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Solar as Entertainment: Looking at alternative energy in a new light
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the status of your solar hot water tank? There’s an app for that, and Tim Sullivan is taking full advantage of it to show people just how cool his solar hot water tank really is.
The app, developed by Apple and available for most smart phones, shows the temperature for both the solar panels as well as the water tank itself.
“You could be out with friends and family, and you fire up your phone and say, ‘Check out how much hot water we’re making,’” says Sullivan about the app.
As the beneficiaries of one of the first installations conducted by SEA Solar Store of a system of this kind, having a solar hot water tank made Sullivan and partner Candace Perreault “feel like the cool kids” in the neighborhood. Indeed, the decision to go solar is one they’re both satisfied with and eager to share with others.
“While the system was being installed, one of our neighbors walked by and told us how awesome she thought it was,” recalls Sullivan. “And she actually ended up getting one of her own three months later.”
Unfortunately, Sullivan knows not everyone is as easy to influence. He recalls many people asking how long the system would take to pay for itself – something which Sullivan sees as a no-brainer.
“It starts making hot water immediately,” exclaims Sullivan. “So it’s already paying for itself.”
However, Sullivan attests that “it’s not just about saving money, it’s about not burning oil,” something that the solar hot water tank allows him to do even in the middle of a cold, rainy day in January.
“It’s still 50 degrees in the tank, when it’s probably only 32 on the ground,” he says.
One of Sullivan’s favorite aspects of the system is its production on overcast days when the weather is far from ideal, an efficiency that makes the tank so user-friendly.
While Sullivan is a self-proclaimed technology nerd, he says you don’t need to be tech savvy to be able to operate the system.
For eZee Bikes, Spring can’t come soon enough
Considering New England’s dearth of snow these last few months, it’s shocking to think we’re merely six weeks from the first official day of spring. But for the folks at eZee Bikes in Exeter, longer days and final thaws can’t come soon enough.
Indeed, owners Tom and Teresa Hemenway have been chomping at the bit to begin promoting their brand new line of Sym gas-powered scooters. Widely considered some of the best on the market, the Taiwan-produced Syms are – like rivals Honda and Vespa – renowned for their incredible gas mileage, which typically falls in the neighborhood of 120 miles per gallon.
With gas prices this summer expected to reach the painful highs of a few years ago, Hemenway has been eager to once again promote the wallet-friendly virtues of these two-wheeld wonders.
“Just last week we filled up our sedan – not a huge car, by any means – and it cost us close to 60 dollars,” recalls Tom Hemenway. “Then you think about these Sym scooters, and it costs maybe six or seven bucks to fill up.”
Hemenway believes the time has never been better for people to invest in scooters – particularly here in New England, where the relative lack of sprawl and more tightly-knit downtown areas had helped spurn a cycling renaissance of late.
“What’s more green than riding a bike or a scooter?” Hemenway says rhetorically. “We’re seeing them more and more in the cities, and I think they’re only going to get more popular in the next few years.”
Not surprisingly, Hemenway cites Durham, home of the University of New Hampshire, as one of his most reliable target markets – both for eZee’s signature line of gas-powered bikes, as well as the myriad gas scooters stocking his Exeter showroom’s floor.
“We’ve been doing more and more deliveries to UNH, to professors especially,” says Hemenway. “Which is great for the parking issues they have there.”
Community Conversation about the Memorial Bridge
Guest Blog by Jim Noucas
Portsmouth Listens and Sustainable Portsmouth have finalized plans for a Community Conversation about the Memorial Bridge and regional transportation. It will be held at the PHS Library on Saturday, Feb 11 from 8:30am to 1pm. Because it is a regional issue, we are reaching out to Kittery and anyone who lives, works or plays in Kittery or Portsmouth. 
Given the energy generated around the Memorial Bridge, we are hoping all of the Green Alliance members will join us.
The City Budget Dialogue recognized that we cannot continue to do what we have been doing if we want to maintain the same level of services and quality of life. One suggestion involved regionalization. Because transportation is an inherently "regional" issue, this dialogue presents an opportunity for our area to start thinking and acting based on our common interests and needs.
The one day dialogue will focus on three issues. First, we will ask participants to identify Kittery and Portsmouth connections and commonalities. Using the Sustainable Portsmouth Vision Statement and Portsmouth Master Plan sustainability model, we will ask participants to articulate economic, environmental and social connections.
The second issue will focus on the Memorial Bridge. Given a completed structural design, what else can be done to enhance the new Memorial Bridge. There may physical enhancements (up lighting to enhance the appearance of the Bridge is an example). The Memorial Bridge also serves as a tribute to the "Soldiers and Sailors Who Participated in the World War 1917-1919". How do we renew and affirm that tribute? How can we make the Bridge even more sustainable (alternative energy sources)?
