister ice-level just inside the left post.

The Monarchs capped the scoring in the game with a power play goal by right wing Tyler Toffoli pushing their lead to 4-0.  Defensemen Jake Muzzin passed the puck from the center point to center Linden Vey who was along the left wing half wall.  Vey sent a slap pass to Toffoli in between the hash marks.  Toffoli moved the puck to his backhand and took a shot through traffic.  Left wing Marc-Andre Cliche swiped at the loose puck but it trickled back to Toffoli who finished the play with his third goal of the season.

Jones (5-1-0) earned his fifth victory and first shutout of the season stopping all 29 shots he faced.  Bishop (0-1-0) took his first loss of the season saving 34-of-38 shots on the afternoon.

Manchester was 1-for-3 on the power play.  Binghamton went 0-for-6 with the man advantage.

Notables:  The Monarchs are 8-for-25 (32.0%) on the power play this season ranking second best in the league…Manchester has scored at least one power play goal in each of their first six games this season…Right wing Brandon Kozun extended his point streak to six games (2-6=8) with a goal and an assist.

The Monarchs return to action for Bobble Election Night against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at the Verizon Wireless Arena at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 2.  Catch all of the play-by-play action of Monarchs hockey with Ken Cail on the Monarchs Radio Network online at WGIRAM.com and at ManchesterMonarchs.com, presented by Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.

Shake It Up "Funk It Up" Premieres Tonight Oct. 28th

Fans of the Disney channel series Shake It Up will be able to watch an all new episode entitled "Funk It Up" tonight at 9pm. In this all new episode of Shake It Up, CeCe is in a funk without "Shake it Up, Chicago!" but after Rocky books them a gig dancing at a Bar Mitzvah, CeCe gets inspired by one of the speeches and decides she has been too focused on dancing. Meanwhile, Deuce draws a mustache on Ty's face with a permanent marker and Flynn asks Jeremy to be a guest speaker at his school.

Shake It Up stars Bella Thorne and Zendaya as CeCe Jones and Rocky Blue, Davis Cleveland as Flynn Jones, Roshon Fegan as Ty Blue, Adam Irigoyen as Deuce Martinez, Kenton Duty as Gunther Hessenheffer and Caroline Sunshine as Tinka Hessenheffer.  Keone Young, Anita Barone, R. Brandon Johnson and Buddy Handleson guest star.

King Of The Jungle

Monarchs move to 4-1-0-0 with 5-1 victory over Sharks
Manchester, New Hampshire - The Manchester Monarchs scored first against an opponent for the first time this season and never looked back as they defeated the Worcester Sharks, 5-1, at the Verizon Wireless Arena on Saturday night.

Manchester (4-1-0-0) is tied for first place with the St. John’s IceCaps (4-3-0-0) in the Atlantic Division with eight points each.  The Sharks (1-4-0-1) rank fifth in the division with three points.

“We started the game with some veteran guys that have been with us for a long time,” said Monarchs Head Coach Mark Morris .  “They know about momentum and they are a very sure handed physical bunch.  Although they don't play as a normal line, we decided to start them to get the type of momentum going in the right direction that we were looking for.”

Friday, October 26, 2012

Jessie "Green-Eyed Monsters" Premieres Tonight Oct. 26th

Jessie, a Disney channel series will premiere an all new episode tonight at 8:30pm entitled "Green-Eyed Monsters". Jessie joins a comedy improv class and Tony goes to embarrassing lengths to prove his love for Jessie. Meanwhile, Ravi recruits Zuri to help him babysit Mrs. Kipling's baby lizards, in this all new Jessie episode.

Jessie stars Debby Ryan as Jessie, Kevin Chamberlin as Bertram, Peyton List as Emma Ross, Karan Brar as Ravi Ross, Cameron Boyce as Luke Ross and Skai Jackson as Zuri Ross. Recurring are Chris Galya as Tony the doorman and Charles Esten and Christina Moore as Morgan and Christina Ross.

