August 16th, 2009 The Run is over...25 Weeks Of Surf.

Maybe it's best that it finally stopped now. The surf that is. You know, the sun finally came back, and people started acting like it was summer around these parts. Because let's face it, the first half of this summer was hardly summer like. All that rain and cold weather? Heck, you couldn't really call that summer now could you? But getting back to the 25 week run. You have to admit, even you jaded, miserable, suffering, paint me gray and kick me in the teeth negative complainers, had to suck it up and admit it. That was one hell of a run. Since the last week of February to last week. 25 weeks. That my friends, is pretty freaking consistent. Now to clarify this for those who are just tuning in. I'm not talking about waves everyday. I'm talking about waves every week. At least one day or more, of a swell that was at least waist high or better. We had 25 such weeks. And all in a row.

Now, some will argue with that. And I can respect your opinion. But it is just that. Your opinion. And while we can argue until the end of time, about wave size, I was basing the swell scale on the simple wave calling scale of, waist high or better. Because this column is called Ralph's Pic Of The Week, and I would be said Ralph. I set the criteria. And the criteria was "Waist High Or Better". Anybody got a problem with that? If so, drop me a line. Consider my email the complaint department. Love to hear from you.

We had waves for 25 consecutive weeks. But it did stop this week. Try as I might, to find a day this week that fit that bill, I could not. Although, I did shoot some groms who were clearly surfing waves that were waist high on them, that would be a stretch to call the waves that were waist high on a bunch of young, little groms, waist high for us Big assed adults. It's over.

However, it's time for all of us to look to the tropics. This is our season. Late August into mid October. Tropical Storms and Hurricanes. I think we're ready for some big surf. Lord knows we're all warmed up enough and ready for some serious surf. Be nice, warm water and Big Surf.

Tis the season kids. Keep yer fingers crossed. Because there are 3 storms that bear watching for
us here in New England. Especially Huricane Bill. *I really like that name. Hurricane Bill.

I got lots of feedback about my "Exostosis" problem. Thanks for all the suggestions. Some sound interesting, and some sounded...oh what's the word? I know. Nutty. But I'm thankful for the info that was offered. And while I have not yet decided which way to go, I have been leaning towards the surgery in January. I figure if I'm out of the water, at least it will be freezing cold water I'm missing. I can live with that. Sort of. The only problem is I've been losing more of my actual hearing in my right ear and that is making for some difficult days here at the homestead. Not to mention out in public and trying to listen to music. That has been a royal pain in the butt. So something's gotta give and soon. I'll keep you posted.

There's a couple of big news items that are coming up soon that directly involves the local New England surf scene. First and foremost, is the Memorial Paddle and Party for Lil Miss Molly on Saturday, August 22nd at 8:00AM at 8th Street at North Beach (The Wall). Most of you are aware of this event. It is for Lil Miss Molly Rowlee who actually started surfing last year at age 5 with her dad Buck. As most of you know, Molly passed away on July 12, 2009 less than six months after being diagnosed with Cancer. I've been part of, and have conducted many Surfer Paddles over the years. Each one has been special. This one will be very special.

Because Molly herself was a special little Surfer Girl.

Her valiant fight against cancer, captured so many hearts and souls over the last 5-6 months of her life. So much so, that the whole surf community, came together and did all kinds of special auctions, fundraisers and special charity events in her name. And now, we will do this special Paddle for the Lil Surfer, that Molly was becoming. Her dad Buck surfs, her mother and brother are all part of the surf community. It will be something that none of us will ever forget in our lifetime. We want to invite ALL the surfers to join us in this special day for Molly.

So please join us for this Special Memorial Paddle for This Little Surfer Girl. Lil Miss Molly.

The paddle will be followed by a small gathering at KB's Bagel shop on Kings Highway. *And we are asking that everyone park their vehicles on the beach at the Wall. Please help keep the road ways clear. Finally at 12 noon to around 4PM there will be a block party on Ring Terrace in Hampton, NH. There will be food, drink and three live bands. Todo Bien, Kings Highway and Big Handsome Daddy. There will be a big jam at the end where we can all sing to Molly and celebrate her life. Yes it's OK to cry. It's OK to smile. We're surfers and we're a community and we're here for the Rowlees and all the family and friends of Molly.