The third phase will build off of the understanding of community connections arising from the initial discussion and seeing the impact the Memorial Bridge has on regional transportation to identify other regional transportation issues that need to be considered in moving forward. Overall, we will be encouraging a region-wide, systems approach.
Organic Food Champion and Farmer Jim Gerritsen Speaks at Food and Health Forum
On Monday, February 13, the Food and Health Forum continues its “Food for Thought” series at Blue Moon Evolution (located at 8 Clifford Street in Exeter, New Hampshire), a location which combines incredible local food with a fun, fresh atmosphere.
The event will feature organic food champion and farmer Jim Gerritsen. Garritsen was recently voted one of Utne Reader’s “25 Visionaries Who Are Changing our World” for his work leading a lawsuit against corporate agriculture giant Monsanto. Jim’s presentation will focus on what each person needs to know to protect their health, the environment, and small farmers.
The upcoming Food and Health Forum seminar includes a superb, three-course locally sourced dinner and a glass of wine. As part of the seminar, attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in conversation with other community members on why and how local food supports a healthier society and what we as consumers can do to play our part.
Additionally, the Green Alliance, a proud partner of the Food and Health Forum, is thrilled to be attending Jim Gerritsen’s event. Both GA and Food and Health Forum agree the collective goal of these seminars is to learn how we can better help protect the world and how we can help support our local farmers.
Downtown Portsmouth Staple, Prelude offers green gifts for Valentines Day
A quest for the perfect Valentines Day present for my fiancé led me to venture for the first time across the threshold of Prelude, a local purveyor of imported soaps, fine jewelry and gifts located at 65 Market Street in downtown Portsmouth, where longtime shop owner Holly Landgarten opened my eyes to a whole new world of products that are not only romantic, but also eco-friendly and socially conscious.
A visit to Prelude may begin with a sampling of Dr. Hauschka, a legendary line of natural skin care products that Landgarten describes as “Delicious!”
“Dr. Rudolph Hauschka was an Austrian chemist who was inspired to develop homeopathic remedies after attending lectures by Dr. Rudolph Steiner, founder of the first Waldorf School and father of Biodynamic gardening in 1920,” Landgarten said. “A lot of Hollywood make up artists discovered Dr. Hauschka Skin Care products during the late 1960’s, back when movie stars were literally abusing their skin with heavy and toxic makeup. I, personally, have been using the products since 1979.”
Dr. Hauschka the man left this world in 1969, but not before giving birth to WALA Heilmittel, which today manufactures 10,000 homeopathic remedies. The skin care products that bear his name are certified natural or organic by NATRUE, an international non-profit organization.
“They list every single ingredient for every product,” according to Landgarten. “And that means you know exactly what you are putting on your skin and you can be assured that it is 100% safe”.
“We are also talking about a company that is invested in helping to grow healthy and vibrant local economies all over the world. For example, WALA trains farmers in Afghanistan to raise roses instead of poppies which are mostly used to make opium,” she noted. Currently, 80 percent of the world’s heroin supply comes from Afghanistan. Production of rose oil, found in a number of Dr. Hauschka products, is an ancient Afghan tradition.
Beyond Hauschka, Prelude offers popular national brands like Burt Bees, as well as locally made skin care products.
Sustainability from the Inside out; Jewett Farms helps to green-up a home’s interior
They just don’t build houses like they used to – they’re getting better. People want to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer without spending a fortune, so as our fossil fuels fizzle out and energy costs rise, there’s an increasing demand for well-insulated homes. It’s one of the many examples of the intersection between environmentalism and frugality, but unfortunately, many people seem to stop thinking sustainability when it comes to the interior of their homes.
What most don’t realize is that filling a tightly sealed home with cheap mass-produced products can negatively affect the interior air quality.
“Almost everybody uses catalyzed lacquers and conversion varnishes,” says Mike Myers, owner of Jewett Farms & Company Cabinet Makers in Dover, NH, a green-minded cabinetmaker which considers the footprint of all of their handmade products. “These finishes everyone uses are chemically-based, non biodegradable and explosive. You have to wear masks to apply them, so while a home-owner may feel good that they did the right thing in terms of environmental performance with the exterior envelope of the house, they’ve actually dangerously veered from those same environmental values when it comes to the inside. “
Make the most of the winter balm with a trip to Papa Wheelies
With temperatures today expected to creep steadily into the 40s, it’s likely that more than a few outdoor enthusiasts will take to using their first sick day of the year.
What better way to make the most the Seacoast’s midwinter thaw than to hop on your bike and go for a ride?
