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 Intern, Joe Cappiello, Joins Green Alliance Team

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!

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

Behrmann hopes PUC board yields growth for NH’s alternative energy sector

To say it’s been a whirlwind year for Mike Behrmann would be an understatement as grand as the budding green entrepreneur’s recent accomplishments.

In December, Behrmann – who co-owns the Dover-based Revolution Energy – was appointed to the Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Energy (EESE) Board of the state’s Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

At 28, Behrmann is – by a good seven years – the youngest member of the now three-year-old committee, established to help both the PUC and state legislature understand the impact of various policies, programs, and initiatives on New Hampshire’s ever-growing green sector.

With a member list that includes the likes of former U.S. Congressman Jeb Bradley and New Hampshire Sustainable Energy Association President David Borden, one would think Behrmann might risk a certain level of star-struck intimidation.

While that may have been the case initially, Behrmann admits it didn’t last long.

“When I first got word of the appointment, I had a little rush of nervousness,” says Behrmann with a laugh. “But as soon as you realize the wealth of experience and the tremendous opportunities it poses, it’s hard to be anything but excited.”

For the University of New Hampshire grad, inclusion on the board means an opportunity to help shape alternative energy policy in a state at a green crossroads, of sorts.

“Part of our goal is to be a resource for entities both public and private to vet new ideas, new policies, and to assure that the alternative energy sector in New Hampshire continues to grow,” says Behrmann, who, along with Clay Mitchell, founded Revolution in 2008. “And as a business owner operating here, I’m making it my goal to shed some light on the benefits this industry can have in a whole host of areas.”

Shawnee Peak to boast best ski conditions yet this weekend

While it hasn't been the white winter many had hoped, Shawnee Peak is gearing up for the season's best skiing conditions to date this weekend. Indeed, with nearly six inches of fresh new powder currently coating the Bridgton, Maine resort, the trails and runs promise to be as cool and crisp as the weather itself.

And with a plethora of fun happenings on the docket, there's never been a better time to hit the slopes.

On Saturday, representatives from Monster Energy Drink will be on hand giving away free samples and offering prizes for Shawnee's Monster Rail Jam, which will take place in the lower terrain between 1 and 3pm. The contest is free and open to the public, with registration happening between 11 and 12.

Additionally, The Sports Hub (98.5 FM) will be broadcasting live from the mountain's bottom, giving away free shwag throughout the day, and hosting an Apres ski party at Shawnee's Blizzards Pub from 4 to 6pm.

Shawnee's also taking this weekend to taut their latest, recession-busting offer: Aptly named the 6-Pack, the deal gives customers six ski days for the price of five. At just $295, the package is perfect for those looking for an all-season pass, but unsure whether they'll be hitting the slopes enough to get their money's worth.

So pack up the fam, load up the van, and take a trip up to scenic Bridgeton, for what promises to be one of the best ski weekends of the young year!

Children's Museum of NH announces MINI Cooper Car Raffle Fundraiser

The Children’s Museum of NH is starting off this year’s fundraising with the raffling off of one very cool prize. One lucky person will be the owner of a brand new 2012 MINI Cooper Convertible, valued at $29,000.

The model is pepper white with black bonnet stripes, and is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, cold weather package (heated seats, heated power folding mirrors, and heated washer jets), Bluetooth with iPod adapter, power folding convertible top, 121 HP 1.6 liter engine, air conditioning, MINI Boost Stereo, 1-year free Sirius subscription, CD player, power one-touch windows, and power door locks.

This raffle is part of a new initiative by the Museum to raise funds imperative to the operation of its many award-winning programs. These programs are a huge resource for the “community on both local and statewide levels” says Justine Roberts, Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of NH. “We serve over 93,000 people a year and nearly half of those visitors are welcomed at no cost or reduced admission. We have free programs for families with children on the autism spectrum, for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s, and for all Title 1 schools in New Hampshire. We also open our doors to arts, education, cultural management and science professionals as a meeting place and to encourage networking and collaborations. We are launching this new fundraiser so we can continue finding ways to make a difference for New Hampshire’s families.”

The winning ticket will be drawn on March 23, 2012 at the Cheers to Children event, which will include local food, live music, and wine. Those who want a chance at winning the fully-loaded MINI Cooper Convertible can order their tickets at www.childrens-museum.org, at the Museum’s front desk during regular business hours, or by calling the Museum at 603-742-2002. Tickets for Cheers to Children are available at $50 per person, or there is an option to buy the Ultimate Ticket: one car raffle ticket and two tickets to Cheers to Children for just $175, a $25 savings. 
 

