Posts Tagged ‘New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’
Friday, August 20th, 2010
Economic diversification is the key to building a world class state economy. To that end, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development would very much like to tip its hat to The Balsams Vice President of Sales and New Business Development Gary Armitage, a visionary thinker who is bringing a world class film festival to the North Country.
For years, we have been preaching the gospel of communities taking a community inventory of assets that are unique to their region, and through the creation of this festival, Gary has embraced that message. The North Country economy isn’t just about paper mills and machine shops (though they are certainly a big piece of the puzzle); it’s also about the Jericho Park ATV Festival in July that brought 2,000 visitors into the region and gave a quick boost to local stores, restaurants and motels; it’s about entrepreneurs with great ideas choosing the scenic North Country as a great launching pad for their business; and yes, it’s now about the First Annual FLICKERS North Country Film Festival as well.
 I was fortunate enough to join Gary at lunch along with WTPL’s Jack Heath and Shelly Breer who have been spreading the word about this great event. I was incredibly impressed with everyone’s enthusiasm for creating a festival that would develop a new regional awareness of the beauty of the North Country as well as the untapped opportunities for its economic potential.
Good luck to Gary and the rest of The Balsam’s team for great success with the Festival. We at Economic Development and the “No Bull Business Blog” stand firmly behind this effort and will do our best to make it as successful as possible. By giving new visitors a ticket to a first class event, Gary is doing his part to build a new economic reality in an area that is about to learn how positive and profitable diversification can be.
- Steve Boucher, Communications & Legislative Director
THE BALSAMS HOSTS THE FIRST ANNUAL
FLICKERS NORTH COUNTRY FILM FESTIVAL
Dixville Notch, N.H. – The BALSAMS Grand Resort Hotel is pleased to announce that it will host the first annual FLICKERS North Country Film Festival. The non-profit festival aims to promote New Hampshire’s Great North Woods as a regional center for the arts, and is expected to bring celebrities, audiences and international filmmakers to the area. This exciting event will be held September 30 – October 3, 2010 with screenings of a variety of films in multiple locations and gala events.
The FLICKERS North Country Film Festival is in partnership with the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIF) one of the most respected in the country, and is a qualifying event for Academy Award short film submissions.
 “We are thrilled to be bringing this film festival to the North Country,” said Gary Armitage, Vice President of Sales and New Business Development at The BALSAMS. “Through this unique event, we hope to encourage cultural tourism and support area businesses. The beauty of our area is a natural draw for filmmakers and producers, and we aim to bring them here. The film festival is a first step in what we hope to grow over time, spreading the event into our local communities. Also, the date allows us to extend the tourism calendar beyond the end of the typical season and our goal is to attract visitors to experience Coös County and the North Country of New Hampshire.”
There are multiple events planned during the festival. Audiences will be treated to the world premier screening of “Indian Stream Schoolhouse,” produced by Pittsburg, NH resident Roy Amey. The “best of” winners from the August 2010 RIIF will also be screened along with the work of outstanding independent filmmakers from across the globe. As many as five films will be projected at once in areas throughout The BALSAMS, including the Ballot Room and The Switzerland of America Ballroom. Shorts, feature length films and animated films across several genres including comedy, drama, fantasy and romance, to North Country and Franco-American culture will be screened. Watch for updates and announcements at http://northcountryfilmfestival.org/index.htm.
The non-profit festival is seeking individual and corporate sponsors. Contact Gary Armitage at 603-255-2669 or garmitage@thebalsams.com for more details.
A black-tie gala event will also be held on Saturday, October 1 to benefit the Brattleboro Retreat, a mental health and addiction treatment center that provides a wide array of services for children and adults. Its newest program for uniformed service professionals is designed for police, firefighters, correctional officers, EMTs and military personnel who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder as a consequence of their duty. The Retreat works with patients from Hollywood, CA to Hallowell, ME. (www.brattlebororetreat.org)
For more information about the first annual FLICKERS North Country Film Festival, visit http://northcountryfilmfestival.org/index.htm. The BALSAMS is pleased to be joined by Public Television of New Hampshire in supporting this first-ever event.