Whether you’re looking for a tune-up, new parts, accessories, or even a brand new ride, the team at Papa Wheelies is there to equip you for a great ride around town or country. Having already experienced a number of 40-degree-plus days, the uptick in customers is something they’ve gotten more than used to.
“We’ve had a surprising amount of traffic so far this winter,” says Papa’s Josh Pierce. “With the milder conditions, the roads and trails are still very much ride-able.”
You'd think mid-winter would represent a true “off season” for any bike shop. To the contrary, Papa Wheelies has hardly had to switch into a lower gear. Earlier this month, for instance, the crew helped lead a final, commemorative ride across the old Memorial Bridge.
“The ride went really well, “ noted Pierce. “It was a beautiful morning, and we ended up having a good, fast ride, considering the temperature.”
Even when the temperatures recede back to something resembling normal, Pierce says that, as long as the snow remains at a minimum, there are plenty of paths and trails to be taken.
“I actually went for a mountain bike ride just last week down at Seabrook,” said Pierce. “As long as the trails are uncovered, the conditions can still be pretty decent, even if it’s cold.”
Between rides and increased traffic on milder days and myriad mid-winter projects, you won’t have to worry about Papa Wheelies hibernating away the winter doldrums.
The first official day of spring might still be a good seven weeks out. Still, it’s never too early to take advantage of the exceptional discounts offered by Papa Wheelies to Green Alliance members. Regardless of season, Green Card holders receive $50 off the price of any adult bicycle, 20% off all in-stock 2011 models, $20 off a tune-up, free installation of parts, and 20% off all in-store accessories!
Click here to learn more about the Seacoast’s premier independent bike shop!
New Hampshire Energy Programs - Increase Your Energy Efficiency and Your Bottom Line
Interested in doing well while doing good? New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibilty can help. Since the late 1980's NHBSR has been supporting businesses committed to adopting socially responsible business practices.
As we all know, energy costs are on the rise and putting pressure on the bottom lines of businesses throughout New Hampshire. NHBSR is having a free webinar on how energy efficient programs can greatly reduce your energy costs. These costs could go down as much as 50% and can create a more comfortable environment for customers and employees.
To learn more on how you can potentially save thousands of dollars a year on energy, register for the free webinar here:
New Intern, Joe Cappiello, Joins Green Alliance Team
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Since becoming a college student I have wanted to work for an organization that is helping to keep our environment sustainable. That is why I am very happy to be working with Green Alliance. For the past few years or so I have become more and more conscientious of how much energy I use. By doing the little things such as using less water, turning off lights, and buying organic food I strive to lessen my environmental impact and live a sustainable lifestyle.
Currently I am a business-marketing student at the University of New Hampshire. I am passionate about cooking, sports, health, fitness, people, and most importantly the environment. My goal at Green Alliance is to help in any way I can. I plan on writing articles on green businesses and attending events to extend the word on the services Green Alliance provides. All around I am excited to be apart of Green Alliance and look forward to working with them throughout my junior year.
Shawnee Peak announces ShowSports Adventure Camp
Old Man Winter might have taken it easy on New England thus far, but everyone knows it's only a matter of time before he wakes up -- and wakes up anrgy.
Rest assured, when that happens, Shawnee Peak will be ready.
On top of maintaining an always pristine run of slopes and trails, the folks at the Bridgton, Maine ski resort are currently gearing up for the next in a long line of creative program: SnowSports Adventure Camp.
Needless to say, these aren't your grandfather's ski lessons. With a schedule that includes on-mountain scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, lessons on park skiing, and freestyle tutorials, the camp promises a program as fun as it is informative.
Each camp session will run for three days (February 20-22, 23-25, and 26-28), with daily sessions being conducted from 9am to 3pm. All sessions are open to kids age six and over, regardless of ability or experience. Luch and snacks will be provided
To learn more or to register, click here!
Button Up NH workshops teach residents how to stay warm and keep money in their pockets
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My Energy Planet’s initiative to teach New Hampshire residents about home energy savings is in full swing. Button Up NH is now in its third year, and now offers participants two different workshops about saving energy at home. Button Up 101 is A Workshop on the Basics of Home Energy Savings, and provides participants with examples of simple actions and investments that can be made to reduce heating, electricity and hot water usage. Button Up 201 is An Advanced Workshop for Controlling Energy costs and is for residents that already have a basic understanding of energy savings and are eager to take their knowledge a step further through things such as do-it-yourself projects.