RAM Printing continues innovation with short print runs and digital packaging

RAM Printing has been using sustainable practices since 1989, long before the current green trend. But resting on laurels simply isn't RAM's style. RAM has held its own on the cutting edge of sustainability through tireless work and constant innovation to improve efficiency and reduce the company's already-low energy use and waste production. At the same time, RAM manages to continually increase the variety, convenience, and affordability of their products.

RAM's newest offerings include short print runs with no minimum order, as well as digitally printed packaging, including personalized and promotional packaging. “In a nut shell, we're now providing additional solutions for both short and long printing runs and packaging,” says account representative John Sobczak. “Short runs and digital packaging are new options in the printing industry, and not many companies are offering them.”

As always, RAM combines their commitment to green business with their passion for customer service. “Sustainability is always our top priority,” says Sobczak, “but that's not the only reason we've added these services. Shorter printing runs and personalized packaging save time and energy, but they also allow us to provide the customer with more choice, more printing solutions, and lower cost.”

NHBSR Spring Conference explores how social responsibility encourages profitability

In a society dominated by huge corporations, it's heartening to know that businesses don't have to be purely self-interested. Especially for the green movement, businesses who care about the welfare of their communities can be an important driving force for positive change. Luckily, more and more businesses are discovering that social responsibility can be directly tied to profitability—a win-win for everyone. New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility (NHBSR) is a network of businesses committed to socially responsible business practice, a group that continues to explore how kind business and good business can spur each other forward.

Every spring, the NHBSR holds a conference to interrogate how social responsibility relates to the workplace, community, and environment. The conference features a prominent, respected leader in the world of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) to deliver an opening keynote address, and continues through a series of educational workshops, with CSR discussion circles during lunch. The conference also allows plenty of time for networking. This year's NHBSR conference, "Walking the Talk: The Profitability in Values," will continue to explore the integral link between social responsibility and the bottom line.

"CSR is clearly an important issue in today's business climate as evidenced by the number of leading NH companies involved with the event," said Jill Wurm, conference chair and director of public relations at Fairpoint. "All of the speakers we've brought to the conference were helpful in outlining how employees can drive CSR and the benefits to having employees involved in CSR."

Great Works Chiropractic Helps Kids Become Well-Adjusted

The benefits of chiropractic for adults is well established – almost 20 million men, women, and children visit licensed chiropractors annually as part of their health, wellness, and pain management regimens.

But now an entirely new and potentially unlikely group is experiencing the drug-free benefits of chiropractic: infants and young children. And Dr. Seth LaFlamme, founder and owner of South Berwick-based Great Works Chiropractic, has been strongly advocating for infant chiropractic care for several years. “Our birth rituals are often unnatural and cause harm,” noted Dr. LaFlamme. “It’s very important to get an infant checked, as injuries are common during delivery.”

Newborns can benefit immensely from chiropractic adjustments. The birth process, complicated by a constricted uterus, a breech presentation, or a difficult delivery, can result in unintended spine or nerve damage to a vulnerable infant. For example, a study of 1000 babies found that of the 17% suffering from vomiting, hyperactivity, and sleeplessness shortly after birth, 95% showed signs of spinal injury and dysfunction.

Fortunately, chiropractic treatment for these maladies was found in the study to demonstrate success rates that “overshadow every other type (of care).” And the benefits extend beyond the child’s newborn stage: chiropractic care has been shown to assist breast feeding, nervousness, sleep disorders, colic, and even ear, nose, and throat infections.

That’s because during the birthing process, a newborn’s neck vertebrae can become misaligned, and affect the Eustachian tube. This may lead to fluid buildup in the middle ear, causing recurring ear infections. However, a study in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics found that 90% of children who received chiropractic adjustments did not experience another ear infection within six months of their initial visit – a success rate that’s music to the ears of parents struggling with their kids’ chronic ear infections. “While no medical condition is specifically treated by chiropractic care, it’s been shown to benefit the immune system, because of the close relationship between the human nervous system and the immune system,” Dr. LaFlamme explains.

