Greenerpalooza V has come and gone, much like the last notes of a Santana set, who, by the way, rocked a capacity crowd at the Meadowbrook US Cellular Pavilion last night as the centerpiece to our annual summer celebration of all things good and green in the Granite State.
As you know, New Hampshire was chosen by CNBC last week as the Best State to Live In in the nation last week. That’s no surprise to those of us who get to call here home, but when you think about it, there is a reason why we are the envy of 49 other states and much of that has to do with with our environment. For the most part, it’s clean and fresh, in no small part because so many people are committed to keeping it that way.
Every summer, Greenerpalooza gets to celebrate that, by giving green a venue at Meadowbrook, on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, and with a backdrop of music by a performer who upholds the cause. Santana was this year’s entertainer and a spot-on choice, given his work with Project Sole, which distributes shoes to people who need them and his commitment to the environment and sustainability.
The event gives us a chance to highlight a growing segment of our economy — businesses that help us all become more green. More than a dozen gathered in the eco-village, greeting concert goers and offering tips on everything from energy efficiency to environmentally friendly hair care products.
We honored the Greenerpalooza Green Business of the Year, which is R.C. Brayshaw and Company of Warner, a printer that celebrated its 33rd anniversary a couple of week ago.
“The company recognizes the value and importance of written words on printed materials we hold in our hands,” said Christopher Way, interim director of the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, a co-sponsor of the event with Public Service of New Hampshire. “It is mindful of about limiting landfill waste and using chemicals and it has earned certification from the Forest Stewardship Council for its practices. R.C. Brayshaw is a company that understands what it takes to protect the environment.”
That sense of protection, said Jim Newcomb, vice president at R.C. Brayshaw and Company, has been a foundation of the business since Richard and Fran Brayshaw opened it in 1979.
“When they first started at the old (Waterloo) train station, they were told they could actually put their chemicals down the drain and right into the Warner River,” he said. “Richard Brayshaw had a vision for the environment and he decided not to do that and invested in holding tanks that would hold the chemicals for two weeks, when he would empty them.”
Green before green was cool, R.C. Brayshaw has consistently pursued the most environmentally friendly initiatives, including being a Forest Stewardship Council printer, installing energy efficient lighting in all facilities, recycling all paper waste, plates and even press chemistry. All company stationary is produced on 100 percent postconsumer waste paper as well.
“We are truly honored to receive this award and we will continue to be a role model for green initiatives with our clients and within our community,” Newcomb said.
Speaking of stewards, the Department of Environmental Services has been a watchdog for New Hampshire’s environmental resources for the past 25 years and Greenerpalooza was the perfect place to recognize its silver anniversary.
“The work that we have accomplished for the people of New Hampshire has not just been our work, but the work of all of us together,” said DES Commissioner Thomas Burack. “We firmly believe that a healthy environment and a strong economy go hand in hand in New Hampshire.”
We can’t calculate the greenbacks it takes to keep New Hampshire green and that’s why what we have is priceless.
Thanks to everyone who helps to keep it green and beautiful.
Moooove yourself to become a healthier individual and enjoy some great music while you’re at it.
Cowcello, an organic groovefest, will make its debut appearance Sunday, September 25, 2011 as part of the Eastern Propane Concert Series at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion.
Presented by the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in coordination with EARTHTEC and the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, Cowcello is an “organic groovefest” to inspire and encourage individuals to embrace a life of health, wellness and fitness, environmental consciousness and awareness of natural, organic and alternative products and solutions. Concertgoers will be able to discuss and learn about the lifelong benefits of healthy eating choices from NH farmers and growers.
“Having an event of this kind at a venue that was once the site of a working farm really brings things full circle,” said Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion President RJ Harding. “Not only will this event be a celebration of some incredible music, it will also be a celebration of living an active and healthy lifestyle, a concept that all of us at Meadowbrook embrace.”
Participants will be able to try organic wines from locally owned vineyards, enjoy demonstrations with Yoga and Pilates experts from The Practice Room, learn the health benefits associated with eating beef raised in a natural and kind environment free of chemicals and hormones with Miles Smith Farm and discover how cooking organically can not only help you and your family’s health but also keep our local farmers thriving. Other vendors include Stonyfield Farm, Apple Annie and Late July Organic Snacks.