Photographs in this article are credited to the Disney channel.


Thursday, October 25, 2012

Currier to Present Latest Collaboration Between NH Painter James Aponovich and NH Artist Laureate and Furniture Master David Lamb

Manchester, New Hampshire - On Thursday evening Nov. 1 at the Currier Museum of Art, the New Hampshire Furniture Masters Association and the Currier will unveil White Mountain Breakfront, also known as “Lambovich IV,” a monumental cabinet combining the artistry (as well as the names) of David Lamb and James Aponovich.

This collaborative piece of artwork features dramatic scenes of New Hampshire painted by Aponovich within a breakfront designed and crafted by Lamb. White Mountain Breakfront was commissioned by Shannon Chandley and Tom Silvia of Amherst, NH and celebrates the Granite State’s natural beauty, history and culture. It will be on view at the Currier through January 6, 2013.

Come to a Haunted Valley Pumpkin Extravaganza!

Waterville Valley, New Hampshire - Well, not really, but come to the Waterville Valley Haunted Halloween Happenings on Saturday, October 27. Calling all kids, ghouls, Jonas brothers, and vampires for a fun pizza party, pumpkin carving & decorating on Friday, at the Waterville Valley Recreation Department from 6-7:30 p.m. Enjoy a spooky pizza dinner, then decorate or carve a Halloween Pumpkin. Kids can bring their own pumpkin or purchase one. All the tools you will need to create your masterpiece from paint to pom-poms and carving tools will be provided (must be at least 10 years of age or have adult supervision). Cost is $5/carver for admission + $6 for an optional locally grown pumpkin.

Come celebrate Halloween include a Haunted House, Halloween games, Costume Contest and Trick-Or-Treating around the resort (a.k.a. free candy)! Hors D'oeuvres will be served. We are going to have a Jack-O-Lantern.  Anyone is welcome to bring their own carved pumpkin.  $75 cash to best Jack.

Lodging packages start at $150 a night and include a pumpkin, Friday evening pumpkin carving and decorating with the Waterville Valley Recreation Department, Saturday night Trick-or-Treating, Haunted House, and costume contest. Access to White Mountain Athletic Club and spooky Halloween events and activities is available.

Waterville Valley was designed and planned specifically as a self-contained, four seasons resort. In addition to its world-class ski area. Dining options include traditional favorites and elegant cuisine. For more information, call 1-800-GO-VALLEY or visit www.visitwatervillevalley.com.

Road Ecology


Keene, New Hampshire - Back by popular demand (this time in Keene), this indoor lecture-and discussion-based course will provide an introduction to the fascinating new field of road ecology, with special focus on road impacts to fish (yes,fish!) and wildlife.  Last year, folks were calling this the "roadkill" class, and we will talk about roadkill, but road ecology is much more than carcasses.  We'll also discuss road-stream crossings, roadside vegetation, and the effects of roads on water quality and landscape connectivity, as well as emerging solutions to the ecological damage caused by roads.  After taking this class, you'll look at the roads you travel every day in a whole new way!

When:        Tuesdays, October 23 and 30, and November 6 and 13 from 7 to 9 pm at the            
                  Keene State College Science Center (Room 129) in Keene.
Instructor:  Brett Amy Thelen
Cost:          $40 for Harris Center members/$60 non-members.  Pro-rated rates are $10/session for
                  members and $15/session for non-members.

60’s Icons descend on the Flying Monkey this weekend.

Plymouth, New Hampshire - The Flying Monkey Performance Center is excited to present psychedelic rock legends Jefferson Starship on Friday, November 2nd at 7:30.   Known as Rock N Roll royalty, they rose from the ashes of Jefferson Airplane.  Then the musical direction takes a step to the left with folk icon, singer-songwriter, and social-activist Peter Yarrow on Saturday, November 3rd at 7:30.  Peter Yarrow is known for his legacy of song with Peter, Paul, & Mary as well as a lifetime of social activism.   As if one folk legend were not enough, America’s beloved counter-culture icon Arlo Guthrie returns to the Monkey stage on Thursday, November 8th at 7:30. This intimate performance at The Flying Monkey promises to be an evening of new songs, beloved classics and old folklore. Tickets for Jefferson Starship start at $39; Peter Yarrow starts at $25; Arlo starts at $45.