About The BALSAMS
The BALSAMS is a premier New Hampshire resort hotel, featuring award-winning dining, outdoor wilderness adventures, unique events, endless activities, and fun for the entire family. Our 8,000-acre mountain resort features everything from golfing on a Top 100 ranked, Donald Ross designed course, a Top 25 ranked tennis program, hiking and biking, whitewater rafting, kids’ summer camp, private alpine and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and more. For more information go to www.thebalsams.com or call 800-255-0600.
ABOUT RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL:
The FLICKERS: Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), has secured its place in the global community as the portal for the best in international independent cinema, earning the respect of domestic and foreign filmmakers, filmgoers and trend watchers. This confluence of art and commerce brought together world-class celebrities, award-winning filmmakers, new talent and audience members in record numbers last year. Ranked as one of the top 12 Festivals in the United States, RIIFF is also a qualifying festival for the Short Film Academy Award through its affiliation with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences. There are 65 film festivals worldwide which share this distinction and RIIFF is the only festival in New England. The next Festival will take place August 10-15, 2010. For more information about the festival, please visit www.rifilmfest.org.
Tags: Ballot Room, Brattleboro Retreat, First Annual Flickers North Country Film Festival, Gary Armitage, Jack Heath, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, No Bull Business Blog, Public Television of New Hampshire, Roy Amey, Shelly Breer, The Balsams, The Switzerland of America Ballroom, WTPL
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Friday, August 20th, 2010
Charles E. “Gus” Whalen Jr. has boldly gone where other business owners can only dare to dream. In addition to operating the Warren Featherbone Company, a major children’s wear manufacturing facility in Gainesville, GA, Whalen has overseen the development of the Featherbone Communiversity, a collaborative, cross-generational learning alliance that allows entrepreneurial ideas to take flight. Clearly, this isn’t your “grandfather’s CEO.”
 Gus Whalen Whalen, keynote speaker at the Eighth Annual Governor’s Advanced Manufacturing & High Technology Summit scheduled for September 28th from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester, also directs the efforts of The Warren Featherbone Foundation and is author of “The Featherbone Principle,” “The Featherbone Spirit,” “The Gift of Renewal” and “Hooked at the Roots – the Evolution of Featherbone Communiversity.”
“Warren’s work has not only transformed the manufacturing industry, but also the way that communities are built and sustained,” said New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership Director of Operations Zenagui Brahim. “By constantly reinventing his company and taking the additional step of creating innovative learning centers like the Communiversity, he has proven to be one of our nation’s true visionaries.”
Developed by the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development and the New Hampshire High Technology Council, the summit will bring together industry leaders for a day of information sharing, networking and best practices.
In addition to the keynote address by Gus Whalen as well as a related interactive session, the summit will feature a series of workshops including “Is Everyone In Your Organization Working Effectively Toward the Same Ends?,” “How Are You Sustaining Lean?” and “Advancing Talent Management.” New Hampshire Department of Resources & Economic Development Commissioner George Bald will also give an overview of the state’s manufacturing industry.
The 8th Annual Governor’s Advanced Manufacturing & High Technology Summit is sponsored by Citizens Bank, BAE Systems, APICS, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and media sponsor New Hampshire Business Review. The registration fee is $95 per person and includes lunch. For more details, visit www.nhbia.org.
Tags: Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire, Communiversity, George Bald, Gus Whalen, New Hampshire Department of Resources & Economic Development, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, New Hampshire High Technology Council, New Hampshire Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Radisson Hotel, Warren Featherbone Company, Zenagui Brahim
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Tuesday, August 17th, 2010
The New Hampshire Division of Economic Development has announced the hiring of Justin Slattery as Regional Business Resource Specialist.
 In his new position, Slattery will plan and implement development strategies which will build economic opportunity for businesses in Cheshire, Sullivan and Grafton Counties. He will work hand in hand with companies on issues ranging from permitting and site selection to energy efficiency and workforce training while also providing strategic counsel to local community and economic development officials.
Slattery’s prior work assignments have included helping clients recruit and acquire acute talent in several high-tech disciplines, managing operations and human resources for a New Hampshire non-profit, working with individuals and companies statewide to access training and career counseling resources available through NH Works and the Workforce Investment Act and serving as Director of Citizen Services for Governor John Lynch focusing on economic development and labor projects.