ReVision Energy Brings Carbon-Neutral Mission to NH

Operating near carbon-neutral is something ReVision Energy has been able to do in its Maine facilities for quite some time. The renewable energy contractors have striven since the company's inception in 2003 to help people and businesses transition to renewable energy, and have modeled this transition in their offices. The combination of gasifying wood boilers, solar hot water, and grid-tied photovoltaic systems in all of ReVision's workspaces has provided a showcase of renewable energy to educate the community, in addition to achieving an impressively minimal carbon footprint for their operations. So ReVision's recent move to Exeter, with ambitions of bringing NH its first carbon-neutral solar energy showroom, was just the next step in ReVision's proud history of working to reduce the nation's dependency on fossil fuels.

So why the move? Office manager Heather Fournier says that ReVision wanted to be more accessible to their already committed customer base in the granite state, and to make their services visible to new customers as well. Besides being more convenient for ReVision's New Hampshire friends, the Exeter office will greatly decrease the amount of fuel required to transport products to local customers, greening ReVision's services even further.

“Starting in about 2008, New Hampshire residents really began finding us on the internet as we invested in search engine optimization,” says company co-founder Phil Coupe. “Once we started landing a substantial number of projects across the border, it became obvious that we should open a branch in NH to properly respond to the demand and to eliminate the inefficiency of the long drive.”

“The Exeter office helps us expand our reach into New Hampshire,” continues Heather. “Our Maine offices were already providing people in New Hampshire with sustainable energy systems, but the Exeter office helps us be more local for them. It also helps the NH economy,” Heather notes, adding that ReVision was excited to be able to bring new green jobs to the state.

Greenovations offers new discounts on Eco Timber flooring, Rais stoves, and Bambu coiled bowls

Since 2010, Greenovations has provided the seacoast area with exclusively green building supplies produced by companies that live by principles of environmental justice. From carpet lines made from hemp and cotton materials, to zero-VOC paints and coatings, to FSC-Certified and recycled content hard finishes, owner Christopher Ring selects products for Greenovations to carry with a discerning eye. Greenovations has also proven over the last few years that building a green, healthy home can be affordable.

Right now, Greenovations is making green building even more affordable with a variety of discounts—especially for Green Alliance consumer members. From now until March 31st, Green Card holders can enjoy a new Rais stove for $400 to $500 off the normal price. Greenovations is also offering a smaller discount for a limited time to those who aren't Green Alliance members yet.

For everyone, Greenovations is offering significant reductions on Eco Timber pre-finished flooring including woven poplar solids, muir woods select grade maple, woven engineered bamboo, and dye woven engineered bamboo, all from $0.35 to $1.21 off per square foot. All Bambu coiled bamboo bowls are now 25% off as well.

Greenovations is making it more affordable than ever to build green, so come take advantage of these deals and check out what else is stocked by the most selective green building supply business in the area!

New Intern Excited to Join GA Community

Since my freshman year of college, I've known that after graduation I would pursue a career in environmentalism. Now, as a second semester senior, that impending step into the 'real world' is getting much closer, and I've realized that along with drive, great knowledge and experience are going to be invaluable when trying to be successful.  It is because of this that I am so excited about being the new Sustainable Business Development Intern at the Green Alliance for my last semester. My greatest interest is the connection between the society and the environment, which is why I am eager to help Green Alliance to further develop a green community and support for local sustainable businesses. I’ve been aware of the work Green Alliance does for a while now, and am glad for the opportunity to learn from such a great organization.

I’m currently studying geography at UNH, and a member of the Student Environmental Action Coalition there. I was previously the Programs & Services intern with New Hampshire Businesses for Social Responsibility, and just returned from a semester abroad in Denmark, studying Sustainability in Europe. I enjoy everything about the great outdoors, a new-found love for cooking, and spending time with my dogs Stella and Hudson. I’m looking forward to meeting and getting to know members and friends of the Green Alliance, working to spread its message about sustainability, and becoming a part of the environmental community that the seacoast is so well-known for.

GA Limelight Deal, Part Deux

Way back in June, Seacoast Media Group launched Limelight Deals, a sort of hyper-local Groupon offering incredible discounts to myriad businesses throughout the region.

As one of Limelight's first test cases, the GA offered $10 off its yearly membership. The results were instantaneous: By the next day, we had customers rolling through our downtown Kittery doors, eager to score their Green Card.