Beginning in 1974 as a break-off of Jefferson Airplane, Jefferson Starship is arguably one of the most well-known bands to come out of that decade. Known for their hits We Built This City, Sara, Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now, Miracles, Jane, Somebody To Love, White Rabbit, Volunteers and Count On Me, their first album Blows Against the Empire was the first ever rock music recording nominated for literary science fiction’s prestigious Hugo Award.

What Just Happened? An Analysis of the Presidential Election


Manchester, Vermont - Whichever political camp you are in, there will be so much to talk about and think about after November 6! Join sought-after lecturer Paul Flaum for "What Just Happened? An Analysis of the Presidential Election" on Saturday, November 10 at 4:00pm at the Mark Skinner Library: Manchester's Public Library. Flaum will review the results of the election and the implications for the next four years.

A popular instructor with Elderhostel and the Osher Institute of Lifelong Learning at Berkshire Community College, Flaum is the former president of the New York State Council for the Social Studies; a former social studies educator and Superintendent of Schools in Smithtown, NY; and holds a professional diploma in Education Administration from Hofstra University.

The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Mark Skinner Library is located at 48 West Rd. in Manchester. For further information, contact Cindy Waters at 802.362.2607.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Fisher Cats Thanksgiving 5K to Benefit New Hampshire's Hospital for Children

Road Race Begins with Thanksgiving Eve Party in Samuel Adams Bar & Grill
Manchester, New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, and Millennium Running, NH's premier road race management company, announced a new beneficiary for the 2012 running of the Fisher Cats Thanksgiving 5K, presented by MVP Health Care. The second installment of the annual race will benefit New Hampshire's Hospital for Children, the pediatric specialists in the Elliot Health System.

"The inaugural Thanksgiving 5K was a huge success thanks to our fans, our partner Millennium Running, and the event's presenting sponsor, MVP Health Care," said Rick Brenner, Fisher Cats President. "We are excited to see this year's race benefit the outstanding care provided by New Hampshire's Hospital for Children."

Gov. Shumlin, advocates and lawmakers call for additional funding for LIHEAP

Burlington, Vermont - Gov. Peter Shumlin, joined by key lawmakers and advocates, yesterday called for adding $8.8 million in state funds to the fuel assistance program known as LIHEAP to help low-income families stay warm and safe this winter.  Over 28,000 low-income Vermont families rely on fuel assistance to help pay a portion of their winter heating bills.

In addition, the Governor announced that his administration has changed the way benefits will be issued to clients and their fuel suppliers.  In the past, benefits were paid once a month for everyone who was eligible.  Under a new payment system, as families become eligible for assistance, their benefits will be paid each night, eliminating what was a one or two month wait to for heating help.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

It Girl Public Relations signs emerging young artist Lauren Taveras


It Girl Public Relations excitedly announces they will be representing up and coming teen artist Lauren Taveras
It Girl Public Relations and CEO Juliette Harris proudly announce newly acquired representation of gifted singing/songwriting sensation Lauren Taveras.  With over 5 million views on YouTube, 13-year-old Lauren Taveras is an up-and-coming artist whose raw talent and energy has the music scene buzzing with anticipation.

On the heels of this recent collaboration, Harris proclaimed her excitement, “We are thrilled to start working with such a talented young artist as Lauren Taveras. We know her flair and energy will take her far in this business and we look forward to working with her to make sure it does.”

Nominated as one of Tween Pop Radio’s “Best New Unsigned Artist of the Year,” Taveras recorded her first album “Destiny,” at the ripe old age of 11 years old, showcasing her talent and confidence in her role as an emerging Urban-Pop artist to look out for. Having experience with X Factor, Disney Channel, and Kidzbop, this young artist is paving the way for a bright future.