“Justin’s mix of public and private industry experience is a great advantage in understanding the needs of the business community and connecting companies with the resources they need to grow and succeed,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “He comes armed with a variety of experiences and a strong knowledge base that makes him a very valuable addition to our team.”
Slattery is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Political Science. A New Hampshire native, he grew up in Pelham and currently resides in Goffstown with his wife, Amy.
Tags: Amy Slattery, Governor John Lynch, Justin Slattery, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, NH Works, Roy Duddy, Workforce Investment Act
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Monday, August 16th, 2010
A new thermoplastic seal for the automotive industry has led to Hutchinson Sealing Systems being named the “Innovation Rocks!” award winner by the New Hampshire Business Resource Center for the month of August.
 The seal, which replaces conventional rubber and steel composite seals, stops water and dust intrusion while sealing automobile glass. In addition, it leads to a quieter car ride by helping to manage wind noise.
The all thermoplastic seal is completely recyclable, lighter in weight than conventional rubber and steel composite seals and is also more aesthetically pleasing.
“The thermoplastic seal developed by Hutchinson is a great advancement not only for the automotive industry but also for use in the industrial and aerospace industries,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “This type of technology that transcends multiple industries and has wide application is a great example of the incredible innovation and creativity of companies in the Granite State.”
For more information about Hutchinson Sealing Systems, Inc., visit www.hutchinsonworldwide.com.
“Innovation Rocks!” is an initiative sponsored by the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’s Business Resource Center in coordination with Rock 101 (WGIR-FM) and the The Pavilion at the Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Downtown to celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of New Hampshire innovators.
Tags: Hutchinson Sealing Systems Inc., Innovation Rocks!, New Hampshire Business Resource Center, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Pavilion at the Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Downtown, Rock 101, Roy Duddy, WGIR-FM
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Friday, August 6th, 2010
This year’s Greenerpalooza concert goers will be more stylish, coiffed and manicured than ever before…guaranteed. That’s thanks to Acorn Organic Salon who are donating their “green” hairstyling services to ensure that this eco-friendly show is the social event of the year.
 A team of Acorn Organic stylists will be on hand at the August 12th Greenerpalooza III concert featuring Sheryl Crow and Colbie Caillat at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion to provide a wide array of services including hair cuts, herbal foot soaks, updo/styles and chair massages. They will also hold a raffle for a “spacation” where the winner and three friends will receive manicures, pedicures, massages and deep conditioner treatments as well as dinner and drinks. Other raffle winners will receive gift certificates and product baskets. All proceeds will be donated to the National Wildlife Federation to help wildlife affected by the BP oil spill.
“We thought that it was only fitting to use our skills and talents to raise money and awareness at this premier green event,” said Laura Mackay, co-owner of Dover-based Acorn Organic Salon. “Our whole business model revolves around reducing toxicity, reusing materials, and recycling, so participating in Greenerpalooza is a natural for us.”
Now in its third year, Greenerpalooza is a celebration of energy efficiency/green efforts in the Granite State. Set against the backdrop of the Sheryl Crow/Colbie Caillat concert, there will be over 30 exhibitors displaying the latest in wind, solar and other alternative energy sources as well as “green” products and services. The event is sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire and Citizens Bank in coordination with the New Hampshire Business Resource Center and the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion as well as media sponsor New Hampshire Business Review.
Acorn, a member of the Green Alliance Co-op, has long supported sustainable business practices, utilizing all organic products in their salon, reusing bags, performing online booking instead of utilizing paper appointment books and shipping collected hair to be woven into oil spill hair mats as part of the Matter of Trust initiative.
 “This is a business that is 100 percent dedicated to doing the right thing in every aspect of their operations,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Communications & Legislative Director Steve Boucher. “From the products they use to their charitable endeavors in the community, Acorn is a company that is setting an example worthy of emulation in the Granite State.”
At Greenerpalooza, Acorn stylists will be offering a variety of services at reduced cost in order to maximize contributions to the National Wildlife Federation.
“Greenerpalooza is a great way for the New Hampshire business community to send a strong message that going green and protecting the environment is within everyone’s grasp,” said Acorn co-owner Alle Degan. “There are little things that each one of us every day can do to make the small differences that really add up.”