Partnering with the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion will be Portsmouth-based sustainable clothing manufacturer EARTHTEC. At its heart, EARTHTEC’s story is pretty simple according to company founder Dennis Randall.
“We are outdoor people. Skiers, hikers, trail runners, kayakers, extreme picnickers. Our favorite place is Earth. We’ve been known to hug a tree or two. We’re into green. We are also clothing people. Put all of that together, and you have EARTHTEC, a group of people who love helping you look good and perform well in clothes that make the planet happier,” he said. “We have partnered this year with the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion to collect all the plastic bottles from the 2011 Concert Season and look forward to turning them into useful clothing for next year’s concert season.”
The Avett Brothers
Joining EARTHTEC will be the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development whose Communications & Legislative Director Steve Boucher said that supporting an event like Cowcello is a new and innovative way to support the state’s business community.
“New Hampshire is so very fortunate to have such a great farming industry as well as a great number of companies that are dedicated to helping people maintain healthy lifestyles,” he said. “We encourage people be part of this great event and more importantly, to buy local products. Buying local ensures that dollars stay in our community and promotes a stronger state economy.”
Cowcello will feature over nine hours of music beginning with four local and regional bands on the Magic Hat Second Stage at 2:00 P.M. Granite State bands The Crunchy Western Boys and The Chris White Band will join Caitlin Canty and The Adam Ezra Band from Boston in kicking off the festivities.
The main stage will begin at 7:00PM with Nicole Atkins, and her alluring, alternative folk rock sound. The Avett Brothers will headline the event with their organic and unique blend of a rootsy amalgam of folk, country, bluegrass, rock and pop.
Cowcello tickets can be purchased by calling (603) 293-4700 or by visiting www.meadowbrook.net.
When Grammy-winners Alison Krauss and Union Station take the stage at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion on Friday, August 5th, bluegrass will meet green at Greenerpalooza. The fourth annual celebration of energy efficiency and green efforts in New Hampshire, Greenerpalooza is co-sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire and Citizens Bank in coordination with the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development, the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion and media sponsor New Hampshire Business Review.
This year's Greenerpalooza headliner Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas.
“Greenerpalooza shows why Greenopia ranked New Hampshire one of the ten greenest states in the nation,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Communications and Legislative Director Steve Boucher, citing the ranking of states that takes into account air and water quality, recycling rates, LEED buildings, green, per capital emissions and other factors. Boucher expects 5,000 to 6,000 fans at this year’s event. “Just as music brings people together to support worthy causes, Greenerpalooza brings together dozens of ‘green’ businesses from around the state in an eco-village on Meadowbrook’s midway. These businesses showcase ways residents can ‘go green’ by adopting more environmentally-friendly practices and by using green products and services produced right here in New Hampshire.”
Public Service of New Hampshire was a founding sponsor of the event. The state’s largest electric utility, PSNH has increased its share of renewable energy to include the highest percentage of any major utility in New England. According to Pat McDermott, PSNH’s Economic & Community Development Manager, “We see Greenerpalooza as a terrific way to build awareness of issues like recycling and making energy efficiency improvements. They’re simple, cost effective ways to make a big difference in protecting the environment. We’ve seen the impact at PSNH: Since 2003, our customers have reduced air emissions by more than 4.5 million tons by participating in PSNH’s portfolio of energy-efficiency programs. That’s equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 850,000 cars. Plus these programs have saved customers more than $1 billion.”
Co-sponsor Citizens Bank believes that encouraging sustainability fits in well with their corporate mission.
“At Citizens Bank, we believe a good bank takes seriously its commitment to the communities it serves, which is why we are honored to once again partner with the NH Division of Economic Development and PSNH to showcase eco-friendly initiatives at Greenerpalooza this summer,” said Citizens Bank President Joseph J. Carelli.
The Music and the Message
Boucher says Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion, which prides itself on being environmentally conscious, is the ideal venue for Greenerpalooza. Meadowbrook offers artists the option of producing completely green stage shows by using a biodiesel-fueled generator that’s capable of producing enough power for even the biggest national touring acts. The venue’s food service uses recyclable/compostible cups and plates made from corn, while the office uses recycled materials for as many office supplies as possible. Meadowbrook even reserves its first parking lot for attendees who carpool with at least four people per vehicle.