Produced by Billboard™ album of the year winner and multi-platinum producer of “High School Musical,” Andrew Lane, and voice coach Nick Cooper (who has coached the likes of Beyoncé and Katy Perry), “Destiny” demonstrates a voice reminiscent of a younger Katy Perry or Adele. In addition to being an artist of Latin origin, Lauren highlights her inner soul with lower registers, a powerful full vocal and a dance vibe attuned to the beat of Nicki Minaj.

Not only a friend to the mic, Taveras is also an emerging, young television and film actress, having starred in Disney Channel’s “My Family Tree” and the new Discovery Channel television series “The Exorcist Files”. More than a triple threat, this singer/songwriter/actor/dancer is primed to take the industry by storm with her sick beats and innate talent for all things entertainment.

Currently, you can find Lauren’s music videos on YouTube.com/LaurenTaveras. It Girl PR is preparing to launch her new single, “Just a Number.”

**Congratulations from all of us from Rocky Coast News**

November Schedule of Events at the Currier Museum of Art

Manchester, New Hampshire - On view now through January 6, 2013, the Currier Museum of Art presents Printmaking in the Age of Rembrandt which features prints by more than a dozen artists including Rembrandt van Rijn and his contemporaries. Visitors will explore the rich culture and history of the Netherlands in the 1600s when printmaking played a central role in the Dutch Golden Age and made art accessible to a much wider group of people than ever before.

The museum’s entrance is located at 150 Ash Street and free parking is available in the on-site lot. Museum hours are Sunday, Monday, Wednesday - Friday 11 am–5 pm, Saturday 10 am–5 pm, with extended hours on the First Thursday of each month until 8. Closed Tuesday. Admission to the museum is always free for children 17 and under and museum members, and every Saturday from 10 am–noon admission is free to everyone. The Currier is committed to providing the most welcoming environment for all visitors through full wheelchair access, FM headsets for sound amplification for all public programs, and a new mobile tour program with enhanced visual descriptions and captions for selected artwork in the collection. For more information, visit www.currier.org or call 603.669.6144 x108.

2013 Recreational Trails Program Grant Now Available

Concord, New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Bureau of Trails announces that the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant applications are now available. RTP is a competitive grant program that offers funding for quality public trail projects throughout New Hampshire.
         
Limited grants are available for motorized, non-motorized and diversified trails. Eligible projects include maintenance and restoration of existing trails, purchase and lease of trail construction and maintenance equipment, construction of new trails, development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities, trail linkages, and acquisition of easements or property for trails.  Applicants may be non-profit organizations, private groups or government entities.  Applications are due January 18, 2013. For an application and more information, visit the Partners & Community Resources page at www.nhtrails.org.
           
Funding for the Recreational Trail Program is generated from federal gas tax dollars paid on fuel purchases for off-highway recreational vehicles and snowmobiles. These funds are appropriated to the states by the Federal Highway Administration as authorized through the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (Map-21) Bill. The program in New Hampshire is administered by the Bureau of Trails.
           
The Bureau of Trails is one of four bureaus in the Division of Parks and Recreation.  The Division is comprised of the Parks Bureau, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, and Cannon Mountain. The Division manages 92 properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides, and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of four divisions of the Department of Resources and Economic Development. To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org or call 603/271-3556.

FINALISTS PRESENT ‘ART IN STATE BUILDINGS’ DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR BENNINGTON PROJECT

Four artists to share preliminary concepts for $41,000 public art project at the Bennington Courthouse and State Office Building.
Bennington, Vermont – The Vermont Arts Council and the Vermont Department of Buildings and General Services invite the public to help decide which artist will lead the newest Vermont ‘Art in State Buildings’ project.

The permanent public art project will be commissioned for the Bennington Courthouse and State Office Building. Four finalists were chosen from a pool of 16 applicants: Jim Cole of West Rupert; Gordon Auchincloss of Hardwick; Sabrina Fadial of Elmore; and Donald Saaf of Saxtons River.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Halloween fun for Kids and Adults at the Flying Monkey this weekend.