All Button Up NH workshops will be taught by certified energy professionals, and are free and open to the public. The workshops will be taking place at various locations and times across the state so that more people can take advantage of them. Green Alliance business partner Simply Green Biofuels will be sponsoring and hosting a workshop at its headquarters in Portsmouth at Regeneration Park sometime in March. The Green Alliance is also looking to sponsor one of the Button Up workshops, although the time has yet to be determined. Upcoming workshops will be Button Up 101, taking place on February 1 at 7pm in Sandwich, February 2 at 7pm in Amherst and February 9 at 3pm in Goffstown. My Energy Planet will be updating the workshop schedule regularly, so those who are interested can visit myenergyplan.net/buttonup for more information.
Growing GA Green Jobs Listing proves viability of green locally
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When you add up the workers and staff for all 98 Green Alliance Business Partners, you end up with over 1800 people employed at area businesses -- no small thing in a tough economy.
Since 2010, the GA has mainted its very own Green Jobs Listing. During the height of the recession, the page was always pretty sparse -- a job here, a job there, usually weeks, if not months, apart.
How things have changed. In the past six months, our Green Jobs Listing has exploded, a testament to the viability and promising prospects of green commerce here on the Seacoast.
For example, Revolution Energy is currently hiring for a Curriculum Developer and Customer Relations pro! And don't forget that our humble little organization is hiring for a new Customer Service / Office Manager!
Check out our GA Green Jobs Listing by clicking here!
Comedian with a heart of green returns to New Hampshire
Supporting a good cause doesn’t have to be a serious affair – and it never will be as long as Mike McDonald is involved. In association Cuzin Richard Entertainment Associates (CREA), the Bostonian comedian will host the 11th Annual Comedy Xxtravaganza this February. As usual, they will donate proceeds to several worthy New Hampshire organizations.
The Xxtravaganza will take place at two venues: February 17th at the Music Hall in Portsmouth and February 18th at the Concord City Auditorium. McDonald, who has appeared on HBO, Showtime and Comedy Central, will belittle and enlighten the audience alongside the likes of “tauntingly contemptuous” Stacy Kendro, the genuinely unbalanced Ira Proctor and DJ Hazard, who once lived out of his car for three years.
“When you do events you can’t use the same people every time,” says Smith, who has been promoting local talent since 1976. “It keeps it fresh and fun. Basically, people are looking to go out and have a good time. They want to laugh. In the middle of February, it’s important to feel good and this show makes it happen.”
But laughing until you herniate various organs isn’t the only reason to attend. CREA, which has a long tradition of supporting humanitarian causes, will donate a portion of the proceeds from each show to two New Hampshire organizations.
Green Happenings at the York County Shelter Programs
For over 32 years York County Shelter Programs have been helping those who are less fortunate. Specifically, YCSP is dedicated to ending homelessness and helping people reach their potential. Currently, YCSP owns a five building, 74 bed main campus in Alfred that houses families and individuals and provides them a barn-set gymnasium, bakery, and comfortable classroom. Every year, hundreds of people benefit from YCSP’s support.
Since late 2010, The Green Alliance has been proud to work with YCSP. It all started with a passionate inquiry sent by Mary Doyle, the Public Relations Director for YCSP. Sarah Brown, The Green Alliance’s founder, was blown away by YCSP’s altruistic values. The very next day Brown scheduled a meeting with Doyle. After an hour or so of discussing the benefits of being a Partnering Business with the GA, Doyle happily agreed to join the organization. Even better, Brown revealed that YCSP would be the first ever to join the GA for free. By joining, the YCSP became the first recipient of the GA’s newly launched Sustainable Commerce Scholarship.
Below is a slideshow of recent YCSP “Green Happenings”. It is an overview of many green practices that have taken place recently at YCSP, which include recycling, composting, energy evaluations, incorporations of solar and alternative technologies, and more.
Revitalizing America's energy economy with industrial efficiency
The Green Alliance is one of the many businesses and organizations that have signed on to support a new campaign by the Pew Environment Group of Pew Charitable Trusts for industrial efficiency. The environmental benefits are obvious; increasing efficiency would save energy and reduce waste, and allow companies to utilize more power from natural gas, coal and biomass.
But the advantages don’t stop there. Harnessing the power generated by manufacturing and industry would create an estimated one million jobs for Americans, according to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It would also save them money and increase our country’s competitiveness.
As stated on the ad campaign, “America’s utilities and factories send up enough heat through their chimneys to power Japan.” The plan would be to capture this surplus energy using existing technologies and use it for heat and electricity. This process is known as Combined Heat and Power (CHP). Recycled power and heat could be used anywhere from the factories where it came, to colleges, commercial buildings and even residential homes. In a time where money is tight and the health of the environment is at risk, changing the way we utilize energy is not only necessary, it simply makes sense.
For more information on industrial efficiency visit www.PewTrusts.org/industrialefficiency
Become a Green Alliance member today and START SAVING on local, green goods and services! JOIN NOW
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