Tickets to the Sheryl Crow and Colbie Caillat concert, which include entry into the eco-village, are available online at www.meadowbrook.net. To learn more about the latest happenings with Greenerpalooza, visit the newly created Greenerpalooza III Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greennh. To learn more about Acorn Organic Salon, visit www.acornorganicsalon.com.
Tags: Acorn Organic Salon, Alle Degan, Citizens Bank, Colbie Caillet, Green Alliance Co-op, Greenerpalooza, Laura MacKay, Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion, New Hampshire Business Resource Center, New Hampshire Business Review, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Public Service of New Hampshire, Sheryl Crow, Steve Boucher
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Friday, July 2nd, 2010
Nearly 30 commercial real estate brokers recently joined the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’s business recruitment team on a regional bus tour of available facilities in Farmington, Rochester, Dover, Somersworth and Portsmouth.
“Telling someone about a great site for a business expansion or relocation is one thing, but showing them allows them to get a real feel for the property,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “In addition to providing an overview of available commercial real estate, we also had a captive audience to speak to about free State services that can help their clients’ businesses to thrive in New Hampshire.”
 Sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire, the Summer Real Estate Tour gave participants insight into larger commercial projects taking place throughout the state and also provided introductions to economic development representatives from each municipality. While on the bus route between stops, State Business Development Manager Michael Bergeron gave a presentation on area demographics, labor needs and housing trends.
“I found the economic development representatives from the Seacoast towns to be very informative and positive in their presentations,” said Leonard, Lee & Company Vice President Pam Lynch. “I was very impressed to see the amount of new construction and business expansions in the area, especially in the manufacturing and medical office sectors. Those are the types of jobs that will drive New Hampshire’s economic recovery.”
“Vowing to learn at least one new thing every day, I was ecstatic to have attended the bus tour,” added Bob Anderson of Prudential Verani Commercial. “With experts from many different Seacoast cities and towns, this was a very eventful and informative trip.”
Public Service of New Hampshire Economic & Community Development Manager Pat McDermott welcomed the chance to participate after helping to coordinate similar tours in the North Country as well as southern New Hampshire.
“Providing commercial real estate brokers with the information they need to make wise decisions for their clients creates economic development opportunities in New Hampshire,” McDermott said. “New businesses mean new jobs and increased economic prosperity for all citizens.”
Tags: Bob Anderson, Leonard Lee & Company, Michael Bergeron, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Pam Lynch, Pat McDermott, Prudential Verani Commercial, Public Service of New Hampshire, Roy Duddy
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Friday, July 2nd, 2010
As part of a continuing effort to connect businesses with the resources and services they need to be successful and grow, and to answer questions growing small businesses may have, the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development yesterday unveiled MyExpertNet.
 Dr. William Osgood of the Knowledge Institute looks on as Governor John Lynch announces the unveiling of the MyExpertNet initiative. MyExpertNet is a virtual community created through a public-private partnership where small businesses can get answers to business questions from qualified experts, and connect with other members of the business community to share ideas, resources and markets. The initiative is the result of collaboration between the Knowledge Institute, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Comcast, Public Service of New Hampshire, Centrix Bank and Unitil.
“Over the last several years we have worked to give businesses the tools needed to help them be successful, to grow their companies and create jobs,” Gov. John Lynch said. Under Gov. Lynch, the State of New Hampshire has reinstated the Job Training Fund, and more than 7,000 workers from across New Hampshire have received enhanced training. The State, which has 7th best business tax environment in the nation, created a Research and Development Tax Credit to help innovative companies grow.
“These have been difficult economic times for our state and our businesses. That is why it is important we continue to work with small businesses to help ensure they have what they need to grow,” Gov. Lynch said. “Through MyExpertNet, small businesses can have their questions answered by one of the many volunteer experts. It is important to connect business people with the information they need to be successful and this is one more way we are doing that.”
Over 40 business professionals have volunteered to serve as experts and provide their time, skills and expertise for the initiative. These experts will cover areas ranging from accounting and energy efficiency to federal contracting and international trade. Additional experts will be added in the future, providing entrepreneurs with the opportunity to have their questions answered by more than one professional in each subject area.