Plymouth, New Hampshire - The Flying Monkey Performance Center is excited to celebrate Halloween this year with two exciting events.   The 3rd Annual Rocky Horror Picture Show on Friday, October 26th at Midnight.   Known for audience participation and props, this perennial favorite also features Dr. Xs Creatures Shadowcast.   And for the kids, Boo-Fest on Saturday, October 27th at 2pm.   This afternoon event is geared for children of all ages with a haunted theater, costume and scream contests, prizes, and for the main event the one-man circus-comedy of Etienne.  Tickets for Rocky Horror are $15 regular, and $10 for Students.  Tickets for Boo-Fest are $10 adult and $5 for kids under 12.

Rocky Horror is a late-night adults-only extravaganza.  The film blends interactive activities throughout the evening led by Dr. Xs Creatures Shadowcast.  Audience participation is what makes this event a blast, so come in your most outrageous costume, procure a prop grab bag full of goodies from concessions, and bring on the ‘Time Warp’.

Musician Spotlight: Megan Knight Singer/Songwriter of New Jersey


Williamstown, New Jersey - There is an amazing 13 year old Singer/Songwriter from New Jersey whose talent caught our attention. This 13 year old Singer/Songwriter is Megan Knight, who has a great singing voice and following her dreams.

Megan Knight is a high school freshman from Southern New Jersey. She has been performing as a solo acoustic singer/songwriter since September, 2011, at the age of 13. 

Megan is a self-taught acoustic guitar player that likes to dabble with piano, and percussion instruments.  She has been known to bring a kick drum to some of the local festivals that she has participated in, along with her guitar and wonderful singing ability, this young talent knows how to put on a show that captures all audiences.


All-day Historic Railroad Tour November 3rd

Keene, New Hampshire - The Historical Society of Cheshire County will offer an all-day field trip exploring the Cheshire Branch Line of the historic Boston and Maine Railroad from Keene to points south.  The trip will be led by conductors Brad Blodget and Dick Rogers whose meticulous research has helped preserve much of the history of the B&M Railroad.  Brad Blodget is the author of Mariam Foster’s Boston and Maine Railroad, a collection of photographs and insights into the way the railroad looked and operated in the mid-1900’s.

The daylong exploration of the region’s railroad history will be $18 ($14 for members of the Historical Society of Cheshire County) and it will leave at 9:00 am on November 3rd from the Historical Society at 246 Main Street in Keene.  The railroad tour will stop at former depots of the route along the way south to the State Line Station including the newly restored Troy Depot.  Participants should bring a brown bag lunch.

Reservations are required because the number of seats is limited.  To register or for further information, contact the Historical Society at 603.352.1895 or hsccnh.org.

Harvest Dinner at the Fort November 17th


Fort at No. 4 2012 Harvest Dinner
Saturday, November 17
5:30 PM
$25 per person

Charlestown, New Hampshire - This season our Harvest Dinner will be on Saturday, November 17th; seating is at 5:30 PM.  This will be our third Harvest Dinner and, like the last two seasons, this meal is a fund-raising dinner for the fort.  Volunteers will prepare and serve dinner complete with turkey, all the fixings, hot cider and pumpkin pie.  Two strolling musicians will add to the festivities with music and song.  Last year about 160 diners basked in the warmth of fires and joined the singing under the light of candles in our Great Hall and Hastings House.  We hope to serve as many again this November.

Harvest Dinner, Saturday November 17, 5:30 PM, $25 per person
www.fortat4.org, info@fortat4.com, (603) 826-5700
Wendy

What’s Next at the North Conway Library?

North Conway, New Hampshire - Have you seen workers pruning and removing shrubs and bushes at the Library? Can you see more of the building and its magnificent architecture? Did you know that the building is made of granite blocks from Whitaker Woods?