Again we're asking that you car pool, or walk to the party. We want this to run as smooth as possible. We want to celebrate Molly's life. For you see my friends, Saturday would of been her Molly's 6th birthday. So it's a celebration. Let's all make it a special day.

The other special event is the Wounded Warriors HIT THE BEACH II. For those who saw last year's inaugural kick off, this is inspiration with a Capital. "I". To witness Veterans who were wounded in combat come to our beaches and learn how to surf is something that you will never ever forget. Trust me. It's that good. Friday August 28th from 9AM to 3PM at 10th Street, North Beach (Wall) in Hampton something very special will be happening. We have enough volunteers, but if anyone has anything to offer as far as food or drink, or anything else that pertains to this event, please feel free to contact me via email, and I will make sure the right people get notified. This is one of those events that if everything goes as planned, it will be both memorable to you as well as the Veterans who try surfing.

So mark your calendars. Saturday August 22nd Memorial Paddle and Party for Lil Miss Molly Rowlee and Friday August 28th the Wounded Warriors HIT THE BEACH II. All at the Wall between 10th street and 8th Street.

Now for some of my weekly Global observances:

40 years ago yesterday August 15, 1969 The infamous WOODSTOCK Rock Festival took place in in Bethel NY. The concert hosted a half a million kids and music lovers to 3 Days of Fun and Music. And a few bad acid trips. I remember several of my friends headed off to see Hendrix, The Who, Santanna, Alvin Lee and a bunch of others. I went to the opposite end of the universe. Southeast Asia. Did any of you realize that 109 Americans died in Vietnam the same 3 days of the concert? No? I'm not surprised. One Hundred and Nine Americans. August 15, 16, 17 1969. And all we ever heard about was the poor 3 hippies who over-dosed on the bad acid. 40 years ago yesterday. Oh I remember it quite well. 3 Days of Fun and Music at Woodstock and 3 days of Hell and War in Vietnam,

So how about them Patriots? Huh? You know, I hate to say it, but I missed the game. I did. I was out seeing Joe Bonamassa at the Casino with Dave Cropper, Tim Polychronis, Kevin Grondin, Kenny Linseman and Harry Manzi. But for those who did see them, I guess our boy Tom Brady looked as good as ever. And as much as it pains me to repeat this...all the damn experts are predicting, the Patriots as the team to beat this year. Damn I hate that. I mean, Tom Brady being back is great and all, but how about them Corners? Who's gonna fill Assante's and Hobb's shoes? I don't know. Besides, I still have NOT gotten over the 18-1 season. Sorry but I'm taking that heartbreak to the grave. The perfect season.

So Joe Bonamassa was great. I'm sure some of you are asking yourselves..."Who the hell is Joe Bonamassa?" Well, he's (in my opinion) the BEST guitarist out there today. Hands down. The best. He can play and sing his ass off. Plus he's a great songwriter. In short, he's the complete package. He plays all Gibson Guitars these days. Too bad, cuz I'm still a Stratocaster guy and wished he would of played a Strat that night. But alas, it was Les Pauls, Firebirds, and the Flying "V" for Joe. Speaking of Les Paul. The man behind the name...Mr Les Paul died that same day we saw Joe Bonamassa. I have a Les Paul. I used to have a bunch of them. Les Paul was 94 years old. He was classic. And he made one hell of a guitar, that many Guitar players used,and still use today. Like Joe Bonamassa. Rest In Peace Les.

He's back! Who's back? Michael Vick. The Dogman. He's playing for the Philadelphia Beagles I mean Eagles. This should be interesting. Not so much because of the potential PETA protesters, but because Donovan McNabb is pretty healthy. As long as Vick stays smart and does not fight and kill anymore dogs...he should be fine. Woof.

REST IN PEACE WBCN 104.1 FM Radio.The BEST Rock and Roll Station on the planet is gone. It is the End of an Era. I personally will miss the station that helped my own musical career in the 70's and 80's and early 90's. You guys will always be the BEST. Rock On.