“What makes Meadowbrook unique is this beautiful location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee,” explains Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Marketing Director Chris Lockwood. “It gives us a real appreciation for the environment. That’s why incorporating green practices and technology just makes sense to us.”
Each year, Meadowbrook has booked international stars known for their environmental activism to play Greenerpalooza. Past acts have included Sheryl Crow and Colbie Caillat (2010), Jackson Browne and Shawn Colvin (2009), and Crosby, Stills and Nash (2008). This year’s headliner, Alison Krauss and Union Station, who released their acclaimed new record, “Paper Airplane,” in April, are long-time environmental advocates. Krauss, who has won 26 Grammy awards, is well-known for playing benefit concerts for environmental causes, including for the Natural Resources Defense Council in support of their work against mountaintop-removal coal mining, which has had a devastating effect on communities in Appalachia. The second stage act, the Adam Ezra Group, are also activists, contributing 25% of their touring to benefit causes in communities across the country and worldwide.
Tickets to Greenerpalooza, which includes entry into the eco-village, are available online at www.meadowbrook.net. To learn more about the latest happenings with Greenerpalooza, visit the Greenerpalooza IV Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greennh. A limited number of vendor slots for green businesses are still available for $200; please contact Dawn Escabi at dawn.escabi@dred.state.nh.us or 603-271-2591.
Check out this great article in today’s Boston Globe regarding our Business Development Manager Michael Bergeron and his stellar efforts in recruiting companies to New Hampshire:
NH’s Secret Salesman Luring Massachusetts Firms
by Jenn Ableson, Boston Globe
New Hampshire pays Michael Bergeron to be a full-time thief, sending him across the border in an unmarked black sedan to poach Massachusetts companies.
NH Division of Economic Development Business Development Manager Michael Bergeron welcomes a MA business owner who was taken by donated limousine by Capital City Limousine to the Big & Rich concert at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion as part of a business recruitment promotion.
To help keep his missions undercover, the business recruiter even scraped the New Hampshire state seal off his Ford Fusion. Equal parts real estate agent, financial adviser, and deal fixer, Bergeron has lured dozens of Massachusetts companies to the Granite State over the past few years with promises of lower tax bills, cheaper office and industrial space, and fewer regulations.
John Hancock Financial and Liberty Mutual Group are among the high-profile firms that recently moved significant parts of their operations over the state line – partially because of Bergeron’s pitches. And an increasing number of small and midsize firms are considering migrating as a way to reduce costs in uncertain economic times.
“New Hampshire has become an easier place to do business as Massachusetts has become more difficult,’’ said Bergeron, who works as a business development manager for the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development. “It’s a lower cost to do business here and you still have the availability of the skilled workforce in Massachusetts.’’
His PowerPoint presentations highlight what New Hampshire officials say is Massachusetts’ bad-business reputation. They cite expensive real estate, drawn-out permitting processes, and higher taxes.
There are no official statistics from Massachusetts or New Hampshire on the number of companies that have moved north. But Bergeron estimates that at least 5,000 new jobs have been created over the past five years as a result of Massachusetts businesses moving to his state.
Massachusetts officials and business leaders deny that a mass exodus is underway, although they acknowledge that New Hampshire’s aggressive recruitment tactics can’t be ignored.
The constant assault on Commonwealth companies is more irritating than ominous, said Greg Bialecki, Massachusetts’ housing and economic development secretary.
“They haven’t done any serious damage,’’ he said of New Hampshire’s efforts.
Nonetheless, Bialecki said, officials have tried to make the state more enticing to businesses. In recent years, for instance, Massachusetts has lowered its corporate tax rate, offered tax incentives and other funding, and streamlined the permitting process through its new permitting ombudsman and Permit Regulatory Office.
Massachusetts has historically had to fend off New Hampshire’s business recruitment campaigns, said Paul Guzzi, president of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.
“I used to kid that one of my major jobs as secretary of state of Massachusetts was to defend ourselves against New Hampshire,’’ said Guzzi, who held that position from 1975 to 1978. “But there are incredible assets in Massachusetts that no other state has,’’ he said, such as prestigious universities and cutting-edge research labs.