With the help of Master Gardener Ralph Lutjen, the Library has developed a landscaping plan to enhance its beautiful downtown property. The first step is to remove overgrown shrubs and bushes, trim trees and prepare the property for spring planting.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Manchester Wins VIP Cup Opener

Monarchs down Pirates in a 6-4 comeback win
Manchester, New Hampshire - The Manchester Monarchs took the first match-up of the inaugural VIP Cup with a 6-4 come from behind win over the Portland Pirates at the Verizon Wireless Arena on Saturday night.

Manchester (3-1-0-0) ranks first in the Atlantic Division with six points.  The Pirates (1-2-0-0) sit in fourth place in the division with two points.

“We proved to ourselves that we could come back and I guess that’s the good part about the effort tonight,” said Monarchs Head Coach Mark Morris .  “I thought we were really strong in the third (period).  (We) did not play with a whole lot of structure but the compete was there.  Our opening shift was abysmal.  I thought we were in for another night like we did last night but credit the guys with sticking to their guns and having a big third (period).”

At 9:02 of the third period, the Monarchs increased their lead to 5-3 with a goal from center Linden Vey.  Left wing Tanner Pearson fed a pass from the left wing boards at center ice to Vey skating down the right wing.  Vey carried the puck passed the Pirates defense and skated in on the net.  Vey deked to his backhand and brought the puck back to his forehand before slipping the puck five-hole on Pirates netminder Chad Johnson for the eventual game-winning goal.

Center Alexandre Bolduc put the Pirates up 1-0 just 0:44 seconds into the first period.  Portland picked up the puck on the left wing side of the neutral zone on a broken up pass by left wing Rob Klinkhammer.  Bolduc took the puck to the back of the net after his shot was deflected off of goaltender Martin Jones’ left pad and went top shelf.  Defenseman Chris Summers was credited with an assist on Bolduc’s second goal of the season.

The Pirates extended their lead to 2-0 after forward Chris Conner scored on the power play at 16:25 of the first period.  The Monarchs attempted to clear the puck but defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson intercepted the pass out of the air at the center point.  Ekman-Larsson took the puck up for a slap shot which was blocked.  Before defenseman Slava Voynov could control the puck, forward Ethan Werek slapped it away allowing Conner to net his third goal of the season.

The Monarchs cut the deficit to 2-1 when Pearson scored a power play goal on a deflection at 13:08 of the middle stanza.  Defenseman David Kolomatis took a wrist shot from the right point.  Pearson deflected Kolomatis’ shot mid-flight and tipped the puck over the stick side of Johnson for his first professional goal.

The Monarchs capitalized on the power play as Pearson reconnected with Kolomatis minutes later to tie the game up at 2-2.  Kolomatis took a wrist shot from the left point that produced a rebound into the left wing corner.  Vey tracked down the loose puck and played it back to Kolomatis for another wrist shot.  Kolomatis’ shot was again tipped by Pearson and found the back of the net at 15:37 of the second period.

The Pirates answered back, taking a 3-2 lead as Conner scored his second goal of the game at 16:10 of the middle stanza.  Right wing Chris Brown passed the puck to Conner along the left wing.  Conner got behind the defense and skated in on Jones before slipping a backhand shot that found the back of the net.  Defenseman Mathieu Brodeur also tallied an assist on Conner’s fourth goal of the season.

The Monarchs tied the game for the second time at 3-3 with a goal by Voynov.  After taking the puck down the left wing boards and gaining the Pirates zone, right wing Stefan Legein passed across the ice to Voynov at the top of the right wing face-off circle.  The defenseman hammered the puck past Johnson at 18:44 of the second period.  Right wing Brandon Kozun also tallied an assist on Voynov’s first goal of the season.

The Monarchs took their first lead of the game at 2:08 of the final period as right wing Tyler Toffoli put Manchester up 4-3 with a shorthanded goal.  Defenseman Andrew Campbell pushed the puck up through the neutral zone along the left wing side when Toffoli swooped in behind the defense and took the puck to the net before wristing a shot top shelf over the glove of Johnson.  Manchester Jones was also credited with an assist on the goal.