Happy Birthday Julia Nichols August 19th!
Happy Birthday Kai Nichols August 24th!
Happy Birthday Duke Kahanamoku August 24th!
Happy Birthday John Fatello August 25th!

PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE FOR BEST SURFER PHOTO of The Year. We have two local Surf Photographers who are in the running out of the 27 world reknown Surf Photographers. Brian Nevins and Nick LaVecchia. To cast your vote click on this link it only takes a couple of minutes. SURF PHOTO OF THE YEAR.

The NH Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation had the largest volunteer beach cleanup crew with approximately 40 beach cleaners who picked up 215 pounds of trash on Saturday, 08/01/2009. Here's a link to the report on the NH Surfrider August beach cleanup. (The surfboard raffle was won by a woman who lives in Portsmouth).
http://surfridernewhampshire.wordpress.com/2009/08/06/summer-beach-cleanups-a-great-success/

PLEASE HELP THE NH SURFRIDER FOUNDATION.

Molly Paddle Party this coming Saturday August 22nd!

A Celebration of Molly Rowlee's Life will take place this coming Saturday August 22nd at 8th Street at The Wall, (North Beach, Hampton, NH.) at 8:00AM for a Surf Paddle. Followed by KB's Bagels and ending with a Block party at 12noon in Hampton on Ring Terrace off of Winnacunnet Road In Hampton.*PLEASE we encourage you park at the Wall and walk to the Block Party that starts at 12noon and or car Poll and park on Winnacunnet Road. Thank you so much.

Please Support ALL The photographers who contribute to Ralph's Pic Of The Week every week for the last 6 years.

Remember my friends...Surfing heals all wounds....
Pray for Surf. Pray for Peace. Surf For Fun.

Ralph

Yesterday- 1978 The Custom Les Paul (Below) This is a photo of me playing the Custom Les Paul Gibson in 1978 at a club called BUNRATTYS in Allston, MA. The Band was called the VINNY BAND. We had number one local songs on WBCN and my brother and I played LES PAULS. The Les Paul passed away this week at age 94. Rest in Peace Les.. Photo courtesy of RALPH Yesterday- 1978 Vince and his Les Paul at The RAT (Above) This photo of me playing my Les Paul in 1978 was shot at The RAT in Boston, MA. We opened for the POLICE here and our last VINNY gig we opened for the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS here at the RAT in 1984. Those were great guitars. Photo courtesy of RALPH Yesterday- 1978 THE VINNY BAND at Cantones in Boston (Above) This photo of me (middle) and my brother John (right) playing our Les Paul Delexues (Gold Tops) in 1978. This was one funky club in it's day. Photo courtesy of RALPH

Today 2009- A Day At The Beach August 14th, 2009.