With the new year officially upon us, we here at the GA have decided to up the ante on our previous Limelight Deal. Now, for just $22, you can become a GA Green Card holder, and enjoy access to exclusive discounts to over 100 local green businesses!

But that's not all! (Always wanted to say that.) Not only will you receive a discounted GA membership; you'll also score a $10 gift certificate to one of four Green Alliance Business Partners: Acorn Organic Salon, Isles of Shoals Steamship Company, Robert's Maine Grill, or the Habitat for Humanity ReStore!

Click here (or on the graphic to the left) to take advantage of this incredible Limelight Deal, and join our growing community of eco-conscious consumers and businesses doing their part to strengthen -- and green -- the local economy!

GA to host series of business branding and educational events

In 2008, local journalist and activist Sarah Brown launched Green Alliance (GA) with the aim of connecting sustainability-minded consumers with businesses committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Nearly 100 businesses and close to 3,000 consumer members later, Brown and the GA are well on their way to making that dream a reality.

Now, the fast-growing organization is setting its sights on helping their partnering businesses more effectively connect with one another and garner the tools necessary to maintain a successful green business.

On January 25th, the GA will host the first in a series of unique educational events at their new 75 Congress Street headquarters. The workshops – which will include wine and light appetizers – are free for existing Green Alliance Business Partners, just $25 for Green Alliance Community members and $50 for any business owner or employee that is not a Green Alliance Green Card holder (this fee includes a one year GA membership).

Designed to help foster idea-sharing and creative marketing strategies, the workshops promise to add yet another unique wrinkle to an already unique GA tapestry.

“We’ve always been very effective at being a kind of clearinghouse for green businesses and consumers in NH, ME and Ma,” explains GA Director Brown. “But we’ve realized lately that the businesses themselves are an enormous wealth of knowledge, and that we should be fostering the sharing of that knowledge for the benefit of everyone.”

Truth be told, Brown’s idea for a fresh, new take on the traditional business-to-business workshop wasn’t hers alone.

This past summer, Brown – eager to put a fresh pair of eyes about the GA model – was introduced to Bridget Sprague. With over 10 years of high profile marketing experience – Stride Rite, General Motors, and Green Alliance Business Partner Pixels & Pulp being just a few examples of past clients – Sprague struck Brown as the perfect person to help take her growing but still infant GA to the next level.

Portsmouth Green Drinks to feature guest speaker Mimi White

This coming Thursday marks a very special -- and unique -- Portsmouth Green Drinks, as former Portsmouth Poet Laureate Mimi White will be on hand to share some of her renowned verse, as well as her opinion on green issues, and what the Seacoast community can do going forward.

Things will kick off with networking and drinks at 6:00pm, with White taking the floor shortly thereafter.

Organized by GA Business Partner Tim Gaudreau of Tim Gaudreau Studios, Portsmouth Green Drinks offers area greenies a chance to come together and hear from local business leaders, academics, experts, and other community members.

For the past two years, Two Ceres Street -- another GA Business -- has played host to the monthly gathering, held on the third Thursday of each month.

Stop by and enjoy drink specials and engaging conversation, while Two Ceres' beautiful fire helps keep the winter freeze at bay.

Portsmouth's Poet Laureate from 2007-2009, Mimi White has worked in a variety of settings including schools, libraries, prisons, residencies for the elderly, and universities. Additionally, White has been a member of the faculty at the University of New Hampshire, Northern Essex Community College, and Lesley University.

White's work has been published in dozens of journals, including Poetry, Harvard Review, West Branch, The Seattle Review, Yankee and Rivendell. Her book of poems, "The Last Island" was published in 2008.

Old Man Winter Returns to New England

He’s been missing in action for upwards of a month, minus a few brief teases. But now it appears that he’s ready to take up residence – for at least a few weeks – and his stay affects our commutes, our plans, our landscape, our municipal budgets, and a lot of other things about our lives.

He is, of course, “Old Man Winter”. And while he was nary to be seen in December, meteorologists insist that he’s making a slow but sure return to New England, whose major population centers have seen little more than a dusting or two of snow all Winter. His first stop was this past week, when 6- 10 inches of snow fell across fell across interior Northern New England. That includes the ski resorts of New Hampshire and Maine, who received a welcome dollop of “white gold” to augment the herculean efforts their own snowmakers and groomers have staged since mid-December.