The Pirates pulled within a goal at 13:25 of the third period with a goal by center Brendan Shinnimin.  Denseman David Rundblad kept the puck in the Monarchs zone along the left wing boards.  Rundblad found Shinnimin in between the face-off circles for a quick wrist shot.  Shinnimin’s initial shot was blocked but he recovered his own shot and put it over the right shoulder of Jones to bring the score to 5-4.  Shinnimin’s first professional goal was also assisted by Bolduc.

The Monarchs grabbed an insurance goal at 19:41 of the final period as center Andrei Loktionov took a pass from left wing Richard Clune at center ice.  Loktionov skated in all alone and guided the puck into the net for his second goal of the season.  Center Marc-Andre Cliche also tallied an assist on the insurance goal.

Jones (3-1-0) earned his third win of the season making saves on 24-of-28 shots.  Johnson (0-2-0) took his second loss of the season registering 30 saves on 35 shots.

Manchester went 2-for-6 on the power play.  Portland was 1-for-5 with the man advantage.

Notables:  The Monarchs won a game after trailing by two goals for the first time this season…The Monarchs are tied for first among all AHL teams for shorthanded goals with two this season…Manchester left wing Tanner Pearson recorded three points (2-1-3) including his first professional goal…Goaltender Martin Jones (3-1-0) has started all four games for the Monarchs this season.

The Monarchs return to action against the Worcester Sharks at the Verizon Wireless Arena on Saturday, October 27 at 7:00 p.m.  Catch all of the play-by-play action of Monarchs hockey with Ken Cail online on the Monarchs Radio Network at WGIRAM.com and at ManchesterMonarchs.com, presented by Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Three’s Company

Monarchs drop Home Opener 4-3
Manchester, New Hampshire - The Manchester Monarchs could not overcome a three goal first period deficit and dropped their Home Opener, 4-3, as right wing Jordan Caron’s hat trick and the Providence Bruins at the Verizon Wireless Arena on Friday night.

Manchester (2-1-0-0) is tied with the St. John’s IceCaps (2-1-0-0) for first place in the Atlantic Division with four points each.  Providence (1-2-0-0) is tied with the Portland Pirates for third in the Division with two points each.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Monarchs Sign King

Forward returns to Manchester
Manchester, New Hampshire - The Manchester Monarchs, the primary affiliate of the 2012 Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings, have signed left wing Dwight King to an American Hockey League contract, announced Director of Hockey Operations Hubie McDonough on Friday.

King, 23, started the 2011-12 season with the Monarchs registering 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points in 50 games.  King was recalled by the Kings on February 10, 2012 and made his season debut against the New York Islanders on February 11, 2012.  The 6-foot-3, 234-pound left wing scored his first NHL goal, assist and points (two) against the Dallas Stars on February 12, 2012.  King finished the season with the Kings appearing in all 27 games during the regular season registering five goals and nine assists for 14 points and 10 penalty minutes.  The Meadowlake, Saskatchewan native also suited up for the Kings in all  20 of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoff games scoring five goals and three assists for eight points and 13 penalty minutes.  In his AHL career with the Monarchs, King has skated in 174 games tallying 45 goals and 62 assists for 107 points and 120 penalty minutes over the last three seasons (2009-12).

The Monarchs return to Manchester for their Home Opener at the Verizon Wireless Arena against the Providence Bruins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 19.  Secure your seats for the Monarchs Home Opening Weekend, presented by AutoFair, through the Opening Weekend Pack!  Get two great seats for either the Opening Night game on Friday, October 19 or Opening Saturday game on October 20 as the Monarchs drop the puck on their 12th season in Manchester .  In addition, you will receive four flex vouchers and a limited edition Opening Weekend puck (exclusive to this package).  For more information, visit www.manchestermonarchs.com or call the Monarchs Front Office at (603) 626-7825.