Still, the 45-minute ride from southern New Hampshire to Boston makes it easy to access those benefits without paying the price of being based in Massachusetts, according to Bernhard Mueggler, who runs Untha America, an industrial shredding company that moved last month from Newburyport to Hampton, N.H.
Mueggler expects that by relocating 15 miles he will cut his operational costs by 10 percent annually.
“We needed to grow, and this is the right place to do it,’’ said Mueggler, who hopes to nearly double his workforce to 12 over the next two years.
CCS Presentation Systems, which installs video-conferencing equipment and other electronic gear, initially hesitated about abandoning its Chelmsford headquarters because many of the company’s clients are based in Boston. But after Bergeron whisked CCS through his whirlwind pitch a year and a half ago, the company couldn’t say no.
CCS found a building that was twice as big as a property it was considering in Massachusetts, and a price that was $1 million less. Bergeron helped speed the permits and in June 2010, CCS moved its 20 employees to Nashua.
“It is amazing what you can get just going over the border,’’ said CCS vice president Chris Gamst. “It was a shock to me.’’
Bergeron came in handy months later when CCS applied for a $40,000 annual tax credit. In February, he drove 60 miles through a snowstorm back and forth between Concord and Nashua to get the required signatures.
And when CCS needed to hire more employees, the firm tapped into a New Hampshire program aimed at getting unemployed workers back on payrolls. It allows companies to try out employees for six weeks while they keep receiving unemployment checks.
CCS still has some connections to Massachusetts – a small satellite sales office in Woburn, and the company’s old telephone number.
“We have to pay extra for that,’’ said Cheryl Gamst, CCS president. “The one thing we couldn’t get in New Hampshire – a good phone number.’’
When revenues slumped during the recession, many Massachusetts businesses eliminated jobs, shut stores, and did away with benefits. Now, as executives adjust to the slow-growth reality of the new economy, they are searching for ways to reap long-term savings. For some, that means New Hampshire.
One Massachusetts small business owner said he is considering the move for his company and family. The owner, who asked to remain anonymous because his 11 employees are not aware of the potential change, ticked off a long list of New Hampshire pluses: no capital gains tax, no inventory tax, no personal income tax, better rents, no sales tax, no Internet tax.
“We love Massachusetts,’’ he said. “But it’s hard to ignore New Hampshire.’’
Bergeron, a former Boston real estate broker, said he is excited by interest from companies of any size. In the spring, Fidelity Investments disclosed plans to close its Marlborough office and move workers to Merrimack, N.H., and Smithfield, R.I. The financial services powerhouse has not said how many jobs will shift to New Hampshire, but Bergeron estimates it at nearly 600.
His skills as a salesman are especially important because of the threadbare $100,000 marketing budget New Hampshire sets aside for recruiting businesses. Massachusetts, meanwhile, spends about $600,000 a year on efforts to attract new companies and keep existing ones.
To compensate for the meager funding, Bergeron and other state officials tap into the generosity of local businesses that supply free limos, hotel rooms, and lunches to help court Massachusetts companies. In return, the New Hampshire firms get their logos on the state’s economic development website.
Two weeks ago, Bergeron arranged for a 2011 Cadillac – donated by Capital Limousine Service in Concord, N.H. – to pick up the vice president of operations of a Massachusetts energy company that is weighing a move to New Hampshire. They toured five sites in the southern part of the state and met for lunch with economic development officials in Salem. Bergeron launched into his signature PowerPoint presentation as they ate roast beef sandwiches, dill pickles, and chocolate chip cookies – paid for by private sponsors.
It was a more subdued gathering than the “Get Big and Rich in New Hampshire’’ event Bergeron planned two years ago. For that extravaganza, limos escorted several Massachusetts prospects to a concert by country music performers Big and Rich at The Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in Gilford, N.H., which hosted the outing with funding from Public Service of New Hampshire. The executives got backstage access and downed shots of Crown Royal whiskey with band members, Bergeron said.
None of the businesses ending up moving, but Bergeron said frequent rejection goes with the job.
“If you have 20 leads, then that turns into five prospects, and then one company actually comes,’’ he said. “You never stop pitching.’’