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.

The SnowSports Adventure Camp is just one example of the many unique programs offered by Shawnee Peak, who's out to remind you that -- despite the mild weather -- ski season hasn't gone anywhere.

“When I tell people that we’ve got 80% of our skiing terrain open, they’re astounded,” noted Rachael Wilkinson, Director of Marketing for the Shawnee Peak resort. “They usually say, ‘but there hasn’t been any snow!’ And they’re right, but our snowmaking capacity is now so extensive that our guests consistently tell us they can’t believe how good their skiing and riding experience was.”

New space helps ReStore take in more donations

It used to be that when Habitat for Humanity ReStore Manager Doug Willey would accept a large donation – be it a discarded door or heirloom dining room set – he’d have to think long and hard how to best fit the new addition into his 10,000 square foot Dover showroom.

“There were times when we couldn’t accept a delivery because the showroom was too full, or other times where we’d have a trailer unloading that was blocking three parking spaces,” recalls Willey of his store’s halcyon Dover days. “It always felt like we could do a lot better if we just had more space.”

That all changed on October 1st of last year, when the ReStore officially opened its new Newington showroom.

Located in the old roller skate rink, the new-look ReStore managed to double the floor space of its old quarters. Not only that, but having the showroom housed on one floor – a majority of the old ReStore’s space was located in the basement – made arranging and rearranging the myriad tables, chests, and other, smaller household fodder all the more safe and seamless.

“It makes it relatively easy to move materials in and out, and to shuffle materials around as necessary,” says Willey. “And partly because of that, donations have increased dramatically these last few months.”

Whereas their Dover home’s limited parking and driving space led to constant receiving logjams, ReStore now boasts a drive-thru style drop-off center, complete with a retro gas station bell that rings every time a new car approaches.

Drive in, drop off, grab a donation slip for any tax deductions, and you’re on your way – simple as that.

And lest you think the items brought through ReStore receiving constitute little more than landfill fodder, think again: For every half-used can of paint, there is a gorgeous heirloom desk; for every used tool, a perfectly usable, sleek appliance.

Zev Yoga: Yoga for Athletes

Attention Yogis and Yoginis!

The Green Alliance is excited to share this news about our Green Business Partner, Zev Yoga.

Zev Yoga, located in Exeter NH, is now offering a fantastic new class- Yoga for Athletes. Lead by Yogacharya Julie Yonker, this series promises to help good athletes become even better but also calls on those who are simply looking for a dynamic way to cross train.

Yonker focuses on maximizing your competitive edge, improving flexibility, strength, efficency, and power. Her course on Thursday evenings (from 6:00-7:15) aims to restore muscle balance and reduce the risk of injury as well as provide enhanced recovery for those who currently experience pain. 

To register, please contact Zev Yoga directly, specifically, Julie Yonker: RunnerJolie@gmail.com. This class is being offered begining January 5th. The cost is $75 for the full four-week session,     drop-ins are $20 per visit. Zev Yoga is located at 175 Water St, Exeter NH (on the second floor).

York County Audubon announces Hog Island Scholarship

Deadline Extended to March 1, 2012

York County Audubon Society (YCAS) is seeking an educator or community leader to participate in a one-week program on famed Hog Island off mid-coast Maine in July 2012. YCAS will sponsor one participant who can benefit from the Hog Island experience and use it to teach others.

Complete information is available at www.yorkcountyaudubon.org and applications are due March 1, 2012. The program is entitled “Sharing Nature: An Educator’s Week” and will run from July 19th through July 24th. Program details and descriptions are available at www.projectpuffin.org/OrnithCamps.html.

The YCAS scholarship will pay 70% (up to $700) of the recipient's cost for program tuition, room and board. Hog Island is celebrating its 75th anniversary as a leader in environmental education.

Since 1936, some of the world’s most well-known and highly respected naturalists have inspired thousands to learn about and protect birds and the environment. Roger Tory Peterson was among the first teachers on the 335-acre island. Rachel Carson described her visit to Hog Island in her landmark book, Silent Spring. Kenn Kaufman, only nine years old when he read Peterson’s account of Hog lsland, is now an international authority on birds and one of the program instructors.

York County Audubon Society fosters understanding, appreciation, and conservation of the natural world through the education of present and future generations. YCAS is a chapter of Maine Audubon and the National Audubon Society.