(Above) Big brother Chris Kellar sets his sights down the line on Friday. To see more click on the Photo. Click on image to see gallery. August 14th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. (Above) Sister Laini Kellar throwing her long hair around and making cool water droplets off her fingers. To see more click on the Photo. Click on image to see gallery. August 14th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. (Above) Apocalypse Now Board? Looks like it to me. To see more click on the Photo. Click on image to see gallery. August 14th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Saturday August 15th, 2009 (Above) QWILL at the Stone Church Saturday August 15th, 2009. Click on image to see more from the GREAT show. August 15th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. (Above) QWILL and friends at the Stone Church Saturday August 15th, 2009. Click on image to see more from the GREAT show. August 15th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. (Above) Forty years ago this day. August 15, 1969 to August 15, 2009. Click on image to see the QWi LL show.. August 15th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Anatomy of a Surf Lesson August 14th, 2009. (Above) AJ get's a little push from Mackey V at the Wall Thursday August 14th, 2009. Click on image to see the whole SURF LESSON . August 14th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. (Above) "Good Job AJ!" AJ and Mackey V at the Wall Thursday August 14th, 2009. Click on image to see the whole SURF LESSON . August 14th, 2009 Photo By RALPH Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Brian Nevins Gallery August- 2009 (Above) "Congrats to Adam and Lauren" The Wedding Day in Las Vegas August - 2009. Click on image to see the Wedding Pics. August - 2009 Photo By Brian Nevins Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Brian Nevins ...Breathtaking Grand Canyon Gallery August- 2009 (Above) Brian was out shooting the Adam and Lauren Coates wedding and took a detour to the Grand Canyon. The result? It's nothing short of mind boggling Nevins nature studies that only Brian can capture. Enjoy. Oh that's his girlfriend Sam who apparently has NO fear of heights. She jumps out of planes and sits on the edges of sheer vertical drops in the freaking Grand Canyon. Click on image to see more INSANE Canyon pics. August - 2009 Photo By Brian Nevins Click on the image above to see more. (Above) Sam underneath the Natural Arches.Click on image to see more INSANE Canyon pics. August - 2009 Photo By Brian Nevins Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Nichols Gallery Summer, 2009 (Above) Taylor River Sunset. Photo by Lenny Nichols (Above) Taylor River Sunset. Photo by Lenny Nichols (Above) Julia Nichols turns 21 on August 19th. Photo courtesy of Lenny Nichols RALPH'S VIDEO CLIP OF THE WEEK BELOW. RALPH'S VIDEO CLIP OF THE WEEK *MORE H-Boys 1975 CLICK ON THE PHOTO IMAGE BELOW FOR a YOUTUBE or SHORT WINDOWS MEDIA FILE VIDEO CLIP. (Above) Click on this image For the YouTube Video of The H-BOYS from 1975. Local NH Surfers featuring the late Joe Somogyi. Shot on super movie film in 1975. Video By RALPH SFOD. Music By Robin Trower (Above) Click on this image From The H-Boys -circa 1975 surfing the FREAK-A-ZOID Shot on Super 8mm Movie film featuring Joe Somogyi. Video By RALPH SFOD. Music By Robin Trower Today 2009- The BLATANT DROP IN of The Week. OH My God!!! (Above) This is Sterling Spencer. And this is...what's the word? Oh yes...NUTS! *Look we Do NOT condone this kind of violence. But we do look at it. Don't DROP IN. And DON'T Do This to anyone! Ever! Click on the image above to see more. Today 2009- Images From The Westies (Above) Ron Sizemore and Tom Woods. Two Vietnam Vet Surfers who served together in Vietnam and Surf Together today. Two wonderful human beings who I'm proud to call friends and brothers of mine. Saturday August 15th, 2009. In Laguna. Photo courtesy of Ron Sizemoe Somewhere out West. Sorry can't tell you. I promised my buddy Tony I wouldn't say. You can tell how big it is by checking the dude dropping in. Photo by Tony Szabo Bernie Baker sent these in...talk about dodging a Bullet. Dang. To see it all, click on Photo Click image to see gallery. Photos by Bernie Baker

Today 2009- UNREAL Photos from New England Transplant Erik LaRochelle from his latest Mentawais Trip.

This is a BIG wave for anyone. Erik "Zippy" LaRochelle has Big Balls and it looks like Erik can still surf the snot out of any wave he paddles out into. Good on You Erik. You hot shit! Can't wait to see more. To see all the insane Mentawais, click on Photo Click image to see gallery. Photos courtesy of Erik LaRochelle.

Erik LaRochelle inside an insane Mentawais barrel. Click on Photo Click image to see gallery. Photos courtesy of Erik LaRochelle.

Erik LaRochelle's power driftl. Click on Photo Click image to see gallery. Photos courtesy of Erik LaRochelle.

Erik you little shit...I'm officially jealous. Damn it son. You scored. Click on Photo Click image to see gallery. Photos courtesy of Erik LaRochelle.

COMING NEXT WEEK! Madman Erik "Zippy" LaRochelle's INSANE Surf Trip!

Today 2009 PARTING SHOT- "FUNK IT UP BABY!"

(Above) What The Hell is going on here? Erik LaRochelle sends this in from his wacked Mentawais Trip. Photo courtesy of Erik LaRochelle.