Bialecki, Massachusetts’ housing and economic development secretary, said that for all their work to get Massachusetts businesses to pull up roots, New Hampshire officials actually do need companies to prosper south of the state line.
“They should be hoping for our continued success,’’ Bialecki said. “Because the better we do, the better they’ll do.”
Monadnock Paper Mills was green before green was cool. Back in 1973, the company installed its own wastewater purification facilities before federal regulations for the Mill were even established. That was just the beginning of a long, fruitful and enduring relationship between the Bennington-based paper manufacturer and the environment.
For its long history of environmental stewardship, Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc. was recently presented with the 2010 Greenerpalooza Award as part of the Greenerpalooza III festivities at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion. Presented by the New Hampshire Business Resource Center and the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in coordination with key sponsors Public Service of New Hampshire, Citizens Bank and media sponsor New Hampshire Business Review, Greenerpalooza is a celebration of energy efficiency efforts in the state of New Hampshire. With the backdrop of a Sheryl Crow concert, attendees were able to learn more about the latest energy efficient products and services offered in the Granite State.
(L. to R.) Citizens Bank President Cathleen Schmidt joins Monadnock Paper Mills CEO Richard Verney, Public Service of NH Economic and Community Development Manager Pat McDermott, NH Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy, Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Marketing Director Chris Lockwood and NH Business Review Advertising Consultant Trudy Sutherland at Greenerpalooza III.
“Monadnock Paper Mills is a model of how businesses can both ‘go’ and ‘remain’ green,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy in making the announcement. “Long before there was a strong national push to become more energy efficient, Monadnock was demonstrating corporate citizenship of the highest order.”
Amongst the company’s many accomplishments, Monadnock generates electrical power with five turbines on four low-impact hydroelectric dams along the Contoocook River. Over the course of a year, the normal flow of the river allows the company to produce up to 50 percent of its electric needs, a clean, renewable energy option that reduces Monadnock’s overall dependence on fossil fuels.
In addition, four years ago, Monadnock replaced over 1,000 facility lighting systems from old fluorescent fixtures to new fluorescent fixtures with QHEL Supersaver electronic ballasts, reflector and supersaver lamps. They also replaced over 100 standard on/off switches and ceiling mounted fixtures with occupancy sensors. The quantity of energy saved is approximately 794,948 kWh per year, with an estimated annual savings of $115,124.
Perhaps most impressive, the mill’s solid waste, or short paper fiber extracted during the water purification process, is 100 percent reclaimed and used by New Hampshire’s local farms in applications such as compost and animal bedding as well as in the production of manufactured topsoil.
“There’s no doubt that this company is an example of how a business can not only be profitable, but also be environmentally aware and helpful to its neighbors,” Duddy added. “The Greenerpalooza Award is designed specifically for model companies like this.”
To learn more about Monadnock Paper Mills, visit www.mpm.com. To discover the latest happenings with Greenerpalooza, visit Greenerpalooza III Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greennh.
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.
Grammy Award-winning Sheryl Crow issued a statement today regarding her participation in this year’s Greenerpalooza III event taking place at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in Gilford on August 12th.
“Being environmentally conscious has always been important to me, I am happy to be partnering with organizations like Reverb and the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion on an event like Greenerpalooza. Utilizing concerts as a background for environmental education is a great way to reduce the huge carbon footprints that shows can have.”
Greenerpalooza is a celebration of energy efficiency/green efforts in the Granite State. Set against the backdrop of a 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.
Now here’s a great twist on next week’s event – those who sign up for our Greenerpalooza Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/GreenNH) will be automatically entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to next Thursday’s show. The deadline to sign up is Friday at noon and we will notify the winner shortly thereafter. If you’ve already signed up, you’re automatically entered!!
– Steve Boucher, Communications & Legislative Director
Over 30 exhibitors will be displaying the latest energy efficiency offerings at Greenerpalooza III, scheduled for August 12th at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in Gilford.
A number of "green" vendors will be displaying their wares at Greenerpalooza III.
Sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire, Citizens Bank and media sponsor NH Business Review in coordination with the NH Business Resource Center, Greenerpalooza is a celebration of energy efficiency efforts in the Granite State. Set against the backdrop of a Sheryl Crow/Colbie Caillat concert, this is a truly an event that encourages the exchange of information between green businesses and 5,000 concert goers.
