Hunting Permits

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – New Hampshire fish and game officials say there are still about 1,200 special deer permits available to hunters on a first-come first-served basis.

Officials say they’ve sold more than 2,000 permits since July 1.

Several New Hampshire hunting seasons open next month – bear, archery and some small game firearms seasons, such as gray squirrel, raccoon and common snipe.

Bear season starts Sept. 1. The state’s black bear population is stable at around 5,000 animals. Bears may be hunted in all regions of the state. Last year, hunters killed 679 bears.

Internet Telephones

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – Consumer advocates are warning New Hampshire customers of Internet-based telephone services they must respond by Monday to notices being sent by their providers or face disconnection the next day.

The service is known as Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP. Partly in response to recent tragedies, the Federal Communications Commission is requiring providers whose service does not include enhanced 911 capability or has limitations to send notices to customers. Enhanced 911 technology automatically identifies the caller’s address and telephone number to the emergency operator.

The notices are intended to alert consumers so they will not think their service handles 911 calls the same as traditional telephone systems.

The FCC has ordered VoIP providers to provide E-911 by later this year.

Rare Honor

KEENE, N.H. (AP) – A New Hampshire coach is being given the rare honor of being inducted into the Keene State Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame while he is still coaching.

Ron Butcher is on the threshold of becoming just the sixth men’s collegiate soccer coach in the nation to reach the coveted milestone of 500 wins.

He will be inducted into the hall on Oct. 1.

He is in his 35th season at Keene State.