(Milford, NH) –The Finlay Foundation announces the return of one of New Hampshire’s proudest literary traditions— The New Hampshire Troubadour magazine, starting in September 2008.

First published by the state in 1931, the original New Hampshire Troubadour was a celebration of the scenic mountain ranges, the covered bridges, the apple orchards, the foliage, the farmers, the fierce community pride and independence that has always made New Hampshire unique. For nearly 20 years, this magazine sparked the imagination and earned the loyalty of readers with eye-catching, original pictures, prose and even poetry. It was a New Hampshire original.

“It is my belief that there is a need and a desire for such a publication today – a digest to help New Hampshire residents feel good about themselves and their communities; something that will be both entertaining and educational,” says publisher Robert Finlay.

With a reverent nod to the past, and an energized eye to the future, the new NH Troubadour will be a unique monthly, full-color publication. It will be a collection of original human interest stories, poetry, photography, anecdotes and regular features about New Hampshire’s history and one-of-a-kind towns. The Finlay Foundation will publish and distribute The NH Troubadour statewide, free of advertisements and free of charge.

“This is a project of passion and pride. There is no monetary incentive, sponsorship or endorsement in the digest. It is simply a gift to the citizens of NH, showcasing some of the wonderful history, heritage, people and places in the Granite State, “ Finlay remarks.

The NH Troubadour will feature a monthly circulation of more than 70,000. The magazine will be available through at-home mail delivery, at all town offices and public libraries in the state, and electronically at www.nhtroubadour.com. Award-winning television broadcaster Mike DeBlasi and former Union Leader correspondent David Lazar will serve as the magazine’s editors. Spectrum Marketing Companies of Manchester will handle all printing and distribution.

The NH Troubadour will also be offered to educators and students. “As parents ourselves of four school-age children, my wife Karin and I have set a goal to create something that can be of use and interest to educators and students. We are very aware that the state’s 4th grade curriculum incorporates a substantial New Hampshire history component.  With that in mind, we have designed The NH Troubadour to fit comfortably as a supplement that teachers can use or distribute to students. Each month we will designate enough copies so that every 4th grader in the state will receive one, if his or her school so wishes,” Finlay says.