This year, attendees will be able to visit with the following exhibitors:
Public Service of New Hampshire
Citizens Bank
Acorn Organic Salon
Build Green NH
Lakes Region Heating & AC
Ultra Geothermal
GDS Associates Inc.
WindMonitoring.com
Lakes Region Community College
Dawn Solar Systems
KW Management Inc.
Frase Electric LLC
Energy Audits Unlimited
ConVerdant Vehicles
Green Alliance
Water Energy Distributors
Just Be Products LLC
Sendout Cards
Atlantic Home Systems
The Mountain
Trailtex
EarthTec
The Water Depot of New England
NH Department of Environmental Services
Upper Valley Green
Greensource Energy Solutions
Stay Work Play
Resource Management, Inc.
NH Division of Economic Development
NH Business Review
Epiphanies, Inc.
Belknap Landscape Company
Greenerpalooza will also feature an appearance by Reverb this year. Reverb is a non-profit environmental organization that educates and engages musicians and their fans to promote environmental sustainability. It was founded by environmentalist Lauren Sullivan and her musician husband, Guster guitarist/vocalist Adam Gardner.
Reverb’s greening services include carbon neutral concerts and venues; biodiesel for vehicles and generators; waste reduction; biodegradable catering products; recycling; green bus supplies and cleaners; energy efficiency; green contract rider; eco-friendly merchandise; green sponsorship; and on site and on-line fan outreach.
Romance, recycling and a healthy dose of frontier justice – that’s what’s on tap in the newest “Earth friendly” entries on No Bull TV.
For those of you who’ve forgotten (which is understandable as we haven’t been posting a ton of videos lately in advance of our latest extravagonzos), No Bull TV is the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’s YouTube station featuring vids on Greenerpalooza, the WMUR Project Economy Job Fair and Career Expo, the Jericho ATV Park and more.
This year, as previously referenced on the No Bull Business Blog, we have partnered with the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion, Citizens Bank, Public Service of NH, Epiphanies Inc., New Hampshire Business Review and The Mountain to not only present Greenerpalooza III on August 12th, but to unveil the Granite Green Team, very much in evidence at select Meadowbrook concerts.
The Granite Green Team, a squad of eco-volunteers clad in very cool t-shirts designed by our friends at The Mountain, hands out seed cards with recycling and energy efficiency information on them at concerts throughout the Meadowbrook season. Located on the card is information that can also be used to sponsor the planting of a tree, a great way to build sustainability and encourage green practices.
To ensure that concert goers get the message about the benefits of recycling and observe eco-friendliness while visiting Meadowbrook, the Green Team pulled together a series of Public Service Announcements that make an important point while being entertaining at the same time.
In the following clips, Allen Voivod of Epiphanies Inc. fame, plays our resident rocker while PSNH Economic & Community Development Manager Pat McDermott, Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Marketing Director and I comprise the green jumpsuit stylin’ Granite Green Team. In the “Romance and Recycling” clip, Dan Freund of Kinney Hill (the video production team that did such a great job on this shoot) and Meadowbrook’s Kate Lilly play the couple who find love through recycling.
Special thanks to Emma Womack, Vice President of Corporate Development at Meadowbrook, for arranging the shoot and ensuring that these PSAs will run on the venue’s video wall throughout the 2010 season. Never thought that my buddies and I would be sharing the stage with Sugarland, Heart, Cheap Trick and the Zac Brown Band!!
– Steve Boucher, Communications & Legislative Director
For years, Grammy Award-winning musician Sheryl Crow has been spreading the word about environmental awareness through activism and song. Now she will be joined by a team of green minded public and private sector partners as she makes her way to the Granite State as part of her 2010 tour.
Crow, joined by 2009 BMI Pop Award Songwriter of the year Colbie Caillat, will headline this year’s Greenerpalooza III concert on August 12th at 8 p.m. at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion.
Co-sponsored by Public Service of New Hampshire and Citizens Bank in coordination with the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development and media sponsor New Hampshire Business Review, Greenerpalooza III is a celebration of New Hampshire’s energy efficiency efforts. Over 5,000 concert goers will not only get to enjoy a concert from a multi-platinum artist, they will also be able to visit a special eco village on the Meadowbrook midway where vendors will be extolling the virtues of wind and solar power as well as other alternative energy sources.