“MyExpertNet is an environment where all participants add value and all receive value a true win-win for all involved,” said Knowledge Institute President/CFO Dr. William Osgood, architect of the initiative. “This innovative concept also represents a model that other states can embrace to further the positive impact in building small business strength across the country. We’re pleased that New Hampshire is, once again, a leader in this critical arena.”
 Comcast's Peter Marsh discusses how his company has supported the creation of the new virtual community for small businesses. Major sponsor Comcast has committed to run a MyExpertNet promotional television spot throughout its New Hampshire operating area to help increase awareness of the service.
“Spreading the word about this innovative new initiative ensures that more businesses are given the opportunity to grow and thrive,” said Peter Marsh, Vice President of Business Services for Comcast’s Greater Boston Region. “Comcast is pleased to help small business owners stay focused on growing their business by connecting local owners with the best thought leaders on MyExpertNet.”
“In today’s fast-paced economy, the ability of the public and private sectors to work cooperatively is key in supporting job creation and building an environment where everyone feels responsible for building the economy,” added Public Service of New Hampshire Business Development Manager Gordon Tuttle. “MyExpertNet not only builds closer relationships between the government and the business community, it creates the type of virtual mentorships between experts and entrepreneurs that truly define the term `paying it forward.’”
Sojourn Partners Managing Partner Russ Ouellette, an expert in the “management” category, said that he is pleased to be part of an initiative that allows entrepreneurs to relieve some of their anxiety about business creation and development.
“Anyone who has ever started a business knows that the process is daunting at best and terrifying at worst,” he said. “To have someone who has been through what you’re going through and who is willing to take the time to help you navigate the rough waters is invaluable. This is a great initiative.”
To learn more about MyExpertNet, visit www.myexpertnet.org. Business professionals interested in joining the online expert community are asked to contact Dr. William Osgood at (603) 658-0340 or wro@buzgate.org. To view a list of the registered experts, visit http://www.myexpertnet.org/volunteers.html.
Tags: Centrix Bank, Comcast, Dr. Russ Ouellette, Dr. William Osgood, Gordon Tuttle, Governor John Lynch, Knowledge Institute, MyExpertNet, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Peter Marsh, Public Service of New Hampshire, Sojourn Partners, Unitil
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Tuesday, June 29th, 2010
A strategic plan for growing the manufacturing base of the Merrimack Valley calls for increased collaboration among industry, education and workforce agencies in New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
Leaders from both states recently unveiled the “Merrimack Valley Regional Innovation Grant” plan, the result of a $250,000 federal grant that surveyed the needs of manufacturing companies in the two-state region.
 “The Merrimack Valley has 90,000 advanced manufacturing jobs, split equally between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, representing 18 percent of the region’s total employment and nearly 60 percent of the region’s gross domestic product,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “It’s vitally important to both states that we address the challenges and opportunities in manufacturing from a regional viewpoint.”
Duddy said manufacturers were surveyed and follow-up interviews were conducted to determine what measures are needed to prepare workers for success in the highly competitive advanced manufacturing environment.
“We know that advanced manufacturing in areas such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, robotics and biometrics can produce good paying jobs in homeland security, medical equipment manufacturing, clean energy, aerospace and other areas of growth,” he said. “Advanced manufacturing requires workers skills with computers, the ability to read and translate diagrams and flow charts, and the ability to work in teams. We should align our educational and workforce training programs to meet these needs.”
The grant partners included workforce development agencies in Lawrence and Lowell, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire’s Office of Workforce Opportunity.
The strategic plan also calls for increased coordination in responding to layoffs and closures to get workers re-employed, new and innovative approaches to training incumbent and dislocated workers, and increased participation by career technical schools, community colleges and other educational facilities.
The Merrimack Valley Manufacturing Advocacy Collaborative, a group of manufacturing employers in the region, has been formed to engage stakeholders, including public and private companies and institutions.
A new web site, www.mvrig.org has been launched to coordinate and distribute data and ideas for sustaining and growing the manufacturing sector in Merrimack Valley.
Tags: Merrimack Valley Manufacturing Advocacy Collaborative, Merrimack Valley Regional Innovation Grant, New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Office of Workforce Opportunity, Roy Duddy
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The CNC machinist positions are for second and third shift operations. Workers will earn a starting wage of$12 per hour with full benefits. Wages may increase incrementally over two years to $14-16 per hour, based on each individual’s performance.