“Greenerpalooza has been great at opening people’s eyes to the potential of a greener, more sustainable future,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Communications & Legislative Director Steve Boucher. “By using the unifying force of music, we are able to help citizens to become more energy efficient, learn about new technologies and share a positive environmental message with their neighbors.”
Show headliner Sheryl Crow is no stranger to promoting and endorsing a green lifestyle. She is a founding member and one of the driving forces behind the Green Music Group, a coalition of musicians, industry leaders, and fans working to inspire widespread environmental action. Crow recently encouraged her fans to accept the Green Music Group Challenge, an earth friendly call-to-action that asks music fans to send an email to legislators expressing support for effective, fair environmental legislation.
“Sheryl is an excellent choice for this year’s Greenerpalooza event based on her strong record of supporting environmentally friendly initiatives,” said Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Marketing Director Chris Lockwood. “She is an artist who isn’t afraid to take a stand and to live the message that she sends through her music. She’s truly dedicated to spreading the word that taking care of the planet is everyone’s responsibility.”
Greenerpalooza III has brought new partners into the fold for this year’s offering. Citizens Bank, a lending institution that has demonstrated a commitment to the community through its Champions in Action initiative as well as other charitable endeavors, has signed on as a co-sponsor, believing that encouraging sustainability fits in well with their corporate mission.
“We believe that a bank should contribute to the growth and vibrancy of its communities, said Cathleen A. Schmidt, president of Citizens Bank. “We are excited to partner with the NH Division of Economic Development, Public Service of New Hampshire and other like-minded companies, to showcase eco-friendly initiatives at Greenerpalooza. Attendees will have the chance to learn about our Green$ense incentive program, and how small everyday activities such as reducing paper-based transactions can have a tremendous impact on the environment and the world we live in.”
Also new to the event this year is the addition of the “Granite Green Team,” a virtual “green army” of volunteers who will collect recyclables at Meadowbrook concerts and distribute wild-flower seed cards that have an on-line voucher to plant a tree in an area in need of reforesting. The seed cards can be planted after the voucher is redeemed. A team of 4-6 representatives from Public Service of New Hampshire, the Division of Economic Development, Citizens Bank and social media partner Epiphanies, Inc. will each attend a show during the 2010 season and encourage concert goers to dispose of recyclables responsibly and to observe eco awareness in their daily living.
“This is a great new twist to Greenerpalooza,” said Pat McDermott, Public Service of New Hampshire’s Economic & Community Development Manager. “Recycling and making energy-efficiency improvements are simple, cost-effective ways to make a big difference in protecting the environment. Since 2003, our customers have reduced air emissions by more than 3.1 million tons by participating in PSNH’s portfolio of energy-efficiency programs. That’s equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 579,000 cars.”
Volunteers will all be clad in special t-shirts designed by Michael McGloin of Keene-based The Mountain, creators of the multi-million selling “Three Wolf Moon” shirt. The shirts feature a lushly growing tree with a guitar for a base and limbs extending from a recycling sign as birds fly off in the distance.
“The design is a depiction of things that we typically associate with green living and shows the beauty of what can happen when work towards a better, more Earth-friendly future,” McGloin said. “We at The Mountain incorporate environmental friendliness into our business practices and are excited to be part of this team of people trying to make a positive difference.”
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.
Cowcello, an organic groovefest, will make its debut appearance Sunday, September 25, 2011 as part of the Eastern Propane Concert Series at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion. 
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.
“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.”
“Being environmentally conscious has always been important to me, I am happy to be partnering with organizations like Reverb and the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion on an event like Greenerpalooza. Utilizing concerts as a background for environmental education is a great way to reduce the huge carbon footprints that shows can have.” 
Crow, joined by 2009 BMI Pop Award Songwriter of the year Colbie Caillat, will headline this year’s Greenerpalooza III concert on August 12th at 8 p.m. at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion.
Greenerpalooza III has brought new partners into the fold for this year’s offering. Citizens Bank, a lending institution that has demonstrated a commitment to the community through its Champions in Action initiative as well as other charitable endeavors, has signed on as a co-sponsor, believing that encouraging sustainability fits in well with their corporate mission.